This complete list combines 54 featured records with 214 additional approved records. Official study titles are preserved for source checking, while the summaries explain what was studied and at what stage.
All
- Featured · Food & nutritionPMID 36832928
Precise Authenticity of Quinoa, Coix Seed, Wild Rice and Chickpea Components Using Optimized TaqMan Real-Time PCR.
- Study subject
- Laboratory food-component samples and commercial product testing
- Material or form
- Yulmu grain components
- Evidence stage
- Analytical-method development
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The study examined a TaqMan real-time PCR method for authenticating quinoa, yulmu, wild rice and chickpea components in processed foods.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to create a rapid, species-specific test capable of verifying these four high-value food components in commercial products.
How was it studied?
Primers and probes targeted quinoa 2S albumin, the yulmu SAD gene, wild-rice ITS and chickpea CIA-2. The assay was characterized for specificity and detection limits and then applied to 24 commercial foods representing different matrices.
What did the study find?
Detection limits were 0.96, 1.14, 1.04 and 0.97 pg/µL for quinoa, yulmu, wild rice and chickpea, respectively, and target content below 0.01% could be identified. The assay also detected the components in deeply processed commercial foods.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the qPCR method was suitable for authenticity verification across different food matrices.
What could this lead to?
By distinguishing yulmu from quinoa, wild rice, and chickpea with optimized TaqMan PCR, this method provides a species-authentication tool for verifying yulmu content in raw materials and commercial grain foods.
- Featured · Healthcare · Food & nutritionPMID 36819706
Physicochemical, structure properties and in vitro hypoglycemic activity of soluble dietary fiber from adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) bran treated by steam explosion.
- Study subject
- Laboratory fiber, adsorption, dialysis, and enzyme assays
- Material or form
- Steam-exploded soluble dietary fiber from yulmu bran
- Evidence stage
- Processing and in vitro study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Steam-exploded soluble dietary fibre from yulmu bran was examined for yield, structure, physical functionality and in-vitro glucose- and enzyme-related properties.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to increase the bran’s soluble-fibre content and determine how steam-explosion intensity changes its functional properties.
How was it studied?
Yulmu bran underwent steam explosion at defined pressures and times; the resulting soluble fibre was compared for composition, molecular weight, thermal behaviour, surface structure, adsorption, dialysis retardation and α-amylase inhibition.
What did the study find?
At 0.8 MPa for 3 minutes, soluble fibre reached 9.37%, 27.48% above control, with the highest oil holding, cholesterol and glucose adsorption, glucose-dialysis retardation and α-amylase inhibition values. Treated fibre also had lower molecular weight, a 4.19°C higher DSC peak and a rougher, more porous surface.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that steam explosion increased soluble-fibre recovery from yulmu bran and improved its measured physicochemical, structural and in-vitro functional properties.
What could this lead to?
Steam explosion altered the structure, adsorption behavior, and in-vitro enzyme and glucose responses of soluble fiber recovered from yulmu bran. The results connect processing conditions to measurable fiber functionality and can guide bran-fiber specification and food-formulation work.
- Featured · Food & nutritionPMID 36668896
Volatiles from Pseudomonas palleroniana Strain B-BH16-1 Suppress Aflatoxin Production and Growth of Aspergillus flavus on Coix lacryma-jobi during Storage.
- Study subject
- Aspergillus flavus cultures and stored Coix seed
- Material or form
- Stored yulmu and a biological-control strain
- Evidence stage
- Laboratory storage study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined stored yulmu and a biological-control strain using aspergillus flavus cultures and stored Coix seed.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate volatiles from Pseudomonas palleroniana Strain B-BH16-1 Suppress Aflatoxin Production and Growth of Aspergillus flavus on Coix lacryma-jobi during Storage.
How was it studied?
A laboratory storage study design used aspergillus flavus cultures and stored Coix seed as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
the endosphere bacteria Pseudomonas palleroniana strain B-BH16-1 produced volatiles that strongly inhibited the mycelial growth and spore formation activity of A. flavus. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry profiling revealed three volatiles emitted from B-BH16-1, of which 1-undecene was the most abundant.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that volatiles from Pseudomonas palleroniana B-BH16-1 offer a candidate biological-control strategy for Aspergillus growth and aflatoxin formation during Coix-seed storage.
What could this lead to?
Volatile compounds produced by a specific microorganism inhibited mold growth and aflatoxin production under experimental conditions. The tested treatment identifies a controllable postharvest variable for reducing fungal-toxin risk and validating production-scale critical limits.
- Featured · BeautyPMID 35946116
Enhanced anti-wrinkle activity of adlay bran fermented with Lactobacillus brevis MJM60390.
- Study subject
- Keratinocytes, dermal fibroblasts and biochemical assays
- Material or form
- Lactobacillus brevis MJM60390-fermented yulmu-bran extract
- Evidence stage
- LAB screening, fermentation, skin-cell assays, gene-expression analysis and antioxidant testing
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The study examined how L. brevis MJM60390 fermentation changes the wrinkle-related skin-cell activity and composition of yulmu-bran extract.
Why was it studied?
To select a lactic acid bacterium suitable for yulmu-bran fermentation and compare wrinkle-related activity in fermented and non-fermented yulmu-bran extracts.
How was it studied?
Candidate LAB strains were used to ferment yulmu bran, which was then extracted with 70% ethanol. ELISA assays measured hyaluronan, collagen and elastin production in keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts; RT-qPCR examined related gene expression. Antioxidant activity and total phenolic and flavonoid contents were also compared before and after fermentation.
What did the study find?
L. brevis MJM60390 was selected for the highest glycosidase activity. Both extracts showed activity, with the fermented extract consistently stronger. Relative to control, hyaluronan production changed by 24.73% with the non-fermented extract and 59.38% with the fermented extract; collagen by -13.08% and 34.19%; and elastin by 29.78% and 53.73%, respectively. The fermented extract increased HAS2, HAS3, COL1A1, COL1A2 and ELN expression and reduced HYAL1, HYAL2, collagenase and elastase expression. Fermentation also significantly increased antioxidant activity and phenolic and flavonoid contents.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that L. brevis MJM60390 fermentation enhanced the wrinkle-related activity of yulmu bran by increasing hyaluronan synthesis in keratinocytes and improving collagen and elastin production in dermal fibroblasts.
What could this lead to?
The findings position MJM60390 fermentation as a promising process for enhancing the skin-ingredient potential of yulmu bran. Standardising the strain, fermentation time and 70% ethanol extraction could support follow-up work on compositional change, skin safety, formulation compatibility and human use.
- Featured · BeautyPMID 36235272
Antiglycation Effects of Adlay Seed and Its Active Polyphenol Compounds: An In Vitro Study.
- Study subject
- Cell-free BSA–glucose, BSA–methylglyoxal and G.K. peptide–ribose glycation assays
- Material or form
- Hull, testa, bran and polished-yulmu extracts; testa solvent fractions; chlorogenic acid and ferulic acid
- Evidence stage
- Solvent fractionation, chromatography, HPLC compound identification and in-vitro glycation assays
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The study examined antiglycation activity across yulmu seed parts, testa solvent fractions, and the polyphenols chlorogenic acid and ferulic acid.
Why was it studied?
To evaluate the in-vitro antiglycation activity of distinct yulmu-seed parts and identify active testa fractions and polyphenol compounds.
How was it studied?
The seed was separated into hull, testa, bran and polished yulmu. Solvent extraction and column chromatography were used to fractionate active material. Activity was compared in a BSA–glucose assay; chlorogenic acid and ferulic acid identified by HPLC in the active testa 1-butanol fraction were further evaluated in BSA–glucose, BSA–methylglyoxal and G.K. peptide–ribose assays.
What did the study find?
Ethanolic testa and bran extracts had greater protein-glycation inhibition than the other seed-part extracts. Ethyl-acetate and 1-butanol fractions of the testa extract showed marked activity, and medium-to-high-polarity subfractions eluted below 50% methanol reached a maximum inhibition of 88%. Chlorogenic acid and ferulic acid inhibited individual stages of protein glycation and subsequent crosslinking in the three assay systems.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that yulmu testa ethanolic extract demonstrated in-vitro antiglycation properties with potential relevance to hyperglycaemia-mediated protein modification.
What could this lead to?
The fraction-to-compound evidence provides a clear route for standardising yulmu testa by chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid and antiglycation-assay performance. Follow-up work can connect these markers to extraction yield, formulation stability and safety in food or skin-ingredient systems.
- Featured · Food & nutritionPMID 36146001
Freeze Moisture Treatment and Ozonation of Adlay Starch (Coix lacryma-jobi): Effect on Functional, Pasting, and Physicochemical Properties.
- Study subject
- Laboratory starch samples
- Material or form
- Yulmu starch
- Evidence stage
- Food-material processing study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The study examined freeze-moisture treatment and ozonation as modifications of yulmu-starch porosity, functionality and pasting behaviour.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to improve the swelling, solubility, stability and processing characteristics of native yulmu starch.
How was it studied?
Native starch was subjected to freeze-moisture treatment, ozonation and their combination, then assessed for water and oil absorption, swelling, solubility, pore structure, pasting and gelatinization properties.
What did the study find?
The treatments generally increased water absorption, swelling, solubility and granule pore number. Hot-paste viscosity rose, while gelatinization temperature, breakdown and setback viscosity declined; the combined treatment produced the strongest overall modification.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that combining freeze-moisture treatment with ozonation effectively improved the functional, pasting and physicochemical properties of yulmu starch.
What could this lead to?
Freeze-moisture treatment and ozone treatment changed the swelling, solubility, viscosity, and gelatinization properties of yulmu starch. These structure–function measurements support control of yulmu starch digestibility, pasting, or texture in a defined food process.
- Featured · Food & nutritionPMID 36171765
Development of probiotics beverage using cereal enzymatic hydrolysate fermented with Limosilactobacillus reuteri.
- Study subject
- Laboratory beverages
- Material or form
- Fermented drink made with yulmu enzymatic hydrolysate
- Evidence stage
- Food-fermentation and characterization study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined fermented drink made with yulmu enzymatic hydrolysate using laboratory beverages.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to develop probiotics beverage using cereal enzymatic hydrolysate fermented with Limosilactobacillus reuteri.
How was it studied?
A food-fermentation and characterization study design used laboratory beverages as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Results showed that the pH values decreased and titratable acidity increased with the fermentation process (p <.05). Although the final pH in all samples was below 4.0, the growth of L. reuteri was not significantly inhibited by low pH.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this study provides a reference for the development of nondairy probiotic products.
What could this lead to?
Lactic acid bacteria fermented a yulmu enzymatic hydrolysate, allowing researchers to compare viable-cell counts and flavor characteristics. The measured compositional, microbial, or sensory changes identify fermentation conditions and markers for reproducible yulmu food or bioprocess development.
- Featured · Food & nutritionPMID 36010462
Changes in Triacylglycerols Content and Quality Control Implications of Coix Seeds during Processing and Storage.
- Study subject
- Coix seed samples from multiple Chinese localities and storage conditions
- Material or form
- Yulmu grain and powder
- Evidence stage
- Analysis and quality-management study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Yulmu grain and powder was analyzed across coix seed samples from multiple Chinese localities and storage conditions.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate changes in Triacylglycerols Content and Quality Control Implications of Coix Seeds during Processing and Storage.
How was it studied?
Using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with evaporative light-scattering detector (HPLC-ELSD) techniques, 42 lipid components in coix seeds were identified, and seven molecular species of TAG in coix seeds from different localities in China were measured and compared, respectively.
What did the study find?
A correlation analysis between the morphological features and TAGs contents revealed the integrity instead of the particle size of the seed, displaying a highly positive correlation with its quality.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that these results provide significant insight into the effective control of coix seed quality during processing and storage.
What could this lead to?
Tracking triacylglycerol composition through processing and storage shows which lipid changes accompany deterioration of yulmu grain and powder. These profiles can underpin freshness markers, packaging studies, and shelf-life specifications.
- Featured · Food & nutritionPMID 35954054
Safety Evaluation of Heavy Metal Contamination and Pesticide Residues in Coix Seeds in Guizhou Province, China.
- Study subject
- Regional market/production samples
- Material or form
- Yulmu samples from Guizhou, China
- Evidence stage
- Regional sample analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Yulmu samples from Guizhou, China was analyzed across regional market/production samples.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to evaluate the contamination of mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), chromium (Cr) and 116 pesticides in coix seeds collected from 12 main producing regions of coix seeds in the Guizhou Province of China and to analyze the major contributors of heavy metal and pesticide contamination in coix seed.
How was it studied?
Regional market/production samples were assessed in a regional sample analysis.
What did the study find?
Among the five heavy metals detected, only the Cr contents of three samples were found to be higher than the contaminant limit of Chinese standard GB2762-2017 (CSGB). A total of 13 pesticides were detected in 29 samples from seven main production regions of coix seeds, accounting for 23.6% of all the samples.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that in the production process of coix seeds, the local government should control the soil in areas heavily polluted by heavy metals and strengthen the monitoring and guidance on the scientific and rational use of pesticides.
What could this lead to?
A survey of 123 yulmu samples from Guizhou, China analyzed heavy metals and 116 pesticides, providing regional quality-management data. These measurements support origin-specific limits, soil-to-grain monitoring, and supplier controls for yulmu raw-material safety.
- Featured · HealthcarePMID 35942243
The Effect of Adding Job's Tears to Yogurt on Plasma Glycated Albumin, Weight, and Lipid Profile in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
- Study subject
- 60 people with type 2 diabetes
- Material or form
- Yulmu-containing probiotic yoghurt
- Evidence stage
- Small randomized controlled trial
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Yulmu-containing probiotic yoghurt was examined among 60 people with type 2 diabetes.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to examine the influence of Job's tears in conjunction with probiotics on the lipid profile and GA concentration of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
How was it studied?
This double-blind 12-week study involved 60 patients with type 2 diabetes assigned randomly into two groups. The first group consumed yogurt alone (containing Lactobacillus acidophilus La5 and Bifidobacterium Bb12), while the second had yogurt with Job's tears once daily (200 ml each).
What did the study find?
Caloric intake between the groups also did not differ (p=0.856). Yogurt and the mixture of Job's tears and yogurt reduced cholesterol and LDL and increased HDL (all p < 0.05) within the groups.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the combination of Job's tears and yogurt improved HDL more than yogurt alone.
What could this lead to?
In 60 people with type 2 diabetes, weight and glycated albumin remained comparable between groups, while the yulmu-containing probiotic-yoghurt group showed a larger HDL change. The formulation-specific result defines lipid outcomes for a larger controlled food study.
- Featured · BeautyPMID 35889498
Molecular Action Mechanism of Coixol from Soft-Shelled Adlay on Tyrosinase: The Future of Cosmetics.
- Study subject
- Extract-composition assays, B16F10 melanocytes and a human tyrosinase fragment assay
- Material or form
- Aqueous, methanolic and ethanolic extracts of soft-shelled yulmu seed, including coixol and other measured seed constituents
- Evidence stage
- Solvent-extract composition, antioxidant, cytotoxicity, tyrosinase and facial-mask ingredient study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The study examined the composition, antioxidant properties, tyrosinase activity, melanocyte compatibility, and facial-mask use of solvent extracts from soft-shelled yulmu seed.
Why was it studied?
To characterise solvent-dependent constituents and antioxidant capacity of soft-shelled yulmu-seed extracts, examine their effects on tyrosinase and B16F10 melanocytes, and assess their suitability for facial-mask processing.
How was it studied?
Aqueous, methanolic and ethanolic extracts were compared for polyphenolics, flavonoids, coixol, coixenolide, phytosterols, polysaccharides and antioxidant capacity. Cytotoxicity was assessed in B16F10 melanocytes, and tyrosinase inhibition was measured in the cells and against human tyrosinase fragment 369–377. The extracts were also considered in facial-mask processing.
What did the study find?
Water-soluble polyphenolics measured 3.17 ± 0.12 to 3.63 ± 0.07 μg/mL GAE. The methanolic extract contained 0.06 ± 0.00 to 0.26 ± 0.03 μg/mL QE flavonoids and 11.43 ± 0.13 to 12.83 ± 0.14 μg/mL coixol and showed potent antioxidant capacity. Coixenolide measured 176.77 ± 5.91 to 238.60 ± 0.21 μg/g, phytosterols 52.45 ± 2.05 to 58.23 ± 1.14 mg/g and polysaccharides 3.42 ± 0.10 to 4.41 ± 0.10 mg/g. Aqueous extract at 10 μg/mL and ethanolic extract at 1 mg/mL maintained B16F10-cell viability; the 1 mg/mL ethanolic extract inhibited tyrosinase by 48.4% in B16F10 melanocytes and 50.7% in the human tyrosinase fragment assay.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that coicis seed extracts rich in measured nutraceutical constituents, with human-tyrosinase activity and moisturising capability, could serve as ingredients for facial-mask processing.
What could this lead to?
The study identifies coixol-rich solvent extracts and tyrosinase assays as anchors for yulmu cosmetic-ingredient standardisation. Quantifying coixol alongside particle, formulation, moisturising, dermal-safety and human-skin performance testing would define a reproducible development path.
- Featured · HealthcarePMID 35684050
Consumption of Dehulled Adlay Improved Lipid Metabolism and Inflammation in Overweight and Obese Individuals after a 6-Week Single-Arm Pilot Study.
- Study subject
- 21 adults with abdominal obesity
- Material or form
- Dehulled yulmu powder, 60 g per day
- Evidence stage
- Single-arm pilot study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Dehulled yulmu powder, 60 g per day was examined among 21 adults with abdominal obesity.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate consumption of Dehulled Adlay Improved Lipid Metabolism and Inflammation in Overweight and Obese Individuals after a 6-Week Single-Arm Pilot Study.
How was it studied?
Before and after the 6-week intervention, we performed anthropometric analyses and measured blood lipid profiles, adipokines, and markers of inflammation.
What did the study find?
At the end of the study, the percentage of body fat mass, blood total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels were significantly decreased compared with the baseline. Plasma tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-6, leptin, and malondialdehyde levels were also reduced.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that a dietary pattern containing 60 g of dehulled adlay per day may have a beneficial effect on lipid profiles and inflammatory markers in individuals that are overweight and obese.
What could this lead to?
In a before-and-after comparison of 21 adults with abdominal obesity, reductions in body-fat percentage and some lipid and inflammation-related measures were observed. This human evidence links a defined yulmu preparation and intake pattern to measurable outcomes and can inform a controlled, adequately powered food study with composition and adherence documented.
- FeaturedPMID 35565664
A Comprehensive Analysis of Plasma Cytokines and Metabolites Shows an Association between Galectin-9 and Changes in Peripheral Lymphocyte Subset Percentages Following Coix Seed Consumption.
- Study subject
- Healthy adult men; sample size not stated in the abstract
- Material or form
- Short-term intake of yulmu grain
- Evidence stage
- Uncontrolled before-and-after mechanistic study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Short-term intake of yulmu grain was examined among healthy adult men.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate a Comprehensive Analysis of Plasma Cytokines and Metabolites Shows an Association between Galectin-9 and Changes in Peripheral Lymphocyte Subset Percentages Following Coix Seed Consumption.
How was it studied?
A uncontrolled before-and-after mechanistic study design involved healthy adult men.
What did the study find?
The galectin-9 concentration considerably decreased after coix seed consumption, and these changes correlate with those in cytotoxic T cells and pan T cells.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that galectin-9 is possibly involved in the changes in peripheral lymphocyte subset percentages induced by coix seed consumption.
What could this lead to?
One week of yulmu intake in healthy men was associated with changes in cytokines, metabolites, and immune-cell proportions, including a relationship involving galectin-9. This exploratory human dataset identifies immune and metabolomic endpoints for a controlled feeding study with composition and baseline diet documented.
- FeaturedPMID 35205970
Investigating the Impact of Extruded Dehulled Adlay with Specific In Vitro Digestion Properties on Blood Lipids in Subjects with Mild to Moderate Dyslipidemia.
- Study subject
- Adults with mild-to-moderate dyslipidemia; sample size not stated in the abstract
- Material or form
- Instant food made from extruded and milled dehulled yulmu
- Evidence stage
- Single-arm human before-and-after dietary intervention
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Instant food made from extruded and milled dehulled yulmu was examined among adults with mild-to-moderate dyslipidemia.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to process dehulled adlay, a cereal rich in bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols and phytosterols, into an instant meal by extrusion and milling and then assessed its starch composition and in vitro digestibility.
How was it studied?
A single-arm human before-and-after dietary intervention design involved adults with mild-to-moderate dyslipidemia.
What did the study find?
The dehulled adlay was found to consist of 32% SDS and resistant starch combined. After intervention, serum total cholesterol (TC) decreased significantly in subjects with hypercholesterolemia.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the extruded dehulled adlay displays potential for favorably modulating blood lipids, and the effect is more pronounced in the middle-aged population.
What could this lead to?
An extruded, milled dehulled-yulmu breakfast was tested in adults with dyslipidaemia, with lower lipid measures reported from baseline in selected subgroups. The study links a defined extrusion product to human dietary endpoints and supplies parameters for a controlled comparison of processing, digestibility, and lipid response.
- AllPMID 35053919
Effect of Coix Seed Extracts on Growth and Metabolism of Limosilactobacillus reuteri.
- Study subject
- Limosilactobacillus reuteri culture
- Material or form
- Seeds / extracts, seed oil, polysaccharides, and protein
- Evidence stage
- In vitro microbial culture and metabolite analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—extracts, seed oil, polysaccharides, and protein using limosilactobacillus reuteri culture.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to evaluate the effects of coix seed extract (CSE) on the growth, acidifying activity, and metabolism of L. reuteri.
How was it studied?
A in vitro microbial culture and metabolite analysis design used limosilactobacillus reuteri culture as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
CSE also enhanced the biosynthesis of lactic acid and acetic acid of L. reuteri. Untargeted metabolomics results indicated that the carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and nucleotide metabolism activities of L. reuteri were increased after adding CSE.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that overall, CSE may have prebiotic potential and can be used to culture L. reuteri with high viable bacteria.
What could this lead to?
Seed extract, oil, polysaccharide, and protein fractions increased growth of Limosilactobacillus reuteri in culture. This distinguishes yulmu fractions as potential fermentation substrates and points to dose, metabolite, and sensory testing in probiotic food development.
- AllPMID 35858796
Single-laboratory Validation of an Analytical Method for Detarmination of Fusarium toxins in Buckwheat and Job's Tears.
- Study subject
- Buckwheat and Job's tears samples
- Material or form
- Grain samples / toxin extraction and quantitative analysis
- Evidence stage
- Single-laboratory analytical-method validation
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The work concerned simultaneous measurement of Fusarium toxins in Job’s tears and buckwheat.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to evaluate a single-laboratory analytical method covering free, acetylated and glycosylated trichothecenes, zearalenone and related Fusarium toxins in the two grain matrices.
How was it studied?
Job’s tears and buckwheat served as test matrices for extraction and quantitative analysis of DON, 3-Ac-DON, 15-Ac-DON, DON-3G, nivalenol, fusarenon X, T-2, HT-2, diacetoxyscirpenol and zearalenone.
What did the study find?
The method provided a single simultaneous toxin panel for both Job’s tears and buckwheat, spanning the listed type-A and type-B trichothecenes and zearalenone.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors presented the procedure as a validated single-laboratory approach for multi-Fusarium-toxin determination in these grain matrices.
What could this lead to?
An analytical method for detecting multiple Fusarium toxins in Job's tears samples was evaluated. Its yulmu-matrix performance provides a basis for lot-release limits and routine multi-toxin surveillance of grain or derived ingredients.
- AllPMID 34919269
Protective effect of coix seed seedling extract on 60 Co-γ radiation-induced oxidative stress in mice.
- Study subject
- 60Co-gamma-irradiated mice
- Material or form
- Seedlings / extract
- Evidence stage
- Animal experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
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What did the study examine?
Coix-seed seedling extract was examined for radioprotective activity in mice exposed to cobalt-60 gamma radiation.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to assess the protective effect of coix seed seedling extract on 60 Co-γ radiation-induced oxidative stress in mice.
How was it studied?
A animal experiment design used 60Co-gamma-irradiated mice as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
CSS-E-M (200 mg/kg BW) pretreatment could increase the activities of superoxide dismutase in serum, liver, and spleen increased by 31.68%, 45.10%, and 56.67%, respectively, and the glutathione peroxidase levels in serum, liver, and spleen of mice were improved by 19.17%, 41.97%, and 130.56%, respectively. Meanwhile, the glutathione levels of serum, liver, and spleen in CSS-E-M group were increased by 17.10%, 35.06%, and 40.71%, respectively.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that CSS-E could be used as a potential natural radioprotectant against IR-induced damage.
What could this lead to?
Coix seedling extract produced changes in oxidative-stress-related markers in irradiated mice. The model supplies organ- and stress-response endpoints for dose–response replication, active-marker analysis, and route-specific safety testing of the yulmu preparation.
- HealthcarePMID 35010997
Coix Seed Diet Ameliorates Immune Function Disorders in Experimental Colitis Mice.
- Study subject
- Mice with DSS-induced colitis
- Material or form
- Seeds / diet
- Evidence stage
- Animal experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
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What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—diet using mice with DSS-induced colitis.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the protective effect of the Coix seed diet on experimental colitis mice.
How was it studied?
A animal experiment design used mice with DSS-induced colitis as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
As a result, the Coix seed feed alleviated colitis symptoms, maintained the complete blood count at a normal level, reduced the pathological score, relieved inflammatory cytokine secretion, and alleviated oxidative stress. The results showed that T-cell regulation is one of the targets of Coix seed feed, and the analysis of the T-lymphocyte subset and innate immune cell distribution of the colon tissue supported the network pharmacology results.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that coix seed, as a staple food, can alleviate experimental colitis, and the mechanism may be related to the immune regulation effect of Coix seeds.
What could this lead to?
A coix seed diet produced changes in inflammation- and immune-related markers in mice with experimental colitis. The immune-marker pattern identifies fractions, doses, and comparator conditions for replication in the same model before ingredient translation.
- AllPMID 35011340
Antioxidant Profile and Biosafety of White Truffle Mycelial Products Obtained by Solid-State Fermentation.
- Study subject
- Zebrafish embryos and Sprague-Dawley rats
- Material or form
- Red coix (fermentation medium) / soybean-red coix solid-state fermentation, water and ethanol extracts
- Evidence stage
- Fermented-product analysis and animal safety assessment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined red coix (fermentation medium)—soybean-red coix solid-state fermentation, water and ethanol extracts using zebrafish embryos and Sprague-Dawley rats.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate antioxidant Profile and Biosafety of White Truffle Mycelial Products Obtained by Solid-State Fermentation.
How was it studied?
High levels of antioxidant components and high antioxidant activities such as DPPH radical scavenging, ferrous ion chelation, and reducing power were measured in 20 mg/mL water and ethanol extracts of the white truffle fermentation products. Sprague-Dawley rats were fed the mycelial fermentation product for 90 consecutive days, revealing a no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) of 3000 mg/kg BW/day.
What did the study find?
In addition, a 200 ppm water extract of the mycelial fermentation product was able to protect zebrafish embryos from oxidative stress induced by 5 mM hydrogen peroxide. Sprague-Dawley rats were fed the mycelial fermentation product for 90 consecutive days, revealing a no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) of 3000 mg/kg BW/day.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that mycelial products obtained by white truffle solid-state fermentation can be used instead of expensive fruiting bodies as a good source of antioxidant ingredients.
What could this lead to?
Red coix served as part of the solid-state medium for a soybean–white-truffle product whose antioxidant markers and 90-day rat NOAEL were measured. This establishes coix-containing fermentation-medium design and finished-product safety specifications as the study’s principal yulmu value.
- HealthcarePMID 34854443
Suppression on allergic airway inflammation of dehulled adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) in mice and anti-degranulation phytosterols from adlay bran.
- Study subject
- OVA/methacholine airway-inflammation mice and RBL-2H3 cells
- Material or form
- Dehulled grains and bran / methanol or ethanol extracts and isolated phytosterols
- Evidence stage
- Animal and cell experiments
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined dehulled grains and bran—methanol or ethanol extracts and isolated phytosterols using OVA/methacholine airway-inflammation mice and RBL-2H3 cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate suppression on allergic airway inflammation of dehulled adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) in mice and anti-degranulation phytosterols from adlay bran.
How was it studied?
Further, seven phytosterols were isolated from AB ethanolic extract (ABE); among them, 3-O-caffeoyl-5β-sitostan-3-ol, β-sitosterol 3-O-glucopyranoside and β-sitosterol inhibited β-hexosaminidase release from A23187-stimulated RBL-2H3 cells with percentages of 54.1%, 52.0% and 48.5%, respectively, at 50 μM.
What did the study find?
The anti-allergic activity of dehulled adlay (DA) seeds was identified, and the bran (AB) is regarded as the main functional constituent in the edible part. In the present report, we investigated DA methanolic extract (DAM) reversed ovalbumin (OVA)/methacholine (Mch)-induced airway hypersensitivity, decreased interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, and IL-13 levels from splenocytes, suppressed tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-1β, and IL-13 levels and reduced eosinophil counts and eotaxin in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), which imply that the modulatory effects of DA should involve allergic degranulation.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the phytosterols in AB showed significant anti-degranulation activities, and may be regarded as the indicative components of AB for anti-allergy effects.
What could this lead to?
Specific dehulled coix and coix-bran extracts produced changes in relevant markers in allergic animal and cell models. The immune-marker pattern identifies fractions, doses, and comparator conditions for replication in the same model before ingredient translation.
- AllPMID 34945511
Enhancement of Anti-Proliferative Activity of the Extracts from Dehulled Adlay by Fermentation with Bacillus subtilis.
- Study subject
- Tumor cells including K562 and A549, and HEK293T cells
- Material or form
- Dehulled grains / Bacillus subtilis fermentation and n-butanol extraction
- Evidence stage
- Cell experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined dehulled grains—Bacillus subtilis fermentation and n-butanol extraction using tumor cells including K562 and A549, and HEK293T cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate enhancement of Anti-Proliferative Activity of the Extracts from Dehulled Adlay by Fermentation with Bacillus subtilis.
How was it studied?
A cell experiment design used tumor cells including K562 and A549, and HEK293T cells as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Results showed that all the extracts of B. subtilis-fermented dehulled adlay (BDA) and dehulled adlay (DA) had no inhibition effect on human embryonic kidney 239T cells. Compared with others, the n-butanol extract of BDA (BDA-Nb) exhibited stronger anti-proliferative activities against human leukemia K562 cells and human non-small cell lung cancer A549 cells.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that dehulled adlay fermented with B. subtilis could be a potential therapeutic agent for leukemia and lung cancer.
What could this lead to?
Bacillus subtilis fermentation changed the antiproliferative response of a dehulled-yulmu extract in cancer-cell assays. Comparing pre- and post-fermentation chemistry can identify the metabolites responsible and define markers for a standardized research extract.
- HealthcarePMID 34865748
Coix seed polysaccharides alleviate type 2 diabetes mellitus via gut microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids activation of IGF1/PI3K/AKT signaling.
- Study subject
- Mice with type 2 diabetes
- Material or form
- Seeds / polysaccharides
- Evidence stage
- Animal experiment, gut-microbiota and transcriptome analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—polysaccharides using mice with type 2 diabetes.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate coix seed polysaccharides alleviate type 2 diabetes mellitus via gut microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids activation of IGF1/PI3K/AKT signaling.
How was it studied?
A animal experiment, gut-microbiota and transcriptome analysis design used mice with type 2 diabetes as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
After treatment with CSP, serum insulin and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were increased, while total cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were decreased in T2DM mice. Correlative analysis revealed that this activation may result from the increase of SCFAs-producing bacteria by CSP.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the findings demonstrated that CSP treatment modulates gut microbial composition, especially of the SCFAs-producing bacteria, activates the IGF1/PI3K/AKT signaling pathways, and exhibits hypoglycemic efficacy.
What could this lead to?
Yulmu-seed polysaccharides altered gut-microbial, short-chain-fatty-acid, and IGF1/PI3K/AKT-related measures in diabetic mice. The mechanistic chain provides endpoints for dose-controlled replication with structurally characterized polysaccharide fractions.
- AllPMID 34544025
Effects of different nutritional conditions on accumulation and distribution of Cr in Coix lacryma-jobi L. in Cr6+-contaminated constructed wetland.
- Study subject
- Cr6+-treated vertical-flow constructed wetlands
- Material or form
- Plants (roots, stems, and leaves) / cultivated plants
- Evidence stage
- Environmental plant experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on plants (roots, stems, and leaves)—cultivated plants in cr6+-treated vertical-flow constructed wetlands.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine the effects of different nutritional conditions on accumulation and distribution of Cr in Coix lacryma-jobi L. in Cr6+-contaminated constructed wetland.
How was it studied?
In this research, micro Coix lacryma-jobi L. vertical flow constructed wetlands (VFCWs) were set up using domestic sewage (DWS) and 1/2 Hoagland nutrient solution (HNS) as VFCWs water sources.
What did the study find?
The results showed that the inhibition rates of Cr6 + on plant height, stem diameter, shoot and root dry weight treated with HNS were 2.88~10.16%, 5.12~11.86%, 3.53~6.51% and 2.89~6.34% higher than those in DWS treatment. SEM analysis showed that the nuclear bilayer membrane was slightly damaged, the chromatin decreased and the number of mitochondrial cristae decreased when treated with 20 mg L-1 of Cr6+, however, organelle damage was more severe under 40 mg L-1 of Cr6+exposure.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that improving the nutritional conditions of constructed wetlands might be beneficial to the improvement of their ability to purify chrome-containing waste water.
What could this lead to?
Chromium uptake and distribution in Coix roots, stems, and leaves under different nutrient conditions show how the crop can function in constructed wetlands. The measurements support optimization of plant nutrition, biomass handling, and metal-removal performance in contaminated-water systems.
- HealthcarePMID 34867418
Lipid Metabolism and its Mechanism Triggered by Supercritical CO2 Extract of Adlay (Coix lacryma-jobi var. ma-yuen (Rom. Caill.) Stapf) Bran in High-Fat Diet Induced Hyperlipidemic Hamsters.
- Study subject
- Hamsters with high-fat-diet-induced hyperlipidemia
- Material or form
- Bran / supercritical CO2 extract
- Evidence stage
- Animal experiment and compositional analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined bran—supercritical CO2 extract using hamsters with high-fat-diet-induced hyperlipidemia.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate lipid Metabolism and its Mechanism Triggered by Supercritical CO2 Extract of Adlay (Coix lacryma-jobi var. ma-yuen (Rom. Caill.) Stapf) Bran in High-Fat Diet Induced Hyperlipidemic Hamsters.
How was it studied?
A animal experiment and compositional analysis design used hamsters with high-fat-diet-induced hyperlipidemia as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Major bio-functional lipid compositions are identified as linoleic acid (28.59%) and oleic acid (56.95%).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that AB-SCF may be considered as a promising complementary supplement, and developed as a functional food or new botanical drug in the future.
What could this lead to?
A supercritical coix-bran extract produced changes in lipid-metabolism-related markers in high-fat-diet hamsters. The outcomes provide variables for a composition-matched feeding study that separates yulmu dose and processing from overall diet effects.
- HealthcarePMID 34829119
Anti-Cancer Properties of Coix Seed Oil against HT-29 Colon Cells through Regulation of the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway.
- Study subject
- HT-29 human colon-cancer cells
- Material or form
- Seeds / seed oil
- Evidence stage
- Cell experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—seed oil using HT-29 human colon-cancer cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to observe the effects of coix seed oil (CSO) on HT-29 cells and investigate its possible regulation mechanism of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.
How was it studied?
Morphological changes were observed by apoptotic body/cell nucleus DNA (Hoechst 33258) staining using inverted and fluorescence microscopy.
What did the study find?
The results from CCK-8 assays showed that CSO dose-dependently and time-dependently inhibited the viability of HT-29 cells in vitro. CSO inhibited cell viability, with IC50 values of 5.30 mg/mL for HT-29 obtained after 24 h treatment.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the results revealed that CSO induced G2 arrest and apoptosis of HT-29 cells by regulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
What could this lead to?
Coix seed oil produced proliferation- and apoptosis-related changes in colon-cancer cell experiments. Relating the response to seed-oil lipid composition and dose will be essential for reproducible mechanism and toxicology work in the stated preclinical model.
- HealthcarePMID 34836336
Coix Seed Consumption Affects the Gut Microbiota and the Peripheral Lymphocyte Subset Profiles of Healthy Male Adults.
- Study subject
- Nineteen healthy adult men
- Material or form
- Seeds / cooked food
- Evidence stage
- Small controlled dietary intervention (classified as an RCT in PubMed; randomization method not stated in the abstract)
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Seeds—cooked food was examined among nineteen healthy adult men.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether coix Seed Consumption Affects the Gut Microbiota and the Peripheral Lymphocyte Subset Profiles of Healthy Male Adults.
How was it studied?
To that end, healthy adult males (n = 19) were divided into two groups; 11 of them consumed cooked coix seed (160 g per day) for 7 days (intervention), while the other eight were given no intervention.
What did the study find?
After seven days, the intervention group showed increased intestinal Faecalibacterium abundance and higher proportions of CD3+CD8+, CD4+ and CD4+CD25+ lymphocytes, together with a higher naïve-to-memory T-cell ratio.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that as the relationship of microbiota and skin infection has not been clarified, our findings could provide a clue to a mechanism through which coix seed could promote the spontaneous regression of viral skin infections.
What could this lead to?
A 7-day study of cooked coix consumption in healthy men reported changes in gut microbiota and some lymphocyte subsets. This human evidence links a defined yulmu preparation and intake pattern to measurable outcomes and can inform a controlled, adequately powered food study with composition and adherence documented.
- AllPMID 34507270
Research on the effect of spleen-invigorating and anti-swelling active ingredients in crude and processed coix seed based on Spectrum - Effects relationship combined with chemometrics.
- Study subject
- Twelve batches and pharmacological-effect markers (details not stated)
- Material or form
- Mature seed kernels / raw material and bran-roasted processing
- Evidence stage
- Chemical-fingerprint and pharmacological-effect correlation study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Crude and bran-fried Coix seed were compared through chromatographic fingerprints, seven pharmacodynamic indices and spectrum–effect modelling.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to find the main active ingredients that affect the efficacy of CS to invigorate the spleen and reduce swelling through the spectrum-effect relationship, combined with chemometrics, grey relational analysis (GRA) and entropy method, and to compare the differences between the effects of crude and processed CS.
How was it studied?
First of all, the HPLC-ELSD method was used to establish the chromatographic fingerprint of CS, and 12 batches of CS samples were analyzed through chemometrics in this study.
What did the study find?
The results showed that the main pharmacologically active ingredients were 1,3-Dioleoyl-2-palmitoylglycerol (peak 8), 1,2-dilinoleoyl-3-oleoyl-rac-glycerol (peak 2), 1,3-Dipalmitoyl-2-Linolein (peak 5), 1,2-Dilinoleoyl-3-palmitoyl-rac-glycerol (peak 3), 1,2-Dioleoyl-3-linoleoyl-rac-glycerol (peak 4), and glycerol trioleate (peak 7), and the comprehensive efficacy of bran-fried CS was better than that of raw CS. In summary, we have identified the main active ingredients related to the efficacy of CS.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that as far as we know, this is the first time that the crude and processed CS spectrum-effect relationship has been established and compared, which provides a theoretical basis for subsequent studies on the material basis and molecular mechanism of CS pharmacodynamics.
What could this lead to?
This study explored relationships between chemical fingerprints and pharmacological-effect markers for raw and bran-roasted coix. The discriminating signals can be developed into an identity and origin test for yulmu supplier qualification and batch consistency.
- AllPMID 34738425
[Screening of zearalenone-degrading bacteria and analysis of degradation conditions].
- Study subject
- Zearalenone-contaminated Coicis Semen
- Material or form
- Coicis Semen samples / bacterial treatment
- Evidence stage
- Microbial degradation experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on coicis Semen samples—bacterial treatment in zearalenone-contaminated Coicis Semen.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate screening of zearalenone-degrading bacteria and analysis of degradation conditions].
How was it studied?
To seek more efficient and practical agents for biological detoxification and broaden their application, this study isolated 194 bacterial strains from the moldy tuberous root of Pseudostellaria heterophylla, which were co-cultured with ZEN. An efficient ZEN-degrading strain H4-3-C1 was screened out by HPLC and identified as Acinetobacter calcoaceticus by morphological observation and molecular identification.
What did the study find?
If the initial content of ZEN in Coicis Semen was reduced from 90 μg·g~(-1) to 40.68 μg·g~(-1), the degradation rate could reach 54.80%.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this study is expected to provide a new strain and application technology for the biological detoxification of ZEN in food processing products and Chinese medicinal materials.
What could this lead to?
Bacterial treatment was reported to lower zearalenone concentrations in experimentally treated coix samples. The tested treatment identifies a controllable postharvest variable for reducing fungal-toxin risk and validating production-scale critical limits.
- Food & nutritionPMID 34685808
The Complementarity of Amino Acids in Cooked Pulse/Cereal Blends and Effects on DIAAS.
- Study subject
- Seven growing pigs with T-cannulas in the ileum
- Material or form
- Grains / cooked cereal-pulse blends
- Evidence stage
- Animal nutrition experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on grains—cooked cereal-pulse blends in seven growing pigs with T-cannulas in the ileum.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to study the complementary effect between cereals and pulses on protein quality.
How was it studied?
A animal nutrition experiment design used seven growing pigs with T-cannulas in the ileum as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
For the older child, adolescent, and adult, the DIAAS (%) was 93 for mung beans, 78 for adzuki beans, 22 for millet, 16 for adlay, and 66 for mung beans + millet, and 51 for adzuki beans + adlay. For mung beans, valine was first-limiting, and the SAA for adzuki beans, while lysine was first-limiting for the other foods.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that chinese traditional diets, containing both cereals and pulses, are complementary for most, but not all of the indispensable amino acids.
What could this lead to?
Ileal digestibility measurements in pigs compared cooked coix protein and its amino-acid complementarity with adzuki bean. These data support formulation of cereal–pulse foods with better-balanced indispensable amino acids and more defensible protein-quality claims.
- AllPMID 34478459
Transcriptome characterization and expression profile of Coix lacryma-jobi L. in response to drought.
- Study subject
- Coix lacryma-jobi plants
- Material or form
- Plants / 7-day drought treatment
- Evidence stage
- Plant transcriptome analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on plants—7-day drought treatment in coix lacryma-jobi plants.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate transcriptome characterization and expression profile of Coix lacryma-jobi L. in response to drought.
How was it studied?
Real-time quantitative PCR for 5 transcripts confirmed the changes identified by RNA-Seq.
What did the study find?
Differential expression analysis based on RSEM-estimated transcript abundances identified 5,315 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) when comparing samples from plants following drought-treatment and from the appropriate controls. Among these, the transcripts for 3,460 genes were increased in abundance, whereas 1,855 were decreased.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the results provide a transcriptional overview of the changes in Coix lacryma-jobi L. in response to drought, and will be very useful for studying the function of associated genes and selection of molecular marker of Coix lacryma-jobi L in the future.
What could this lead to?
This study presents gene-expression information on drought responses in coix. The expression profiles connect candidate genes or proteins to seed quality, storage, or stress traits that can be validated in yulmu breeding lines.
- AllPMID 34383818
Early evidence for beer drinking in a 9000-year-old platform mound in southern China.
- Study subject
- Pottery from southern China about 9,000 years old
- Material or form
- Grains / inferred beer fermentation
- Evidence stage
- Archaeological residue analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on grains—inferred beer fermentation in pottery from southern China about 9,000 years old.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate early evidence for beer drinking in a 9000-year-old platform mound in southern China.
How was it studied?
We also discovered the earliest evidence for using mold saccharification-fermentation starter in beer making, predating written records by 8,000 years.
What did the study find?
BP) have revealed a platform mound containing human burials and high concentrations of painted pottery, encircled by a human-made ditch. By applying microfossil (starch, phytolith, and fungi) residue analysis on the pottery vessels, we found that some of the pots held beer made of rice (Oryza sp.), Job's tears (Coix lacryma-jobi), and USOs.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that ritualized drinking probably played an integrative role in maintaining social relationships, paving the way for the rise of complex farming societies four millennia later.
What could this lead to?
Archaeological residue analysis suggested possible use of coix in an ancient fermented beverage. This evidence preserves the historical or cultural context of Coix use and provides provenance questions for archaeological, botanical, or food-history research.
- Food & nutritionPMID 34051256
Application and safety evaluation of an anti-aflatoxigenic chitosan pouch containing turmeric essential oil in the storage of traditional Chinese health food.
- Study subject
- Inoculated coix seeds and acute/90-day animal tests
- Material or form
- Seeds / storage-packaging treatment
- Evidence stage
- Storage experiment and animal toxicity testing
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seeds—storage-packaging treatment in inoculated coix seeds and acute/90-day animal tests.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate application and safety evaluation of an anti-aflatoxigenic chitosan pouch containing turmeric essential oil in the storage of traditional Chinese health food.
How was it studied?
A storage experiment and animal toxicity testing design used inoculated coix seeds and acute/90-day animal tests as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
We found that the stability of CH-TEO was most affected by high temperature, and these pouches dramatically decreased aflatoxin accumulation and maintained levels of marker components of each TCHF. After three months of storage with a CH-TEO pouch, we found little change in marker components contents, but observed that Coix seed had the relative lower sensory characteristics score.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the study is the first report on the study of a green, efficient, and low toxicity solution for aflatoxic contamination in TCHF, and provides strong support for its future use.
What could this lead to?
A chitosan pouch containing turmeric essential oil reduced aflatoxin accumulation in stored coix, with acute and 90-day animal safety observations reported for the packaging treatment. The work identifies a controllable postharvest intervention and production-scale limits for validation.
- Featured · HealthcarePMID 34395493
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Potential of Millets for Managing and Reducing the Risk of Developing Diabetes Mellitus.
- Study subject
- Sixty-five studies of millet glycemic index and human glycemic responses
- Material or form
- Multiple millet foods and preparations, including whole-grain yulmu
- Evidence stage
- Systematic review and meta-analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on multiple millet foods and preparations, including whole-grain yulmu in sixty-five studies of millet glycemic index and human glycemic responses.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Potential of Millets for Managing and Reducing the Risk of Developing Diabetes Mellitus.
How was it studied?
Of the 65 studies that were collected globally, 39 studies with 111 observations were used to analyze GI outcomes and 56 studies were used to analyze fasting, post-prandial glucose level, insulin index and HbA1c outcomes in a meta-analysis. Minimally processed millets were 30% more effective in lowering GI of a meal compared to milled rice and refined wheat.
What did the study find?
The descriptive, meta and regression analyses revealed that Job's tears, fonio, foxtail, barnyard, and teff were the millets with low mean GI (<55) that are more effective (35-79%) in reducing dietary GI than the control samples. A meta-analysis also showed that all millets had significantly (p < 0.01) lower GI than white rice, refined wheat, standard glucose or white wheat bread except little millet which had inconsistent data.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that millets can be beneficial in managing and reducing the risk of developing diabetes and could therefore be used to design appropriate meals for diabetic and pre-diabetic subjects as well as for non-diabetic people for a preventive approach.
What could this lead to?
A millet meta-analysis placed whole-grain Job's tears among foods with a reported mean glycemic index below 55. This comparative evidence can guide standardized preparation and direct human testing of yulmu foods rather than being treated as a yulmu-specific efficacy result.
- HealthcarePMID 34146768
Development a multi-immunoaffinity column LC-MS-MS method for comprehensive investigation of mycotoxins contamination and co-occurrence in traditional Chinese medicinal materials.
- Study subject
- Traditional medicinal-material and functional-food samples, including Coicis Semen
- Material or form
- Coicis Semen samples / immunoaffinity-column HPLC-MS/MS
- Evidence stage
- Analytical-method development and contamination survey
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Coicis Semen samples—immunoaffinity-column HPLC-MS—MS was analyzed across traditional medicinal-material and functional-food samples, including Coicis Semen.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate development a multi-immunoaffinity column LC-MS-MS method for comprehensive investigation of mycotoxins contamination and co-occurrence in traditional Chinese medicinal materials.
How was it studied?
This study established a simultaneous analytical method by using multi-mycotoxins immunoaffinity column (multi-IAC) and HPLC-MS/MS to evaluate mycotoxins' contamination levels and natural incidence in TCMs.
What did the study find?
Aflatoxins (AFs, including AFB1, AFB2, AFG1 and AFG2), ochratoxin A (OTA), fumonisins (FB1 and FB2), zearalenone (ZEN), deoxynivalenol (DON) and T-2 toxins in three TCMs or functional foods of Polygalae Radix (PR), Coicis Semen (CS) and Eupolyphaga Steleophaga (ES) were detected. The systematically investigated results of 30 batch AFB1 positive samples revealed co-occurrence and correlation of multi-mycotoxins are significant differences in various matrices.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that simultaneously, mycotoxin's correlation results in different matrices can also provide a reference for the standardization of TCM production and processing.
What could this lead to?
A simultaneous multi-mycotoxin analytical method was developed for medicinal-material samples including Coicis Semen. Its yulmu-matrix performance provides a basis for lot-release limits and routine multi-toxin surveillance of grain or derived ingredients.
- Featured · HealthcarePMID 34371815
Dehulled Adlay Consumption Modulates Blood Pressure in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats and Overweight and Obese Young Adults.
- Study subject
- 23 young adults with overweight or obesity and spontaneously hypertensive rats
- Material or form
- Dehulled yulmu seed, 60 g per day in people; yulmu diets in rats
- Evidence stage
- Single-arm human dietary intervention with an animal study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Dehulled yulmu seed, 60 g per day in people; yulmu diets in rats was examined among 23 young adults with overweight or obesity and spontaneously hypertensive rats.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether dehulled Adlay Consumption Modulates Blood Pressure in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats and Overweight and Obese Young Adults.
How was it studied?
We initially fed spontaneous hypertensive rats diets without (SHR group) or with 12 or 24% dehulled adlay (SHR + LA and SHR + HA groups), and discovered that it could limit blood pressure increases over a 12-week experimental period.
What did the study find?
Although we found no significant changes in plasma, heart, and kidney angiotensin-converting enzyme activities, both adlay-consuming groups had lower endothelin-1 and creatinine concentrations than the SHR group; the SHR + HA group also had lower aspartate aminotransferase and uric acid levels than the SHR group did. At the end of the study, we observed a significant decrease in the group's systolic blood pressure (SBP), and the change in SBP was even more evident in participants with high baseline SBP.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that future studies may further clarify the possible underlying mechanisms for the consuming of dehulled adlay as a beneficial dietary approach for people at risk of hypertension.
What could this lead to?
In a single-arm study, 23 young adults with overweight or obesity consumed 60 g of dehulled yulmu daily for six weeks, and systolic blood pressure was reported lower than at baseline. The outcomes provide variables for a composition-matched feeding study that separates yulmu dose and processing from overall diet effects.
- HealthcarePMID 34041372
Adlay hull extracts attenuate β-amyloid-induced neurotoxicity and oxidative stress in PC12 cells through antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic activities.
- Study subject
- LPS-treated RAW264.7 and amyloid-beta-treated PC12 cells
- Material or form
- Hull / 95% ethanol extract and ethyl acetate, n-butanol, and water fractions
- Evidence stage
- Cell experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined hull—95% ethanol extract and ethyl acetate, n-butanol, and water fractions using LPS-treated RAW264.7 and amyloid-beta-treated PC12 cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether adlay hull extracts attenuate β-amyloid-induced neurotoxicity and oxidative stress in PC12 cells through antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic activities.
How was it studied?
A cell experiment design used LPS-treated RAW264.7 and amyloid-beta-treated PC12 cells as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
AHWE exhibited antiapoptotic effects and inhibited inducible nitric oxide synthase expression and nitric oxide production. AHWE significantly inhibited Aβ and enhanced protein kinase B (Akt) level in dPC12 cells, suggesting that its protective effect against Aβ-induced apoptosis in dPC12 cells was mediated through upregulation of the phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that these extracts and its bioactive compound K36-21 may be potentially useful to treat neurodegenerative disorders.
What could this lead to?
Coix hull extracts produced changes in inflammation- and apoptosis-related markers in a neurotoxicity cell model. The plant-part-specific activity prioritizes solvent-fraction chemistry, quantitative markers, and selectivity testing before a standardized research extract is defined.
- AllPMID 34203783
Ethanolic Extracts of Adlay Testa and Hull and Their Active Biomolecules Exert Relaxing Effect on Uterine Muscle Contraction through Blocking Extracellular Calcium Influx in Ex Vivo and In Vivo Studies.
- Study subject
- Rat uterus, human myometrium and smooth-muscle tissue, and ICR mice
- Material or form
- Testa and hull / ethanol extraction followed by ethyl acetate fractionation
- Evidence stage
- Ex vivo, animal, and human-tissue experiments
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined testa and hull—ethanol extraction followed by ethyl acetate fractionation using rat uterus, human myometrium and smooth-muscle tissue, and ICR mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to evaluate the effects of adlay seeds on the inhibition of uterine contraction and thus dysmenorrhea relief, in vitro and in vivo.
How was it studied?
HPLC-MS and GC were used to elucidate the ethyl acetate fraction of adlay testa ethanolic extract (ATE-EA) and ethyl acetate fraction of adlay hull ethanolic extract (AHE-EA).
What did the study find?
Elucidation yielded flavonoids, phytosterols, and fatty acids. In addition, the external calcium (Ca2+) influx induced contraction, and increased Ca2+ concentration was inhibited by ATE-EA and AHE-EA on the uterine smooth muscle of rats.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the experimental results showed that treatment with ATE-EA at 30 mg/day effectively decreased the writhing frequency both on the oxytocin-induced writhing test and acetic acid writhing test of the ICR mouse.
What could this lead to?
Specific coix testa and hull extract fractions produced changes related to uterine contraction in tissue and animal models. The model defines material, dose, and outcome variables for preclinical replication and chemical standardization of the tested yulmu preparation.
- Food & nutritionPMID 33497872
Development of a multi-channel magnetic bead micro-probe assay for high-throughput detection of zearalenone in edible and medicinal Coix seed.
- Study subject
- Edible and medicinal coix seed samples
- Material or form
- Seeds / magnetic-bead microprobe immunoassay
- Evidence stage
- Immunoassay-method development
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Seeds—magnetic-bead microprobe immunoassay was analyzed across edible and medicinal coix seed samples.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to develop a multi-channel magnetic bead micro-probe assay for high-throughput detection of zearalenone in edible and medicinal Coix seed.
How was it studied?
Edible and medicinal coix seed samples were assessed in a immunoassay-method development.
What did the study find?
36 samples could realize simultaneous analysis in one operation within less than 20 min only needing 50 μL of solution and 30 s of sampling, avoiding large consumption of time and organic solvents. Multiple centrifugation and cleanup steps were omitted because of magnetic separation, avoiding the loss of targets.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that diverse capture and fluorescent probes can be randomly bound onto the surface of MBs, making the MBPA strategy a promising tool for on-site high-throughput monitoring of various trace hazard factors in food safety, and environmental monitoring.
What could this lead to?
An immunoassay for high-throughput detection of zearalenone in coix was developed. Its yulmu-matrix performance provides a basis for lot-release limits and routine multi-toxin surveillance of grain or derived ingredients.
- AllPMID 34047111
[Research on revision of origins to Chinese medicinal materials in 2020 edition of Chinese pharmacopoeia].
- Study subject
- Medicinal materials listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia
- Material or form
- Coicis Semen (origin name) / not applicable
- Evidence stage
- Pharmacopoeia and taxonomic literature study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
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What did the study examine?
The research focused on coicis Semen (origin name)—the reported material in medicinal materials listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate revision of origins to Chinese medicinal materials in 2020 edition of Chinese pharmacopoeia].
How was it studied?
A pharmacopoeia and taxonomic literature study design used medicinal materials listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The revision is based on the investigation and textual research on the problems found after screening the original plants, animals or minerals of all the Chinese medicinal materials in the 2015 edition.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the scientific evidence and correct results of revision in the 2020 edition of ChP are determined at last.
What could this lead to?
Revision of the pharmacopoeial origin name for Coicis Semen is directly relevant to taxonomic identity, labeling, and reference-standard alignment for medicinal-grade yulmu raw materials.
- HealthcarePMID 33840662
Coix lacryma-jobi Seed Oil Reduces Fat Accumulation in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease by Inhibiting the Activation of the p-AMPK/SePP1/apoER2 Pathway.
- Study subject
- Rats with NAFLD and free-fatty-acid-induced HepG2 cells
- Material or form
- Seeds / seed oil
- Evidence stage
- Animal and cell experiments
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—seed oil using rats with NAFLD and free-fatty-acid-induced HepG2 cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to explore the therapeutic effect and mechanism of CLSO in the treatment of NAFLD.
How was it studied?
A animal and cell experiments design used rats with NAFLD and free-fatty-acid-induced HepG2 cells as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
In vivo, CLSO decreased the lipid droplets and TG level, reduced the protein expression of SePP1, apoER, phosphor-adenosine 5'-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK) in the cytoplasm of HepG2 cells induced by oleic acid and palmitic acid (OP). At the same time, lipid accumulation was observed in the Sepp1 high expression cells induced by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) activator tunicamycin (Tm).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the study suggests CLSO has great medicinal value in treating NAFLD besides its edibility.
What could this lead to?
Coix seed oil produced changes in fat-accumulation-related markers in fatty-liver animal and cell models. Linking the metabolic response to fatty-acid and minor-lipid profiles will support dose-controlled comparison of yulmu oil batches.
- AllPMID 33948493
Complete chloroplast genome sequencing of Job's tears (Coix L.): genome structure, comparative analysis, and phylogenetic relationships.
- Study subject
- Five Coix species and cultivars
- Material or form
- Plants / Illumina sequencing
- Evidence stage
- Plant-genome and phylogenetic analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on plants—Illumina sequencing in five Coix species and cultivars.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate complete chloroplast genome sequencing of Job's tears (Coix L.): genome structure, comparative analysis, and phylogenetic relationships.
How was it studied?
A plant-genome and phylogenetic analysis design used five Coix species and cultivars as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
We annotated 82～83 protein-coding genes and 46～47 non-coding RNA genes in each genome and they functionally associated with self-replication, photosynthesis, cytochrome synthesis and other unknown functions. A total of 146 simple sequence repeats (SSR), 9 insertions and deletions (InDels) and 143 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were observed among genomes.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that these results give us more insight into the evolution of Coix in a wide range of evolutionary studies.
What could this lead to?
This study presents chloroplast-genome and phylogenetic-relationship information for the genus Coix. The plastome sequence supports Coix lineage comparison, cultivar authentication, and chloroplast-marker development for breeding collections.
- FeaturedPMID 33541626
Improved stabilization of coix seed oil in a nanocage-coating framework based on gliadin-carboxymethyl chitosan-Ca2.
- Study subject
- Simulated gastrointestinal and physicochemical conditions
- Material or form
- Yulmu seed oil with a gliadin–CMCS–calcium coating
- Evidence stage
- Delivery-system and material-property study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on yulmu seed oil with a gliadin–CMCS–calcium coating in simulated gastrointestinal and physicochemical conditions.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate improved stabilization of coix seed oil in a nanocage-coating framework based on gliadin-carboxymethyl chitosan-Ca2.
How was it studied?
A delivery-system and material-property study design used simulated gastrointestinal and physicochemical conditions as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Results showed Ca2+ was the key controller for fabricating this nanocage-coating-frameworks, bridging macromolecule-chains with electrostatic interaction and hydrogen bonds, detected by FTIR, CD, DSC and XRD. OGC-Ca displayed a good stability towards heat (60-80 °C, 0-80 min), pH (3-8), NaCl (0-0.5 mM), storage (4/25 °C, 12 days), and a reduce of the pre-oxidation value of CSO in water and the improved controlled release of CSO in simulated GI tract.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that it illustrated GC-Ca frameworks would be a suitable delivery carrier for the CSO like pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals for the food or medical use.
What could this lead to?
A nanocage coating made with grain protein and a chitosan derivative improved the oil's stability and controlled-release behavior under in vitro conditions. The coating result provides stability and release criteria for comparing encapsulated yulmu oil with uncoated oil under processing and digestion conditions.
- Featured · Food & nutritionPMID 33006766
Impact of hydrothermal processing on squalene, α-tocopherol, and fatty acid content in Job's tears grain milled fractions: evaluation of their storage stability.
- Study subject
- Processed yulmu grain
- Material or form
- Hydrothermally processed yulmu grain and milled fractions
- Evidence stage
- Food-composition and storage analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Native and hydrothermally processed Job’s tears grain fractions were examined for squalene, α-tocopherol, fatty acids and accelerated-storage stability.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine how hydrothermal processing changes lipid-associated bioactives across whole grain and milled fractions and whether the processed material retains them during storage.
How was it studied?
Squalene, α-tocopherol and fatty acids were quantified in whole grain and bran, germ and polished fractions before and after processing. Polished grains were monitored for 15 days at 37°C and 92% relative humidity.
What did the study find?
Bran contained the most squalene (11.54–12.75 mg/100 g), while processed bran and germ contained 59.75 ± 0.47 and 67.05 ± 0.94 mg/100 g α-tocopherol. Processed polished grain showed no significant loss between days 0 and 15 under accelerated storage.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that hydrothermally processed fractions combined concentrated lipid-associated compounds with improved retention, supporting their evaluation as food ingredients.
What could this lead to?
The study compared squalene, tocopherol, and fatty-acid profiles in whole grain, bran, germ, and other fractions, together with storage stability after hydrothermal processing. The reported yield and fraction properties can guide scalable recovery, solvent choice, and marker specifications for the yulmu ingredient.
- HealthcarePMID 33807346
Adlay Testa (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. Ma-yuen Stapf.) Ethanolic Extract and Its Active Components Exert Anti-Proliferative Effects on Endometrial Cancer Cells via Cell Cycle Arrest.
- Study subject
- HEC-1A and RL95-2 endometrial-cancer cells
- Material or form
- Testa / ethanol extract and ethyl acetate fraction
- Evidence stage
- Cell experiment and compositional analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined testa—ethanol extract and ethyl acetate fraction using HEC-1A and RL95-2 endometrial-cancer cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate adlay Testa (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. Ma-yuen Stapf.) Ethanolic Extract and Its Active Components Exert Anti-Proliferative Effects on Endometrial Cancer Cells via Cell Cycle Arrest.
How was it studied?
A cell experiment and compositional analysis design used HEC-1A and RL95-2 endometrial-cancer cells as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
In recent years, the incidence of endometrial cancer has increased, and it has become the third most common female gynecological cancer (after ovarian and cervical cancer) in Taiwan. Moreover, HPLC- and GC/FID-based quantification of ATE-EA subfractions showed that phenolic compounds (caffeic acid, protocatechuic acid, and p-hydroxybenzaldehyde), flavonoids, steroids, and fatty acid compounds exert anti-proliferative effects in the cell model.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that collectively, our results demonstrate an antiproliferative effect of ATE-EA on endometrial cancer cells that suggest a positive health outcome for women from consumption of these compounds.
What could this lead to?
A coix testa extract fraction produced proliferation- and cell-cycle-related changes in endometrial-cancer cell experiments. The plant-part-specific activity prioritizes solvent-fraction chemistry, quantitative markers, and selectivity testing before a standardized research extract is defined.
- HealthcarePMID 33803207
Increases of Lipophilic Antioxidants and Anticancer Activity of Coix Seed Fermented by Monascus purpureus.
- Study subject
- HEp2 human laryngeal-cancer cells and in vitro antioxidant systems
- Material or form
- Seeds / Monascus fermentation and lipophilic extract
- Evidence stage
- Fermentation compositional analysis and cell experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—Monascus fermentation and lipophilic extract using hEp2 human laryngeal-cancer cells and in vitro antioxidant systems.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate increases of Lipophilic Antioxidants and Anticancer Activity of Coix Seed Fermented by Monascus purpureus.
How was it studied?
A fermentation compositional analysis and cell experiment design used hEp2 human laryngeal-cancer cells and in vitro antioxidant systems as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Compared to the raw seed, the tocols, γ-oryzanol, and coixenolide contents increased approximately 4, 25, and 2 times, respectively, in the fermented coix seed. Especially, γ-tocotrienol and γ-oryzanol reached 72.5 and 655.0 μg/g in the fermented coix seed.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that fermentation could enhance the efficacy of the health promoting function of coix seeds.
What could this lead to?
Compared with the raw material, Monascus-fermented coix had increases in some lipophilic components and showed in vitro antioxidant activity and changes related to HEp2 cancer-cell viability. The response identifies dose, solvent-fraction, active-marker, and mechanism variables for replication with a standardized yulmu extract.
- HealthcarePMID 32918990
Kanglaite enhances the efficacy of cisplatin in suppression of hepatocellular carcinoma via inhibiting CKLF1 mediated NF-κB pathway and regulating transporter mediated drug efflux.
- Study subject
- HepG2 hepatocellular-carcinoma cells and CKLF1-overexpressing HepG2 cells
- Material or form
- Seed-derived Kanglaite / Kanglaite-extract pretreatment followed by cisplatin; detailed standardization not stated in the abstract
- Evidence stage
- Cell experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed-derived Kanglaite—Kanglaite-extract pretreatment followed by cisplatin using hepG2 hepatocellular-carcinoma cells and CKLF1-overexpressing HepG2 cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the potential synergistic effects of KLT and CDDP on HepG2 cells, discussing the possible mechanisms from the perspective of CKLF1 and NF-κB mediated inflammatory response and chemoresistance, and the involvement of drug efflux transporters.
How was it studied?
Effects of KLT pretreatment on CDDP injured HepG2 cells were determined by MTT, wound healing assay, and transwell assay. Expression of chemokine-like factor 1 (CKLF1) and activation of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) were examined by qPCR, western blot, and immunofluorescence staining.
What did the study find?
Expression of CKLF1 enhanced significantly in CDDP treated HepG2 cells, and KLT decreased this elevation obviously. Overexpression of CKLF1 reversed the effects of KLT on CDDP injured HepG2 cells, which exhibited by increased cell viability and enhanced activation of NF-κΒ.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that inhibition of transporter-mediated drug efflux is also involved in KLT mediated sensitization effects of CDDP.
What could this lead to?
In HepG2 cells, seed-derived Kanglaite was studied as a cisplatin adjunct through CKLF1/NF-κB and transporter-mediated drug-efflux pathways. The work defines mechanism and combination-assay targets for a standardized pharmaceutical extract rather than a food application.
- AllPMID 33166220
Development and validation of a rapid and efficient method for simultaneous determination of mycotoxins in coix seed using one-step extraction and UHPLC-HRMS.
- Study subject
- More than 70 commercial Coix seed samples collected from Chinese markets
- Material or form
- Commercial Coix seeds / one-step direct extraction followed by UHPLC-HRMS
- Evidence stage
- Analytical-method validation and market survey
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Commercial Coix seeds—one-step direct extraction followed by UHPLC-HRMS was analyzed across more than 70 commercial Coix seed samples collected from Chinese markets.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to develop a rapid and efficient method for simultaneous determination of mycotoxins in coix seed using one-step extraction and UHPLC-HRMS.
How was it studied?
To survey the contamination levels of these mycotoxins in commercial coix seeds, more than 70 samples were collected from Chinese markets and were analysed using the newly developed method.
What did the study find?
One-step extraction showed several advantages compared to the three commercial solid-phase extraction clean-up methods, including ease of use, reduced time of sample preparation, low cost, good recovery, and acceptable matrix effect.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that these results highlight the importance of routine monitoring and control of mycotoxins in coix seeds.
What could this lead to?
A one-step-extraction UHPLC-HRMS method for simultaneous measurement of 24 mycotoxins in commercial Coix seeds was validated. Its yulmu-matrix performance provides a basis for lot-release limits and routine multi-toxin surveillance of grain or derived ingredients.
- HealthcarePMID 33179521
Furin-responsive triterpenine-based liposomal complex enhances anticervical cancer therapy through size modulation.
- Study subject
- Preclinical cervical-cancer tumor models; the abstract does not specify cell lines or animal species
- Material or form
- Seed oil / a furin-responsive liposomal complex with a transferrin-modified tripterine-coix-seed-oil microemulsion as its internal core
- Evidence stage
- Preclinical formulation study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed oil—a furin-responsive liposomal complex with a transferrin-modified tripterine-coix-seed-oil microemulsion as its internal core using preclinical cervical-cancer tumor models.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether furin-responsive triterpenine-based liposomal complex enhances anticervical cancer therapy through size modulation.
How was it studied?
A preclinical formulation study design used preclinical cervical-cancer tumor models as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Generally, nanodelivery systems of intermediate size (100-120 nm) are capable of efficient accumulation owing to prolonged circulation and enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect; however, smaller ones (20-40 nm) are effective for deep penetration within tumor tissue. Notably, compared to the use of triterpenine alone, PEGcleavable Tf-CTM/L promoted anticervical efficacy and displayed diminished systemic toxicity by efficient accumulation and deep penetration of antitumor drugs within tumor tissues.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the study provides a new strategy, and holds promising potential for anticervical cancer treatment.
What could this lead to?
Coix seed oil functioned as a carrier component inside a furin-responsive tripterine liposomal system tested for tumor penetration and accumulation. Its yulmu relevance is formulation science—oil composition, carrier reproducibility, and release behavior—rather than evidence for the grain or oil alone.
- HealthcarePMID 33294448
Regulatory Mechanisms of Coicis Semen on Bionetwork of Liver Cancer Based on Network Pharmacology.
- Study subject
- Candidate Coicis Semen components and targets, and liver-cancer target databases
- Material or form
- Coicis Semen seeds / cross-analysis of databases including SymMap and CTD; no actual extract administration
- Evidence stage
- Network pharmacology
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on coicis Semen seeds—cross-analysis of databases including SymMap and CTD; no actual extract administration in candidate Coicis Semen components and targets, and liver-cancer target databases.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate regulatory Mechanisms of Coicis Semen on Bionetwork of Liver Cancer Based on Network Pharmacology.
How was it studied?
This study collected CS compounds and target proteins in SymMap, then cross-matched with the liver cancer targets in the CTD database to construct an interaction network of CS-liver cancer proteins, and visualized by Cytoscape software.
What did the study find?
The results showed that a total of 103 common genes shared by CS and liver cancer were obtained, which were enriched for precancerous lesion pathways such as hepatitis B and fatty liver and biological signaling pathways such as HIF-1 and TNF.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that based on the system biology analysis, it is speculated that CS may not only participate in multiple mechanisms of action to treat liver cancer synergistically but may also be involved in factors that reduce the incidence of liver cancer.
What could this lead to?
Database links between candidate Coicis Semen compounds and liver-cancer targets generate a shortlist for chemical confirmation, binding or cell assays, and extract-standardization work; no administered yulmu material was tested.
- AllPMID 33078805
Functional coix seed protein hydrolysates as a novel agent with potential hepatoprotective effect.
- Study subject
- Male ICR mice given 40% v/v alcohol daily
- Material or form
- Seed protein / coix seed protein hydrolysates at 10, 30, or 50 mg/kg body weight
- Evidence stage
- Animal experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed protein—coix seed protein hydrolysates at 10, 30, or 50 mg—kg body weight using male ICR mice given 40% v/v alcohol daily.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to explore the hepatoprotective potential of coix seed protein hydrolysates (CPP) against alcohol-induced liver injury, and investigate the underlying mechanisms.
How was it studied?
Male ICR mice received daily 40% alcohol at 5 mL/kg to induce liver injury and coix-protein hydrolysate at 0, 10, 30 or 50 mg/kg body weight. Liver enzymes, inflammatory cytokines, malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase were measured.
What did the study find?
The overexpression of serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-β (IL-β) by alcohol induced injury was altered by CPP administration. The lipid peroxidation was also retarded by CPP by suppressing malondialdehyde (MDA) level and increasing the activity of liver superoxide dismutase (SOD).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the findings from the present study suggested that CPP produced significant hepatoprotection and showed potential to be used as a dietary supplement or the ingredient of functional food.
What could this lead to?
This preclinical study evaluated coix seed protein hydrolysates in mice with alcohol-induced liver injury. The model supplies organ- and stress-response endpoints for dose–response replication, active-marker analysis, and route-specific safety testing of the yulmu preparation.
- AllPMID 33290255
Coicis semen protects against focal cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury by inhibiting oxidative stress and promoting angiogenesis via the TGFβ/ALK1/Smad1/5 signaling pathway.
- Study subject
- Male C57BL/6J mice with MCAO and OGD/RX-treated HUVECs
- Material or form
- Coicis Semen seeds / dosage form, dose, and extraction method not stated in the abstract
- Evidence stage
- Animal and cell experiment
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What did the study examine?
Coicis Semen was examined in a mouse model of focal cerebral ischaemia–reperfusion and in oxygen-glucose-deprived human endothelial cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate whether Coicis Semen has a protective effect against ischemic stroke and the mechanism of this protective effect.
How was it studied?
Infarct size, neurological deficits and behavior were evaluated on days 3, 7 and 14 after staining. Additionally, ELISA was performed to measure the level of VEGF in the brain.
What did the study find?
Furthermore, Coicis Semen treatment decreased the extravasation of EB dye in MCAO mouse brains and elevated expression of the tight junction proteins ZO-1 and Occludin. Double immunofluorescence staining and western blot analysis showed that the expression of angiogenesis markers and TGFβ pathway-related proteins was increased by Coicis Semen administration.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that coicis Semen treatment alleviates brain damage induced by ischemic stroke through inhibiting oxidative stress and promoting angiogenesis by activating the TGFβ/ALK1 signaling pathway.
What could this lead to?
Coicis Semen was evaluated in mouse cerebral ischemia-reperfusion and endothelial-cell models, with exploration of oxidative-stress and angiogenesis-related pathways. The model supplies organ- and stress-response endpoints for dose–response replication, active-marker analysis, and route-specific safety testing of the yulmu preparation.
- AllPMID 33071330
Tetramethylpyrazine from adlay (Coix lacryma-jobi) biotransformation by Bacillus subtilis and its quality characteristics.
- Study subject
- Fermented-food samples
- Material or form
- Seeds / Bacillus subtilis fermentation
- Evidence stage
- Food-processing study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Seeds—Bacillus subtilis fermentation was analyzed across fermented-food samples.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to optimize the fermentation parameters of dehulled, polished and broken adlay fermented by Bacillus subtilis BJ3-2 with regard to tetramethylpyrazine (TMP) yield and fibrinolytic enzyme activity.
How was it studied?
Fermented-food samples were assessed in a food-processing study.
What did the study find?
Box-Behnken design results showed that the TMP yield was 6.93 mg/g DW (dried weight) of B. subtilis-fermented polished adlay, which was about 136 times higher than that of B. subtilis-fermented soybean (BSB). Except for coixol and coixan, the levels of γ-aminobutyric acid, triterpenes, phenolics, flavonoids and coixenolide in B. subtilis-fermented adlay increased by 14.05, 2.02, 2.31 and 1.36 times, respectively.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that b. subtilis-fermented adlay could be a promising value-added food, and that is more suitable for human consumption.
What could this lead to?
This food-processing study found that Bacillus subtilis fermentation changed the composition and enzyme activity of adlay. The measured compositional, microbial, or sensory changes identify fermentation conditions and markers for reproducible yulmu food or bioprocess development.
- AllPMID 32980289
Prolapsed tongue papilloma cured by administration of the traditional Japanese (Kampo) herbal medicine, Keishibukuryogan-ka-yokuinin: A case report.
- Study subject
- One 49-year-old Japanese man
- Material or form
- Seeds; component of a combination formula / oral Kampo combination product; dose and detailed manufacturing method not stated in the abstract
- Evidence stage
- Case report
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What did the study examine?
The research focused on seeds; component of a combination formula—oral Kampo combination product in one 49-year-old Japanese man.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate prolapsed tongue papilloma cured by administration of the traditional Japanese (Kampo) herbal medicine, Keishibukuryogan-ka-yokuinin: A case report.
How was it studied?
A case report design used one 49-year-old Japanese man as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
For papillomas of the tongue, surgery is recommended owing to their malignant potential; however, certain complications may be associated with surgery.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the present case report suggests the use of KBGY as an appropriate complementary therapy for squamous papilloma.
What could this lead to?
A pharmaceutical-grade yulmu-seed product appeared only as one component of a Kampo formula in a single tongue-papilloma case. The record is useful for formula traceability and pharmacovigilance, while attribution requires component-resolved evidence.
- Healthcare · Food & nutritionPMID 32327208
Clinical and in vitro cross-reactivity of cereal grains in children with IgE-mediated wheat allergy.
- Study subject
- Ten children aged 5 to 15 years with IgE-mediated wheat allergy
- Material or form
- Job's tears seeds / Job's tears skin-prick testing; Job's tears-specific details of oral food challenges are unclear in the abstract
- Evidence stage
- Human observational diagnostic study
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What did the study examine?
Job's tears seeds—Job's tears skin-prick testing was examined among ten children aged 5 to 15 years with IgE-mediated wheat allergy.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to wheat and cereal grains have a broad range of cross-reactivity, but the clinical relevance of this cross-reactivity is uncertain.
How was it studied?
Patients aged 5 to 15 years with IgE-mediated wheat allergy were enrolled. Oral food challenge (OFC) was conducted if the SPT was ≤5 mm in size and there was no history of anaphylaxis to each grain.
What did the study find?
The median SPT size and sIgE level to wheat was 7.3 mm and 146.5 kUA/l, respectively. The cross-reactivity rate for barley, oat, and Job's tears was 60.0%, 33.3%, and 20.0%, respectively.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the cross-reactivity rate was quite low for oat and Job's tears compared to that of barley; therefore, avoidance of all cereal grains may be unnecessary in patients with severe wheat allergy.
What could this lead to?
Testing in ten children with IgE-mediated wheat allergy examined cereal cross-reactivity that included Job's tears. This supplies a safety signal for allergen labeling and motivates yulmu-specific IgE, challenge, and cross-contamination studies.
- AllPMID 33178013
Determination of Differentiating Markers in Coicis Semen From Multi-Sources Based on Structural Similarity Classification Coupled With UPCC-Xevo G2-XS QTOF.
- Study subject
- Seed samples from multiple origins
- Material or form
- Dry mature seeds/UPCC-QTOF lipid analysis
- Evidence stage
- Analytical method
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What did the study examine?
Dry mature seeds—UPCC-QTOF lipid analysis was analyzed across seed samples from multiple origins.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine Differentiating Markers in Coicis Semen From Multi-Sources Based on Structural Similarity Classification Coupled With UPCC-Xevo G2-XS QTOF.
How was it studied?
Finally, we identified the fatty acid compositions of seven out of nine differential markers via Progenesis QI using principal component analysis, orthogonal projection to latent structures-discriminant analysis, and the LipidMaps database.
What did the study find?
Previous literature reported that coicis semen contains twenty triglycerides and twelve diglycerides. However, we identified thirty-five triglycerides, sixteen diglycerides, four monoglycerides, and two sterols under the preoptimized conditions of UPCC-Xevo G2-XS QTOF combined with a personalized TCM database.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the findings confirmed that UPCC-Xevo G2-XS QTOF combined with software-based group classification could be used as an efficient method for exploring the potential lipid markers of seed medicine.
What could this lead to?
This analytical study explored lipid markers that could support the quality assessment of Coicis Semen. The discriminating signals can be developed into an identity and origin test for yulmu supplier qualification and batch consistency.
- AllPMID 32387991
Insoluble-bound polyphenols of adlay seed ameliorate H2O2-induced oxidative stress in HepG2 cells via Nrf2 signalling.
- Study subject
- H2O2 treated HepG2 cells
- Material or form
- Seed / Fractionated/purified polyphenol extract
- Evidence stage
- Cell experiment
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What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—Fractionated—purified polyphenol extract using h2O2 treated HepG2 cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether insoluble-bound polyphenols of adlay seed ameliorate H2O2-induced oxidative stress in HepG2 cells via Nrf2 signalling.
How was it studied?
Each fraction of insoluble-bound polyphenol extracts from adlay seed was obtained by separating with Sephadex LH-20 column and semi-preparative HPLC. The cytoprotective effects of ferulic acid against oxidative challenge were determined by cell viability, intracellular reactive oxygen stress change in HepG2 cells, western blot and apoptosis by flow cytometry.
What did the study find?
Ferulic acid was found being the main active component of insoluble-bound polyphenol in adlay seed. Ferulic acid treatment increased the activity of GSH-PX, CAT, γ-GCS.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the research can provide a reference for the in-depth study of its regulatory mechanism and the development of antioxidant related functional food and health products.
What could this lead to?
The insoluble bound polyphenol fraction from Yulmu was evaluated in the HepG2 oxidative stress model. Pairing the oxidative-stress endpoint with fraction chemistry can identify responsible compounds and a reproducible potency marker for the yulmu material.
- HealthcarePMID 33101013
Coix Seed Oil Exerts an Anti-Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Effect by Disrupting miR-205/S1PR1 Axis.
- Study subject
- Murine 4T1 cells and 4T1 orthotopic tumor mice
- Material or form
- Seed Oil / Yulmu seed Oil; Manufacturing, standardization, and dosage are not specified in the abstract.
- Evidence stage
- Animal and cell experiment
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What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed Oil—Yulmu seed Oil using murine 4T1 cells and 4T1 orthotopic tumor mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate coix Seed Oil Exerts an Anti-Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Effect by Disrupting miR-205/S1PR1 Axis.
How was it studied?
CSO suppressed cell proliferation, colony formation in vitro, and tumor growth in vivo. miR-205-5p was substantially altered in CSO treated tumor tissues compared to the control group by miRNA-sequencing analysis.
What did the study find?
Sphingomyelin metabolism (SM) decreased in serum in model group compared to the control group, while it increased by CSO administration by lipid metabolomics analysis. CSO reduced the expression of S1PR1, cyclinD1, and phosphorylation levels of STAT3, MAPK, and AKT while upregulated p27.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that these results revealed that CSO exerted an anti-TNBC effect via the miR-205/S1PR1 axis to regulate sphingomyelin metabolism, and the downstream STAT3/MAPK/AKT signal pathways were partly involved.
What could this lead to?
This is a preclinical mechanistic study evaluating yulmu seed oil in 4T1 triple-negative breast cancer cells and orthotopic tumor mice. Relating the response to seed-oil lipid composition and dose will be essential for reproducible mechanism and toxicology work in the stated preclinical model.
- Food & nutritionPMID 32906610
Antioxidant Capacity of Tempura Deep-Fried Products Prepared Using Barley, Buckwheat, and Job's Tears Flours.
- Study subject
- Food and frying oil samples
- Material or form
- Seed powder/tempura batter/heating
- Evidence stage
- Food processing study
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What did the study examine?
Seed powder—tempura batter—heating was analyzed across food and frying oil samples.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate antioxidant Capacity of Tempura Deep-Fried Products Prepared Using Barley, Buckwheat, and Job's Tears Flours.
How was it studied?
Radical scavenging activity and polyphenol content of tempura were measured by chemiluminescence-based assay and the Folin-Denis method, respectively.
What did the study find?
Although the frying oil of barley showed higher p-anisidin value than that of wheat, the oil samples' deterioration level measured in this study was low.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that tempura can be enjoyed in a healthier manner by using batter prepared using those flours, and substituting wheat flour with the three flours can increase the antioxidant capacity of deep-fried products.
What could this lead to?
The polyphenols and in vitro antioxidant capacity of fried products using Job's tears powder were compared. The compositional differences provide candidate quality markers for comparing yulmu origin, fraction, processing, and storage in food ingredients.
- Food & nutritionPMID 33070833
[Contamination of zearalenone and its dietary exposure assessment in coix seed in Shanghai].
- Study subject
- 147 Coix seed samples from Shanghai and consumption-survey data from 730 adults
- Material or form
- Yulmu seed/seed ZEN analysis and Monte Carlo dietary exposure estimation
- Evidence stage
- Contaminant survey and dietary exposure assessment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
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What did the study examine?
Yulmu seed—seed ZEN analysis and Monte Carlo dietary exposure estimation was examined among 147 Coix seed samples from Shanghai and consumption-survey data from 730 adults.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to analyze the zearalenone(ZEN) level in coix seed, and assess the risk of dietary exposure of ZEN in coix seed in Shanghai.
How was it studied?
The ZEN contents of 147 coix seed samples collected in Shanghai were determined. The consumption data of 730 adults in Shanghai was collected by questionnaire survey with random sampling method.
What did the study find?
0216 μg/(kg·d), which was much lower than the tolerable daily intake(TDI). There were about 1.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the health risk of ZEN exposure of coix seed in Shanghai population is lower when taking coix seed regularly, and there are potential health risks when taking coix seed highly contaminated with ZEN at a higher dose for a long time.
What could this lead to?
This is a regional risk assessment study that estimated dietary exposure to zearalenone using 147 samples of Shanghai yulmu seeds and adult consumer data. The occurrence data define hazard priorities and sampling plans for supplier qualification, regulatory testing, and storage control of yulmu products.
- AllPMID 32278985
Comparative study on the bioactive components and in vitro biological activities of three green seedlings.
- Study subject
- RAW264.7 cells
- Material or form
- Sprout / Sprout sample extraction and analysis
- Evidence stage
- Food composition and cell experiment
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Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined sprout—Sprout sample extraction and analysis using rAW264.7 cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to explore functional food ingredients from green seedlings, the bioactive components (phenolic compounds and γ-aminobutyric acid) and antioxidant activities (DPPH radical scavenging ability, ABTS radical scavenging ability and reducing power) of three green seedlings, including coix seed seedling (CSS), highland barely seedling (HBS) and naked oats seedling (NOS) cultivars were respectively measured and deeply compared.
How was it studied?
A food composition and cell experiment design used rAW264.7 cells as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Results indicated that CSS showed the highest contents of the total polyphenol (183.35 mg/100 g), total flavonoid (348.68 mg/100 g), and γ-aminobutyric acid (54.17 mg/100 g).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that taken together, all results suggested that the three green seedlings, especially CSS could be used as natural ingredients for functional food.
What could this lead to?
The composition and RAW264.7 cell response of Coix sprouts were compared with those of other grain sprouts. The cellular endpoint can be used to prioritize marker compounds, standardize the tested yulmu fraction, and design the next mechanism or safety experiment.
- HealthcarePMID 32769923
Efficacy and safety of Kanglaite injection for gastric cancer: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis.
- Study subject
- A planned review of the gastric cancer clinical trial literature.
- Material or form
- Yulmu seed derived Kanglaite/Kanglaite injection
- Evidence stage
- Systematic review protocol
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What did the study examine?
The protocol specified a systematic review and meta-analysis of Kanglaite injection for gastric cancer.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to synthesize evidence on efficacy and treatment-related adverse events for this Coix-seed-derived injectable preparation.
How was it studied?
English and Chinese databases were to be searched through June 2020, with independent study selection, extraction and Cochrane risk-of-bias assessment. Prespecified outcomes included response, three-year progression-free and overall survival, and adverse events; RevMan and STATA were designated for pooled risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals.
What did the study find?
As a protocol, the publication reported planned analyses rather than completed pooled estimates; it also specified funnel plots, Egger testing and GRADE assessment of evidence quality.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors expected the completed review to provide an evidence-based judgment about Kanglaite injection in gastric-cancer care.
What could this lead to?
This protocol specifies how Kanglaite injection studies in gastric cancer would be synthesized, including adverse-event outcomes. Its contribution is an evidence-review framework for a seed-derived pharmaceutical product, pending the completed review.
- AllPMID 32893579
[Development of preparation process of icaritin-coix seed oil microemulsion based on quality by design concept].
- Study subject
- Icaritin-yulmu seed oil microemulsion formulation sample
- Material or form
- Seed oil / water titration microemulsion; QbD·Placett-Burman·Box-Behnken optimization
- Evidence stage
- Formulation optimization study
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What did the study examine?
Seed oil—water titration microemulsion; QbD·Placett-Burman·Box-Behnken optimization was analyzed across icaritin-yulmu seed oil microemulsion formulation sample.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to develop preparation process of icaritin-coix seed oil microemulsion based on quality by design concept].
How was it studied?
According to this prescription, IC-MEs were prepared, and its encapsulation efficiency after 1 week was 92.45%±1.00%.
What did the study find?
The optimal formula was as following: the drug loading efficiency of 0.92%, the ratio of mixed-oil(coix seed oil-glycerol tributyrate) to mixed-surfactant(HS15-RH40) of 4∶6, and the water addition of 5.7 mL. According to this prescription, IC-MEs were prepared, and its encapsulation efficiency after 1 week was 92.45%±1.00%.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the stability of IC-MEs could be improved by optimizing prescription and process parameters of IC-MEs based on the QbD concept, which can provide certain reference value for the future development of IC-MEs.
What could this lead to?
The study optimized an icaritin microemulsion that used yulmu seed oil in the mixed oil phase and assessed its short-term encapsulation stability. Yulmu oil's carrier role can be defined through oil-marker specifications, phase behavior, release, target-cell uptake, and batch reproducibility of the full microemulsion.
- HealthcarePMID 30833146
The Chinese medicinal herbs of spleen-meridian property regulate body temperature in yeast-induced fever rats.
- Study subject
- Yeast-induced fever in rats
- Material or form
- Coicis Semen seed / intake dosage form, dosage, and extraction method are not specified in the abstract.
- Evidence stage
- Animal experiment
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What did the study examine?
Coicis Semen and three other spleen-meridian herbs were compared for thermoregulatory effects in yeast-induced fever rats.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the Chinese medicinal herbs of spleen-meridian property regulate body temperature in yeast-induced fever rats.
How was it studied?
A animal experiment design used yeast-induced fever in rats as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The intake of Astragali Radix increased body temperature in yeast-induced fever rats; while Coicis Semen showed cooling effects in such rats. In parallel, the levels of cAMP, PGE2 and thermo-related metabolites, including choline, creatine, alanine, lactate and leucine, in the blood of yeast-induced rats were increased significantly by the intake of Astragali Radix.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that by providing an intuitive comparison of thermo-regulatory factors and related metabolites after intake of selected herbs, the mechanism behind the warm and cooling effects of specific herbs were revealed.
What could this lead to?
Coicis Semen was one of several herbs compared in fever-model rats, and the metabolite, temperature, and vasopressin measurements map the formula context. They support component-resolved experiments focused on yulmu within the multi-herb comparison.
- AllPMID 32639487
An efficient approach for the synthesis of new (±)-coixspirolactams.
- Study subject
- Not applicable
- Material or form
- Reported compounds derived from seeds / total synthesis
- Evidence stage
- Chemical synthesis
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What did the study examine?
The research focused on reported compounds derived from seeds—total synthesis in the reported material.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate an efficient approach for the synthesis of new (±)-coixspirolactams.
How was it studied?
A chemical synthesis design used the reported material as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Coixspirolactams, spiro[oxindole-γ-lactones], are found in adlay seeds and exhibit anticancer activity. A novel synthetic methodology was developed to enable an easy access to (±)-coixspirolactam A and a large number of new coixspirolactams in excellent overall yields.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the exquisite exploitation of formamide reactivity was essential for the construction of oxindole and lactone scaffolds.
What could this lead to?
A total-synthesis route produced coixspirolactam derivatives originally reported from yulmu seed. The chemistry enables reference-standard preparation, structure confirmation, and controlled testing of individual analogues independent of variable plant extraction.
- Featured · Food & nutritionPMID 32135425
Insights into the hierarchical structure and digestibility of starch in heat-moisture treated adlay seeds.
- Study subject
- In vitro digestion test of starch samples
- Material or form
- Seed starch/heat–moisture treatment
- Evidence stage
- Food processing study
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What did the study examine?
Seed starch—heat–moisture treatment was analyzed across in vitro digestion test of starch samples.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate insights into the hierarchical structure and digestibility of starch in heat-moisture treated adlay seeds.
How was it studied?
starches isolated from heat-moisture treated (HMT) adlay seeds were characterized with hierarchical structures and digestibility to understand the relationships in structural and digestible behaviors of starches in a HMT starch-based food system.
What did the study find?
And the reinforced molecular interactions between starch molecules during HMT occurred to form more densely ordered structure, thus reducing the digestibility and digestion rate coefficients (k) of adlay starch. Particularly, HMT applied directly in adlay seeds with 30% moisture content displayed the highest resistant starch level (20.6%) and lowest k (2.74 × 10-3 min-1).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that thus, the results are useful to realize the desired regulation of starch digestibility in adlay products following HMT.
What could this lead to?
This study showed that heat and moisture treatment changed the structure and in vitro digestibility of Yulmu starch. These structure–function measurements support control of yulmu starch digestibility, pasting, or texture in a defined food process.
- AllPMID 32695650
The gastroprotective effect of the foxtail millet and adlay processing product against stress-induced gastric mucosal lesions in rats.
- Study subject
- Rats with water-immersion restraint stress-induced gastric mucosal lesions
- Material or form
- Processed yulmu product; the seed fraction was not specified / 15% or 30% processed yulmu product in an AIN-93G diet for five weeks
- Evidence stage
- Animal dietary intervention
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What did the study examine?
Researchers examined processed yulmu product using rats with water-immersion restraint stress-induced gastric mucosal lesions.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the gastroprotective effect of foxtail millet and adlay processing product (APP) diet on water immersion restraint stress (WIRS) induced ulceration in rats.
How was it studied?
A animal dietary intervention design used rats with water-immersion restraint stress-induced gastric mucosal lesions as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
In addition, ulcerated rats showed depletion of NPSH levels whereas treatment with millet and adlay reverted this decline in stress-induced rats.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that millet and adlay diets retain the advantage of being a natural product which may protect the gastric mucosa against ulceration.
What could this lead to?
This is a preclinical dietary study evaluating a diet containing yulmu processed products in rats with stress-induced gastric mucosal lesions. The feeding design provides endpoints for a composition-controlled comparison of yulmu dose, processing state, digestibility, and nutritional response.
- Food & nutritionPMID 32627505
[Historical evolution of Coicis Semen processing methods].
- Study subject
- Ancient herbal literature, Chinese pharmacopoeia, and regional processing standards
- Material or form
- Seeds and dehulled kernels / Literature on roasting, stir-frying with glutinous rice, salt processing, earth stir-frying, ginger-juice stir-frying, bran stir-frying, Fazhi, and other methods
- Evidence stage
- Historical literature review
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seeds and dehulled kernels—Literature on roasting, stir-frying with glutinous rice, salt processing, earth stir-frying, ginger-juice stir-frying, bran stir-frying, Fazhi, and other methods in ancient herbal literature, Chinese pharmacopoeia, and regional processing standards.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate historical evolution of Coicis Semen processing methods].
How was it studied?
A historical literature review design used ancient herbal literature, Chinese pharmacopoeia, and regional processing standards as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The results showed that the processing methods of Coicis Semen recorded in monographs on materia medica mainly included stir-frying, glutinous rice stir-frying, salt processing(including salt cooking and salt stir-frying), stir-frying with the earth scraped from the wall facing east, and ginger juice stir-frying, etc. The bran stir-frying is the improved version of glutinous rice stir-frying in order to be adaptive to the modern-day situation and the needs of the present.
How did the authors interpret it?
The review established a historical basis for standardizing Coicis Semen processing, interpreting modern processed products and directing further raw-material research.
What could this lead to?
This literature review summarizes changes in Coicis Semen's historical processing methods and modern processing standards. This evidence preserves the historical or cultural context of Coix use and provides provenance questions for archaeological, botanical, or food-history research.
- Featured · Food & nutritionPMID 31954941
Effects of fermentation with Lactobacillus plantarum NCU137 on nutritional, sensory and stability properties of Coix (Coix lachryma-jobi L.) seed.
- Study subject
- Fermented seed paste
- Material or form
- Seed/L. plantarum fermentation
- Evidence stage
- Food processing study
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Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed—L. plantarum fermentation in fermented seed paste.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the effect of fermentation with Lactobacillus plantarum NCU137 on the nutritional, sensory and stability properties of Coix (Coix lachryma-jobi L.) seed.
How was it studied?
A food processing study design used fermented seed paste as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The nutritional compounds, including free amino acid, free fatty acid, soluble dietary fiber and organic acids of fermented coix seed were significantly (p < 0.05) increased than those of non-fermented coix seed. The fermented coix seed exhibiting a special flavor, due to the production of acids, the decreased level of aldehydes and ketones, and the increased level of alcohols in the volatile compounds, whereas the amount of hazardous substance 2-pentylfuran was reduced and natural antiseptic hexanoic acid was produced.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that fermentation with L. plantarum NCU137 could improve the nutritional, sensory and stability properties of coix seed.
What could this lead to?
The effects of L. plantarum fermentation on the composition, flavor, and paste stability of yulmu seeds were evaluated. The measured compositional, microbial, or sensory changes identify fermentation conditions and markers for reproducible yulmu food or bioprocess development.
- HealthcarePMID 32595752
Adlay Seed (Coix lacryma-jobi L.) Extracts Exhibit a Prophylactic Effect on Diet-Induced Metabolic Dysfunction and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Mice.
- Study subject
- High-fat diet mouse and simulated human fatty liver cell model
- Material or form
- Seed / Yulmu seed ethanol extract or water extract mixed with high-fat diet and administered for 10 weeks
- Evidence stage
- Animal and cell experiment
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What did the study examine?
Ethanolic and water extracts of yulmu seed were examined in high-fat-diet mice and a simulated human fatty-liver cell model.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether the two seed extracts could modify diet-induced metabolic dysfunction, hepatic fat accumulation and related liver pathways.
How was it studied?
Mice received a high-fat diet containing ethanolic or water yulmu-seed extract for 10 weeks. Glucose and lipid metabolism, hepatic steatosis, inflammation, liver and kidney measures were assessed, and lipogenesis and fatty-acid β-oxidation were examined in the cell model.
What did the study find?
Both extracts improved hyperglycaemia, glucose tolerance and insulin resistance, prevented hyperlipidaemia and attenuated hepatic steatosis and inflammation in the high-fat-diet mice. The cell model supported effects on hepatic lipogenesis and fatty-acid β-oxidation.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that yulmu-seed extracts showed regulatory potential in their preclinical models of fatty liver and associated metabolic dysfunction.
What could this lead to?
This is a preclinical study evaluating Yulmu seed water and ethanol extract in high-fat diet mice and fatty liver cell models. The outcomes provide variables for a composition-matched feeding study that separates yulmu dose and processing from overall diet effects.
- AllPMID 32528499
Genome Assembly and Annotation of Soft-Shelled Adlay (Coix lacryma-jobi Variety ma-yuen), a Cereal and Medicinal Crop in the Poaceae Family.
- Study subject
- Korean yulmu cultivar
- Material or form
- Variety Johyun / PacBio·Illumina genome sequencing
- Evidence stage
- Genomics study
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What did the study examine?
The research focused on variety Johyun—PacBio·Illumina genome sequencing in korean yulmu cultivar.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate genome Assembly and Annotation of Soft-Shelled Adlay (Coix lacryma-jobi Variety ma-yuen), a Cereal and Medicinal Crop in the Poaceae Family.
How was it studied?
A genomics study design used korean yulmu cultivar as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Despite its importance, however, genomic resources for better understanding this plant species at the molecular level and informing improved breeding strategies remain limited. Transcriptome profiling revealed 3,988 genes that are differentially expressed in seeds relative to other tissues, of which 1,470 genes were strongly up-regulated in seeds and the most enriched Gene Ontology terms were assigned to carbohydrate and protein metabolism.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that taken together, our genome sequence data will provide a valuable resource for molecular breeding and pharmacological study of this plant species.
What could this lead to?
This study established the genomic resources of the Korean soft Yulmu breed. The genomic resource provides markers for yulmu genome assembly, cultivar identity, and trait-linked breeding research.
- Featured · HealthcarePMID 32084467
Preparation of coix seed oil bioactive delivery systems based on homologous polysaccharides and proteins.
- Study subject
- Caco-2 monolayer cells
- Material or form
- Seed oil/nanoparticle encapsulation
- Evidence stage
- Formulation and cell transport study
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What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed oil—nanoparticle encapsulation using caco-2 monolayer cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to prepare coix seed oil bioactive delivery systems based on homologous polysaccharides and proteins.
How was it studied?
A formulation and cell transport study design used caco-2 monolayer cells as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Moreover, the fusion of the nanoparticles with the membrane enabled the transport of CSO through the Caco-2 cell monolayer and improved the intestinal permeability.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that these findings could provide useful information for designing homologous polysaccharide and protein-based delivery systems to increase the bioavailability of lipophilic nutraceuticals in the food industry.
What could this lead to?
The study evaluated the transport of polysaccharide and protein-based nanocarriers of yulmu seed oil and Caco-2. The delivery study identifies loading, release, stability, and composition variables needed to standardize yulmu oil or extract within the complete carrier system.
- Food & nutritionPMID 32389654
Morphological, physico-chemical and functional properties of underutilized starches in China.
- Study subject
- Starch samples
- Material or form
- Seed starch/starch separation
- Evidence stage
- Food material characterization
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Seed starch—starch separation was analyzed across starch samples.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate morphological, physico-chemical and functional properties of underutilized starches in China.
How was it studied?
starches were isolated from different non-conventional sources (acorn, black wheat, buckwheat, coix seed, jiaoyu, kuzhu, longya lily, and naked oat) cultivated in China, and their morphological, physico-chemical, and functional properties were analyzed. After a comparison with commercial corn starch, all these isolated starches presented promising and unique characteristics.
What did the study find?
Among isolated starches, significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in morphology, pasting, crystallinity, physico-chemical, and functional properties. SEM analysis revealed that the starches isolated from different sources showed distinct shapes exclusively globular, elliptic, and polygonal shapes.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that hence, the present study will improve the scientific basis on starches from different non-conventional sources, facilitate their utilization in a variety of applications.
What could this lead to?
This study compared the physical properties of yulmu seed starch with other non-traditional starch sources. These structure–function measurements support control of yulmu starch digestibility, pasting, or texture in a defined food process.
- AllPMID 32379639
Herbal medicine for treatment of children diagnosed with COVID-19: A review of guidelines.
- Study subject
- Three Chinese provincial-level pediatric COVID-19 guidelines confirmed as of March 25, 2020
- Material or form
- Coicis Semen; Complex prescription ingredients / 13 herbal medicine complex prescriptions; Individual manufacturing and dosage are not included in the abstract.
- Evidence stage
- Review of guidelines
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on coicis Semen; Complex prescription ingredients—13 herbal medicine complex prescriptions in three Chinese provincial-level pediatric COVID-19 guidelines confirmed as of March 25, 2020.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to summarize and analyze the pattern identification (PI), herbal formulae, and composition of herbs provided by recent guidelines for the treatment of pediatric COVID-19.
How was it studied?
A review of guidelines design used three Chinese provincial-level pediatric COVID-19 guidelines confirmed as of March 25, 2020 as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The results showed that there were 4 stages, 12 PIs, and 13 herbal formulae recommended by the provincial guidelines.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this review serves as a reference for the use of traditional medicine in the treatment of pediatric COVID-19.
What could this lead to?
Coicis Semen appeared as one ingredient in multi-herb pediatric COVID-19 guideline formulas. The finding maps formula composition and provenance and supports component-resolved safety research focused on yulmu.
- HealthcarePMID 32382293
Systematic Elucidation of the Potential Mechanisms of Core Chinese Materia Medicas in Treating Liver Cancer Based on Network Pharmacology.
- Study subject
- Liver cancer prescription data, candidate ingredients and disease target database
- Material or form
- Coicis Semen; Calculation analysis based on complex medicinal ingredients/clinician prescription data and TCM/disease database; No actual drug administration
- Evidence stage
- Prescription data mining and network pharmacology
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on coicis Semen; Calculation analysis based on complex medicinal ingredients—clinician prescription data and TCM—disease database; No actual drug administration in liver cancer prescription data, candidate ingredients and disease target database.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to screen the core Chinese materia medicas (CCMMs) against primary liver cancer (PLC), and the potential mechanisms of CCMMs in treating PLC were analyzed based on network pharmacology.
How was it studied?
Then, bioactive ingredients and corresponding targets of CCMMs were collected using three different TCM online databases, and target genes of PLC were obtained from GeneCards and OMIM. Furthermore, a network of CCMMs bioactive ingredients and common target gene was constructed by Cytoscape 3.7.1, and gene ontology (GO) and signaling pathways analyses were performed to explain the mechanism of CCMMs in treating PLC.
What did the study find?
A total of 15 high-frequency Chinese materia medica combinations were found, and CCMMs (including Paeoniae Radix Alba, Radix Bupleuri, Macrocephalae Rhizoma, Coicis Semen, Poria, and Curcumae Radix) were identified by TCMISS. Pathway analysis demonstrated that CCMMs exerted its antitumor effects by acting on multiple signaling pathways, including PI3K-Akt, TNF, and MAPK pathways.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that based on data mining and network pharmacology methods, our results showed that the therapeutic effect of CCMMs on PLC may be realized by acting on multitargets and multipathways related to the occurrence and development of PLC.
What could this lead to?
Prescription mining and network pharmacology associated Coicis Semen-containing combinations with candidate liver-cancer pathways. The practical next step is to verify the named constituents in actual formulas and test standardized combinations and individual components experimentally.
- HealthcarePMID 32368009
Formulation, Preparation and Evaluation of Nanostructured Lipid Carrier Containing Naringin and Coix Seed Oil for Anti-Tumor Application Based on "Unification of Medicines and Excipients".
- Study subject
- HepG2 cells and liver cancer xenograft tumor model
- Material or form
- Seed oil / naringin-yulmu seed oil nanostructured lipid carrier manufactured by ultrasonic melting-emulsification method
- Evidence stage
- Animal and cell formulation study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed oil—naringin-yulmu seed oil nanostructured lipid carrier manufactured by ultrasonic melting-emulsification method using hepG2 cells and liver cancer xenograft tumor model.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to prepare a nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) with naringin (NG) containing coix seed oil (CSO) as liquid lipid based on the theory (NCNLC) in order to achieve synergistic antitumor activity against hepatocellular carcinoma.
How was it studied?
A animal and cell formulation study design used hepG2 cells and liver cancer xenograft tumor model as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
In the cell study, the result showed a significantly greater antiproliferative effect towards HepG2 cells, and the half-maximal inhibitory concentration of NCNLCs was 3.24-fold, 1.70-fold and 1.52-fold lower to that of free drug, NDNLCs and NONLCs, respectively. Moreover, NCNLCs significantly induced HepG2 cells apoptosis by being 2.12-fold and 9.28-fold higher to that of NDNLCs and NONLCs, respectively.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the advantages of "unification of medicines and excipients" in formulation characters, drug release and synergistic antitumor effect provide a new idea for the application of the fatty oil of traditional Chinese medicine in the nano-drug delivery for cancer therapy.
What could this lead to?
Yulmu seed oil served as the liquid lipid in a naringin nanostructured carrier tested in HepG2 cells and a xenograft model. This supports characterization of oil-dependent loading, release, stability, and batch reproducibility within the composite delivery system.
- AllPMID 32489024
[Discovery of intervention effect of Chinese herbal formulas on COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis treated by VEGFR and FGFR inhibitors].
- Study subject
- VEGFR/FGFR protein model and candidate ingredient data of 11 herbal medicine prescriptions
- Material or form
- Coicis Semen; Complex prescription ingredients / VEGFR·FGFR molecular docking and prescription·meridian-tropism and efficacy network analysis; No actual drug administration
- Evidence stage
- Molecular docking and network analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined coicis Semen; Complex prescription ingredients—VEGFR·FGFR molecular docking and prescription·meridian-tropism and efficacy network analysis; No actual drug administration using VEGFR/FGFR protein model and candidate ingredient data of 11 herbal medicine prescriptions.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate discovery of intervention effect of Chinese herbal formulas on COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis treated by VEGFR and FGFR inhibitors].
How was it studied?
A molecular docking and network analysis design used VEGFR/FGFR protein model and candidate ingredient data of 11 herbal medicine prescriptions as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The main symptom of COVID-19 is damp-heat stagnating in the lung, which always causes impairment of body fluid and Qi. Clinical observation shows that patients in the recovery period are mostly at the status that the remaining virus toxicity is not exhausted while the vital Qi have not recovered.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the results of this study are expected to provide references for clinical medication in preventing and treating pulmonary fibrosis caused by COVID-19.
What could this lead to?
Molecular docking placed compounds from Coicis Semen-containing formulas among candidates for VEGFR/FGFR binding. This supplies a hypothesis set for compound verification, biochemical assays, and component-resolved testing focused on yulmu.
- Featured · Food & nutritionPMID 32328279
Comprehensive evaluation of physicochemical properties and antioxidant activity of B. subtilis-fermented polished adlay subjected to different drying methods.
- Study subject
- Fermented food samples
- Material or form
- Polished seeds/B. subtilis Fermentation followed by various drying
- Evidence stage
- Food processing study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Polished seeds—B. subtilis Fermentation followed by various drying was analyzed across fermented food samples.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate comprehensive evaluation of physicochemical properties and antioxidant activity of B. subtilis-fermented polished adlay subjected to different drying methods.
How was it studied?
Fermented food samples were assessed in a food processing study.
What did the study find?
Results showed FVD was ideal for maintaining the natural appearance and higher contents of proximate compositions, free fatty acids, tetramethylpyrazine (6.91 mg/g DW), coixol (0.62 mg/g DW), coixenolide (4.21% DW), coixan (35.10% DW), and triterpenoids (17.41 mg/g DW). Pearson's correlation coefficient exhibited that the positive correlation between the contents of phenolics and flavonoids and the antioxidant activities of all dried BPA samples was observed (R 2 > 0.881, p <.05).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that MVD should be a potential preservation method to obtain high-quality dried BPA for short drying time and high comprehensive quality.
What could this lead to?
The preservation and quality of ingredients according to the drying method were compared in the fermented and polished yulmu. The measured compositional, microbial, or sensory changes identify fermentation conditions and markers for reproducible yulmu food or bioprocess development.
- Food & nutritionPMID 32186945
Dietary Mixed Cereal Grains Ameliorate the Azoxymethane and Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Colonic Carcinogenesis in C57BL/6J Mice.
- Study subject
- AOM/DSS-induced colon carcinogenesis in C57BL/6J mice
- Material or form
- Coix grain; Complex grain ingredients / multi-grain mixed diet and Phellinus·Curcuma coated modified diet
- Evidence stage
- Animal dietary intervention
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined coix grain; Complex grain ingredients—multi-grain mixed diet and Phellinus·Curcuma coated modified diet using AOM/DSS-induced colon carcinogenesis in C57BL/6J mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether dietary Mixed Cereal Grains Ameliorate the Azoxymethane and Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Colonic Carcinogenesis in C57BL/6J Mice.
How was it studied?
A animal dietary intervention design used AOM/DSS-induced colon carcinogenesis in C57BL/6J mice as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Similar effects, although to a lower extent, were observed in CRC mice fed with MCG-P, followed by those fed with MCG-C, MCG, FBR, or white rice. MCG-PC significantly suppressed colonic neoplasia and decreased the levels of various cytokines (tumor necrosis factor: Tnf, interleukin 1 beta: Il1b, interleukin 6: Il6, and interferon gamma: Ifnγ) in serum and colon tissue of the CRC mice.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that compared with other cereal grain preparations, MCG-PC had a greater activity against AOM/DSS-induced CRC by reducing intestinal inflammation and modulating the expression of certain carcinogenesis related factors (Nos2, Ptgs2, Tp53, Cdkn1a, Ccnd1, and Casp3) in colon tissue of CRC mice.
What could this lead to?
Coix was one component of a multigrain diet, with additional mushroom and turmeric coatings in some arms, in an AOM/DSS mouse model. The result is most useful for designing ingredient-controlled feeding studies that separate yulmu from the other grains and coatings.
- AllPMID 31960183
Coix seed oil prolongs lifespan and enhances stress resistance in Caenorhabditis elegans.
- Study subject
- Caenorhabditis elegans
- Material or form
- Seed oil / Seed oil treatment
- Evidence stage
- Invertebrate experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed oil—Seed oil treatment in caenorhabditis elegans.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether coix seed oil prolongs lifespan and enhances stress resistance in Caenorhabditis elegans.
How was it studied?
A invertebrate experiment design used caenorhabditis elegans as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
CSO (1 mg/mL) significantly extended the mean lifespan of C. elegans by over 22.79% and markedly improved stress resistance. Gene-specific mutant studies showed that the CSO-mediated increase in life expectancy was dependent on mev-1, hsf-1 and daf-16, but not daf-2.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that thus, CSO increased the life expectancy of, and enhanced the stress resistance in, C. elegans mainly through daf-16 and its downstream genes, but not through the insulin/insulin-like growth factor 1 signaling pathway.
What could this lead to?
Yulmu seed oil was evaluated in a nematode lifespan and stress tolerance model. The model defines material, dose, and outcome variables for preclinical replication and chemical standardization of the tested yulmu preparation.
- AllPMID 32153596
Phytoliths in Inflorescence Bracts: Preliminary Results of an Investigation on Common Panicoideae Plants in China.
- Study subject
- 38 species of Chinese Panicoideae plants
- Material or form
- Inflorescence bracts, involucre / plant dissection, sporophyte observation
- Evidence stage
- Plant taxonomy study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on inflorescence bracts, involucre—plant dissection, sporophyte observation in 38 species of Chinese Panicoideae plants.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate phytoliths in Inflorescence Bracts: Preliminary Results of an Investigation on Common Panicoideae Plants in China.
How was it studied?
A plant taxonomy study design used 38 species of Chinese Panicoideae plants as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
We found that Interdigitating, Blocky amoeboid, Rectangular dentate, and Elongate dendritic with multi tent-like arch tops were of higher taxonomic value than the other types in our studied species. Both morphological and morphometric traits of the Interdigitating were summarized and compared with previous studies; the findings suggested that genus level discrimination of some Paniceae species could be reliable, and tribe/species level discrimination might be feasible.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that thus, the findings of this study could assist future studies in plant taxonomy and archaeobotany.
What could this lead to?
This study taxonomically observed the inflorescence bract sporophyte of cultivated and wild Coix. The genomic resource provides markers for yulmu genome assembly, cultivar identity, and trait-linked breeding research.
- AllPMID 31778842
Evolution and Domestication Footprints Uncovered from the Genomes of Coix.
- Study subject
- 28 Coix lines
- Material or form
- Plant genome / genome assembly and resequencing
- Evidence stage
- Genomics study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on plant genome—genome assembly and resequencing in 28 Coix lines.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate evolution and Domestication Footprints Uncovered from the Genomes of Coix.
How was it studied?
A genomics study design used 28 Coix lines as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
However, no reference genome of this species has been reported, and its exact phylogeny within the Andropogoneae remains unresolved. We found coix to be a typical diploid plant with an overall 1-to-1 syntenic relationship with the Sorghum genome, despite its drastic genome expansion (∼2.3-fold) due mainly to the activity of transposable elements.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the data not only provide novel comparative genomic and evolutionary insights into the Andropogoneae lineage, but also an important resource that will greatly benefit molecular breeding of this important crop.
What could this lead to?
This study analyzed the genome evolution and domestication-related genetic diversity of Coix. The population differences help structure yulmu germplasm collections and select accessions for cultivar development and trait validation.
- HealthcarePMID 31926475
Kanglaite injection plus platinum-based chemotherapy for stage III/IV non-small cell lung cancer: A meta-analysis of 27 RCTs.
- Study subject
- 27 RCTs including 2,243 patients with stage III/IV non-small cell lung cancer
- Material or form
- Kanglaite derived from yulmu seeds; Kanglaite Injection
- Evidence stage
- Systematic review and meta analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Kanglaite derived from yulmu seeds; Kanglaite Injection was examined among 27 RCTs including 2,243 patients with stage III/IV non-small cell lung cancer.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to evaluate the combined effects of Kanglaite injection plus platinum-based chemotherapy (PBC) on patients with stage III/IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
How was it studied?
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs). Twelve databases were searched from their inceptions until July 05, 2019.
What did the study find?
Twenty-seven RCTs recruiting 2,243 patients with stage III/IV NSCLC were included. The results showed that, compared with PBC alone, Kanglaite injection plus PBC improved DCR (RR = 1.20, 95% CI 1.15-1.26, p < 0.00001), ORR (RR = 1.45, 95% CI 1.31-1.60, p < 0.00001), 1-year survival rate (RR = 1.20, 95% CI 1.02-1.43, p = 0.03), QOL (RR = 1.32, 95% CI 1.25-1.40, p < 0.00001), CD4+T cells (WMD = 4.86, 95% CI 4.00-5.73, p < 0.00001), CD4+/CD8+ ratio (WMD = 0.19, 95% CI 0.07-0.31, p < 0.002), and reduced severe toxicities by 59% (RR = 0.41, 95% CI 0.33-0.51, p < 0.00001).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that however, high-quality RCTs are warranted to further assess the effects of the combined therapy.
What could this lead to?
A meta-analysis of 27 trials evaluated Kanglaite injection added to platinum chemotherapy for advanced non-small-cell lung cancer. It informs appraisal of a seed-oil-derived pharmaceutical product and highlights the need to examine trial quality and standardized manufacture before translation.
- HealthcarePMID 32237330
[Analysis and monitoring of traditional Chinese medicines for tumor based on data mining].
- Study subject
- China-Japan Friendship Hospital’s 2018 oncology outpatient and inpatient herbal medicine prescriptions
- Material or form
- Yulmu seed; Herbal medicine prescription ingredients / Chinese herbal medicine fragment prescription data; individual preparation methods are not included in the abstract.
- Evidence stage
- Healthcare prescription data mining
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on yulmu seed; Herbal medicine prescription ingredients—Chinese herbal medicine fragment prescription data in china-Japan Friendship Hospital’s 2018 oncology outpatient and inpatient herbal medicine prescriptions.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate analysis and monitoring of traditional Chinese medicines for tumor based on data mining].
How was it studied?
A healthcare prescription data mining design used china-Japan Friendship Hospital’s 2018 oncology outpatient and inpatient herbal medicine prescriptions as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Drug pairs with strong associations included Achyranthes Bidentata→Parasitic Loranthus, Coix Seed→Achyranthes Bidentata, Achyranthes Bidentata→Hairyvein Agrimony, Cuscutae Semen→Achyranthes Bidentata and so on. According to the use of drugs, the drug monitoring can be emphasized from the aspects of usage and dosage, selection of processed TCM, compatibility, decoction methods, and patient education.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that pharmacists can analyze the characteristics and regularity of the use of TCM for tumors through data mining methods, and this can be a cutting point for drug monitoring.
What could this lead to?
Hospital prescription mining identified how Coicis Semen was combined with other herbs in oncology practice. The usage patterns map formula composition and provenance and can guide component-resolved studies focused on standardized yulmu material.
- FeaturedPMID 31872874
Chemical compositions and antioxidant activity of adlay seed (Coixlachryma-jobi L.) oil extracted from four main producing areas in China.
- Study subject
- Samples from four producing regions in China
- Material or form
- Seed Oil/Oil Extraction
- Evidence stage
- Food composition and in vitro assay
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Adlay oils from four major Chinese producing regions were compared for composition, geographic differentiation and antioxidant activity.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine how production origin relates to the oils’ phytochemical profiles and antioxidant measurements.
How was it studied?
Oil content, fatty acids, triolein, phenolics, flavonoids and coixol were quantified. Partial least-squares discriminant analysis and hierarchical clustering evaluated origin classification, while ABTS, FRAP and β-carotene–linoleic-acid assays measured antioxidant activity and correlation analysis linked activity to composition.
What did the study find?
Oil content ranged from 7.398 ± 0.486% to 8.464 ± 0.725%. Xingren oil led several compositional measures, Pucheng oil had the most coixol, multivariate models grouped samples by origin, and phenolics and flavonoids correlated strongly with ABTS values (r = −0.952 and −0.960).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that geographic origin influenced both the phytochemical profile and antioxidant performance of adlay oil.
What could this lead to?
The composition and in vitro antioxidant index of Yulmu seed oil from four producing regions in China were compared. The reported yield and fraction properties can guide scalable recovery, solvent choice, and marker specifications for the yulmu ingredient.
- HealthcarePMID 31663764
Transferrin-Functionalized Microemulsions Coloaded with Coix Seed Oil and Tripterine Deeply Penetrate To Improve Cervical Cancer Therapy.
- Study subject
- Cell anti-proliferation test and HeLa xenograft tumor mice
- Material or form
- Seed oil/transferrin functionalized yulmu seed oil-tripterine co-loaded microemulsion
- Evidence stage
- Animal and cell formulation study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed oil—transferrin functionalized yulmu seed oil-tripterine co-loaded microemulsion using cell anti-proliferation test and HeLa xenograft tumor mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether transferrin-Functionalized Microemulsions Coloaded with Coix Seed Oil and Tripterine Deeply Penetrate To Improve Cervical Cancer Therapy.
How was it studied?
A animal and cell formulation study design used cell anti-proliferation test and HeLa xenograft tumor mice as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
We also found that Tf-CT-MEs inhibited tumor cell proliferation, enhanced antiangiogenesis, and induced apoptosis by regulating bax/bcl-2 and the activating caspase-3 pathway. Tf-CT-MEs decreased by 27.7, 26.9, 61.2, and 42.5% of concentrations of TGF-β1, CCL2, TNF-α, and IL-6 in serum, respectively.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that collectively, Tf-CT-MEs enhance tumor-targeting, facilitate deep penetration of drugs, and have promising potential as an efficient treatment for cervical cancer.
What could this lead to?
Transferrin-functionalized microemulsions coloaded with yulmu seed oil and tripterine were evaluated in a HeLa xenograft tumor model. Yulmu oil's carrier role can be defined through oil-marker specifications, phase behavior, release, target-cell uptake, and batch reproducibility of the full microemulsion.
- HealthcarePMID 31747811
Coix lachryma-jobi extract ameliorates inflammation and oxidative stress in a complete Freund's adjuvant-induced rheumatoid arthritis model.
- Study subject
- CFA-induced rheumatoid arthritis in Sprague-Dawley rats.
- Material or form
- Seeds/yulmu seed extract 50·100·200 mg/kg, administered for 28 days; Extraction solvent is not included in the abstract.
- Evidence stage
- Animal experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—yulmu seed extract 50·100·200 mg—kg, administered for 28 days using CFA-induced rheumatoid arthritis in Sprague-Dawley rats..
Why was it studied?
The objective was to evaluate the ameliorative effects of adlay seed extract (ASE) in a complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced rheumatoid arthritis (RA) rats.
How was it studied?
Materials and methods: The RA Sprague-Dawley rat model was induced and randomly divided into six groups with or without ASE treatment (50, 100 or 200 mg/kg).
What did the study find?
The values of paw oedema, PGE2 and MMP-3 decreased from 1.46 ± 0.04 to 0.66 ± 0.07 cm3, from 126.2 ± 11.48 to 79.71 ± 6.8 pg/mL and from 142.7 ± 8.36 to 86.51 ± 5.95 ng/mL, respectively; the values of body weight increased from 177.25 ± 5.94 to 205 ± 6.52 g in HASE group. In addition, treatment of ASE reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, MCP-1), and increased the activities of antioxidant enzyme (GSH-Px, SOD, and CAT).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the finding sheds light on the research and development of anti-RA functional foods from adlay seed.
What could this lead to?
This is a 28-day preclinical study evaluating yulmu seed extract in rats with CFA-induced rheumatoid arthritis. The immune-marker pattern identifies fractions, doses, and comparator conditions for replication in the same model before ingredient translation.
- AllPMID 31728799
Anti-Influenza Virus Activity of Adlay Tea Components.
- Study subject
- H1N1·H3N2 influenza A and influenza B test system
- Material or form
- Yulmu seed / Hot-water extract of roasted yulmu seed
- Evidence stage
- In vitro antiviral assay
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on yulmu seed—Hot-water extract of roasted yulmu seed in h1N1·H3N2 influenza A and influenza B test system.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to evaluate the anti-influenza virus activity of each component of this tea and analyzed their active ingredients.
How was it studied?
Each component was roasted and extracted in hot water; the extracts were tested for antiviral activity and their mechanisms of action were studied.
What did the study find?
All the tea components showed antiviral activity against the H1N1 and H3N2 influenza subtypes and against influenza B. The viral stages inhibited by the components were virus adsorption and replication in proliferative process, suggesting that the action mechanisms of the components might differ from those of oseltamivir acid.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that here, anti-influenza virus action of glycitein was the first report.
What could this lead to?
Hot-water extract of roasted yulmu tea was tested directly against influenza A and B in vitro. The assay identifies roast and extraction parameters for reproducibility and a next step of active-compound identification and appropriate in-vivo confirmation.
- HealthcarePMID 31729992
Coix lacryma-jobi var. ma-yuen Stapf sprout extract induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in human cervical carcinoma cells.
- Study subject
- Human cervical cancer HeLa cells
- Material or form
- Sprout; Not seed/sprout extract; Solvent/standardization not included in abstract
- Evidence stage
- Cell experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Yulmu sprout extract was examined for cell-cycle and apoptotic effects in human HeLa cervical-carcinoma cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to characterize the extract’s antiproliferative activity and identify the signalling pathways associated with it.
How was it studied?
CCK-8 measured proliferation, BrdU and flow cytometry assessed cell-cycle distribution, and Annexin V/propidium iodide and DAPI staining evaluated apoptosis. Western blots measured cyclins, CDKs, apoptotic proteins and PI3K/AKT signalling.
What did the study find?
The extract inhibited proliferation, promoted sub-G1/S arrest, reduced cyclin D1 and CDKs 2, 4 and 6, and increased apoptotic markers including p53, cleaved PARP and cleaved caspases 3 and 8. PI3K and AKT activation also declined.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the sprout extract induced cell-cycle arrest and apoptotic death in HeLa cells in association with PI3K/AKT inactivation.
What could this lead to?
This is a preclinical mechanistic study that evaluated Yulmu sprout extract in HeLa cells and observed changes related to cell cycle and apoptosis. The plant-part-specific activity prioritizes solvent-fraction chemistry, quantitative markers, and selectivity testing before a standardized research extract is defined.
- HealthcarePMID 31652737
Coix Seed Extract Enhances the Anti-Pancreatic Cancer Efficacy of Gemcitabine through Regulating ABCB1- and ABCG2-Mediated Drug Efflux: A Bioluminescent Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Study.
- Study subject
- Pancreatic cancer cells and in vivo tumor models; Detailed cell lines and animal species are not included in the abstract.
- Material or form
- Seeds/Yulmu seed Extract; Extraction method and standardization are not included in the abstract.
- Evidence stage
- Animal and cell experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—Yulmu seed Extract using pancreatic cancer cells and in vivo tumor models.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether coix Seed Extract Enhances the Anti-Pancreatic Cancer Efficacy of Gemcitabine through Regulating ABCB1- and ABCG2-Mediated Drug Efflux: A Bioluminescent Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Study.
How was it studied?
Bioluminescence imaging tracked ABC-transporter-mediated intracellular efflux in pancreatic-cancer models treated with coix-seed extract and gemcitabine. Luminescent pharmacokinetic measures, IC₅₀, tumour-growth inhibition and ABCB1/ABCG2 expression were evaluated in vitro and in vivo.
What did the study find?
Results showed that coix seed extract could synergistically enhance the anti-cancer efficacy of gemcitabine (p < 0.05).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that coix seed extract could augment the efficacy of gemcitabine therapy in pancreatic cancer cells may at least partly due to the alteration of ABC transporter-mediated drug efflux function.
What could this lead to?
The combination of yulmu seed extract and gemcitabine was evaluated in pancreatic cancer cell and animal models, and mechanisms related to ABC drug efflux were explored. The combination response supports batch-standardized pharmaceutical material, interaction and resistance-mechanism assays, and dose-ratio testing in the same model.
- Food & nutritionPMID 31618937
Food-Drug Interaction between the Adlay Bran Oil and Drugs in Rats.
- Study subject
- Rat; Comparison of oral and intravenous CYP probe drug cocktails
- Material or form
- Bran oil / yulmu bran oil 2.5 mL/kg single oral or oil-containing diet for 7 days
- Evidence stage
- Animal pharmacokinetic interaction study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined bran oil—yulmu bran oil 2.5 mL—kg single oral or oil-containing diet for 7 days using rat; Comparison of oral and intravenous CYP probe drug cocktails.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate whether orally administered adlay bran oil (ABO) can cause drug interactions, the effects of ABO on the pharmacokinetics of five cytochrome P450 (CYP) probe drugs were evaluated.
How was it studied?
Rats were given a single oral dose (2.5 mL/kg BW) of ABO 1 h before administration of a drug cocktail either orally or intravenously, and blood was collected at various time points. Therefore, caution is needed to avoid food-drug interactions between ABO and co-administered drugs.
What did the study find?
However, ABO increased plasma theophylline (+28.4%), dextromethorphan (+48.7%), and diltiazem (+46.7%) when co-administered an oral drug cocktail. After 7 days of feeding with an ABO-containing diet, plasma concentrations of theophylline (+45.4%) and chlorzoxazone (+53.6%) were increased after the oral administration of the drug cocktail.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that caution is needed to avoid food-drug interactions between ABO and co-administered drugs.
What could this lead to?
Rat pharmacokinetics indicated that yulmu bran oil may raise exposure to some orally administered probe drugs. This makes CYP and transporter interaction testing, dose definition, and labeling important parts of bran-oil ingredient safety assessment.
- HealthcarePMID 31615487
Coix seed oil ameliorates cancer cachexia by counteracting muscle loss and fat lipolysis.
- Study subject
- Lewis lung cancer xenograft-bearing C57BL/6 mice
- Material or form
- Seed oil / yulmu seed oil gavage; Dosage and manufacturing method are not in the abstract
- Evidence stage
- Animal experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed oil—yulmu seed oil gavage using lewis lung cancer xenograft-bearing C57BL/6 mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether coix seed oil ameliorates cancer cachexia by counteracting muscle loss and fat lipolysis.
How was it studied?
Lewis lung carcinoma bearing C57BL/6 mice were applied as the animal model to examine the therapeutic effect of Coix seed oil (CSO) on cancer cachexia. The IL-6 and TNF-α levels in serum were detected by ELISA assay.
What did the study find?
The weight and histological morphology of gastrocnemius muscle and epididymal adipose tissue in CSO-treated mice were also improved. In mechanism, we found that CSO decreased the expression of MuRF1 and the ratio of phospho-p65 (Ser536) to p65 in muscle tissue.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that coix seed oil exerts an anti-cachexia pharmaceutical effect by counteracting muscle and adipose tissue loss most likely through regulating NF-κB-MuRF1 and AMPK-HSL pathway.
What could this lead to?
Yulmu seed oil was evaluated in mice with cancer cachexia bearing Lewis lung carcinoma xenografts and changes in indicators related to muscle and fat loss were observed. Relating the response to seed-oil lipid composition and dose will be essential for reproducible mechanism and toxicology work in the stated preclinical model.
- HealthcarePMID 31381909
Preparation, characterization and anti-diabetic activity of polysaccharides from adlay seed.
- Study subject
- Diabetic mice; Induction method, species, and dosage are not specified in the abstract.
- Material or form
- Seed polysaccharide / yulmu seed water-soluble polysaccharide PAS extracted and purified and administered intragastrically for 4 weeks
- Evidence stage
- Animal experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed polysaccharide—yulmu seed water-soluble polysaccharide PAS extracted and purified and administered intragastrically for 4 weeks using diabetic mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate preparation, characterization and anti-diabetic activity of polysaccharides from adlay seed.
How was it studied?
A water-soluble adlay-seed polysaccharide was extracted, purified and characterized by FT-IR and scanning electron microscopy. It was then administered intragastrically to mice for four weeks before biochemical endpoints were measured.
What did the study find?
These results showed that PAS decreased blood glucose and insulin levels. In addition, mice fed the PAS showed significantly reduced the plasma levels of amyloid β42 and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), while the expression of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) was markedly increased.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the study introduced a new polysaccharide PAS with unique anti-diabetic activity, which can be used as a potential dietary supplement or functional food.
What could this lead to?
This preclinical study evaluated glucose metabolism-related indicators by administering Yulmu seed water-soluble polysaccharide PAS to diabetic mice for 4 weeks. Macromolecular structure, molecular-size distribution, and dose should be tied to these metabolic endpoints in a replicated animal study.
- BeautyPMID 31660135
Nanoemulsified adlay bran oil reduces tyrosinase activity and melanin synthesis in B16F10 cells and zebrafish.
- Study subject
- B16F10 mouse melanoma cells and zebrafish embryos
- Material or form
- Yulmu-bran oil formulated as emulsions and processed to different nanoscale particle sizes
- Evidence stage
- Nanoemulsion formulation, in-vitro cell assay and in-vivo zebrafish-embryo study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The study examined nanoemulsified yulmu-bran oil, including how particle size relates to tyrosinase and melanin responses in B16F10 cells and zebrafish embryos.
Why was it studied?
To formulate yulmu-bran oil as a nanoemulsion and evaluate its effects on tyrosinase activity and melanin production in B16F10 cells and zebrafish embryos, including the influence of emulsion particle size.
How was it studied?
Yulmu-bran oil was emulsified and processed to nanoscale particle sizes. Dose-dependent effects on tyrosinase activity, melanin production and viability were measured in mouse B16F10 melanoma cells and zebrafish embryos, and responses were compared across emulsion particle sizes.
What did the study find?
The nanoemulsified oil reduced tyrosinase activity and melanin production dose-dependently in both B16F10 cells and zebrafish while maintaining viability. Emulsion particle size strongly affected activity in zebrafish but had little influence on the B16F10-cell response.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that yulmu-bran oil has potential as a tyrosinase inhibitor and anti-hyperpigmentation agent and that nanoemulsion is an effective delivery approach for its oily bioactive components.
What could this lead to?
The cell–zebrafish comparison makes emulsion particle size a concrete development variable for yulmu-bran-oil delivery. Oil-marker specifications, colloidal stability, dermal safety and human-skin testing can determine whether the preclinical pigment-biology response translates to cosmetic formulations.
- AllPMID 31545107
Analysis of Fungi on Coix (Coix lacryma-jobi) Seed and the Effect of Its Aqueous Extract on the Growth of Aspergillus flavus.
- Study subject
- Seed samples and A. flavus spores
- Material or form
- Sequencing and culture identification of seed surfaces and seed/seed surface fungi; Co-culture of aqueous seed extract and A. flavus spores
- Evidence stage
- Seed microbial community and culture experiments
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Sequencing and culture identification of seed surfaces and seed—seed surface fungi; Co-culture of aqueous seed extract and A. flavus spores was analyzed across seed samples and A. flavus spores.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to analyze Fungi on Coix (Coix lacryma-jobi) Seed and the Effect of Its Aqueous Extract on the Growth of Aspergillus flavus.
How was it studied?
Simultaneously, the fungi cultured by the plate method were identified by microscopy and DNA barcoding; finally, the species of fungi were identified accurately and reliably by combining three methods. Four fungi were isolated from coix seed by plate culture and identified as Aspergillus fumigatus, A. flavus, Aspergillus oryzae, and Rhizopus oryzae by microscopy and DNA barcoding.
What did the study find?
the surface fungi of coix seed were identified by Illumina HiSeq high-throughput sequencing. The results showed that there were 89 genera and 96 species of fungi on coix seed, which were mainly distributed in Ascomycota (81.48%) and Basidiomycota (4.08%), and Xeromyces (8.50%), Gibberella (7.25%), and Aspergillus (4.74%) were the predominant genera.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that these results reveal the diversity of fungi on the coix seed, which can provide a reference for the prevention and control of harmful fungi on coix seed.
What could this lead to?
Profiling fungi on yulmu seed surfaces and testing aqueous seed extract against Aspergillus flavus provides storage-microbiome evidence for selecting mold-monitoring targets and evaluating whether seed constituents alter spoilage risk.
- FeaturedPMID 31519257
Coix lacryma-jobi chymotrypsin inhibitor displays antifungal activity.
- Study subject
- Plant pathogenic fungi and enzymes
- Material or form
- Seed/aqueous two-phase extraction and affinity chromatography purification
- Evidence stage
- Protein purification/in vitro antifungal experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—aqueous two-phase extraction and affinity chromatography purification using plant pathogenic fungi and enzymes.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate coix lacryma-jobi chymotrypsin inhibitor displays antifungal activity.
How was it studied?
A novel chymotrypsin inhibitor, named ClCI, was purified from coix seed (Coix lacryma-jobi L.) by aqueous two-phase extraction, chymotrypsin-Sepharose 4B affinity chromatography and centrifugal ultrafiltration.
What did the study find?
The primary structure of ClCI was highly similar (57%-92%) to those of several inhibitors belonging to the Gramineae crop potato protease inhibitor- I superfamily and showed the typical sequence motif of the protease inhibitor of the seed storage protein group. ClCI (12.5 mg) inhibited mycelial growth of the phytopathogenic fungi Mycosphaerella melonis, Helminthosporium turcicum, Alternaria solani, Phytophthora capsici, Isariopsis griseola, and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, and caused 89% inhibition of the proteases from spore germination of plant-pathogenic fungi.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the results of the present study indicate that ClCI had biotechnological potential as an alternative agent to combat the important phytopathogenic fungi.
What could this lead to?
A purified yulmu-seed chymotrypsin inhibitor showed in-vitro activity against plant-pathogenic fungi. Its sequence, yield, crop safety, and field performance are precise next targets for agricultural biocontrol research.
- FeaturedPMID 31243824
Plant diversity increases N removal in constructed wetlands when multiple rather than single N processes are considered.
- Study subject
- Experimental artificial wetland plant community
- Material or form
- Whole plants/growing plants
- Evidence stage
- Artificial wetland micro-ecosystem experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on whole plants—growing plants in experimental artificial wetland plant community.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate plant diversity increases N removal in constructed wetlands when multiple rather than single N processes are considered.
How was it studied?
A artificial wetland micro-ecosystem experiment design used experimental artificial wetland plant community as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The results showed that (1) species richness had a positive effect on N removal, in particular, the four-species mixture reduced effluent TIN to a lower level than any monoculture; however, polycultures (two-, three-, and four-species mixtures) did not outperform the most efficient monoculture when each of the three constituent N-cycling processes was considered by itself; (2) species identity had significant impacts on single processes. The results showed that although plant species richness had negligible effects on individual N-cycling processes, it enhanced the overall ecosystem functioning (N removal) when these processes were considered collectively.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the study thus contributes to improve the treatment efficiency of constructed wetlands through proper vegetation management.
What could this lead to?
Coix contributed to nitrogen-removal processes in mixed constructed-wetland plant communities. The work supports species-mixture design and partitioned measurement of uptake, transformation, and long-term biomass management in water treatment.
- Food & nutritionPMID 31242064
Determination of sterigmatocystin in foods in Japan: method validation and occurrence data.
- Study subject
- 583 Japanese foods from 2016–2018
- Material or form
- Distribution products / acetonitrile/water extraction, immunoaffinity purification, LC-MS/MS
- Evidence stage
- Analytical-method verification and contamination investigation
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Distribution products—acetonitrile—water extraction, immunoaffinity purification, LC-MS—MS was analyzed across 583 Japanese foods from 2016–2018.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine sterigmatocystin in foods in Japan: method validation and occurrence data.
How was it studied?
A survey of the contamination of foods by sterigmatocystin (STC) was performed by an analytical method based on LC-MS/MS. STC was extracted from samples with acetonitrile/water (85/15, v/v) and then purified with immunoaffinity columns.
What did the study find?
A total of 583 samples were analysed between 2016 and 2018, and STC was detected in 19.9% of all samples at >0.05 μg/kg (limit of quantification). STC was not found in beer or wine.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that a continuous survey is required to assess exposure to STC in Japan.
What could this lead to?
Data on the occurrence of sterigmatocystin in foods, including Job's tears products distributed in Japan, and a verified analytical method were reported. Its yulmu-matrix performance provides a basis for lot-release limits and routine multi-toxin surveillance of grain or derived ingredients.
- Featured · Food & nutritionPMID 30955593
Adlay starch-gluten composite gel: Effects of adlay starch on rheological and structural properties of gluten gel to molecular and physico-chemical characteristics.
- Study subject
- In vitro properties sample
- Material or form
- Seed starch/starch-gluten composite gel
- Evidence stage
- Food property testing
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Seed starch—starch-gluten composite gel was analyzed across in vitro properties sample.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate adlay starch-gluten composite gel: Effects of adlay starch on rheological and structural properties of gluten gel to molecular and physico-chemical characteristics.
How was it studied?
In vitro properties sample were assessed in a food property testing.
What did the study find?
Rheological measurement showed that adlay starch-gluten composite gels exhibited higher storage modulus G' and loss modulus G″ compared with pure gluten gels. As the addition of adlay starch increased from 0% to 40%, the surface hydrophobicity of gluten protein gel decreased from 16,660 to 11,931 and the free thiol content increased from 3.11 to 4.30 µmol/g.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this study revealed that besides acting as an inert filler, adlay starch could participate in hydrogen bonding and induce the enhancement of hydrophobic interaction to modify gluten protein association, altering the rheological and structural properties of gluten protein gels.
What could this lead to?
The study showed that coix starch can control the structure and rheological properties of gluten gel. These structure–function measurements support control of yulmu starch digestibility, pasting, or texture in a defined food process.
- AllPMID 31410269
A native parasitic plant and soil microorganisms facilitate a native plant co-occurrence with an invasive plant.
- Study subject
- Coix, Mikania, Cuscuta and soil microorganisms in pots
- Material or form
- Whole plants/growing plants
- Evidence stage
- Plant-parasite plant-soil microorganism interaction experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on whole plants—growing plants in coix, Mikania, Cuscuta and soil microorganisms in pots.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate a native parasitic plant and soil microorganisms facilitate a native plant co-occurrence with an invasive plant.
How was it studied?
A plant-parasite plant-soil microorganism interaction experiment design used coix, Mikania, Cuscuta and soil microorganisms in pots as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Findings show that heavy parasitism by C. campestris caused the greatest reduction in M. micrantha biomass when soil fungi and bacteria were suppressed. In contrast, the co-occurring native plant C. lacryma-jobi experienced the greatest increase in biomass when grown with heavily parasitized M. micrantha and in the presence of a full complement of soil fungi and bacteria.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that taken together, our results suggest that selective parasitism on susceptible invasive plants by native parasitic plants and soil microorganisms may diminish competitive ability of invasive plants and facilitate native plant coexistence with invasive plants.
What could this lead to?
Pot experiments linked Coix, a native parasitic plant, and soil microorganisms to coexistence with an invasive plant. The result informs ecological management and rhizosphere research rather than grain or ingredient use.
- Featured · HealthcarePMID 31338616
Coix seed improves growth performance and productivity in post-weaning pigs by reducing gut pH and modulating gut microbiota.
- Study subject
- Weaned piglets, 4 weeks old
- Material or form
- Seed/Powder and Extract Feeding
- Evidence stage
- Animal feeding test and intestinal microorganism analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—Powder and Extract Feeding using weaned piglets, 4 weeks old.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether coix seed improves growth performance and productivity in post-weaning pigs by reducing gut pH and modulating gut microbiota.
How was it studied?
we established four groups: (i) control, (ii) antibiotic-fed, (iii) coix seed powder-fed, and (iv) coix seed extract-fed.
What did the study find?
Coix seed extract significantly increased average weight gain and reduced the feed/meat ratio in weaned pigs, in addition to reducing the pH of their gastric juice. Next, 16s sequencing of gut microbiota showed that coix seed significantly increased the abundance of phylum Bacteroidetes and genus Lactobacillus (p < 0.05) and reduced the abundance of phylum Prevotella (p < 0.05) in the gut microbiota.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that thus, coix seed has good potential for use as a feed supplement in swine production.
What could this lead to?
Feeding coix powder or extract to weaned piglets was associated with gut pH, microbiota, growth, and productivity measures. This provides livestock-feed formulation data and calls for ingredient-standardized, dose-controlled feeding comparisons.
- HealthcarePMID 31276140
Effect of polysaccharides from adlay seed on anti-diabetic and gut microbiota.
- Study subject
- Streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice
- Material or form
- Seed/isolated polysaccharide administration
- Evidence stage
- Diabetes animal model and intestinal microorganism research
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—isolated polysaccharide administration using streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to examine the effects of polysaccharides from adlay seeds (PAS) on hyperglycemia and gut microbiota in streptozocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice.
How was it studied?
A diabetes animal model and intestinal microorganism research design used streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Furthermore, a significant increase in the concentrations of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) was observed. Unexpectedly, PAS reduced the concentrations of anti-amyloid beta (Aβ1-42) protein.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that collectively, our findings demonstrate that the hypoglycemic effects of PAS in type-2 diabetic mice (T2D) may be associated with the regulation of the intestinal microbiota and its metabolic pathways.
What could this lead to?
The study reported the relationship between yulmu seed polysaccharides and changes in blood sugar, lipid, and intestinal microbial indicators in diabetic mice. The gut and metabolic measures can be paired with polysaccharide or food composition to test dose, fermentation metabolites, and microbiome reproducibility.
- FeaturedPMID 31158070
Interdependent nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide independently regulate the coix seed oil-induced triterpene acid accumulation in Ganoderma lingzhi.
- Study subject
- Ganoderma lingzhi mycelium
- Material or form
- Seed oil / seed oil with medium added
- Evidence stage
- Microbial fermentation/mechanism experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed oil—seed oil with medium added in ganoderma lingzhi mycelium.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate interdependent nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide independently regulate the coix seed oil-induced triterpene acid accumulation in Ganoderma lingzhi.
How was it studied?
A microbial fermentation/mechanism experiment design used ganoderma lingzhi mycelium as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
we found that the vegetable oil coix seed oil (CSO) could induce the biosynthesis of triterpene acids (TAs) and also significantly increase cytoplasmic nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) concentrations in the mycelium of Ganoderma lingzhi. The change in TA biosynthesis caused by CSO could be reversed by adding NO scavenger or H2O2 scavenger, and adding NO scavenger or H2O2 scavenger resulted in the reduction of the cytoplasmic H2O2 or NO concentration under CSO treatment, respectively.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that taken together, our study indicated that both NO and H2O2 were involved in the regulation of TA biosynthesis, and CSO-activated NO and H2O2 were interdependent but independently regulated the TA biosynthesis under CSO treatment in G. lingzhi.
What could this lead to?
Yulmu seed oil modulated nitric-oxide and hydrogen-peroxide signaling associated with triterpene-acid accumulation in Ganoderma culture. This offers a process lever for fungal fermentation, to be optimized against oil composition, dose, yield, and product purity.
- HealthcarePMID 30993386
Structural modulation of gut microbiota reveals Coix seed contributes to weight loss in mice.
- Study subject
- Mice, 5 weeks
- Material or form
- Seed/yulmu seed supplementation in high-fat diet; The mixing amount is not provided in the abstract.
- Evidence stage
- Obesity animal model and intestinal microorganism research
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—yulmu seed supplementation in high-fat diet using mice, 5 weeks.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate structural modulation of gut microbiota reveals Coix seed contributes to weight loss in mice.
How was it studied?
Here, three groups of mice were fed different diets for 5 weeks: standard chow, high fat (HF), and CS added to HF.
What did the study find?
16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis revealed CS increased the abundance of genera Lactobacillus, Coprococcus, and Akkermansia in the gut microbita, and it also enriched species Akkermansia muciniphila and Lactobacillus agilis. A. muciniphila was reported to be inversely associated with obesity, diabetes and cardiometabolic diseases, while L. agilis was negatively associated with TC, BW, FM and blood glucose in our data.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the results indicate CS may be used as prebiotic agents to lose weight and prevent obesity-related metabolic disorders.
What could this lead to?
A correlation between yulmu seed supplementation and changes in metabolic and intestinal microbial indicators was reported in high-fat diet mice. The gut and metabolic measures can be paired with polysaccharide or food composition to test dose, fermentation metabolites, and microbiome reproducibility.
- FeaturedPMID 31160461
The origins of specialized pottery and diverse alcohol fermentation techniques in Early Neolithic China.
- Study subject
- Chinese early Neolithic relic pottery
- Material or form
- Analysis of plant residues/starch, plant silicic acid, and fungi attached to pottery
- Evidence stage
- Archaebotany and residue analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on analysis of plant residues—starch, plant silicic acid, and fungi attached to pottery in chinese early Neolithic relic pottery.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the origins of specialized pottery and diverse alcohol fermentation techniques in Early Neolithic China.
How was it studied?
A archaebotany and residue analysis design used chinese early Neolithic relic pottery as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Alcoholic beverages made with these methods were named li, jiu, and chang in ancient texts, first recorded in the Shang oracle-bone inscriptions (ca. 3200 cal.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that BP); our findings have revealed a much deeper history of these diverse fermentation technologies in China.
What could this lead to?
The study provided archaeological clues to early grain fermentation techniques, including Job's tears. This evidence preserves the historical or cultural context of Coix use and provides provenance questions for archaeological, botanical, or food-history research.
- AllPMID 31359669
[Study on characteristics and data mining of 464 cases of lung diseases in Xin'an Wang's medicine].
- Study subject
- 464 cases of lung disease recorded in the Xin'an Wang family's internal medicine works
- Material or form
- Coicis Semen (medicinal composition of prescription) / Complex prescription, dosage form/dosage unknown
- Evidence stage
- Retrospective medical record/prescription data mining
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The study mined 464 lung-disease cases from the Xin’an Wang family’s internal-medicine writings to identify prescription and herb-pairing patterns, including Coicis Semen.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to characterize the Wang family’s herb-selection and compatibility rules for lung diseases and preserve this Xin’an medical tradition in an analysable form.
How was it studied?
By retrospective study on lung diseases cases in Wang's internal medicine works, the lung diseases and use frequency of common drugs treated by Wang's medicine were counted, and the systematic clustering and association rule analysis of common drugs were conducted by using SPSS Statistic 20 and SPSS Modeler 18.0, respectively.
What did the study find?
The results showed that asthma, cold and cough were the main lung diseases treated by Wang's medicine, and the commonly used medicines included antitussive and antiasthmatic drugs, spleen-invigorating and dampness-removing drugs, and expectorants. In clustering analysis, 10 drug combinations were obtained; association analysis showed that two, three, four association rules respectively had 11, 21, and 10 groups, and each drug group had 11, 16, and 5 items.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that long time of lung deficiency would hinder the distribution of body fluid, and lung shall be regulated to dissipate phlegm.
What could this lead to?
Data mining of 464 historical lung-disease cases documented how Coicis Semen appeared within multi-herb prescriptions. The combination patterns support archival provenance work and component-resolved formula studies focused on yulmu.
- Featured · HealthcarePMID 31070650
Total polysaccharides of adlay bran (Coix lachryma-jobi L.) improve TNF-α induced epithelial barrier dysfunction in Caco-2 cells via inhibition of the inflammatory response.
- Study subject
- TNF-α treated Caco-2 cells
- Material or form
- Bran/total polysaccharide isolate
- Evidence stage
- Cell experiments
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined bran—total polysaccharide isolate using TNF-α treated Caco-2 cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether total polysaccharides of adlay bran (Coix lachryma-jobi L.) improve TNF-α induced epithelial barrier dysfunction in Caco-2 cells via inhibition of the inflammatory response.
How was it studied?
Caco-2 cells were treated with or without TPA in the absence or presence of TNF-α, and transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and Phenol Red flux were assayed to evaluate the intestinal epithelial barrier function.
What did the study find?
Furthermore, TPA obviously assuaged both the increased paracellular permeability and the decrease of TEER in TNF-α-challenged Caco-2 cells.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the results indicated that TPA assuages the TNF-α-evoked dysfunction of the intestinal epithelial barrier by inhibiting the NF-κB p65-mediated inflammatory response.
What could this lead to?
Yulmu-bran polysaccharides changed barrier-related markers in TNF-α-treated Caco-2 cells. The immune-cell endpoints can guide active-compound isolation, quantitative fraction markers, and concentration-controlled mechanism testing.
- AllPMID 31010220
Adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf.) Hull Extract and Active Compounds Inhibit Proliferation of Primary Human Leiomyoma Cells and Protect against Sexual Hormone-Induced Mice Smooth Muscle Hyperproliferation.
- Study subject
- Human primary uterine fibroid cells, normal uterine cells, and hormone-induced mice
- Material or form
- Seed shell/ethyl acetate fraction
- Evidence stage
- Cell/animal preclinical research
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed shell—ethyl acetate fraction using human primary uterine fibroid cells, normal uterine cells, and hormone-induced mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf.) Hull Extract and Active Compounds Inhibit Proliferation of Primary Human Leiomyoma Cells and Protect against Sexual Hormone-Induced Mice Smooth Muscle Hyperproliferation.
How was it studied?
Fractions of adlay seed were screened in rat ELT3 and primary human leiomyoma cells alongside normal uterine smooth-muscle and myometrial cells. Active hull constituents were identified, and the ethyl-acetate fraction and stigmasterol were tested in a hormone-induced mouse myometrial-hyperplasia model.
What did the study find?
We found that the ethyl acetate fraction of adlay hull (AHE-ea) appeared to be highly efficient in the anti-proliferation of rat uterine leiomyoma ELT3 cells and primary human uterine leiomyoma (hUL) cells. Two phytosterols, stigmasterol and β-sitosterol, were identified from AHE-ea fraction.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that taken together, our results suggest that the AHE-ea fraction could be considered as a natural plant-based medicine in the prevention or treatment of uterine leiomyoma growth.
What could this lead to?
A yulmu hull ethyl-acetate fraction was tested in primary human leiomyoma cells and a hormone-driven mouse model. This prioritizes fraction standardization, active-compound isolation, selectivity against normal uterine cells, and reproductive-safety work.
- HealthcarePMID 30486940
Potent Anti-Proliferation on the Colon Cancer Cell Line (HT-29) of Liposomal Formulations Entrapped with Semi-Purified Job's Tears (Coix lacryma-jobi Linn.) Fractions.
- Study subject
- HT-29 colon cancer cells
- Material or form
- Liposome capture of seed fraction/semi-purified fraction
- Evidence stage
- Formulation characteristics and cancer cell experiments
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Liposomal formulations containing semi-purified Job’s tears fractions were examined for physical properties and bioactivity in HT-29 colon-cancer cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether supercritical-carbon-dioxide liposomes could deliver the fractions in a stable formulation with measurable antiproliferative, apoptotic and antioxidant activity.
How was it studied?
S1L–S5L liposomes were prepared by supercritical CO₂ with or without sonication and characterized for particle size, zeta potential, morphology and microviscosity. Antiproliferative, apoptotic, radical-scavenging, lipid-peroxidation-inhibition and metal-chelating activities were then measured.
What did the study find?
S5L produced the strongest HT-29 antiproliferative response, with an IC₅₀ of 4.44 ± 2.31 µg/mL, and 4.45 ± 0.92% apoptotic activity. S3L led radical scavenging and lipid-peroxidation inhibition, whereas S4L had the highest metal-chelating activity.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors identified the scCO₂-prepared S5L formulation as the leading antiproliferative candidate for further formulation and preclinical development.
What could this lead to?
Liposomal delivery of a semi-purified Job's tears fraction was compared in HT-29 colon-cancer cells. The result links fraction composition and encapsulation to cell-assay performance and motivates release, stability, and active-constituent studies.
- FeaturedPMID 30309580
Transcriptome and proteome analyses of the molecular mechanisms associated with coix seed nutritional quality in the process of breeding.
- Study subject
- Wild and cultivated yulmu seeds
- Material or form
- Seed/RNA-seq·iTRAQ analysis
- Evidence stage
- Comparison of transcriptome and proteome
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed—RNA-seq·iTRAQ analysis in wild and cultivated yulmu seeds.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate transcriptome and proteome analyses of the molecular mechanisms associated with coix seed nutritional quality in the process of breeding.
How was it studied?
A comparison of transcriptome and proteome design used wild and cultivated yulmu seeds as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
A total of 20,039 genes and 471 proteins exhibited differential expression level in cultivated coix seed when compared with wild coix seed. These genes and proteins revealed that the pathway of flavonoids biosynthesis, starch and sucrose metabolism, lipid metabolism and amino acid metabolism were linked to nutritional quality of coix seed.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the results provided transcriptomics and proteomics information with respect to the molecular mechanisms of nutritional changes of coix seed, identified key genes and proteins that associated with the metabolism and accumulation of nutrients, and helped clarify the mechanisms of nutrient differences.
What could this lead to?
The study identified compositional differences and associated molecular pathways in wild and cultivated yulmu seeds, providing information relevant to breeding research. The expression profiles connect candidate genes or proteins to seed quality, storage, or stress traits that can be validated in yulmu breeding lines.
- AllPMID 30805354
Genetic Diversity and Structure of Coix lacryma-jobi L. from Its World Secondary Diversity Center, Southwest China.
- Study subject
- 139 Coix genotypes from Southwest China
- Material or form
- Plant genome/AFLP marker analysis
- Evidence stage
- Genetic diversity research
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on plant genome—AFLP marker analysis in 139 Coix genotypes from Southwest China.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate genetic Diversity and Structure of Coix lacryma-jobi L. from Its World Secondary Diversity Center, Southwest China.
How was it studied?
we took a sample of 139 Coix lacryma-jobi L. genotypes from four geographical regions in Southwest China and analyzed the genetic diversity and population structure using AFLP markers.
What did the study find?
Six primer combinations detected a total of 743 (89.52%) polymorphic loci. The neighbor-joining method grouped all Coix lacryma-jobi L. genotypes into two clusters with no geographical affinity observed among genotypes within the same group.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the study provides useful information for local breeding programs of Coix lacryma-jobi L. as well.
What could this lead to?
It provided information on the diversity of Coix genetic resources in Southwest China and became basic data for regional breeding programs. The population differences help structure yulmu germplasm collections and select accessions for cultivar development and trait validation.
- HealthcarePMID 30566345
Development of Oral Delivery Systems with Enhanced Antioxidant and Anticancer Activity: Coix Seed Oil and β-Carotene Coloaded Liposomes.
- Study subject
- Liposome physical properties/in vitro analysis
- Material or form
- Seed oil/β-carotene co-loaded liposome
- Evidence stage
- Food delivery system formulation and in vitro activity research
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed oil—β-carotene co-loaded liposome in liposome physical properties/in vitro analysis.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to overcome these obstacles by encapsulating both βC and CSO into liposomes (L-βC-CSO).
How was it studied?
A food delivery system formulation and in vitro activity research design used liposome physical properties/in vitro analysis as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Increasing the CSO level decreased the βC entrapment efficiency, increased the particle size, reduced the polydispersity, and raised the magnitude of the surface potential of the bioactive-loaded liposomes. Compared to liposomes containing single bioactive types, the combined systems exhibited higher bioavailability and increased anticancer and antioxidant activity.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the combined bioactive-loaded liposomes could be an efficient formulation for potential applications in functional foods and supplements.
What could this lead to?
The transporter characteristics of liposomes containing yulmu seed oil and β-carotene were compared. The liposomal result calls for composition-linked measurements of yulmu payload loading, release kinetics, storage stability, and cellular uptake.
- HealthcarePMID 31094213
Potential of Fatty Oils from Traditional Chinese Medicine in Cancer Therapy: A Review for Phytochemical, Pharmacological and Clinical Studies.
- Study subject
- Existing preclinical and clinical literature
- Material or form
- Seed oil (one of multiple fatty oils) / extracted fatty oil, including commercial formulations
- Evidence stage
- Literature review
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed oil (one of multiple fatty oils)—extracted fatty oil, including commercial formulations in existing preclinical and clinical literature.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate potential of Fatty Oils from Traditional Chinese Medicine in Cancer Therapy: A Review for Phytochemical, Pharmacological and Clinical Studies.
How was it studied?
A literature review design used existing preclinical and clinical literature as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
In summary, since there are different types and abundance of fatty oils among botanicals, anticancer effects of fatty oils can be achieved through two TCM theory-based strategies.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the study hoped that this review paper can reveal the anticancer potential of fatty oils and provide a reference for future related studies.
What could this lead to?
This review places yulmu seed oil alongside other medicinal fatty oils and compiles its chemistry, formulations, preclinical pharmacology, and clinical literature. It is useful for identifying standardization gaps and separating food-oil evidence from pharmaceutical Kanglaite evidence.
- HealthcarePMID 30930371
Potent in vitro Anti-mouth Cancer (KB) and Immunostimulating Activities of the Job's Tears (Coix lachryma-jobi Linn.) Seed Semi-purified Extract Cocktails Containing Linoleic Acid.
- Study subject
- KB Oral cancer cells and in vitro phagocyte/antioxidant analysis
- Material or form
- Seed / methanol·hexane extraction, fraction mixing
- Evidence stage
- Cell/in vitro complex fractionation research
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—methanol·hexane extraction, fraction mixing using KB Oral cancer cells and in vitro phagocyte/antioxidant analysis.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate potent in vitro Anti-mouth Cancer (KB) and Immunostimulating Activities of the Job's Tears (Coix lachryma-jobi Linn.) Seed Semi-purified Extract Cocktails Containing Linoleic Acid.
How was it studied?
The crude methanolic and hexane extracts of non-cooked, steamed and roasted from three Job's Tears cultivars were prepared and further semi-purified by liquid-liquid extraction techniques and silica gel column. The six single semi-purified extracts (F1-F6) were combined as nine cocktails (CT1, CT6, CT8, CT13, CT14, CT21, CT24, CT25 and CT31) according to the IC50 values from the preliminary study and investigated for anti-proliferative and apoptotic induction on mouth cancer cell line (KB) and immunostimulating as well as antioxidative activities.
What did the study find?
The highest anti-proliferative activity was observed in CT13 showing the IC50 value of 0.53±0.45 µg/mL which was higher than 5-fluorouracil and doxorubicin of 20.34 and 1.60 times, respectively. CT1 at 200 µg/mL showed the highest percentages of apoptotic cells (40.65±10.97%) with no necrotic cells, but lower than cisplatin (100 µg/mL) of 2.18 times.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this study has demonstrated that CT1 composing of F1-F6 at the percentage ratio of 0.71:2.06:81.38: 8.47:4.92:2.46 was the potential cocktails of the semi-purified extracts from the Job's Tears which can be further developed as a novel active compound for oral cancer treatment.
What could this lead to?
Differences in cellular and in vitro activity of combinations of Job's tears seed fractions were compared. The response identifies dose, solvent-fraction, active-marker, and mechanism variables for replication with a standardized yulmu extract.
- HealthcarePMID 30673500
Adlay Bran Oil Suppresses Hepatic Gluconeogenesis and Attenuates Hyperlipidemia in Type 2 Diabetes Rats.
- Study subject
- High-fat diet + streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat
- Material or form
- Bran oil / 10% bran oil in diet, 4 weeks
- Evidence stage
- Diabetic rat preclinical study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined bran oil—10% bran oil in diet, 4 weeks using high-fat diet + streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to examine the antidiabetic effects of various concentrations of adlay bran oil (ABO) in high fat diet and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.
How was it studied?
A diabetic rat preclinical study design used high-fat diet + streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The mRNA and protein expressions of hepatic glucose transporter 2 (GLUT-2) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) were increased and that of glucokinase (GCK) were decreased in diabetic rats. However, 10% ABO treatment reduced the mRNA and protein expressions of GLUT-2 and PEPCK and elevated the expression of hepatic GCK in diabetic rats.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that ABO displays a potential for improving hyperlipidemia and hyperglycemia in diabetes by enhancing insulin sensitivity and hepatic glucose metabolism.
What could this lead to?
The relationship between yulmu bran oil and changes in blood sugar, lipid, and metabolic indicators was reported in diabetic rats. Linking the metabolic response to fatty-acid and minor-lipid profiles will support dose-controlled comparison of yulmu oil batches.
- Food & nutritionPMID 30396372
Digestible indispensable amino acid scores of nine cooked cereal grains.
- Study subject
- Growing male Sprague-Dawley rat
- Material or form
- Seed/cooked grain feed
- Evidence stage
- Animal nutrition and digestibility research
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—cooked grain feed using growing male Sprague-Dawley rat.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate digestible indispensable amino acid scores of nine cooked cereal grains.
How was it studied?
Here, we conducted an experiment to determine the TID values of AA obtained from nine cooked cereal grains (brown rice, polished rice, buckwheat, oats, proso millet, foxtail millet, tartary buckwheat, adlay and whole wheat) fed to growing Sprague-Dawley male rats. All rats were fed a standard basal diet for 7 d and then received each diet for 7 d.
What did the study find?
Among the TID values obtained, whole wheat had the highest values (P<0·05), and polished rice, proso millet and tartary buckwheat had relatively low values. The TID indispensable AA concentrations in whole wheat were greater than those of brown rice or polished rice (P<0·05), and polished rice was the lowest total TID concentrations among the other cereal grains.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the TID values of the nine cooked cereal grains commonly consumed in China were used for the creation of a DIAAS database and thus gained public health outcomes.
What could this lead to?
The study provided comparative data on amino acid ileal digestibility of grains, including cooked yulmu. The feeding design provides endpoints for a composition-controlled comparison of yulmu dose, processing state, digestibility, and nutritional response.
- AllPMID 30533012
De novo transcriptome assembly of the Chinese pearl barley, adlay, by full-length isoform and short-read RNA sequencing.
- Study subject
- Yulmu tissue samples
- Material or form
- Leaves, roots, immature/mature seeds / Iso-Seq·RNA-seq
- Evidence stage
- Genomic resources and transcriptome research
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined leaves, roots, immature—mature seeds—Iso-Seq·RNA-seq using yulmu tissue samples.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate de novo transcriptome assembly of the Chinese pearl barley, adlay, by full-length isoform and short-read RNA sequencing.
How was it studied?
Yulmu tissue samples were assessed in a genomic resources and transcriptome research.
What did the study find?
We confirmed the validity of the assembled gene sets by experimentally analyzing the levels of prolamin and vitamin E biosynthesis-associated proteins in adlay plant tissues and seeds. The researchers compared the screened adlay genes with known gene families from closely related plant species, such as rice, sorghum and maize.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the study of the adlay transcriptome will provide a valuable resource for genetic studies that can enhance adlay breeding programs in the future.
What could this lead to?
It supports genetic and breeding research by providing yulmu's transcriptome resources and tissue-specific gene expression information. The expression profiles connect candidate genes or proteins to seed quality, storage, or stress traits that can be validated in yulmu breeding lines.
- HealthcarePMID 30510417
A Tf-modified tripterine-loaded coix seed oil microemulsion enhances anti-cervical cancer treatment.
- Study subject
- HeLa cells and 3D tumor spheroids
- Material or form
- Seed oil / tripterine-loaded/transferrin surface-modified microemulsion
- Evidence stage
- Complex drug delivery system/cancer cell/3D cell model research
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed oil—tripterine-loaded—transferrin surface-modified microemulsion using heLa cells and 3D tumor spheroids.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to a transferrin-modified microemulsion carrying coix seed oil and tripterine (Tf-CT-MEs) was developed for improved tumor-specific accumulation and penetration to enhance cervical cancer treatment.
How was it studied?
The cytotoxicity of the CT-MEs and Tf-CT-MEs against HeLa cells were evaluated by the MTT assay.
What did the study find?
The IC50 of Tf-CT-MEs against HeLa cells was 0.7260 µM, which was 2.58-fold lower than that of CT-MEs. In cellular studies, the intracellular fluorescence intensity of fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled Tf-CT-MEs (FITC/Tf-CT-MEs) was 2.28-fold higher than that of FITC-labeled CT-MEs (FITC/CT-MEs).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that taken together, Tf-CT-MEs holds promising potential to be an efficient drug delivery system for combinational therapy of cervical cancer.
What could this lead to?
The cancer cell absorption and penetration characteristics of yulmu seed oil-based composite microemulsions were explored. Yulmu oil's carrier role can be defined through oil-marker specifications, phase behavior, release, target-cell uptake, and batch reproducibility of the full microemulsion.
- AllPMID 33490553
The complete chloroplast genome sequence of Coix lacryma-jobi L. (Poaceae), a cereal and medicinal crop.
- Study subject
- Korean breed Johyun
- Material or form
- Chloroplast DNA/Illumina/PacBio hybrid assembly
- Evidence stage
- Chloroplast genome and lineage research
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on chloroplast DNA—Illumina—PacBio hybrid assembly in korean breed Johyun.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the complete chloroplast genome sequence of Coix lacryma-jobi L. (Poaceae), a cereal and medicinal crop.
How was it studied?
A chloroplast genome and lineage research design used korean breed Johyun as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The chloroplast genome is 140,863 bp long and composed of large single copy (82,827 bp), small single copy (12,522 bp), and a pair of inverted repeats (each 22,757 bp). A total of 123 genes including 87 protein-coding genes, 32 tRNA genes, and four rRNA genes were predicted in the genome.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that phylogenetic analysis confirmed a close relationship of C. lacryma-jobi with species in the Panicoideae subfamily of the Poaceae family.
What could this lead to?
Chloroplast genome resources of the Korean Coix cultivar Johyun were provided. The plastome sequence supports Coix lineage comparison, cultivar authentication, and chloroplast-marker development for breeding collections.
- AllPMID 30284461
Sophora flavescens Containing-QYJD Formula Activates Nrf2 Anti-Oxidant Response, Blocks Cellular Transformation and Protects Against DSS-Induced Colitis in Mouse Model.
- Study subject
- HT29 cells and DSS-induced colitis mice
- Material or form
- Complex medicinal ingredients including Coix / complex prescription aqueous extract
- Evidence stage
- Combined prescription cell/DSS colitis mouse study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined complex medicinal ingredients including Coix—complex prescription aqueous extract using hT29 cells and DSS-induced colitis mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether sophora flavescens Containing-QYJD Formula Activates Nrf2 Anti-Oxidant Response, Blocks Cellular Transformation and Protects Against DSS-Induced Colitis in Mouse Model.
How was it studied?
A combined prescription cell/DSS colitis mouse study design used hT29 cells and DSS-induced colitis mice as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
QYJD and matrine effectively inhibited the proliferation and anchorage-independent growth of HT29 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Elevated Nrf2 and HO-1 mRNA levels were also observed in QYJD-treated mice.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that these responses may contribute to the overall anticolon cancer effect of QYJD.
What could this lead to?
Coix was one component of the QYJD multi-herb extract tested in cells and DSS-colitis mice. The study supports formula-level quality control and component-deconvolution experiments designed to measure yulmu’s contribution.
- Featured · Food & nutritionPMID 29699686
Physiological and proteomic analyses of coix seed aging during storage.
- Study subject
- Saving seeds
- Material or form
- Seed / stored at room temperature for 1·5·10 months, 2-DE/MS
- Evidence stage
- Storage and proteome research
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed—stored at room temperature for 1·5·10 months, 2-DE—MS in saving seeds.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the aging mechanism of coix seed during storage.
How was it studied?
Proteome patterns of coix seed stored for 1-month, 5-month and 10-month at room temperature were compared using 2-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) and mass spectra.
What did the study find?
Thirty-one differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were detected, which involved seven pathways including starch and sucrose metabolism, carbon metabolism, RNA transport, proteasome, protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum, ribosome, and RNA degradation. Sucrose synthase 1 was associated with sucrose metabolism and affected the sucrose content during the storage.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that in addition, the proteins involved in the antioxidant system and resistance stimulus of coix seed were mostly up-regulated during storage.
What could this lead to?
Physiological measurements and proteomic profiles changed as yulmu seed aged for up to ten months at room temperature. The identified proteins and viability changes can be evaluated as storage-age markers for planting seed and raw-grain quality control.
- AllPMID 30384544
[Comparison between Ye Tianshi and Wu Jutong in treatment of summer-heat disease].
- Study subject
- Traditional medical-case records attributed to Ye Tianshi and Wu Jutong
- Material or form
- Coicis Semen (medicinal composition of prescription) / Complex prescription, dosage form/dosage unknown
- Evidence stage
- Historical medical-record data mining
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Prescriptions for summer-heat disease in the case records of Ye Tianshi and Wu Jutong were compared for syndrome, formula and herb-use patterns, including Coicis Semen.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate comparison between Ye Tianshi and Wu Jutong in treatment of summer-heat disease].
How was it studied?
A historical medical-record data mining design used traditional medical-case records attributed to Ye Tianshi and Wu Jutong as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
As a result, it was found that both of them recognized the relationship between summer heat and wetness, and Wu Jutong believed that "wind" was also an important pathogenic factor. Both of the patients were treated with cold medicine and warm medicine.
How did the authors interpret it?
The comparison distinguished shared prescription principles from practitioner-specific herb choices and derived high-frequency combinations for further study of summer-heat formulas.
What could this lead to?
Comparison of historical medical cases documents how Coicis Semen was selected within formulas for summer-heat syndromes. Its value is to provenance and prescription-pattern research rather than modern efficacy evidence.
- HealthcarePMID 30210573
The Combination of Ephedrae herba and Coicis semen in Gambihwan Attenuates Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome in High-Fat Diet-Induced Obese Mice.
- Study subject
- High-fat diet C57BL/6 mice
- Material or form
- Coicis Semen (compound prescription) / Oral combination prescription, 100–200 mg/kg/day
- Evidence stage
- Study on combination prescription in obese mice
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined coicis Semen (compound prescription)—Oral combination prescription, 100–200 mg—kg—day using high-fat diet C57BL/6 mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether the Combination of Ephedrae herba and Coicis semen in Gambihwan Attenuates Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome in High-Fat Diet-Induced Obese Mice.
How was it studied?
The authors evaluated the effects and mechanisms of two types of Gambihwan (GBH1 and 2) administered to high-fat diet- (HFD-) induced obese mice. Four-week-old C57BL/6 mice were fed a HFD for 8 weeks with or without GBH1 or 2 (100-200 mg/kg/day by oral gavage).
What did the study find?
GBH1 and 2 both significantly decreased body, liver, or adipose tissue weights in HFD-fed mice and significantly improved glucose tolerance (p<0.05 in all groups). Cholesterol levels in both sera and liver homogenates were significantly decreased by GBH1 and 2 (p<0.05 in all groups).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the results obtained show that the antiobesity effects of GBH warrant further investigation.
What could this lead to?
Coicis Semen was paired with Ephedrae herba in Gambihwan tested in high-fat-diet mice. The observed metabolic markers justify factorial or component-removal experiments and standardized formula analysis to determine yulmu's contribution.
- Featured · Healthcare · Food & nutritionPMID 29909149
Determination of aflatoxin and zearalenone analogs in edible and medicinal herbs using a group-specific immunoaffinity column coupled to ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry.
- Study subject
- Medicinal plant test matrix such as yulmu seeds
- Material or form
- Seed/immunoaffinity column-UPLC-MS/MS
- Evidence stage
- Analytical-method development and verification
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed—immunoaffinity column-UPLC-MS—MS in medicinal plant test matrix such as yulmu seeds.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine aflatoxin and zearalenone analogs in edible and medicinal herbs using a group-specific immunoaffinity column coupled to ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry.
How was it studied?
Six aflatoxins (AFs; AF B1, B2, G1, G2, M1 and M2) and six zearalenone (ZEN) analogs (ZEN, zearalanone, α-zeralanol, β-zeralanol, α-zearalenol, and β-zearalenol) were simultaneously extracted from edible and medicinal herbs using a group-specific immunoaffinity column (IAC) and then identified by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS).
What did the study find?
Recoveries of twelve analytes from edible and medicinal herbs were in the range of 64.7%-112.1%, with relative standard deviations below 13.7%. The limits of quantification were in the range from 0.08 μg kg-1 to 0.2 μg kg-1.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the method was proven to be sensitive and accurate, and suitable for the determination of real samples.
What could this lead to?
A simultaneous mycotoxin analytical method applicable to yulmu seed matrix was reported. Its yulmu-matrix performance provides a basis for lot-release limits and routine multi-toxin surveillance of grain or derived ingredients.
- HealthcarePMID 30200718
[Analysis of professor Lin Yi's experience for metastasis breast cancer by data mining].
- Study subject
- 117 complex oriental medicine prescriptions for 89 patients with metastatic breast cancer, 2013–2017
- Material or form
- Coicis Semen (medicinal composition of prescription) / Complex prescription, dosage form/dosage unknown
- Evidence stage
- Retrospective prescription data mining
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The study analysed 117 traditional-medicine prescriptions used for 89 patients with metastatic breast cancer to map Professor Lin Yi’s treatment patterns, including Coicis Semen.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to analyze professor Lin Yi's experience for metastasis breast cancer by data mining].
How was it studied?
A retrospective prescription data mining design involved 117 complex oriental medicine prescriptions for 89 patients with metastatic breast cancer, 2013–2017.
What did the study find?
The warm and placid property was higher, the most herbs had Gan taste, the first two channel tropisms were spleen and the stomach. Drug symptom analysis in 5 different metastasis regions and 6 different syndromes were also been done.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the conclusion showed that professor Lin's experience as: recognizing the basis of diseases,differentiating the syndrome, combinating disease and syndrome, cautiously grasping pathogenesis,combinating tonification and purgation together, regulating balance, treating the symptoms and origin, regulating spleen and stomach, caring for the postnatal throughout, prefering ancient prescription,rational compatibility, using medicine gently.
What could this lead to?
Mining 117 prescriptions documented Coicis Semen use within complex formulas for metastatic breast cancer. The record maps combination patterns and provenance and provides a basis for component-resolved studies of yulmu in these formulas.
- HealthcarePMID 30166110
Hexane fraction of adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L.) testa ethanolic extract inhibits human uterine sarcoma cancer cells growth and chemosensitizes human uterine sarcoma cells to doxorubicin.
- Study subject
- MES-SA·MES-SA/Dx5 uterine sarcoma cells and normal uterine myocytes
- Material or form
- Hexane fraction of testa/ethanol extract
- Evidence stage
- Preclinical research on cancer cells and complex treatment
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What did the study examine?
Researchers examined hexane fraction of testa—ethanol extract using MES-SA·MES-SA/Dx5 uterine sarcoma cells and normal uterine myocytes.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the antitumor effects of the hexane fraction of the adlay testa ethanolic extracts (ATE-Hex) on the human uterine sarcoma cancer cell line MES-SA, as well as on the multidrug-resistant human uterine sarcoma cancer cell line MES-SA/Dx5.
How was it studied?
The MTT assay was performed to assess the effects of the extracts of different parts of the adlay on the proliferation of human uterine sarcoma cells (MES-SA and MES-SA/Dx5) and human uterine smooth muscle cells (HUtSMCs). To determine whether ATE-Hex has a chemosensitizing effect on drug-resistant uterine sarcoma cells, the MTT assay was performed to examine the synergistic effects of ATE-Hex, the chemotherapeutic drug Dox alone, and in combination.
What did the study find?
The results demonstrated that ATE-Hex exhibited the best effects of inhibition on MES-SA and MES-SA/Dx5 cells. ATE-Hex reduced the rhodamine efflux in MES-SA/Dx5 cells, indicating that ATE-Hex could reduce the expression of P-gp.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that furthermore, the combination of ATE-Hex and Dox could decrease MDR and increase the synergistic effect.
What could this lead to?
The reaction of the hexane fraction of yulmu seed coat with uterine sarcoma cells and doxorubicin was explored. The combination response supports batch-standardized pharmaceutical material, interaction and resistance-mechanism assays, and dose-ratio testing in the same model.
- AllPMID 28722478
Rho-kinase inhibitors from adlay seeds.
- Study subject
- ROCK I/II enzyme and molecular docking
- Material or form
- Seed/ethanol extraction/compound separation
- Evidence stage
- Enzyme inhibition and molecular docking research
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What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—ethanol extraction—compound separation using ROCK I/II enzyme and molecular docking.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to identify the possible involvement of Rho-kinase inhibition to the multiple biological activities of adlay seeds and provide a rationale for their folkloric medicines.
How was it studied?
A molecular docking assay was designed to estimate the binding affinity of the tested compounds with the target enzymes.
What did the study find?
The ethanol extract and several of its 28 seed-derived compounds inhibited ROCK-I and ROCK-II, and docking identified chemical skeletons with affinity for the enzyme targets.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that furthermore, the results obtained with the tested compounds revealed some interesting skeletons as a scaffold for design and development of natural Rho-kinase inhibitors.
What could this lead to?
Compounds isolated from ethanolic yulmu-seed extract were tested against ROCK I/II with molecular docking used to interpret binding. The work supplies candidate structures for enzyme confirmation, selectivity testing, and quantitative marker development.
- AllPMID 31033259
Effects of media components and agricultural by-products on γ-polyglutamic acid production by Bacillus toyonensis As8.
- Study subject
- Bacillus toyonensis As8
- Material or form
- Leaves/fermentation medium substrate
- Evidence stage
- Research on microbial fermentation process
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What did the study examine?
The research focused on leaves—fermentation medium substrate in bacillus toyonensis As8.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to identify a γ-polyglutamic-acid-producing bacterium and test renewable agricultural residues, including Coix material, as lower-cost fermentation substrates.
How was it studied?
Bacteria which produce γ‑PGA were isolated through depolymerizing Coix lacryma-jobi, a cellulosic grass, and the effects of various carbon and nitrogen sources, temperature, inoculant load, incubation period, and pH on γ‑PGA yield were determined after submerged fermentation. Bacterial growth was measured turbidimetrically at 550 nm.
What did the study find?
The best γ‑PGA producer was molecularly identified as Bacillus toyonensis As8. This bacterium yielded the most γ‑PGA (26.45 g/L) on cassava peels, while other agro-wastes (corn cob, sorghum leaves, Coix noir leaves, and rice bran) also supported bacterial growth with lower γ‑PGA yields than conventional carbon sources.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the use of agricultural by-products as fermentation substrates increased γ‑PGA yield and may therefore be used as substitute components in γ‑PGA production.
What could this lead to?
The potential substrates for γ-PGA fermentation of agricultural by-products, including yulmu leaves, were compared. The measured compositional, microbial, or sensory changes identify fermentation conditions and markers for reproducible yulmu food or bioprocess development.
- Food & nutritionPMID 29976407
Investigation of aflatoxins contamination in herbal materia medica in a Taiwan pharmaceutical factory.
- Study subject
- Taiwanese pharmaceutical factories 1,067 cases of herbal medicines 2005–2016
- Material or form
- Medicinal seed samples/immunoaffinity purification-HPLC fluorescence detection
- Evidence stage
- Contaminant-monitoring survey
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What did the study examine?
The research focused on medicinal seed samples—immunoaffinity purification-HPLC fluorescence detection in taiwanese pharmaceutical factories 1,067 cases of herbal medicines 2005–2016.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate investigation of aflatoxins contamination in herbal materia medica in a Taiwan pharmaceutical factory.
How was it studied?
During the years 2005-2016, a total of 1067 samples for 24 types of herbal materia medica were investigated for the presence of aflatoxins (AFs) using immunoaffinity column cleanup and HPLC-coupled to a fluorescence detector after post-column derivatization.
What did the study find?
AFs were detected in 373 (35%) out of the total samples.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that platycladi Semen, Corydalis Rhizoma, and Cassiae Semen are the most commonly contaminated by AFs.
What could this lead to?
A survey of Taiwanese herbal medicine raw materials provided data on the occurrence of Coicis Semen exceeding the aflatoxin standard. Its yulmu-matrix performance provides a basis for lot-release limits and routine multi-toxin surveillance of grain or derived ingredients.
- AllPMID 29502809
Identification of the free phenolic profile of Adlay bran by UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS and inhibitory mechanisms of phenolic acids against xanthine oxidase.
- Study subject
- XOD enzyme and component interaction analysis
- Material or form
- Bran/free phenol extraction·UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS
- Evidence stage
- Ingredient identification and enzyme inhibition research
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What did the study examine?
Researchers examined bran—free phenol extraction·UPLC-QTOF-MS—MS using XOD enzyme and component interaction analysis.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to characterize the free phenolic profile of adlay bran and investigate the structure-activity relationship, underlying mechanism and interaction of phenolic acids as XOD inhibitors.
How was it studied?
A ingredient identification and enzyme inhibition research design used XOD enzyme and component interaction analysis as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
A total of twenty phenolics including ten phenolic acids, two coumarins, two phenolic aldedhyes and six flavonoids were identified in a phenolic compound-guided separation by UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that sinapic acid, identified in adlay bran for the first time, possessed strong XOD inhibitory activity in a mixed non-competitive manner, and synergistic effects with other adlay phenolic acids at low concentrations, and would be a promising agent for preventing and treating hyperuricemia.
What could this lead to?
The composition of free phenolic components of yulmu bran and its in vitro properties related to XOD inhibition were reported. The defined enzyme or receptor endpoint supports potency comparison of isolated yulmu compounds and development of a quantitative bioactivity assay.
- HealthcarePMID 30087869
The Effects of Combination of Coix Seed Extract and Cisplatin on TAM and Expression of HIF-1α in Vivo in Lewis Lung Carcinoma.
- Study subject
- Lewis lung cancer transplant Kunming mice, 14 days
- Material or form
- Co-administration of seed extract/KLT and cisplatin; Detailed composition, dosage, and administration route of KLT are not presented in the abstract.
- Evidence stage
- Preclinical study in combination with lung cancer mice
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What did the study examine?
Researchers examined co-administration of seed extract—KLT and cisplatin using lewis lung cancer transplant Kunming mice, 14 days.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the combined effects of Kanglaite (KLT) and cisplatin on tumor associated macrophage (TAM) and expression of hypoxia inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) in Kunming mice with Lewis lung carcinoma.
How was it studied?
Kunming mice with Lewis lung carcinoma were randomly divided into four groups: the control (NS) group, KLT group, cisplatin (DDP) group and DDP+KLT group in Hebei People's Hospital, Hebei China from 2016 to 2017. Tumors were harvested 14 days after corresponding interventions.
What did the study find?
The spleen index was lower in the DDP group than in the NS group (P=0.005), but was significantly increased when combined with KLT (P<0.01). The percentage of TAM was higher in the DDP group than in the NS group (P=0.898); the combination with KLT significantly decreased the percentage (P=0.009<0.01).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that it enhances the chemotherapeutic effect and improves immunity function when combined with cisplatin, which can be accomplished by decreasing the TAM levels and improving hypoxia status.
What could this lead to?
Kanglaite plus cisplatin altered tumor weight, tumor-associated-macrophage, HIF-1α, and spleen-index measures in Lewis lung-carcinoma mice. These endpoints support standardized combination-ratio and mechanism studies for the pharmaceutical extract.
- AllPMID 29576266
Exploring lipid markers of the quality of coix seeds with different geographical origins using supercritical fluid chromatography mass spectrometry and chemometrics.
- Study subject
- 27 batches of yulmu seeds in Region 3
- Material or form
- Seeds / UPC²-QTOF-MS and Chemometrics
- Evidence stage
- Metabolome/chemometry quality research
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What did the study examine?
Seeds—UPC²-QTOF-MS and Chemometrics was analyzed across 27 batches of yulmu seeds in Region 3.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to develop a research method to explore lipid markers of the quality of coix seeds with different geographical origins.
How was it studied?
The lipid profile of 27 batches of coix seeds were acquired and processed by Progenesis QI software, and the MS/MS spectrums were obtained to identify, simultaneously.
What did the study find?
A Torus 2-PIC (1.7 µm, 100 mm × 3.0 mm) was selected as the optimal column of the untargeted method which the run time was only 8 minutes. From the CCD test, the interaction of chromatographic parameters between column temperature and backpressure was founded which the optimal parameters were 55 °C and 2600 psi, respectively.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the findings confirm that UPC2-QTOF combined with chemometrics could be used as an efficient method for exploring potential lipid markers of the quality of herbal medicine.
What could this lead to?
The study explored the geographic fingerprints and potential quality markers of yulmu seeds by country of origin. The discriminating signals can be developed into an identity and origin test for yulmu supplier qualification and batch consistency.
- HealthcarePMID 29554897
Endoplasmic reticulum stress induced by an ethanol extract of Coicis semen in Chang liver cells.
- Study subject
- Chang liver cells
- Material or form
- Seed / 95% ethanol extraction/freeze drying
- Evidence stage
- Hepatocellular toxicity/mechanism experiment
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What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—95% ethanol extraction—freeze drying using chang liver cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to study to assess whether an ethanol extract of Coicis Semen (CSE) and coixol induces the ER stress in Chang liver cells.
How was it studied?
Coicis Semen was mixed with 95% ethanol at a ratio of 1:10 (w/v) and freeze dried. Chang liver cells were seeded to 96-well plates and treated with or without CSE (100, 200, 300, 500, or 1000 μg/mL) or coixol (100, 200, 300, 500, 750, or 1000 μg/mL). cell viability was analyzed with MTT assay.
What did the study find?
The concentration causing 50% inhibition (IC50) for CSE and coixol was 250 and 350 μg/mL, respectively. The CSE and coixol increased the gene expression of BiP and CHOP in a dose-dependent manner.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that CSE or coixol may have cytotoxic effect to Chang liver cells and, may induce ER stress and stimulate the UPR via activation of the PERK and IRE1 pathways in normal liver cells.
What could this lead to?
The study quantified cytotoxicity and endoplasmic-reticulum stress signals at different concentrations of coixol and an ethanolic yulmu-seed extract. The cellular endpoint can be used to prioritize marker compounds, standardize the tested yulmu fraction, and design the next mechanism or safety experiment.
- AllPMID 28902408
Inhibition of influenza virus replication by adlay tea.
- Study subject
- MDCK cells and H1N1·H3N2·B influenza virus
- Material or form
- Tea raw materials (exact parts abstract not shown) / tea extract
- Evidence stage
- Virus infected cell experiment
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What did the study examine?
Researchers examined tea raw materials (exact parts abstract not shown)—tea extract using MDCK cells and H1N1·H3N2·B influenza virus.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to clarify the mechanism by which these components regulate virus replication.
How was it studied?
A virus infected cell experiment design used MDCK cells and H1N1·H3N2·B influenza virus as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Adlay tea inhibited multiplication of the H1N1, H3N2 and B types of influenza virus, including oseltamivir-resistant viruses. In addition, adlay tea inhibited influenza infection during the periods of virus adsorption to the cell and virus replication.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the findings with respect to adlay tea suggest that the polyphenols might have a small influence on its antiviral activity and that other ingredients might have more influence. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.
What could this lead to?
The study reported that yulmu tea inhibited viral proliferation in a cell culture influenza model. The cellular endpoint can be used to prioritize marker compounds, standardize the tested yulmu fraction, and design the next mechanism or safety experiment.
- AllPMID 29527203
Fungal Deoxynivalenol-Induced Enterocyte Distress Is Attenuated by Adulterated Adlay: In Vitro Evidences for Mucoactive Counteraction.
- Study subject
- Enterocyte cell model
- Material or form
- Yulmu raw materials (part unknown) / recipe not provided in abstract
- Evidence stage
- Intestinal epithelial cell co-exposure experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
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What did the study examine?
Adlay material was examined for its ability to modify deoxynivalenol-induced distress in an in-vitro enterocyte model.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate fungal Deoxynivalenol-Induced Enterocyte Distress Is Attenuated by Adulterated Adlay: In Vitro Evidences for Mucoactive Counteraction.
How was it studied?
A intestinal epithelial cell co-exposure experiment design used enterocyte cell model as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Mechanistically, adlay could boost the activation of protein kinase C (PKC) and cytosolic translocation of human antigen R (HuR) protein, which played critical roles in the epithelial restitution, resulting in protection against disruption of enterocyte barrier integrity. Notably, DON abrogated the Ras homolog gene family member A GTPase-mediated actin cytoskeletal network, which was diminished by adlay treatment in PKC and HuR-dependent ways.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that taken together, this study provides evidences for adlay-based attenuation of trichothecene-induced gut distress, implicating potential use of a new gut protector against enteropathogenic insults in diets.
What could this lead to?
In an enterocyte model exposed to the Fusarium toxin DON, an incompletely specified adlay preparation changed epithelial-stress measures. Repeating the co-exposure assay with authenticated, compositionally defined yulmu material would clarify any role in food-matrix toxicology.
- HealthcarePMID 29467927
Kanglaite inhibits EMT caused by TNF-α via NF-κΒ inhibition in colorectal cancer cells.
- Study subject
- HCT106/HCT116/LoVo/CT26 cells and CT26 subcutaneous tumor mice
- Material or form
- Seed Extract / Kanglaite yulmu seed extract formulation; Detailed composition, concentration, and administration method are not presented in the abstract.
- Evidence stage
- Cancer cell and xenograft tumor mouse research
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What did the study examine?
Kanglaite was examined against tumour-necrosis-factor-α-induced epithelial–mesenchymal transition in colorectal-cancer cells and a CT26 subcutaneous-tumour model.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether the Coix-seed extract could suppress this transition through NF-κB inhibition.
How was it studied?
HCT106, HCT116, LoVo and CT26 cells were exposed to tumour necrosis factor-α with or without Kanglaite, and epithelial–mesenchymal-transition proteins, migration and invasion were measured. TNF-α-pretreated CT26 cells were also evaluated in a subcutaneous mouse model.
What did the study find?
Tumour necrosis factor-α activated NF-κB, altered transition-related proteins and increased migration and invasion; Kanglaite inhibited these changes when combined with the cytokine. It also opposed the enhanced tumorigenicity of TNF-α-pretreated CT26 cells in mice.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that Kanglaite inhibited TNF-α-mediated epithelial–mesenchymal transition in colorectal-cancer models through NF-κB inhibition.
What could this lead to?
The study explored cell and mouse indicators related to TNF-α-induced colon cancer EMT in Kanglaite. The combination response supports batch-standardized pharmaceutical material, interaction and resistance-mechanism assays, and dose-ratio testing in the same model.
- Featured · BeautyPMID 28278663
Melanogenesis inhibitors from Coix lacryma-jobi seeds in B16-F10 melanoma cells.
- Study subject
- B16-F10 melanoma-cell melanogenesis assay
- Material or form
- Ethanolic yulmu-seed extract and ten isolated compounds, including coixol and 9-β-D-glucopyranosyl adenine
- Evidence stage
- Compound isolation, spectroscopic structure elucidation and in-vitro melanogenesis assay
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What did the study examine?
The study examined constituents isolated from yulmu seed and their melanogenesis activity and melanocyte compatibility in B16-F10 cells.
Why was it studied?
To isolate and identify constituents of yulmu seed and compare the ethanolic extract and isolated compounds for melanogenesis inhibition in B16-F10 melanoma cells.
How was it studied?
Compounds were isolated from yulmu seed, and their structures were established by extensive spectroscopic and chemical analyses. The ethanolic seed extract and isolated compounds were assayed for melanin inhibition and melanocytotoxicity in B16-F10 cells.
What did the study find?
An adenine derivative, 9-β-D-glucopyranosyl adenine, was reported for the first time from a natural source alongside nine known compounds. Coixol and 2-O-β-glucopyranosyl-7-methoxy-2H-1,4-benzoxazin-3(4H)-one showed potent melanogenesis inhibition with no obvious melanocytotoxicity; the remaining compounds showed weak-to-moderate activity.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that yulmu seed is a rich source of phytochemicals with melanogenesis-inhibitory activity and suggested its potential use as a skin-whitening agent.
What could this lead to?
The compound-resolved comparison identifies coixol and a benzoxazinone glycoside as priority markers for yulmu cosmetic-ingredient research. Quantitative occurrence, extraction recovery, melanocyte safety, mechanism and formulation studies can determine how these candidates perform in standardised materials.
- AllPMID 29234602
Neutralization of Naja naja venom induced lethality, edema and myonecrosis by ethanolic root extract of Coix lacryma-jobi.
- Study subject
- Naja naja toxin, red blood cell/enzyme test, mouse/rat
- Material or form
- Root/ethanol extract, oral administration
- Evidence stage
- Toxin neutralization in vitro and animal research
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Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined root—ethanol extract, oral administration using naja naja toxin, red blood cell/enzyme test, mouse/rat.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate neutralization of Naja naja venom induced lethality, edema and myonecrosis by ethanolic root extract of Coix lacryma-jobi.
How was it studied?
Myotoxicity induced by Naja naja venom, measured by creatine kinase activity in rats was significantly neutralized by the ERE at a dose of 200 mg/kg.
What did the study find?
ERE showed significant inhibition of PLA2 activity, which was further confirmed from effective neutralization of human red blood cells (HRBC) lysis induced by the venom. Oral administration of ERE at doses levels 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg effectively inhibited Naja naja venom-induced lethality in mice.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that in summary, these studies indicate the ability of ERE of Coix lacryma-jobi to effectively neutralize the toxic effects of the venom is, in part, contributed by the inhibition of PLA2 activity among other venom-derived factors.
What could this lead to?
The study explored responses to snake venom in in vitro assays and rodents given an ethanolic extract of yulmu root. The model supplies organ- and stress-response endpoints for dose–response replication, active-marker analysis, and route-specific safety testing of the yulmu preparation.
- HealthcarePMID 29110726
Coix lacryma-jobi var. ma-yuen Stapf sprout extract has anti-metastatic activity in colon cancer cells in vitro.
- Study subject
- HCT116 cells and HUVECs under hypoxic conditions
- Material or form
- Sprout/Sprout Extract (solvent not shown)
- Evidence stage
- Cancer cell/vascular endothelial cell experiment
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What did the study examine?
Yulmu sprout extract was examined for effects on migration, invasion, adhesion and angiogenesis-related behaviour in hypoxic colorectal-cancer cell models.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to establish a mechanistic basis for the extract’s anti-metastatic activity in an edible-crop-derived preparation.
How was it studied?
HCT116 proliferation and signalling were assessed by CCK-8 and western blotting, while scratch-wound, transwell, Matrigel-invasion and adhesion assays tested metastatic behaviours under hypoxia. Tube formation was measured in HUVECs exposed to conditioned medium from treated HCT116 cells.
What did the study find?
The extract reduced DFO-induced migration by 87%, hypoxic migration by 80%, invasion by 54%, adhesion by 50% and HUVEC tube formation by 91%. These changes accompanied reduced ERK1/2 and AKT signalling.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the sprout extract suppressed several in-vitro metastatic and angiogenic behaviours under hypoxia through ERK1/2 and AKT repression.
What could this lead to?
Indicators related to hypoxic colon cancer cell migration and invasion of yulmu sprout extract were explored. The plant-part-specific activity prioritizes solvent-fraction chemistry, quantitative markers, and selectivity testing before a standardized research extract is defined.
- HealthcarePMID 28841044
A multicomponent microemulsion using rational combination strategy improves lung cancer treatment through synergistic effects and deep tumor penetration.
- Study subject
- A549 cells and A549 xenograft tumor mice
- Material or form
- Seed oil / multi-ingredient microemulsion
- Evidence stage
- Combined drug carrier cancer cell/xenograft tumor mouse study
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What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed oil—multi-ingredient microemulsion using a549 cells and A549 xenograft tumor mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether a multicomponent microemulsion using rational combination strategy improves lung cancer treatment through synergistic effects and deep tumor penetration.
How was it studied?
A combined drug carrier cancer cell/xenograft tumor mouse study design used a549 cells and A549 xenograft tumor mice as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The anticancer efficacy in vivo results showed that ECG-MEs markedly inhibited the growth of A549 tumor xenografts, potently induced tumor cells apoptosis, and obviously prolonged the survival time of mice. Of note, the mechanisms of enhanced anticancer efficiency were connected with the small size-mediated deep tumor penetration and increase in serum concentration of T helper 1 (Th1) cytokines.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that in summary, ECG-MEs exerting the rational drug combination strategy offers a solid evidence for lung cancer treatment, and has a promising potential for clinical application.
What could this lead to?
Cell and mouse delivery and tumor indicators of ECG complex microemulsion containing yulmu seed oil were explored. Yulmu oil's carrier role can be defined through oil-marker specifications, phase behavior, release, target-cell uptake, and batch reproducibility of the full microemulsion.
- AllPMID 29965221
[Comparision of Ecological Risk Assessment Based on the Total Amount and Speciation Distribution of Heavy Metals in Soil:A Case Study for Longyan City, Fujian Province].
- Study subject
- China Longyan soil 110 cases, crops 61 cases
- Material or form
- Seed/soil/crop sample elemental species analysis
- Evidence stage
- Soil-crop heavy metal investigation and risk assessment
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What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed—soil—crop sample elemental species analysis in china Longyan soil 110 cases, crops 61 cases.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate comparision of Ecological Risk Assessment Based on the Total Amount and Speciation Distribution of Heavy Metals in Soil:A Case Study for Longyan City, Fujian Province].
How was it studied?
A total of 110 topsoil samples and 61 crop samples along the Lantian-Yangdong Villages were collected in Shizhong, Longyan City.
What did the study find?
Correlation and regression analyses of total metal concentrations, heavy metal speciation, and crop uptake in the study area showed that the correlations between the total amount of heavy metals and the ion exchange state, carbonate state, and other active forms were low; the results even showed nonlinear relationships between those variables.The ion exchange state had the greatest effect on the absorption of Pb, Cd, and As by coix seed and rice.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that from the perspective of bioavailability, the new method based on the heavy metal speciation was more accurate than the traditional method based on the total amount of heavy metals.
What could this lead to?
The relationship between heavy metal uptake by yulmu seeds and soil metal species was analyzed in a regional survey. These measurements support origin-specific limits, soil-to-grain monitoring, and supplier controls for yulmu raw-material safety.
- AllPMID 29068350
Chromium removal capability and photosynthetic characteristics of Cyperus alternifolius and Coix lacryma-jobi L. in vertical flow constructed wetland treated with hexavalent chromium bearing domestic sewage.
- Study subject
- Cr(VI)-containing domestic sewage treatment vertical flow artificial wetland
- Material or form
- Whole plants/growing plants
- Evidence stage
- Artificial wetland micro-ecosystem experiment
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What did the study examine?
The research focused on whole plants—growing plants in cr(VI)-containing domestic sewage treatment vertical flow artificial wetland.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate chromium removal capability and photosynthetic characteristics of Cyperus alternifolius and Coix lacryma-jobi L. in vertical flow constructed wetland treated with hexavalent chromium bearing domestic sewage.
How was it studied?
Cr concentration in the effluent fell below detection limit (<0.03 mg L-1), except for the C. alternifolius wetland treated with 40 mg L-1 Cr(VI).
What did the study find?
The biomasses of both plants species were increased at 10 and 20 mg L-1 Cr(VI) exposure but inhibited at 40 mg L-1 Cr(VI). However, they were inhibited significantly (P < 0.05) at 40 mg L-1 Cr(VI) exposure during days 80-100.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that VFWM with C. alternifolius and/or C. lacryma-jobi L. was promising for purifying wastewater which contains low to medium concentrations of Cr(VI) (<20 mg L-1).
What could this lead to?
The possibility of purifying Cr(VI)-containing domestic sewage in artificial wetlands using Coix was conditionally explored. The plant-performance measurements can guide Coix planting density, nutrient management, and biomass disposal in constructed-wetland remediation.
- FeaturedPMID 28251647
Changes of the phenolic compounds and antioxidant activities in germinated adlay seeds.
- Study subject
- Laboratory analysis
- Material or form
- Seeds/Sprouted Seeds; Free/bound phenol extract
- Evidence stage
- Food ingredient/in vitro antioxidant analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—Sprouted Seeds; Free—bound phenol extract using laboratory analysis.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate changes of the phenolic compounds and antioxidant activities in germinated adlay seeds.
How was it studied?
A food ingredient/in vitro antioxidant analysis design used laboratory analysis as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Germination significantly increased the free form phenolic and flavonoid contents by 112.5% and 168.3%, respectively. Phenolic acid compositions were quantified via HPLC analysis, and the levels of vanillic, p-coumaric, caffeic, hydroxybenzoic and protocatechuic acids in the free phenolic extracts were found to be significantly increased.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this study indicates that germinated adlay could be a promising functional food, more suitable for human consumption. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.
What could this lead to?
Free phenols and in vitro antioxidant indices increased in germinated yulmu seeds. The reported yield and fraction properties can guide scalable recovery, solvent choice, and marker specifications for the yulmu ingredient.
- FeaturedPMID 28372179
Impact of germination on nutritional and physicochemical properties of adlay seed (Coixlachryma-jobi L.).
- Study subject
- Laboratory seed analysis
- Material or form
- Seeds/seed powder / 60 hours germination
- Evidence stage
- Food ingredient/physical property analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—seed powder—60 hours germination using laboratory seed analysis.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate impact of germination on nutritional and physicochemical properties of adlay seed (Coixlachryma-jobi L.).
How was it studied?
A food ingredient/physical property analysis design used laboratory seed analysis as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The results showed that the 60-h germination brought about a 3.4-fold increase in γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and 3.6-fold increase in coixol compared to ungerminated adlay seeds, while the triolein content slightly decreased. Scanning electron micrographs (SEM) showed that the germination process destroyed the continuous matrix structure of adlay flour and created pits and holes on the surface of some starch granules.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the results of present study suggest that germination efficiently enhances the nutritional compounds while altering the physicochemical characteristics of adlay seeds.
What could this lead to?
An increase in GABA and coixol content was observed in yulmu sprouted for 60 hours. The measured physical and compositional changes identify process settings and release specifications for reproducible yulmu food or ingredient manufacture.
- HealthcarePMID 28819385
A Randomized, Open-Label, Safety and Exploratory Efficacy Study of Kanglaite Injection (KLTi) plus Gemcitabine versus Gemcitabine in Patients with Advanced Pancreatic Cancer.
- Study subject
- 85 patients with locally advanced/metastatic pancreatic cancer
- Material or form
- Kanglaite injection derived from yulmu seed, 30 or 50 g/day in combination with gemcitabine
- Evidence stage
- Randomized, open-label human clinical trials
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Kanglaite injection derived from yulmu seed, 30 or 50 g—day in combination with gemcitabine was examined among 85 patients with locally advanced/metastatic pancreatic cancer.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to assess the safety and preliminary efficacy of KLTi plus gemcitabine in patients with locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer.
How was it studied?
In a randomized, open-label study, patients with locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer were randomized 2:1 to receive KLTi plus gemcitabine or gemcitabine monotherapy. Gemcitabine was administered at 1000 mg/m2 on days 1, 8 and 15 of each 28 day cycle.
What did the study find?
The 30 gm KLTi + gemcitabine group had a statistically significant improvement in progression-free survival (PFS) as assessed by blinded independent radiology review in the ITT population, with a median of 112 days, versus 58 days in the gemcitabine group (HR 0.50; 95% CI: 0.27, 0.92), p = 0.0240.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that kanglaite Injection (30 g/day) plus a standard regimen of gemcitabine demonstrated encouraging clinical evidence of anti-neoplastic activity and a well-tolerated safety profile.
What could this lead to?
In an open-label exploratory trial of 85 patients with advanced pancreatic cancer, the progression-free survival time of the Kanglaite injection and gemcitabine group was reported to be longer than that of the gemcitabine group alone. This is product-specific human evidence for a pharmaceutical seed-oil formulation and should inform confirmatory trial design, adverse-event monitoring, and manufacturing standardization.
- AllPMID 28807230
Global identification of chemical constituents and rat metabolites of Si-Miao-Wan by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry.
- Study subject
- Rat biological specimen
- Material or form
- Seed/plant pill oral administration
- Evidence stage
- Complex prescription ingredient and rat metabolite analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—plant pill oral administration using rat biological specimen.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate global identification of chemical constituents and rat metabolites of Si-Miao-Wan by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry.
How was it studied?
A complex prescription ingredient and rat metabolite analysis design used rat biological specimen as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Based on the diagnostic ions applied to identify compounds in SMW, 28 prototype compounds and 10 metabolic compounds were detected in the biological samples.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the results may help explore the possible metabolic processes and mechanism of action for SMW in vivo.
What could this lead to?
The ingredients and rat metabolites of four medicinal herbs, including Coicis Semen, and rat metabolites were tentatively identified comprehensively. Because Coicis Semen was embedded in a computational or multicomponent context, the next step is chemical verification and component-controlled testing of the actual yulmu contribution.
- AllPMID 28638886
MECHANISMS OF COIX SEED COMPOSITIONS IN THE TREATMENT OF SPLEEN DEFICIENCY AND WET DAMPNESS ZHENG.
- Study subject
- Spleen hemorrhage rat model
- Material or form
- Seed / decoction, protein, polysaccharide, oil, starch fraction
- Evidence stage
- Rat disease model/gene expression analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—decoction, protein, polysaccharide, oil, starch fraction using spleen hemorrhage rat model.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate MECHANISMS OF COIX SEED COMPOSITIONS IN THE TREATMENT OF SPLEEN DEFICIENCY AND WET DAMPNESS ZHENG.
How was it studied?
Agilent 8*60K array was used for microarray-based gene expression analysis. The differential mRNAs related to the transport activity were screened. qRT-PCR was used to validate the mRNA microarray.
What did the study find?
The results demonstrated that all treatment groups could decrease the dampness of SDWD rats. mRNA microarray had significant effect on the protein group and the polysaccharide group in regulating the water transport, among which the most significant mRNA was Fabp6, Slc51a, Slc51b, Slc11a2, Slc4a10 and AQP3 respectively.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the contributing mRNA focused on Fabp, Slc and AQP family.
What could this lead to?
In animal models, the protein and polysaccharide fractions of yulmu showed changes in genetic indicators related to water transport. The model defines material, dose, and outcome variables for preclinical replication and chemical standardization of the tested yulmu preparation.
- AllPMID 27704591
A cell-based high-throughput protocol to screen entry inhibitors of highly pathogenic viruses with Traditional Chinese Medicines.
- Study subject
- BSL-2 pseudotype virus cell line
- Material or form
- Plant part unknown/herbal medicine extract; Details unknown
- Evidence stage
- Cell-based high-throughput screening
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
A BSL-2 cell-based pseudovirus assay screened traditional Chinese medicines, including a Coix preparation, for inhibition of viral entry.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate a cell-based high-throughput protocol to screen entry inhibitors of highly pathogenic viruses with Traditional Chinese Medicines.
How was it studied?
Previously we reported a high-throughput screening (HTS) protocol to identify entry inhibitors for three highly pathogenic viruses (EBOV, LASV, and AIV) using a human immunodeficiency virus-based pseudotyping platform which allows us to perform the screening in a BSL-2 facility.
What did the study find?
Extracts of seven herbs, including Coix lacryma-jobi var. ma-yuen, showed potent anti-Ebola-virus activity in the pseudovirus screen.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that 89:908-916, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
What could this lead to?
In cell-based pseudovirus screening, Coix extract was identified as one of the candidates for inhibiting Ebola virus entry. The cellular endpoint can be used to prioritize marker compounds, standardize the tested yulmu fraction, and design the next mechanism or safety experiment.
- HealthcarePMID 28455529
Kanglaite sensitizes colorectal cancer cells to Taxol via NF-κΒ inhibition and connexin 43 upregulation.
- Study subject
- Colon cancer cell lines and Balb/c mice
- Material or form
- Seeds/Kanglaite Injection/Extract; Combined use of Taxol
- Evidence stage
- Cancer cell/mouse preclinical trials
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—Kanglaite Injection—Extract; Combined use of Taxol using colon cancer cell lines and Balb/c mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the treatment effect of Taxol combined with Kanglaite on colorectal cancer cell lines.
How was it studied?
A cancer cell/mouse preclinical trials design used colon cancer cell lines and Balb/c mice as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
This combination also resulted in the smallest tumour volume in a Balb/c mice model. Kanglaite inhibited the expression of nuclear factor (NF)-κΒ and upregulated that of connexin 43, both of which sensitized cancer cells to Taxol.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that kanglaite pretreatment may increase the effect of Taxol on colorectal cancer.
What could this lead to?
The combination of Kanglaite and Taxol showed greater antitumor indices in cell and mouse colon cancer models. The combination response supports batch-standardized pharmaceutical material, interaction and resistance-mechanism assays, and dose-ratio testing in the same model.
- HealthcarePMID 28350158
Oral Nanomedicine Based on Multicomponent Microemulsions for Drug-Resistant Breast Cancer Treatment.
- Study subject
- Drug-resistant breast cancer xenograft mice
- Material or form
- Seed oil / Oral multi-component microemulsifier
- Evidence stage
- Drug delivery cell and xenograft mouse research
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed oil—Oral multi-component microemulsifier using drug-resistant breast cancer xenograft mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to demonstrate the enhanced therapeutic efficacy of anticancer drugs on drug-resistant breast cancer using multicomponent microemulsions (ECG-MEs) as an oral delivery system.
How was it studied?
A drug delivery cell and xenograft mouse research design used drug-resistant breast cancer xenograft mice as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The spatiotemporal controlled release characteristics of ECG-MEs brought about the efficient P-gp inhibition by the initially released G-Rh2 and the increased intracellular accumulation of the sequentially released etoposide.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that ECG-MEs as an oral formulation may offer a promising strategy to treat the drug-resistant breast cancer.
What could this lead to?
Yulmu seed oil·ginsenoside Rh2·etoposide complex microemulsion showed oral delivery and antitumor activity in drug-resistant breast cancer xenograft mice. Yulmu oil's carrier role can be defined through oil-marker specifications, phase behavior, release, target-cell uptake, and batch reproducibility of the full microemulsion.
- HealthcarePMID 28352174
Octanoyl galactose ester-modified microemulsion system self-assembled by coix seed components to enhance tumor targeting and hepatoma therapy.
- Study subject
- HepG2 cells and nude mouse xenograft
- Material or form
- Seed ingredient / octanoyl galactose ester-modified microemulsifier
- Evidence stage
- Cell/xenograft mouse drug delivery research
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
An octanoyl-galactose-modified microemulsion assembled from coix-seed components was examined as a liver-tumour-targeted delivery system.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to enhance hepatoma accumulation through asialoglycoprotein-receptor-mediated uptake while retaining multicomponent antitumour activity.
How was it studied?
Octanoyl galactose ester was enzymatically synthesized and characterized, then incorporated into coix-component microemulsions. Particle properties, HepG2 uptake and cytotoxicity, xenograft fluorescence, 14-day tumour response and liver and kidney toxicity were compared with unmodified microemulsions.
What did the study find?
The ester yield was 82.3%, and particles measured 58.49 ± 1.03 nm with a polydispersity index of 0.09 ± 0.01. Modification increased cellular uptake 2.28-fold and xenograft fluorescence 1.9-fold; treated mice showed the strongest tumour-growth inhibition and the lowest liver and kidney toxicity among tested groups.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that receptor-targeted coix-component microemulsions improved tumour delivery and in-vivo antitumour performance in the hepatoma model.
What could this lead to?
The galactose ester-targeted yulmu seed microemulsion showed tumor transfer and growth inhibition indicators in HepG2 cell and xenograft mice. Yulmu oil's carrier role can be defined through oil-marker specifications, phase behavior, release, target-cell uptake, and batch reproducibility of the full microemulsion.
- Food & nutritionPMID 30263505
Effect of germinated grain flours on physicochemical characteristics of rice cakes, Seolgitteok.
- Study subject
- Model food and sensory evaluation
- Material or form
- Addition of germinated seed powder/germinated Job's tears powder
- Evidence stage
- Food physical properties/sensory analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined addition of germinated seed powder—germinated Job's tears powder using model food and sensory evaluation.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine the effects of germinated grain flours on physicochemical characteristics of rice cakes, Seolgitteok.
How was it studied?
Model food and sensory evaluation were assessed in a food physical properties/sensory analysis.
What did the study find?
Rice flour amylogram results showed that addition of buckwheat, germinated Job's tears, and mungbean decreased starch setback, and that addition of buckwheat decreased consistency, which are related to slowed retrogradation.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that seolgitteok with added germinated buckwheat possessed preferable sensory qualities.
What could this lead to?
The addition of sprouted Job's tears powder was associated with a decrease in starch setback in Seolgitteok. These structure–function measurements support control of yulmu starch digestibility, pasting, or texture in a defined food process.
- FeaturedPMID 28098801
A Novel Antihypertensive Derived from Adlay (Coix larchryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) Glutelin.
- Study subject
- ACE test relationship and spontaneous hypertensive rats
- Material or form
- Seed glutelin; pepsin hydrolysis and fractionation; synthetic GAAGGAF
- Evidence stage
- In vitro enzyme test and hypertensive rat research
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed glutelin; pepsin hydrolysis and fractionation; synthetic GAAGGAF using ACE test relationship and spontaneous hypertensive rats.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to obtain potent anti-hypertensive peptides from Coix glutelin.
How was it studied?
The Coix glutelin hydrolysates (CGH) were prepared by pepsin catalysis and further separated by an ultrafitration (UF) system, gel filtration chromatography (GFC) and reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC).
What did the study find?
The most potent peptide GAAGGAF (IC50 = 14.19 μmol·L-1) was finally obtained by further molecular simulation screening and a series of division and optimization. Single oral administration of synthesized GAAGGAF at 15 mg/kg body weight (BW) in spontaneously hypertensively rats (SHR) could reduce the systolic blood pressure (SBP) around 27.50 mmHg and blood pressure-lowering effect lasted for at least 8 h.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the study demonstrated for the first time that the ACE inhibitory peptide GAAGGAF from Coix glutelin has a significant antihypertensive effect, and it could be a good natural ingredient for pharmaceuticals against hypertension and the related diseases.
What could this lead to?
GAAGGAF showed an ACE inhibition IC50 of 14.19 μM, and in rats administered once orally at 15 mg/kg, systolic blood pressure decreased by about 27.5 mmHg, which lasted for at least 8 hours. The model defines material, dose, and outcome variables for preclinical replication and chemical standardization of the tested yulmu preparation.
- AllPMID 29348765
Preventive Effect and Safety of a Follicle Stimulating Hormone Inhibitory Formulation Containing a Mixture of Coicis Semen and Artemisia capillaris for Precocious Puberty: A Preliminary Experimental Study Using Female Rats.
- Study subject
- Female rat
- Material or form
- Seed/hEIF mixed extract
- Evidence stage
- Female rat preliminary experiment and network pharmacology
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—hEIF mixed extract using female rat.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to evaluate the preventive effects of a herbal formulation containing a mixture of Coicis Semen and Artemisia capillaris (hEIF extract) on precocious puberty.
How was it studied?
The preventive effect of hEIF extract on precocious puberty in rats was evaluated by measuring blood component after 3 weeks of treatment via oral administration.
What did the study find?
In vivo studies showed that hEIF extract significantly reduced follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. After treatment with 200 mg/kg of hEIF extract, the FSH level was 5.33 ± 1.10 ng/mL, whereas the FSH level in the vehicle group was 46.73 ± 0.80 ng/mL.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that hEIF extract can be used as an FSH inhibitor for the treatment of precocious puberty.
What could this lead to?
Coicis Semen and Artemisia capillaris mixed extract showed a decrease in FSH in female rats. Because Coicis Semen was embedded in a computational or multicomponent context, the next step is chemical verification and component-controlled testing of the actual yulmu contribution.
- HealthcarePMID 29085434
Effect of Seyoeum on Obesity, Insulin Resistance, and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease of High-Fat Diet-Fed C57BL/6 Mice.
- Study subject
- C57BL/6 mouse
- Material or form
- Powder; Unspecified / Seyoeum complex powder
- Evidence stage
- High-fat diet mouse study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined powder; Unspecified—Seyoeum complex powder using c57BL/6 mouse.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine the effects of Seyoeum on Obesity, Insulin Resistance, and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease of High-Fat Diet-Fed C57BL/6 Mice.
How was it studied?
Male C57BL/6 mice were divided into four groups: normal chow (NC), HFD, SYE, and HFD plus SYE (HFD + SYE). The mice in groups other than NC were fed HFD for 9 weeks to induce obesity and then were fed each diet for 6 weeks.
What did the study find?
Compared with HFD group, body weight, serum glucose, serum insulin, HOMA-IR, total cholesterol, triglyceride, epididymal fat pad weight, liver weight, and inflammatory gene expression were significantly reduced in SYE group. Insulin receptor gene expression increased in SYE group.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the findings suggest that SYE could be a beneficial meal replacement through these antiobesity and anti-insulin resistance effects.
What could this lead to?
Six types of Seyoeum complex powders, including yulmu seed, showed changes in indicators related to body weight, sugar metabolism, lipids, and inflammation in high-fat diet mice. The outcomes provide variables for a composition-matched feeding study that separates yulmu dose and processing from overall diet effects.
- AllPMID 27983650
Discovery of Anti-Hypertensive Oligopeptides from Adlay Based on In Silico Proteolysis and Virtual Screening.
- Study subject
- ACE Enzyme Test and Molecular Dynamics
- Material or form
- Seed prolamin / in silico hydrolysis and in silico screening; Synthetic NPATY
- Evidence stage
- In silico·in vitro enzyme test
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed prolamin—in silico hydrolysis and in silico screening; Synthetic NPATY using ACE Enzyme Test and Molecular Dynamics.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate discovery of Anti-Hypertensive Oligopeptides from Adlay Based on In Silico Proteolysis and Virtual Screening.
How was it studied?
In this paper, ten sequences of adlay prolamins were collected and in silico hydrolyzed to construct the oligopeptide library with 134 oligopeptides. This library was reverse screened by anti-hypertensive pharmacophore database, which was constructed by our research team and contained ten anti-hypertensive targets.
What did the study find?
Three crystal structures of ACE were utilized for docking studies and 19 oligopeptides were finally identified with potential ACE inhibitory activity. An oligopeptide sequence, NPATY (IC50 = 61.88 ± 2.77 µM), was identified as the ACE inhibitor by reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) assay.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this study provides a research strategy to explore the pharmacological mechanism of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) proteins based on in silico proteolysis and virtual screening, which could be beneficial to reveal the pharmacological action of TCM proteins and provide new lead compounds for peptides-based drug design.
What could this lead to?
Candidate NPATY, derived from yulmu seed protein, showed in vitro ACE inhibitory activity. The defined enzyme or receptor endpoint supports potency comparison of isolated yulmu compounds and development of a quantitative bioactivity assay.
- HealthcarePMID 27169326
Potent in vivo anticancer activity and stability of liposomes encapsulated with semi-purified Job's tear (Coix lacryma-jobi Linn.) extracts on human colon adenocarcinoma (HT-29) xenografted mice.
- Study subject
- HT-29 xenograft mouse
- Material or form
- Seed/supercritical CO2 semi-purified extract S5 and liposome S5L
- Evidence stage
- Xenograft mouse preclinical
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
A liposomal semi-purified Job’s tears extract was examined for physicochemical stability, tumour response and toxicity in HT-29 xenografted mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to test whether supercritical-CO₂-prepared liposomes protect extract constituents and improve in-vivo performance relative to free extract.
How was it studied?
S5L liposomes were characterized for pH, dispersibility, particle size, zeta potential and linoleic-acid retention during three months at 4°C or 45°C. HT-29 xenograft-bearing mice received formulations for 14 days, with tumour volume, apoptosis, clinical toxicity, organ histology and blood chemistry assessed.
What did the study find?
S5L retained 63.50% linoleic acid at 4°C versus 42.66% at 45°C. High-dose free S5 and S5L inhibited tumour growth by 48.67 percent and 54.75%, respectively; treated mice showed apoptotic activity and no reported clinical, histological or blood-chemistry toxicity signals.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that S5L combined physicochemical stability with tumour-growth inhibition in the xenograft model, warranting further preclinical development.
What could this lead to?
Liposomes from semi-purified coix extract showed tumor growth inhibition signals in HT-29 xenograft mice. The liposomal result calls for composition-linked measurements of yulmu payload loading, release kinetics, storage stability, and cellular uptake.
- AllPMID 27801779
Prevalence, Characterization, and Mycotoxin Production Ability of Fusarium Species on Korean Adlay (Coix lacrymal-jobi L.) Seeds.
- Study subject
- 400 yulmu seeds and isolated strains
- Material or form
- Seeds / Seeds collected from 3 regions in 2012
- Evidence stage
- Seed mold contamination monitoring
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seeds—Seeds collected from 3 regions in 2012 in 400 yulmu seeds and isolated strains.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate prevalence, Characterization, and Mycotoxin Production Ability of Fusarium Species on Korean Adlay (Coix lacrymal-jobi L.) Seeds.
How was it studied?
Adlay seed samples were collected from three adlay growing regions (Yeoncheon, Hwasun, and Eumseong region) in Korea during 2012. Among all the samples collected, 400 seeds were tested for fungal occurrence by standard blotter and test tube agar methods and different taxonomic groups of fungal genera were detected.
What did the study find?
Fusarium species accounted for 45.6% of all species found; and, with phylogenetic analysis based on the combined sequences of two protein coding genes (EF-1α and β-tubulin), 10 Fusarium species were characterized namely, F. incarnatum (11.67%), F. kyushuense (10.33%), F. fujikuroi (8.67%), F. concentricum (6.00%), F. asiaticum (5.67%), F. graminearum (1.67%), F. miscanthi (0.67%), F. polyphialidicum (0.33%), F. armeniacum (0.33%), and F. thapsinum (0.33%). Morphological observations of the species correlated well with and confirmed their molecular identification.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the result revealed that FUM was produced only by F. fujikuroi and that ZEN was produced by F. asiaticum and F. graminearum.
What could this lead to?
The composition of Fusarium species and the possibility of producing fumonisin and zearalenone in yulmu seeds from three growing regions in Korea were reported, providing basic data for contamination management. The occurrence data define hazard priorities and sampling plans for supplier qualification, regulatory testing, and storage control of yulmu products.
- AllPMID 27475443
Determination of type A trichothecenes in coix seed by magnetic solid-phase extraction based on magnetic multi-walled carbon nanotubes coupled with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.
- Study subject
- Actual yulmu seed samples
- Material or form
- UHPLC-MS/MS after seed/magnetic solid phase extraction
- Evidence stage
- Food safety analytical method verification
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
UHPLC-MS—MS after seed—magnetic solid phase extraction was analyzed across actual yulmu seed samples.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine type A trichothecenes in coix seed by magnetic solid-phase extraction based on magnetic multi-walled carbon nanotubes coupled with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.
How was it studied?
For the first time, a rapid and reliable m-SPE approach using magnetic multi-walled carbon nanotubes (m-MWCNTs) as the adsorbent was proposed for purification of type A trichothecenes including T-2 toxins (T2), HT-2 toxins (HT-2), diacetoxyscirpenol (DAS), and neosolaniol (NEO) in coix seed.
What did the study find?
Under the optimal sample preparation conditions followed by analysis with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS), high sensitivity (limit of quantification in the range of 0.3-1.5 μg kg(-1)), good linearity (R (2) > 0.99), satisfactory recovery (73.6-90.6 %), and acceptable precision (≤2.5 %) were obtained. The analytical performance of the developed method has also been successfully evaluated in real coix seed samples.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that graphical Abstract Flow chart of determination of type A trichothecenes in coix seed by magnetic solid-phase extraction coupled with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.
What could this lead to?
The study validated the magnetic solid phase extraction-UHPLC-MS/MS method to measure four types of A-type trichothecenes from yulmu seeds with low quantification limits. Its yulmu-matrix performance provides a basis for lot-release limits and routine multi-toxin surveillance of grain or derived ingredients.
- HealthcarePMID 27459907
Coix seed emulsion synergistically enhances the antitumor activity of gemcitabine in pancreatic cancer through abrogation of NF-κB signaling.
- Study subject
- BxPC-3/PANC-1/AsPC-1 cells and in vivo model
- Material or form
- Yulmu seed emulsion for seeds/injection; Gemcitabine combination use
- Evidence stage
- Pancreatic cancer cell/mouse preclinical trials
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined yulmu seed emulsion for seeds—injection; Gemcitabine combination use using bxPC-3/PANC-1/AsPC-1 cells and in vivo model.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether coix seed emulsion synergistically enhances the antitumor activity of gemcitabine in pancreatic cancer through abrogation of NF-κB signaling.
How was it studied?
we provide preclinical evidence that pre-treatment with coix seed emulsion, an injectable agent extracted from coix seeds, synergistically sensitized PC cell lines (BxPC-3, PANC-1 and AsPC-1) to gemcitabine, both in vitro and in vivo.
What did the study find?
Such pretreatment led to significant induction of pro-apoptosis proteins, including caspase-3, cleaved-PARP and Bax (P<0.05), after lower doses of gemcitabine compared to monotherapy. We also showed that coix seed emulsion suppressed the constitutive and gemcitabine-induced activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), as shown with the use of electrophoretic mobility shift, reporter and immunoblotting analyses.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that overall, our data demonstrated that coix seed emulsion abrogated gemcitabine-induced activation of NF-κB, and synergistically sensitized PC cells to gemcitabine therapy.
What could this lead to?
The combination of yulmu seed emulsion and gemcitabine showed greater antitumor indices in a preclinical model of pancreatic cancer. The combination response supports batch-standardized pharmaceutical material, interaction and resistance-mechanism assays, and dose-ratio testing in the same model.
- AllPMID 27132716
Chinese vegetative materia medica in a venereological treatise by Jean Astruc from 1740.
- Study subject
- Written by Jean Astruc, 1740
- Material or form
- Unknown / Historical medicinal ingredients and prescription records
- Evidence stage
- Analysis of historical literature and ethnopharmacology
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Jean Astruc’s 1740 venereology treatise was re-examined to identify its Chinese medicinal plants and compare their historical and modern uses, including Coix lacryma-jobi.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to identify historical Chinese medicinal plants listed in a scarcely known medical treatise De Morbis venereis… ('On venereal diseases…') by Jean Astruc from 1740.
How was it studied?
A analysis of historical literature and ethnopharmacology design used written by Jean Astruc, 1740 as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
For 24 items of medicinal stock, 34 medicinal plants have been identified or suspected: Acacia catechu, Achyranthes bidentata, Akebia quinata, Angelica dahurica, A. sinensis, Aquilaria sinensis, Aralia cordata, Aristolochia fangchi, Chaenomeles sinensis, Ch. speciosa, Clematis vitalba, Coix lacryma-jobi, Commiphora myrrha, Cydonia oblonga, Daemonorops draco, D. jenkinsiana, Dictamnus dasycarpus, Dryobalanops sumatrensis, Forsythia suspensa, Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Lonicera confusa, L. hypoglauca, L. japonica, Ligusticum striatum (=L. chuanxiong), Piper kadsura, Pterocarpus officinalis, Saposhnikovia divaricata, Sassafras tzumu, Smilax china, S. glabra, Stephania tetrandra, Styphnolobium japonicum, Trichosanthes japonica, T. kirilowii.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the formulas contained only one species still known in TCM as a remedy for syphilis.
What could this lead to?
Medicinal plants in Chinese herbal literature related to venereal diseases in 1740 were reexamined using modern taxonomy and the limitations of plant records, including Coix, were reported. This evidence preserves the historical or cultural context of Coix use and provides provenance questions for archaeological, botanical, or food-history research.
- HealthcarePMID 27125591
Potent in vitro anti-proliferative, apoptotic and anti-oxidative activities of semi-purified Job's tears (Coix lachryma-jobi Linn.) extracts from different preparation methods on 5 human cancer cell lines.
- Study subject
- 5 types of human cancer cell lines
- Material or form
- Whole seed, endosperm, peel / methanol/solvent fraction after uncooked, steamed, and stir-fried
- Evidence stage
- Comparison of cancer cell in vitro extracts
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined whole seed, endosperm, peel—methanol—solvent fraction after uncooked, steamed, and stir-fried using 5 types of human cancer cell lines.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to study the anti-proliferative, apoptotic and anti-oxidative activities of semi-purified Job's tear extracts from different preparation methods on 5 human cancer cell lines.
How was it studied?
The crude methanolic extracts of non-cooked, steamed and roasted Job's tears cultivars were prepared and further semi-purified by liquid-liquid extraction techniques. Both of crude and semi-purified extracts were tested for anti-proliferative, apoptotic induction, anti-oxidative activities and phytochemicals content.
What did the study find?
The commercial product showed no anti-proliferative activity in all cell lines but induced apoptosis in HeLa cell at 1.43±0.34%. The butanol and hexane soluble fractions of the roasted whole of Laos White Loei Job's tears (W-LWL-R2) showed the highest free radical scavenging (SC50) and metal chelating activity (MC50) of 0.31±0.06mg/ml (0.64 folds of ascorbic acid) and 0.08±0.01mg/ml (6.37 folds of EDTA), respectively.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this study has demonstrated the potent anti-cancer activity of the semi-purified extracts from roasted Job's tears with high potential for further development to modern anti-cancer drug.
What could this lead to?
Certain roasted coix semi-purified fractions showed antiproliferative activity in cancer cell lines. The plant-part-specific activity prioritizes solvent-fraction chemistry, quantitative markers, and selectivity testing before a standardized research extract is defined.
- AllPMID 27217567
Revealing a 5,000-y-old beer recipe in China.
- Study subject
- Pottery from the Mijiaya archaeological site
- Material or form
- Seeds / starch, phytolith, and chemical analyses of pottery residues
- Evidence stage
- Archaeological residue analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seeds—starch, phytolith, and chemical analyses of pottery residues in pottery from the Mijiaya archaeological site.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate revealing a 5,000-y-old beer recipe in China.
How was it studied?
The results indicate that people in China established advanced beer-brewing technology by using specialized tools and creating favorable fermentation conditions around 5,000 y ago.
What did the study find?
Our data reveal a surprising beer recipe in which broomcorn millet (Panicum miliaceum), barley (Hordeum vulgare), Job's tears (Coix lacryma-jobi), and tubers were fermented together. The results indicate that people in China established advanced beer-brewing technology by using specialized tools and creating favorable fermentation conditions around 5,000 y ago.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the findings imply that early beer making may have motivated the initial translocation of barley from the Western Eurasia into the Central Plain of China before the crop became a part of agricultural subsistence in the region 3,000 y later.
What could this lead to?
Starch, phytolith, and chemical residues in 5,000-year-old pottery indicate that Job's tears was brewed with millet, barley, and tubers. This establishes a multigrain fermentation context for yulmu food history and experimental reconstruction.
- HealthcarePMID 26912094
Integrative Medicine for Relief of Nausea and Vomiting in the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer Using Oxaliplatin-Based Chemotherapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
- Study subject
- 27 RCTs involving 1,843 patients with colorectal cancer
- Material or form
- Unclear / multi-ingredient traditional medicines; details heterogeneous
- Evidence stage
- Systematic review and meta-analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
A systematic review and meta-analysis examined traditional plant-based medicines added to oxaliplatin regimens for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in colorectal-cancer care.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to assess the effectiveness of integrative management of CINV, meta-analysis was conducted of 27 randomised controlled studies (1843 participants) published from 2005 to 2013.
How was it studied?
A systematic review and meta-analysis design involved 27 RCTs involving 1,843 patients with colorectal cancer.
What did the study find?
The oxaliplatin plus TM groups showed significantly reduced CINV (risk ratio 0.65 [0.59, 0.71], I(2) = 28%) compared with oxaliplatin controls, with or without the addition of conventional anti-emetics. Further sensitivity analyses based on the ingredients of the TMs identified six plants (Atractylodes macrocephala, Poria cocos, Coix lacryma-jobi, Astragalus membranaceus, Glycyrrhiza uralensis and Panax ginseng) that were associated with significant reductions in CINV without important heterogeneity.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
What could this lead to?
The review assessed heterogeneous multi-ingredient traditional medicines for chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting. Its yulmu value lies in tracing formula composition and designing component-resolved trials that prospectively specify Coix content.
- Food & nutritionPMID 30263291
Low digestion property of amylosucrase-modified waxy adlay starch.
- Study subject
- In vitro digestion system and mice
- Material or form
- Seed starch / amylosucrase-modified waxy adlay starch
- Evidence stage
- Starch structure, in vitro digestion, and mouse glycemic-response study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed starch—amylosucrase-modified waxy adlay starch using in vitro digestion system and mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate low digestion property of amylosucrase-modified waxy adlay starch.
How was it studied?
A starch structure, in vitro digestion, and mouse glycemic-response study design used in vitro digestion system and mice as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The in vitro digestion profile of amylosucrase-modified starch revealed that elongated branch chains were the main reason for high contents of slowly digestible and resistant starches due to formation of a more perfect crystalline structure via easy association between elongated branch chains.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that both in vitro and in vivo tests were used to verify increased resistance to digestive enzymes caused by amylosucrase modification.
What could this lead to?
Enzyme-modified adlay starch showed greater digestion resistance in vitro and a more gradual glycemic response in mice. The model defines material, dose, and outcome variables for preclinical replication and chemical standardization of the tested yulmu preparation.
- HealthcarePMID 26947738
Bitargeted microemulsions based on coix seed ingredients for enhanced hepatic tumor delivery and synergistic therapy.
- Study subject
- HepG2 cells and tumor animal models
- Material or form
- Seed oil and polysaccharides / galactose stearate-modified multi-component microemulsion
- Evidence stage
- Cell and mouse drug-delivery study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed oil and polysaccharides—galactose stearate-modified multi-component microemulsion using hepG2 cells and tumor animal models.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate bitargeted microemulsions based on coix seed ingredients for enhanced hepatic tumor delivery and synergistic therapy.
How was it studied?
A cell and mouse drug-delivery study design used hepG2 cells and tumor animal models as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of Gal-C-MEs against HepG2 cells was 70.2 μg/mL, which decreased by 1.8-fold in comparison with that of coix seed multicomponent microemulsions (C-MEs). The fluorescence intensity of fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-loaded Gal-C-MEs (FITC-Gal-C-MEs) internalized by HepG2 cells was 1.8-fold higher than that of FITC-loaded C-MEs (FIT C-C-MEs), but the cellular uptake of the latter became reduce by 1.6-fold when the weight ratio of CP decreased up to 10%.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the aforementioned results suggested that Gal-C-MEs presented promising potential as a highly effective and safe anticancer drug delivery system for enhanced liver cancer delivery.
What could this lead to?
A microemulsion combining Coix seed oil, polysaccharides, and galactose targeting showed delivery and tumor-inhibition indicators in HepG2 cells and tumor animal models. Yulmu oil's carrier role can be defined through oil-marker specifications, phase behavior, release, target-cell uptake, and batch reproducibility of the full microemulsion.
- HealthcarePMID 27070310
Assessment of the Genetic Diversity of Different Job's Tears (Coix lacryma-jobi L.) Accessions and the Active Composition and Anticancer Effect of Its Seed Oil.
- Study subject
- Eleven accessions and T24 bladder cancer cells
- Material or form
- Seed oil / seed oils from 11 accessions; GC-MS/HPLC analysis
- Evidence stage
- Genetic diversity, composition, and cancer-cell testing
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed oil—seed oils from 11 accessions; GC-MS—HPLC analysis using eleven accessions and T24 bladder cancer cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to assess the Genetic Diversity of Different Job's Tears (Coix lacryma-jobi L.) Accessions and the Active Composition and Anticancer Effect of Its Seed Oil.
How was it studied?
the genetic diversity of Job's tears accessions and the fatty acid composition, triglyceride composition, and anti-proliferative effect of Job's tears seed oil were analyzed using morphological characteristics and ISSR markers, GC-MS, HPLC-ELSD, and the MTT method.
What did the study find?
Significant differences in morphological characteristics, fatty acid composition, triglyceride composition, and inhibition rates of seed oil were detected among different accessions, which showed a highly significant positive correlation with genetic variation.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the proportion of palmitic acid and linoleic acid to oleic acid displayed a highly significant positive correlation with the inhibition rates of Job's tears seed oil for T24 cells, and thus can be an important indicator for quality control for Job's tears.
What could this lead to?
Across 11 Job's tears accessions, seed-oil composition varied alongside growth-inhibition measures in T24 cells. The paired diversity and assay data can guide selection of oil chemotypes, quantitative lipid markers, and accession-controlled replication.
- AllPMID 30132593
[Optimization of Extraction Technology of Yiyi Fuzi Baijiang Powder by Orthogonal Design].
- Study subject
- Laboratory process
- Material or form
- Seed / ultrasonic ethanol extraction of Job's tears; water extraction of other medicinal materials
- Evidence stage
- Optimization of extraction processes for a multi-herb formula
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—ultrasonic ethanol extraction of Job's tears; water extraction of other medicinal materials using laboratory process.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to optimize the optimum extraction technology of Yiyi Fuzi Baijiang powder.
How was it studied?
A optimization of extraction processes for a multi-herb formula design used laboratory process as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The optimum extraction technology of Coicis Semen was obtained,alcohol was consumed as four times of the herb amount,and ultrasonic extracted three times with 20 minutes each time; the optimum extraction technology of Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata and Herba Patriniae was obtained,water was consumed as ten times of the herb amount,and extracted for 1. 0 h for Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata and then Herba Patriniae was added and extracted for 45 minutes for the first time; in the second time,water was consumed as 8 times of the herb amount,and extracted for 30 minutes for dregs of herbs.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the optimum extraction technology is stable and feasible,in which can give a reference to the preparation research of Yiyi Fuzi Baijiang powder.
What could this lead to?
Extraction conditions were separately optimized for Coicis Semen within the Yiyi Fuzi Baijiang multi-herb formula. This supplies process-control variables for yulmu extraction and formula manufacture, while finished-product effects remain multicomponent.
- Food & nutritionPMID 26593521
Structural characterization of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity of the phenolic-rich fraction from defatted adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) seed meal.
- Study subject
- ORAC/PSC and cellular antioxidant testing
- Material or form
- Defatted seed meal / acetone extract, n-butanol fraction, and Sephadex fractionation
- Evidence stage
- Constituent fractionation and in vitro/cellular antioxidant analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Phenolic-rich fractions from defatted adlay seed meal were examined for antioxidant activity and constituent composition.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to identify the most active fraction and characterize the phenolic compounds associated with its chemical and cellular antioxidant measurements.
How was it studied?
Extracts and Sephadex LH-20 subfractions were compared by ORAC, PSC and cellular-antioxidant-activity assays, with total phenolics correlated against activity. HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS identified and quantified compounds in the leading subfraction.
What did the study find?
The n-butanol fraction led the initial extracts, and subfraction 3 had the highest activity and phenolic content. It contained ferulic acid at 67.28 mg/g and rutin at 41.11 mg/g; p-coumaric acid led ORAC, while quercetin led PSC and cellular antioxidant activity.
How did the authors interpret it?
The study connected the antioxidant performance of defatted adlay meal with a phenolic-rich subfraction and specific abundant or highly active constituents.
What could this lead to?
A specific phenolic fraction from defatted adlay seed meal showed high antioxidant activity in in vitro and cellular assays. The defined enzyme or receptor endpoint supports potency comparison of isolated yulmu compounds and development of a quantitative bioactivity assay.
- HealthcarePMID 26981007
In vitro anti-cancer activities of Job's tears (Coix lachryma-jobi Linn.) extracts on human colon adenocarcinoma.
- Study subject
- HT-29 human colon adenocarcinoma cells
- Material or form
- Whole seed, endosperm, and hull / methanol or hexane extracts after uncooked, roasted, boiled, or steamed preparation
- Evidence stage
- In vitro comparison of extracts in cancer cells
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined whole seed, endosperm, and hull—methanol or hexane extracts after uncooked, roasted, boiled, or steamed preparation using HT-29 human colon adenocarcinoma cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate in vitro anti-cancer activities of Job's tears (Coix lachryma-jobi Linn.) extracts on human colon adenocarcinoma.
How was it studied?
The whole seed (W), endosperm (E) and hull (H) of five cultivars of Job's tears (Coix lachryma-jobi Linn. var. ma-yuen Stapf) including Thai Black Phayao, Thai Black Loei, Laos Black Loei, Laos White Loei and Laos Black Luang Phra Bang were processed before solvent extraction by non-cooking, roasting, boiling and steaming Each part of the Job's tears was extracted by the cold and hot process by refluxing with methanol and hexane.
What did the study find?
The extract from the hull of Thai Black Loei roasted before extracting by hot methanol (M-HTBL-R2) showed the highest anti-proliferative activity on HT-29 with the IC50 values of 11.61 ± 0.95 μg/ml, while the extract from the non-cooked hull of Thai Black Loei by cold methanol extraction (M-HTBL-N1) gave the highest apoptosis (8.17 ± 1.18%) with no necrosis.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this study has demonstrated the anti-colorectal cancer potential of the M-HTBL-R2 and M-HTBL-N1 extracts.
What could this lead to?
A particular methanol extract of roasted Job's tears hull showed antiproliferative activity in HT-29 cells. The plant-part-specific activity prioritizes solvent-fraction chemistry, quantitative markers, and selectivity testing before a standardized research extract is defined.
- AllPMID 26471633
Adsorption and desorption characteristics of adlay bran free phenolics on macroporous resins.
- Study subject
- Laboratory extracts
- Material or form
- Bran / macroporous-resin adsorption and 50% ethanol elution
- Evidence stage
- Extraction and adsorption process with antioxidant analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined bran—macroporous-resin adsorption and 50% ethanol elution using laboratory extracts.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate adsorption and desorption characteristics of adlay bran free phenolics on macroporous resins.
How was it studied?
A extraction and adsorption process with antioxidant analysis design used laboratory extracts as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
After treatment with gradient elution on XAD-16 resin column, the free phenolics were mostly enriched (from 89.61 to 1015.26mg/100g) in 50% ethanol fraction. The oxygen radical absorbance capacity of 50% ethanol fraction was eight times higher than that of the crude extract.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the production of highly concentrated phenolics might expand the application of adlay bran used as a bioactive ingredient in functional food.
What could this lead to?
A 50% ethanol fraction of Job's tears bran concentrated free phenolics and showed a high ORAC value. The reported yield and fraction properties can guide scalable recovery, solvent choice, and marker specifications for the yulmu ingredient.
- Food & nutritionPMID 28911397
Mycotoxin monitoring for commercial foodstuffs in Taiwan.
- Study subject
- 712 samples across nine food categories
- Material or form
- Seeds / analysis of commercial foods from 2012–2013
- Evidence stage
- Mycotoxin surveillance of commercial foods
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Seeds—analysis of commercial foods from 2012–2013 was analyzed across 712 samples across nine food categories.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate mycotoxin monitoring for commercial foodstuffs in Taiwan.
How was it studied?
A total of 712 samples from nine different food categories were collected between 2012 and 2013.
What did the study find?
Instances of AFs in substandard Sichuan pepper and Coix seeds were first detected in Taiwan.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that declining trends were observed in the noncompliance rate of AFs in peanut products, as well as that of CIT in RYR raw materials monitored from 2010 to 2013.
What could this lead to?
Official analytical methods were used to monitor 712 commercial foods in Taiwan, documenting overall regulatory compliance and one non-compliant Coix seed sample. Its yulmu-matrix performance provides a basis for lot-release limits and routine multi-toxin surveillance of grain or derived ingredients.
- AllPMID 27838691
Monascus Adlay and Monacolin K Attenuates Arterial Thrombosis in Rats through the Inhibition of ICAM-1 and Oxidative Stress.
- Study subject
- FeCl3-induced arterial-thrombosis rats and endothelial cells
- Material or form
- Cooked seed / Job's tears fermented with Monascus purpureus
- Evidence stage
- Preclinical thrombosis study in rats and cells
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined cooked seed—Job's tears fermented with Monascus purpureus using feCl3-induced arterial-thrombosis rats and endothelial cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to monascus Adlay (MA) prepared from fungal fermentation of Monascus purpureus inoculating with cooked adlay contains high content of monakolin K (MK) and phenolic compounds.
How was it studied?
The researchers compared MA or MK effects on oxidative stress by chemiluminescence amplification and immunohistochemistry, TTO by a transonic system, NFκB, ICAM-1, endoplasmic reticulum stress CHOP and Nrf2 signaling by western blotting.
What did the study find?
FeCl3 significantly increased NFκB p65, 3-nitrotyrosine, CHOP and ICAM-1 expression, and decreased nuclear Nrf2 translocation and induces arterial thrombus formation. MA or MK pretreatment significantly elongated the level of FeCl3-induced TTO compared to TTO group, significantly decreased proinflammatory NF-κB/ICAM-1 signaling, endoplasmic reticulum stress CHOP expression and decreased thrombotic area.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the study suggest MA is better than MK to improve FeCl3-induced arterial thrombosis.
What could this lead to?
Monascus-fermented Job's tears showed changes in thrombosis- and oxidative-stress-related indicators in a FeCl3-induced rat thrombosis model. The model supplies organ- and stress-response endpoints for dose–response replication, active-marker analysis, and route-specific safety testing of the yulmu preparation.
- AllPMID 26701790
Administration of Herbal Complexes, Dangguijakyak-san (TJ-23) and Coix Seeds, for Treating Verruca Planae: A Case Report.
- Study subject
- One 29-year-old woman
- Material or form
- Seed / 500 mg Coix seed-extract tablets; co-administered with a multi-herb medicine
- Evidence stage
- Single case report
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed—500 mg Coix seed-extract tablets; co-administered with a multi-herb medicine in one 29-year-old woman.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate administration of Herbal Complexes, Dangguijakyak-san (TJ-23) and Coix Seeds, for Treating Verruca Planae: A Case Report.
How was it studied?
A single case report design used one 29-year-old woman as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
We encountered a patient with VP who showed resistance to conventional therapy and was subsequently treated with Dangguijakyak-san (TJ-23; Tsumura, Japan; and Tokishakuyakusan in Japanese) and coix seed tablets with favorable outcomes. At the four-month follow-up, the papules were found to have disappeared.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the study believe that Dangguijakyak-san with coix seeds remedy can have an effect on the immune system and consequently treat VP.
What could this lead to?
Flat-wart resolution was described in one person receiving both Coix seed-extract tablets and a multi-herb medicine. The case supports product and co-medication traceability and a component-resolved dermatology study focused on yulmu.
- HealthcarePMID 26123819
Effect of ultrasonic treatment on immunological activities of polysaccharides from adlay.
- Study subject
- RAW264.7 mouse macrophages
- Material or form
- Seed / alkali-extracted polysaccharides; ultrasonically treated fractions
- Evidence stage
- Polysaccharide characterization and in vitro macrophage study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—alkali-extracted polysaccharides; ultrasonically treated fractions using rAW264.7 mouse macrophages.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine the effects of ultrasonic treatment on immunological activities of polysaccharides from adlay.
How was it studied?
Alkali-extractable adlay polysaccharides AAP-1 and AAP-2 were purified by anion-exchange and gel-filtration chromatography, then ultrasonically treated to form AAP-1′ and AAP-2′. Molecular weight, monosaccharide composition and macrophage secretion of NO, TNF-α and IL-6 were measured.
What did the study find?
In vitro study showed that AAP-1, AAP-1', AAP-2, and AAP-2' were all able to encourage the production of secretory molecules (NO, TNF-α and IL-6) of RAW264.7 murine macrophages in concentrations determines manner.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the ultrasonic polysaccharides isolated in our study have immune potentiation effects on macrophages and should serve as a beneficial health food.
What could this lead to?
Ultrasound changed yulmu-polysaccharide fractions that increased immune-secretion markers in RAW264.7 macrophages. Relating sonication conditions and molecular-size changes to the cell response can guide reproducible polysaccharide processing and assay design.
- AllPMID 25472767
Effect of kanglaite on rat cytochrome P450.
- Study subject
- Rats
- Material or form
- Seed oil / repeated intraperitoneal Kanglaite administration for 7 days
- Evidence stage
- Rat drug-interaction and pharmacokinetic study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed oil—repeated intraperitoneal Kanglaite administration for 7 days using rats.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to find out whether KLT influences the effect on rat cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes (CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4) by using cocktail probe drugs in vivo.
How was it studied?
A cocktail solution at a dose of 5 mL/kg, which contained phenacetin (20 mg/kg), bupropion (20 mg/kg), tolbutamide (5 mg/kg), omeprazole (20 mg/kg), and midazolam (10 mg/kg), was given as oral administration to rats treated with 7 d intraperitoneal injection of KLT. Blood samples were collected at a series of time-points and the concentrations of probe drugs in plasma were determined by HPLC-MS/MS.
What did the study find?
In the experiment, there was a statistically significant difference in the t1/2, Cmax, AUC(0-∞), and CL for phenacetin, bupropion, tolbutamide, omeprazole, and midazolam. Our study showed that treatment with multiple doses of KLT had induction effect on rat CYP1A2, while CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4 enzyme activities had been inhibited after multiple doses of KLT treatment.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that caution is needed when KLT is co-administration with some CYP substrates in clinic, which may result in herb-drug interactions.
What could this lead to?
Repeated Kanglaite administration altered cytochrome-P450 probe behavior in rats. The result identifies specific drug-interaction and pharmacokinetic testing needs for this seed-oil-derived pharmaceutical product.
- AllPMID 26972879
Medicinal plants used to treat TB in Ghana.
- Study subject
- Records of local traditional practice in Ghana
- Material or form
- Glume / traditional use; details unclear
- Evidence stage
- Ethnopharmacological survey and literature review
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on glume—traditional use in records of local traditional practice in Ghana.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to document medicinal plant species that are traditionally used to treat tuberculosis (TB) by Ghanaian communities.
How was it studied?
A guided questionnaire interview was also conducted with a botanist involved in plant collection at the Centre for Scientific Research into Plant Medicine (CSRPM) at Mampong. Data obtained were entered in Excel and summarized into means and frequencies using SPSS 12.0.1 for windows, and expressed as tables and bar graphs.
What did the study find?
A total of 15 medicinal plant species distributed between 13 genera and 13 families were documented. The following medicinal plant species were found to be used against TB in Greater Accra and Eastern parts of Ghana: Azadirachta indica A.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that these results are a basis for selection of plants for further pharmacological, toxicological and phytochemical studies in developing new plant-based antimycobacterial drugs.
What could this lead to?
An ethnopharmacological survey documented traditional use of Coix glume in Ghanaian tuberculosis practice. This is a provenance lead for botanical identification, preparation documentation, and biosafety screening rather than evidence from a tested treatment.
- Featured · HealthcarePMID 25686949
Repressive effects of oat extracts on intracellular lipid-droplet formation in adipocytes and a three-dimensional subcutaneous adipose tissue model.
- Study subject
- OP9 preadipocytes, HaCaT keratinocytes, and a 3D subcutaneous-tissue model
- Material or form
- Whole grain / proteolytic and glucosyl-transfer treatment of finely ground whole grain; water/ethanol extract
- Evidence stage
- Cell and three-dimensional tissue-model study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined whole grain—proteolytic and glucosyl-transfer treatment of finely ground whole grain; water—ethanol extract using oP9 preadipocytes, HaCaT keratinocytes, and a 3D subcutaneous-tissue model.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to assess the repression of lipid-droplet formation in mouse mesenchymal stromal preadipocytes OP9 by specified oat extracts (Hatomugi, Coix lacryma-jobi var. ma-yuen) named "SPH" which were proteolytically and glucosyl-transferredly prepared from finely-milled oat whole-grain.
How was it studied?
The intracellular lipid droplets were scanty for intact preadipocytes, small-sized but abundant for the SPH-unadministered adipocytes, and large-sized but few for SPH-bulk-administered adipocytes being coexistent with many lipid-droplet-lacking viable cells, suggesting "the all-or-none rule" for lipid-droplet generation in cell-to-cell.
What did the study find?
Hydrogen-peroxide-induced cell death in human epidermal keratinocytes HaCaT was prevented by SPH-bulk at 100 or 150ppm by 5.6-8.1%, being consistent with higher viabilities of SPH-bulk-administered OP9 cells, together with repressions of both cell shrinkage and cell detachment from the culture substratum. In three-dimensional subcutaneous adipose tissue models reconstructed with HaCaT-keratinocytes and OP9-preadipocytes, lipid droplets were accumulated in dermal OP9-cell-parts, and repressed to 43.5% by SPH-bulk at 840ppm concurrently with marked diminishment of huge aggregates of lipid droplets.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that thus SPH-bulk suppresses adipogenesis-associated lipid-droplet accumulation during differentiation of OP9 preadipocytes together with lowered cytotoxicity to either HaCaT keratinocytes or the preadipocytes.
What could this lead to?
A treated whole-grain Coix preparation reduced lipid-droplet accumulation and oxidative-stress-related cell death in adipocyte and three-dimensional subcutaneous-tissue models. This connects grain-processing chemistry to adipose-cell endpoints for composition-resolved mechanism research.
- HealthcarePMID 25766911
A comparative study on hulled adlay and unhulled adlay through evaluation of their LPS-induced anti-inflammatory effects, and isolation of pure compounds.
- Study subject
- LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells
- Material or form
- Hulled and unhulled seeds / ethyl acetate fraction of unhulled seed and isolated compounds
- Evidence stage
- Constituent isolation and in vitro macrophage study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Hulled and unhulled adlay fractions were compared for activity in LPS-stimulated macrophages, followed by isolation of active compounds from unhulled grain.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to identify constituents responsible for the stronger anti-inflammatory assay response of the unhulled material.
How was it studied?
Nitric-oxide production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells guided fractionation of the unhulled ethyl-acetate fraction. Isolated compounds were identified and tested for NO, iNOS and COX-2 effects, and HPLC-UV compared active unhulled with inactive hulled fractions.
What did the study find?
Two new stereoisomers and six known compounds were isolated. Compounds 3 and 4 inhibited NO production with IC₅₀ values of 1.4 and 3.7 µM and suppressed iNOS and COX-2 protein expression.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors used the bioassay and chromatographic comparison to distinguish active unhulled-adlay chemistry from the inactive hulled fraction and assign activity to specific isolates.
What could this lead to?
Some compounds isolated from an unhulled Job's tears fraction reduced inflammation-related indicators in LPS-stimulated macrophages. The immune-cell endpoints can guide active-compound isolation, quantitative fraction markers, and concentration-controlled mechanism testing.
- HealthcarePMID 25709440
Microemulsion-based synergistic dual-drug codelivery system for enhanced apoptosis of tumor cells.
- Study subject
- A549 human lung cancer cells
- Material or form
- Seed oil / etoposide-loaded EC-ME microemulsion
- Evidence stage
- Cancer-cell drug-delivery study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed oil—etoposide-loaded EC-ME microemulsion using a549 human lung cancer cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate microemulsion-based synergistic dual-drug codelivery system for enhanced apoptosis of tumor cells.
How was it studied?
A cancer-cell drug-delivery study design used a549 human lung cancer cells as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The release profiles at various pH values showed an obvious pH-responsive difference, with the accumulated amount of VP16 released at pH 4.5 (and pH 5.5) being 2.7-fold higher relative to that at pH 7.4. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration of the EC-ME system was 3.9-fold and 10.4-fold lower relative to that of free VP16 and a mixture of VP16 and coix seed oil, respectively.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the EC-ME combination strategy holds promise as an efficient drug delivery system for induction of apoptosis and treatment of lung cancer.
What could this lead to?
A Coix seed oil–etoposide microemulsion showed drug-release, cellular-uptake, and apoptosis-delivery characteristics in A549 cells. Yulmu oil's carrier role can be defined through oil-marker specifications, phase behavior, release, target-cell uptake, and batch reproducibility of the full microemulsion.
- AllPMID 26415416
[Study on Optimum Extraction Process of Water Soluble Protein from Coicis Semen].
- Study subject
- Laboratory process
- Material or form
- Seed / alkaline aqueous cysteine hydrochloride solution
- Evidence stage
- Extraction-process optimization
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—alkaline aqueous cysteine hydrochloride solution using laboratory process.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to optimize the extraction process of water soluble protein from Coicis Semen.
How was it studied?
In combination with single factor test results, a 4 factors 3 levels orthogonal experiment was designed with the factors of extraction temperature, extraction pH, solid-liquid ratio and extraction time.
What did the study find?
The optimum extraction process of water soluble protein from Coicis Semen was as follows: the extraction temperature was 40 °C, the extraction pH was 10, the solid-liquid ratio was 1:20 and the extraction time was 4 h. The interaction of temperature and solid-liquid ratio, as well as temperature and extraction time would lower protein extraction rate.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the optimized extraction process is economical, simple, reasonable and practicable.
What could this lead to?
The study presented process conditions for extracting water-soluble protein from Job's tears. The reported yield and fraction properties can guide scalable recovery, solvent choice, and marker specifications for the yulmu ingredient.
- AllPMID 26084186
[Compatibility regularity of compound traditional Chinese medicine patents based on association principle and entropy method].
- Study subject
- 243 multi-herb medicine patents from 1985–2014
- Material or form
- Seed / patent prescription data; details unclear
- Evidence stage
- Patent data mining
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed—patent prescription data in 243 multi-herb medicine patents from 1985–2014.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to analyze the compatibility regularity of compound traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) patents for treating dyslipidemia, and provide basis for the clinical development and research of new TCM for treating dyslipidemia.
How was it studied?
Totally 243 compound traditional Chinese medicine patents for treating dyslipidemia were collected from the national patent database from September 1985 to March 2014 and analyzed by using drug frequency, association rules, complex network and entropy method of Traditional Chinese Medicine Inheritance System (V1.1). The new prescriptions extracted by entropy method are Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma-Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma-Platycladi Semen-Stephaniae Tetrandrae Radix; Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium-Poria-Coicis Semen-Pinelliae Rhizoma.
What did the study find?
Crataegi Fructus, Cassiae Semen, Polygoni Multiflori Radix; (4) The compatibility among drugs shall be given attention, and highly correlated drugs should be preferred: e. g.
How did the authors interpret it?
The patent analysis mapped core herbs, high-frequency pairings and candidate combinations for dyslipidaemia formulas; one entropy-derived combination included Coicis Semen with Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium, Poria and Pinelliae Rhizoma.
What could this lead to?
Association analysis of 243 multi-herb patents identified candidate dyslipidaemia formulas containing Coicis Semen. This is formulation-pattern evidence that can guide provenance checks and controlled comparison of complete formulas and omitted-component variants.
- Featured · Beauty · HealthcarePMID 26495009
Prophylactic Treatment with Adlay Bran Extract Reduces the Risk of Severe Acute Radiation Dermatitis: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind Study.
- Study subject
- 110 patients with breast cancer undergoing radiotherapy
- Material or form
- Oral yulmu-bran extract given from radiotherapy initiation through completion; olive-oil placebo
- Evidence stage
- Prospective, randomised, double-blind human clinical trial
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The study examined prophylactic oral yulmu-bran extract for severe acute radiation dermatitis in patients with breast cancer undergoing radiotherapy.
Why was it studied?
To evaluate whether prophylactic oral yulmu-bran extract reduces the risk of severe acute radiation dermatitis in patients with breast cancer undergoing radiotherapy.
How was it studied?
In a prospective, randomised, double-blind trial, 110 patients were analysed: 73 received oral yulmu-bran extract and 37 received olive oil placebo. Treatment began at the start of radiotherapy and continued until radiotherapy ended; severe acute dermatitis was assessed using the RTOG grading system.
What did the study find?
Severe acute radiation dermatitis of RTOG grade 2 or higher occurred in 45.2% of the yulmu-bran-extract group and 75.7% of the placebo group. The adjusted odds ratio was 0.24, and the abstract reported no serious adverse effects from yulmu-bran treatment.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that prophylactic oral yulmu-bran extract reduced the risk of severe acute radiation dermatitis and may have potential use in patients with breast cancer receiving radiotherapy.
What could this lead to?
This controlled human result makes extract identity, oral dose, composition, radiotherapy context and adverse-event monitoring priorities for replication. A chemically standardised yulmu-bran extract and prespecified dermatitis outcomes would clarify reproducibility and ingredient–treatment interactions.
- HealthcarePMID 26406384
Modulation of gut microbiota by polyphenols from adlay (Coix lacryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf.) in rats fed a high-cholesterol diet.
- Study subject
- Rats fed a high-cholesterol diet
- Material or form
- Seed; polyphenols / adlay polyphenol extract, 200 mg/kg/day by gavage
- Evidence stage
- High-cholesterol-diet rat study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed; polyphenols—adlay polyphenol extract, 200 mg—kg—day by gavage using rats fed a high-cholesterol diet.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to evaluate the beneficial effects of polyphenol extract of adlay (Coix lacryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf.) (PEA) on gut microbiota in rats fed a high-cholesterol diet (HCD).
How was it studied?
Rats were fed HCD containing 1% cholesterol (w/w), with or without a daily intragastric supplement of 200 mg/kg body weight PEA. Phenolic compounds in PEA were identified by HPLC.
What did the study find?
The abundances of one Erysipelotrichales strains and two Clostridia strains were lower in the PEA group than in the control. Phenolic compounds in PEA were identified by HPLC.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that PEA may be a useful dietary supplement in the treatment of elevated cholesterol levels and the imbalanced gut microbial ecology.
What could this lead to?
An adlay polyphenol extract produced changes in lipid and gut-microbiota indicators in rats fed a high-cholesterol diet. The gut and metabolic measures can be paired with polysaccharide or food composition to test dose, fermentation metabolites, and microbiome reproducibility.
- AllPMID 25261690
Ethnopharmacological analysis of medicinal plants and animals used in the treatment and management of pain in Mauritius.
- Study subject
- 332 traditional-practice users and 20 practitioners in Mauritius
- Material or form
- Unclear / traditional use; details unclear
- Evidence stage
- Ethnopharmacological survey
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Traditional plant and animal remedies for pain management in Mauritius were documented and quantitatively ranked, including Coix lacryma-jobi for lower-back pain.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to record, document and analyze herbal and animal-based therapies used for the management and treatment of pain in the tropical of Mauritius.
How was it studied?
Data was collected via face-to-face interviews with TM users (n=332) and practitioners (n=20).
What did the study find?
(FL=100%) had highest FL for lower back ache. Morinda citrifolia L. scored highest on most of the quantitative indices calculated including RI, which is endorsed by extensive documentation on its versatility and particularly its anti-nociceptive properties.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this study has therefore provided important baseline primary data for the discovery of new lead molecules for drug development geared towards pain management and treatment.
What could this lead to?
A Mauritian ethnopharmacology survey recorded traditional use of Coix in relation to low-back pain. The record preserves cultural-use context and establishes a baseline for botanical authentication, preparation documentation, and safety screening.
- Food & nutritionPMID 25364928
Occurrence of four Fusarium mycotoxins, deoxynivalenol, zearalenone, T-2 toxin, and HT-2 toxin, in wheat, barley, and Japanese retail food.
- Study subject
- 557 retail-food samples
- Material or form
- Products/seeds / Japanese retail Job's tears products
- Evidence stage
- Food-safety contamination surveillance
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Products—seeds—Japanese retail Job's tears products was analyzed across 557 retail-food samples.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate occurrence of four Fusarium mycotoxins, deoxynivalenol, zearalenone, T-2 toxin, and HT-2 toxin, in wheat, barley, and Japanese retail food.
How was it studied?
A method for the simultaneous determination of the four mycotoxins by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was validated by a small-scale interlaboratory study using two spiked wheat samples (DON was spiked at 20 and 100 μg/kg and ZEN, T-2, and HT-2 at 6 and 20 μg/kg in the respective samples).
What did the study find?
Both T-2 and HT-2 were detected in wheat, wheat flour, barley, Job's tears products, beer, corn grits, azuki beans, soybeans, and rice with mixed grains. Only T-2 toxin was detected in sesame seeds.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that continuous monitoring by multiple laboratories is effective and necessary due to the percentage of positive samples detected.
What could this lead to?
A survey of Japanese retail foods documented detection data for multiple Fusarium toxins in Job's tears products, indicating a need for continuing quality management. The occurrence data define hazard priorities and sampling plans for supplier qualification, regulatory testing, and storage control of yulmu products.
- HealthcarePMID 25119060
Kanglaite stimulates anticancer immune responses and inhibits HepG2 cell transplantation‑induced tumor growth.
- Study subject
- Blood from patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (sample size, control, and timing unclear); HepG2 tumor-transplanted mice
- Material or form
- Seed oil / Kanglaite injection
- Evidence stage
- Patient-blood observations and mechanistic study in tumor-transplanted mice
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Kanglaite was examined for immune-cell and cytokine effects in blood from patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and in HepG2 tumour-bearing mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether kanglaite stimulates anticancer immune responses and inhibits HepG2 cell transplantation‑induced tumor growth.
How was it studied?
Patient blood was analysed for T-cell and natural-killer-cell changes, and HepG2 tumour-bearing mice were used to assess cytokines, CD4+ recovery and NK- and CD8+-cell cytotoxicity. NF-κB-responsive transcription was investigated by mRNA measurement and p65 chromatin immunoprecipitation in CD4+ cells.
What did the study find?
These events enhanced the cytotoxic activities of natural killer and CD8+ T cells against the hepatic HepG2 cancer cells. KLT administration further increased the mRNA level of certain nuclear factor κB (NF‑κB)‑responsive genes in CD4+ cells.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that induction of NF-κB‑mediated gene transcription in CD4+ T cells is involved in the immunomodulatory activity of KLT.
What could this lead to?
Kanglaite was associated with immune-cell observations in patient blood and immune and tumor markers in transplanted mice. The mixed evidence points to standardized pharmaceutical-product characterization and controlled human studies with clear sampling and comparator methods.
- Featured · BeautyPMID 25244016
Inhibitory effects of adlay extract on melanin production and cellular oxygen stress in B16F10 melanoma cells.
- Study subject
- Mushroom tyrosinase assays and B16F10 melanoma cells
- Material or form
- Supercritical-fluid CO₂ extract of yulmu seed
- Evidence stage
- Extraction, biochemical antioxidant and tyrosinase assays, cell measurements and western blotting
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The study examined how supercritical-fluid CO₂ yulmu-seed extract affects melanin-production pathways and oxidative-stress measures in biochemical assays and B16F10 cells.
Why was it studied?
To determine the effects of supercritical-fluid CO₂ yulmu-seed extract on melanin production and to characterise its antioxidant properties.
How was it studied?
Yulmu seed was extracted by supercritical-fluid CO₂ extraction. Mushroom and intracellular tyrosinase activity, melanin content, free-radical-scavenging capacity, reducing power and intracellular ROS were measured spectrophotometrically in biochemical systems and B16F10 cells. Western blotting measured MITF, tyrosinase, TRP-1 and TRP-2 expression.
What did the study find?
The extract suppressed intracellular tyrosinase activity and reduced melanin in B16F10 cells. It down-regulated MITF, tyrosinase, TRP-1 and TRP-2, showed free-radical-scavenging capacity and reducing power, and reduced intracellular ROS.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the extract inhibited melanin production through down-regulation of MITF, tyrosinase, TRP-1 and TRP-2, with antioxidant properties potentially contributing, and proposed it as a melanogenesis inhibitor and natural antioxidant for skin-care products.
What could this lead to?
The study links a defined supercritical-fluid extraction route to pigment-pathway proteins and oxidative-stress measures. Extraction yield, chemical markers, dose–response, melanocyte safety, formulation stability and human-skin testing are the next steps for a reproducible yulmu beauty ingredient.
- Food & nutritionPMID 25226533
Antioxidative dietary compounds modulate gene expression associated with apoptosis, DNA repair, inhibition of cell proliferation and migration.
- Study subject
- Cell-study literature
- Material or form
- Seed polysaccharides / polysaccharides cited in the literature
- Evidence stage
- Non-systematic literature review and description of cell experiments
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed polysaccharides—polysaccharides cited in the literature using cell-study literature.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine the molecular mechanism of these food-derived compounds, we analyzed their effect on various genes related to cell apoptosis, DNA damage and repair, oxidation and inflammation using in vitro cell culture assays.
How was it studied?
Flattened macrophage morphology was also observed following the induction of cytokine production by polysaccharides extracted from viili, a traditional Nordic fermented dairy product.
What did the study find?
The results support this hypothesis and show that cell proliferation was inhibited when COX-2 was down-regulated by polyphenols and polysaccharides. Coix lacryma-jobi (coix) polysaccharides were found to reduce mitochondrial membrane potential and induce caspase-3- and 9-mediated apoptosis.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that these observations suggest that antioxidants and changes in cell membrane potential are the major driving forces that transfer signals through the cell membrane into the cytosol and nucleus, triggering gene expression, changes in cell proliferation and the induction of apoptosis or DNA repair.
What could this lead to?
This narrative review assembled cell-level observations on Coix polysaccharides, apoptosis, DNA repair, proliferation, and migration. It helps prioritize which polysaccharide structures and assays need direct replication with standardized yulmu fractions.
- AllPMID 25029106
In vitro and in vivo studies on adlay-derived seed extracts: phenolic profiles, antioxidant activities, serum uric acid suppression, and xanthine oxidase inhibitory effects.
- Study subject
- Enzyme assays and oxonate-treated rats
- Material or form
- Seed, bran, and hull / free and bound phenolic extracts
- Evidence stage
- In vitro and hyperuricemic rat study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed, bran, and hull—free and bound phenolic extracts using enzyme assays and oxonate-treated rats.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to explore the potential of polished adlay, brown adlay, adlay bran, and adlay hull to prevent and treat hyperuricemia.
How was it studied?
A in vitro and hyperuricemic rat study design used enzyme assays and oxonate-treated rats as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Brown adlay extract effectively decreased the serum uric acid levels of oxonate-induced hyperuricemic rats.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that chlorogenic acid is a superoxide radical scavenger with weak xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity.
What could this lead to?
Brown adlay extract and the bran phenolic fraction each showed activity in serum uric acid in hyperuricemic rats and in in-vitro xanthine oxidase (XO) measures, respectively. The model defines material, dose, and outcome variables for preclinical replication and chemical standardization of the tested yulmu preparation.
- HealthcarePMID 25005526
Antitumor effect of Kanglaite® injection in human pancreatic cancer xenografts.
- Study subject
- Pancreatic-cancer xenograft mice
- Material or form
- Seed oil / Kanglaite injection
- Evidence stage
- Xenograft-mouse preclinical study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed oil—Kanglaite injection using pancreatic-cancer xenograft mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate antitumor effect of Kanglaite® injection in human pancreatic cancer xenografts.
How was it studied?
Growth and apoptosis of tumor xenografts were examined, and the expression levels of genes and proteins involved in the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway were measured by RT-PCR and western blotting, respectively.
What did the study find?
The results revealed that KLT dramatically inhibited the growth of pancreatic cancer xenografts and induced apoptosis simultaneously. Furthermore, it downregulated the expression of phospho-Akt and phospho-mTOR.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that moreover, KLT can downregulate the expression of phospho-Akt and phospho-mTOR to modulate the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.
What could this lead to?
Kanglaite altered markers related to tumor growth and apoptosis in pancreatic-cancer xenograft mice. The combination response supports batch-standardized pharmaceutical material, interaction and resistance-mechanism assays, and dose-ratio testing in the same model.
- AllPMID 25095418
[Rapid identification of Coix seed varieties by near infrared spectroscopy].
- Study subject
- Seed samples from different regions
- Material or form
- Seeds / NIR spectroscopy and chemometrics
- Evidence stage
- Analytical quality control
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Seeds—NIR spectroscopy and chemometrics was analyzed across seed samples from different regions.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate rapid identification of Coix seed varieties by near infrared spectroscopy].
How was it studied?
Seed samples from different regions were assessed in a analytical quality control.
What did the study find?
The accuracy of LVQ neural network prediction is 90. 91%, while the classification accuracy of SVM, whose penalty parameter and kernel function parameter were optimized, can be up to 100%.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that NIRS combined with chemometrics can be used as a rapid, nondestructive and reliable method to identify coix seed varieties and provide technical reference for market regulation.
What could this lead to?
LVQ and SVM showed accuracy in identifying seed varieties. The discriminating signals can be developed into an identity and origin test for yulmu supplier qualification and batch consistency.
- AllPMID 24261789
Coix lacryma-jobi associated symmetrical drug-related intertriginous and flexural exanthema.
- Study subject
- One patient
- Material or form
- Unknown / formulation, dose, and route of administration unknown
- Evidence stage
- Case report
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The report concerned symmetrical drug-related intertriginous and flexural exanthema associated with Coix lacryma-jobi.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to document a suspected Coix-associated cutaneous drug reaction.
How was it studied?
The publication presented an individual clinical case of a symmetrical intertriginous and flexural eruption.
What did the study find?
Coix lacryma-jobi was identified as the suspected exposure associated with the reported eruption.
How did the authors interpret it?
The report treated Coix lacryma-jobi exposure as a pharmacovigilance signal for this pattern of cutaneous reaction.
What could this lead to?
A single report associated Coix exposure with a symmetrical flexural drug eruption. This is a pharmacovigilance signal for documenting the exact product, co-ingredients, dose, timing, and allergy history in future safety assessment.
- Food & nutritionPMID 24216458
Antioxidant properties of certain cereals as affected by food-grade bacteria fermentation.
- Study subject
- Extracts and LPS-stimulated macrophages
- Material or form
- Seeds / Bacillus- and Lactobacillus-fermented extracts
- Evidence stage
- Food processing and cell assay
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seeds—Bacillus- and Lactobacillus-fermented extracts in extracts and LPS-stimulated macrophages.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate antioxidant properties of certain cereals as affected by food-grade bacteria fermentation.
How was it studied?
A food processing and cell assay design used extracts and LPS-stimulated macrophages as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Fermentation was observed to increase the phenolic and flavonoid contents of the extracts. In IC50 values (mg/mL) of extracts, the extracts of fermented cereal showed a stronger DPPH radical scavenging and ferric-reducing activities.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the fermentation process enables cereal-based foods with enhanced antioxidant capacities to contribute to health and nutritional improvements in consumers.
What could this lead to?
Fermentation increased phenolics, flavonoids, and in-vitro antioxidant measures, and reduced cellular ROS. The immune-cell endpoints can guide active-compound isolation, quantitative fraction markers, and concentration-controlled mechanism testing.
- Food & nutritionPMID 24674439
Postharvest strategies for deoxynivalenol and zearalenone reduction in stored adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L.) grains.
- Study subject
- Adlay samples from small farms in Korea
- Material or form
- Grains and bran / drying, dehulling, and storage conditions
- Evidence stage
- Food-safety and storage experiment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Grains and bran—drying, dehulling, and storage conditions was analyzed across adlay samples from small farms in Korea.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate postharvest strategies for deoxynivalenol and zearalenone reduction in stored adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L.) grains.
How was it studied?
Adlay samples from small farms in Korea were assessed in a food-safety and storage experiment.
What did the study find?
Compared with the standard production protocol, three provisional critical control points (CCPs) in the conventional procedure were identified and assessed for mycotoxin contamination in the adlay from small farms in Korea. In terms of drying conditions, field drying in the conventional pathway was associated with more exposure to DON than heated-air drying.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this is monitored as a central CCP for safer production of adlay from local farms.
What could this lead to?
For samples from Korean small farms, hot-air drying, early dehulling, and avoidance of prolonged storage were identified as potential critical control points for managing DON and ZEN. The tested treatment identifies a controllable postharvest variable for reducing fungal-toxin risk and validating production-scale critical limits.
- HealthcarePMID 24128500
Application of the solvent extraction technique to investigation of the anti-inflammatory activity of adlay bran.
- Study subject
- LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells
- Material or form
- Bran / ethanol and ethyl acetate solvent fractions
- Evidence stage
- In-vitro cell study and fraction analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined bran—ethanol and ethyl acetate solvent fractions using LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate application of the solvent extraction technique to investigation of the anti-inflammatory activity of adlay bran.
How was it studied?
Liquid-liquid extraction couple with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was applied to the isolation, analysis and identification of active components in AB samples.
What did the study find?
The results showed that among all 16 kinds of fractions from ABE and ABEa, ABEa-Ea-B (80% Ea/n-hexane sub-fraction from ABE-Ea) had the most potent inhibitory effects on NO production, iNOS and COX-2 expressions, and proinflammatory IL-6 and TNF-α secretion in lipopolysaccharide-activated RAW264.7 cells system. Mechanistic data from luciferase reporter-gene assay revealed that the anti-inflammatory action of ABEa-Ea-B may be associated with inhibition of NF-kB transcriptional activity.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that notably, tangeretin, nobiletin, and p-hydroxybenzoic acid were found to be the main active compounds for the anti-inflammatory properties in ABEa-Ea-B.
What could this lead to?
A specific bran fraction reduced cellular nitric oxide and inflammatory-cytokine measures. The immune-cell endpoints can guide active-compound isolation, quantitative fraction markers, and concentration-controlled mechanism testing.
- Featured · HealthcarePMID 24559815
The effect of coix seed on the nutritional status of peritoneal dialysis patients: a pilot study.
- Study subject
- 30 peritoneal-dialysis patients, 12 weeks
- Material or form
- Seeds; 30 g/day dietary intake
- Evidence stage
- Non-randomized human pilot study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Seeds; 30 g—day dietary intake was examined among 30 peritoneal-dialysis patients, 12 weeks.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to observe the effect of coix seed diet therapy on the nutritional status of peritoneal dialysis patients and to discuss the potential reasons.
How was it studied?
30 dialysis patients with regular return visit to peritoneal dialysis center of Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine were recruited and divided into two groups according to their willingness. 13 patients in control group continued their usual dialysis prescriptions and medications, whereas 30g of coix seed per day was added to the usual therapies of 17 patients in coix seed group.
What did the study find?
After treatment, the nutritional parameters of serum albumin level (P=0.004), total protein level (P=0.008), and body mass index (P=0.023) were increased significantly in coix seed group. Moreover, the C-reactive protein level had a significant decrease (P=0.001) and the clinical symptoms of dialysis patients including tiredness, anorexia, xerostomia, and abdominal distension showed a significant improvement (P<0.05) in coix seed group.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that but as a pilot study, the results still need to be validated by further large-scale researches.
What could this lead to?
A self-selected 30 g/day yulmu group among peritoneal-dialysis patients showed changes in nutritional, inflammatory, symptom, and urine-volume measures over 12 weeks. The pilot defines clinically relevant food-intake and safety outcomes for a randomized dietary study in this medically vulnerable population.
- AllPMID 24493893
Biological activities of fructooligosaccharide (FOS)-containing Coix lachryma-jobi Linn. extract.
- Study subject
- Chemical assays and normal dermal fibroblasts
- Material or form
- Grains / hot-water FOS-containing extract
- Evidence stage
- Food-component and in-vitro study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined grains—hot-water FOS-containing extract using chemical assays and normal dermal fibroblasts.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate biological activities of fructooligosaccharide (FOS)-containing Coix lachryma-jobi Linn. extract.
How was it studied?
Fructooligosaccharide (FOS), a prebiotic was extracted from the grain of Coix lachryma-jobi Linn. The resulting dried powder extract was assayed for FOS content of 1-kestose (GF2), nystose (GF3) and 1-β-D-fructofuranosylnystose (GF4) using HPLC equipped with RI detector.
What did the study find?
The antioxidant activity by DPPH free radical scavenging of FOS-containing extract was comparable to vitamin C (0.97 fold of vitamin C) with a slight lipid peroxidation inhibition activity.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that these results have confirmed not only the source of FOS from Job's tears extract but also its potential application as antioxidant in food or cosmetic products.
What could this lead to?
The FOS-containing yulmu extract showed DPPH activity while normal dermal fibroblasts retained viability under the tested conditions. These paired activity and cell-compatibility measures support extract-marker specifications and concentration-range safety testing.
- AllPMID 24091376
Development of a sensitive and reliable high performance liquid chromatography method with fluorescence detection for high-throughput analysis of multi-class mycotoxins in Coix seed.
- Study subject
- 10 retail seed batches in China
- Material or form
- Seeds / USLE-IAC-HPLC-FLD
- Evidence stage
- Food-safety analytical method and sample testing
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Seeds—USLE-IAC-HPLC-FLD was analyzed across 10 retail seed batches in China.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to develop a sensitive and reliable high performance liquid chromatography method with fluorescence detection for high-throughput analysis of multi-class mycotoxins in Coix seed.
How was it studied?
The method is based on a rapid ultrasound-assisted solid-liquid extraction (USLE) using methanol/water (80/20) followed by immunoaffinity column (IAC) clean-up, on-line photochemical derivatization (PCD), and high performance liquid chromatography coupled with fluorescence detection (HPLC-FLD). Samples that tested positive were further analyzed by HPLC tandem electrospray ionization mass spectrometry for confirmatory purposes.
What did the study find?
Limits of detection and quantification ranged from 0.01 to 50.2 μg kg(-1), and from 0.04 to 125.5 μg kg(-1), respectively, which were below the tolerance levels for mycotoxins set by the European Union. Samples that tested positive were further analyzed by HPLC tandem electrospray ionization mass spectrometry for confirmatory purposes.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this is the first application of USLE-IAC-HPLC-PCD-FLD for detecting the occurrence of multi-class mycotoxins in Coix seed.
What could this lead to?
A simultaneous method for seven mycotoxins in Coix seed was validated, indicating potential use as a quality-control tool for marketed ingredients. Its yulmu-matrix performance provides a basis for lot-release limits and routine multi-toxin surveillance of grain or derived ingredients.
- Food & nutritionPMID 24199556
[Study on porous maize starch preparation and powdering coix seed oil].
- Study subject
- Processing and physical-property tests
- Material or form
- Seed oil / porous maize-starch adsorbed powder
- Evidence stage
- Food and formulation processing
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed oil—porous maize-starch adsorbed powder in processing and physical-property tests.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate study on porous maize starch preparation and powdering coix seed oil].
How was it studied?
A food and formulation processing design used processing and physical-property tests as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The results showed that the optimum conditions for preparation of porous maize starch were as follows, the mass radio of glucoamylase to a-amylase was 3:1, the temperatures was 55 degrees C, pH was 5.0, and hydrolysis time was 12 h.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the preparation of powdered liquid oil with porous starch had many advantages such as simple production technology, convenient operation, low cost and was worth generalizing.
What could this lead to?
At a starch-to-seed-oil ratio of 4:1, triglyceride yield, flowability, and release characteristics were reported. The oil-loading ratio and powder properties can guide flowability, oxidation, release, and scale-up specifications for a dry yulmu-oil ingredient.
- HealthcarePMID 24066596
[Effect of coicis semen oil on renal interstitial fibrosis in rats with unilateral urethral obstruction].
- Study subject
- 54 unilateral-ureteral-obstruction Sprague-Dawley rats; 6 animals per group at each time point
- Material or form
- Seed oil / Kanglaite injection
- Evidence stage
- Disease-model rat preclinical study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed oil—Kanglaite injection using 54 unilateral-ureteral-obstruction Sprague-Dawley rats; 6 animals per group at each time point.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to study the effect and mechanism of Coicis Semen oil (Kanglaite injection, KLT) on renal interstitial fibrosis induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO).
How was it studied?
Fifty-four male SD rats were randomly divided into 3 groups, 6 in each group, the sham operated group, the model group, and the KLT group. After administration of KLT (15 mL x kg(-1) x d(-1)) for 3, 7 and 14 days, the dynamic histological changes of renal interstitial tissues were observed and renal damage including tubular impairment and interstitial fibrosis were quantified on HE and Masson stained tissue sections.
What did the study find?
The degree of tubular damage in KLT group was much lower than that in UUO group (P < 0.05). The expression of alpha-SMA and TGF-beta1 was decreased in both UUO group and KLT group, while it was significantly lower in KLT group at every time point.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that coicis Semen oil could attenuate the tubulo-interstitial fibrosis, probable by intervening the TGF-beta/Smads signal transduction pathway of UUO rats.
What could this lead to?
Kanglaite reduced markers related to renal tubular injury, fibrosis, and TGF-beta/Smad signaling in unilateral-ureteral-obstruction rats. The combination response supports batch-standardized pharmaceutical material, interaction and resistance-mechanism assays, and dose-ratio testing in the same model.
- AllPMID 23647066
Phytochemical profiles and antioxidant activity of adlay varieties.
- Study subject
- Three varieties and liver-cancer cells
- Material or form
- Seeds / free and bound component extracts
- Evidence stage
- Food-component and in-vitro study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—free and bound component extracts using three varieties and liver-cancer cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate phytochemical profiles and antioxidant activity of adlay varieties.
How was it studied?
A food-component and in-vitro study design used three varieties and liver-cancer cells as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Liaoning 5 adlay and Longyi 1 adlay are significantly better than Guizhou heigu adlay. The adlay extracts have obvious proliferate inhibition on human liver cancer cells, and substantially in the experimental concentration range, the adlay sample itself has no cytotoxicity.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that knowing the phytochemical profiles and antioxidant activity of adlay gives insights to its potential application to promote health.
What could this lead to?
Differences in free and bound phenolics, flavonoids, and in-vitro antioxidant characteristics were quantified across three adlay varieties. The reported yield and fraction properties can guide scalable recovery, solvent choice, and marker specifications for the yulmu ingredient.
- HealthcarePMID 24716168
Osteoporosis Prevention by Adlay ( Yì Yǐ: The Seeds of Coix Lachryma-Jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) in a Mouse Model.
- Study subject
- Ovariectomized mice and primary osteoblasts
- Material or form
- Seeds / 10% or 30% diet and water extract
- Evidence stage
- Cell and disease-model mouse preclinical study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—10% or 30% diet and water extract using ovariectomized mice and primary osteoblasts.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the effect of adlay (C. lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) on osteoporosis using an ovariectomized mouse model.
How was it studied?
A cell and disease-model mouse preclinical study design used ovariectomized mice and primary osteoblasts as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Adlay diet (30%) and adlay extract feedings significantly reversed the decreased bone alkaline phosphatase activity and calcium contents and bone mineral density in ovariectomized mice. Adlay extracts also increased the protein expressions of proliferating cell nuclear antigen and phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 in osteoblast cells.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that adlay may be a helpful healthy food for osteoporosis prevention.
What could this lead to?
An adlay diet and water extract increased measures related to bone density, bone markers, and osteoblast proliferation in ovariectomized mice. The feeding design provides endpoints for a composition-controlled comparison of yulmu dose, processing state, digestibility, and nutritional response.
- Food & nutritionPMID 23122125
Dietary Monascus adlay supplements facilitate suppression of cigarette smoke-induced pulmonary endoplasmic reticulum stress, autophagy, apoptosis and emphysema-related PLGF in the rat.
- Study subject
- Cigarette-smoke-exposed rats
- Material or form
- Seeds / Monascus purpureus fermentation product
- Evidence stage
- Disease-model rat preclinical study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—Monascus purpureus fermentation product using cigarette-smoke-exposed rats.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate dietary Monascus adlay supplements facilitate suppression of cigarette smoke-induced pulmonary endoplasmic reticulum stress, autophagy, apoptosis and emphysema-related PLGF in the rat.
How was it studied?
A disease-model rat preclinical study design used cigarette-smoke-exposed rats as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Lung tissues with CS exposure had higher levels of ER stress, apoptosis, autophagy and emphysema-related placenta growth factor (PlGF) expressions. All CS-induced injuries were significantly suppressed by MA supplements.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that MA would be a beneficial nutritional therapy to ameliorate CS-induced lung injury via preserving antioxidant defense mechanisms, decreasing oxidative stress and inhibiting ER stress, autophagy, apoptosis and emphysema-related risk factor.
What could this lead to?
Monascus-fermented adlay reduced measures related to pulmonary oxidation, endoplasmic-reticulum stress, and emphysema in cigarette-smoke-exposed rats. The response identifies dose, solvent-fraction, active-marker, and mechanism variables for replication with a standardized yulmu extract.
- HealthcarePMID 23200838
A polysaccharide fraction of adlay seed (Coixlachryma-jobi L.) induces apoptosis in human non-small cell lung cancer A549 cells.
- Study subject
- A549 cells
- Material or form
- Seeds / ethanol-precipitated polysaccharide CP-1
- Evidence stage
- In-vitro cancer-cell study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—ethanol-precipitated polysaccharide CP-1 using a549 cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether a polysaccharide fraction of adlay seed (Coixlachryma-jobi L.) induces apoptosis in human non-small cell lung cancer A549 cells.
How was it studied?
A polysaccharide fraction, designated as CP-1, was extracted from the C.lachryma-jobi L. var. using the ethanol subsiding method.
What did the study find?
Further analysis by western blotting showed that the expression of caspase-3 and caspase-9 proteins was increased.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the assay data suggest that in addition to its nutritional properties, CP-1 is a very promising candidate polysaccharide for the development of anti-cancer medicines.
What could this lead to?
The adlay-seed polysaccharide CP-1 altered measures related to proliferation and mitochondrial apoptosis in A549 lung-cancer cells. The response identifies dose, solvent-fraction, active-marker, and mechanism variables for replication with a standardized yulmu extract.
- Featured · HealthcarePMID 24716141
Adlay ( yì yĭ; "soft-shelled job's tears"; the seeds of Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) is a Potential Cancer Chemopreventive Agent toward Multistage Carcinogenesis Processes.
- Study subject
- Existing cell and animal studies
- Material or form
- Seeds and components; varied constituents and extracts
- Evidence stage
- Non-systematic literature review
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds and components; varied constituents and extracts using existing cell and animal studies.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate adlay ( yì yĭ; "soft-shelled job's tears"; the seeds of Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) is a Potential Cancer Chemopreventive Agent toward Multistage Carcinogenesis Processes.
How was it studied?
A non-systematic literature review design used existing cell and animal studies as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Carcinogenesis is a multistage process that begins with exposure of viruses or chemicals that are found in the environment.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that in addition, several active components with diverse chemopreventive properties have been also mentioned in this review article.
What could this lead to?
This review organized preclinical evidence on adlay constituents across mutagenesis, Nrf2, immune, and multistage-carcinogenesis models. Its value is a map of candidate compounds and assays for direct replication with chemically standardized fractions.
- HealthcarePMID 22809477
Allergic immune-regulatory effects of adlay bran on an OVA-immunized mice allergic model.
- Study subject
- OVA-immunized BALB/c mice
- Material or form
- Bran / ethanol ethyl acetate fraction
- Evidence stage
- Allergy-model mouse preclinical study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined bran—ethanol ethyl acetate fraction using OVA-immunized BALB/c mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate allergic immune-regulatory effects of adlay bran on an OVA-immunized mice allergic model.
How was it studied?
A allergy-model mouse preclinical study design used OVA-immunized BALB/c mice as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
ABE-EtOAc was found capable of regulating the Th1/Th2 immune reaction through its regulation of IL-2 and IL-4. It also significantly reduced the production of anti-OVA IgE antibodies (10%), increased the secretion of IFN-γ and decreased the secretion of IL-6 (38%).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that adlay bran extract can reduce an allergic reaction by balancing Th1/Th2 immune responses and that it might be used in the treatment of this condition.
What could this lead to?
The adlay-bran ethyl acetate fraction altered IgE- and cytokine-related immune measures in OVA-sensitized mice. The immune-marker pattern identifies fractions, doses, and comparator conditions for replication in the same model before ingredient translation.
- HealthcarePMID 22836208
Protective effect of polyphenols extract of adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) on hypercholesterolemia-induced oxidative stress in rats.
- Study subject
- Rats fed a high-cholesterol diet
- Material or form
- Seeds / total polyphenol extract
- Evidence stage
- Disease-model rat preclinical study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—total polyphenol extract using rats fed a high-cholesterol diet.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to examine the effect of polyphenols extract of adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) (APE) on high cholesterol diet fed rats (HCD).
How was it studied?
A disease-model rat preclinical study design used rats fed a high-cholesterol diet as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The results showed that administration of APE was significantly effective in decreasing the serum levels of TC, LDL-C and MDA, increasing the serum level of HDL-C and antioxidant capacity.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that APE exerted a high hypocholesterolemic and antioxidant activities, which might be characterized by a protective effect on cardiovascular health in vivo.
What could this lead to?
The adlay polyphenol extract altered blood-lipid and oxidative-stress measures in rats fed a high-cholesterol diet. The outcomes provide variables for a composition-matched feeding study that separates yulmu dose and processing from overall diet effects.
- HealthcarePMID 22808344
Effects of adlay, buckwheat, and barley on transit time and the antioxidative system in obesity induced rats.
- Study subject
- Obesity-induced rats
- Material or form
- Seeds / grain diets
- Evidence stage
- Animal nutrition
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—grain diets using obesity-induced rats.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to examine whether four grains including adlay (AD), buckwheat (BW), glutinous barley (GB), and white rice (WR) affect the duration of food residence in the gastrointestinal tract and hepatic enzyme activities in rats fed different combinations of the grains.
How was it studied?
Forty male rats were divided into four groups and raised for 4 weeks with a diet containing one of the grains.
What did the study find?
Corresponding to the dietary fiber contents of the experimental grains, gut transit time was shortest in the rats fed GB and increased in the order of BW, AD, and WR. The level of thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) in liver was higher in rats fed WR, AD, BW, and GB, indicating that the other grains decreased oxidative stress in vivo more than WR.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that whole grains such as AD, BW, and GB may contribute to a significant supply of antioxidants to prevent oxidative stress if they are consumed in large amounts.
What could this lead to?
In a four-week rat comparison of grains, the adlay group showed gastrointestinal-transit and hepatic-antioxidant measures that differed from those in the white-rice group. The outcomes provide variables for a composition-matched feeding study that separates yulmu dose and processing from overall diet effects.
- HealthcarePMID 22353428
Inhibitory effects of adlay bran (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) on chemical mediator release and cytokine production in rat basophilic leukemia cells.
- Study subject
- RBL-2H3 cells
- Material or form
- Bran / ethanol ethyl acetate fraction
- Evidence stage
- In-vitro cell study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined bran—ethanol ethyl acetate fraction using RBL-2H3 cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the anti-allergic effects of adlay bran on rat basophilic leukemia (RBL)-2H3 cells.
How was it studied?
To evaluate the anti-allergic effects of adlay bran, the release of histamines and cytokines were measured using ELISA.
What did the study find?
A 40.8μg/mL concentration of the ethyl acetate fraction of the ethanolic extracts of adlay bran (ABE-EtOAc) effectively inhibited mast cell degranulation. The 40-100% EtOAc/Hex subfractions of ABE-EtOAc inhibited histamine release with an IC(50) of 71-87μg/mL.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that these combined effects influenced the signal transduction in RBL-2H3 cells, thereby revealing the mechanisms of the anti-allergic effects of adlay.
What could this lead to?
The adlay-bran ethyl acetate fraction reduced measures related to histamine, cytokines, and ROS in RBL-2H3 cells. The immune-cell endpoints can guide active-compound isolation, quantitative fraction markers, and concentration-controlled mechanism testing.
- HealthcarePMID 23065833
Cardioprotective effects of diet with different grains on lipid profiles and antioxidative system in obesity-induced rats.
- Study subject
- Obesity-induced rats
- Material or form
- Seeds / grain diets
- Evidence stage
- Animal nutrition
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—grain diets using obesity-induced rats.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate cardioprotective effects of diet with different grains on lipid profiles and antioxidative system in obesity-induced rats.
How was it studied?
Forty male rats were divided into 4 groups and raised for 4 weeks with a diet containing one of the following grains: WR, AD, BW, or WB.
What did the study find?
This indicates that other grains decreased oxidative stress in vivo more than WR. Plasma lipid profiles differed significantly according to grain combination, and decreased aortic wall thickness was consistent with the finding of decreased plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (p < 0.05) and increased high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) in rats fed AD, BW, and GB (p < 0.001).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this effect was related to several mechanisms that corresponded to lowering plasma lipids, decreasing TBARS, and increasing antioxidant activities.
What could this lead to?
In a parallel comparison of grain diets in rats, the adlay group showed blood-lipid, antioxidant, and aortic measures that differed from those in the white-rice group. The outcomes provide variables for a composition-matched feeding study that separates yulmu dose and processing from overall diet effects.
- Featured · BeautyPMID 22211241
Kanglaite attenuates UVB-induced down-regulation of aquaporin-3 in cultured human skin keratinocytes.
- Study subject
- UVB-irradiated cultured human skin keratinocytes
- Material or form
- Kanglaite, a mixture of Coix-seed extractions
- Evidence stage
- In-vitro human-keratinocyte photoaging-marker study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The study examined whether Kanglaite modifies UVB-induced aquaporin-3 down-regulation in cultured human skin keratinocytes.
Why was it studied?
To examine UVB-induced aquaporin-3 down-regulation in cultured human skin keratinocytes and determine whether Kanglaite attenuates that response.
How was it studied?
Cultured human skin keratinocytes were exposed to UVB, and aquaporin-3 regulation was examined in the presence and absence of Kanglaite, a mixture of Coix-seed extractions.
What did the study find?
UVB irradiation down-regulated aquaporin-3 in cultured human skin keratinocytes. Kanglaite inhibited the UVB-induced decrease in aquaporin-3.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that Kanglaite may be a potential anti-photoaging agent and stated that the related molecular mechanisms require further elucidation.
What could this lead to?
The AQP3 response provides a focused assay for studying how a standardised Coix-seed extraction mixture affects UVB-stressed keratinocytes. Composition, concentration, pathway mechanism, dermal safety and formulation testing are needed to connect this marker to yulmu cosmetic-material development.
- AllPMID 22245092
4-Ketopinoresinol, a novel naturally occurring ARE activator, induces the Nrf2/HO-1 axis and protects against oxidative stress-induced cell injury via activation of PI3K/AKT signaling.
- Study subject
- ARE reporter cells
- Material or form
- Seeds / isolated lignan 4-KPR
- Evidence stage
- In-vitro cell study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—isolated lignan 4-KPR using ARE reporter cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether 4-Ketopinoresinol, a novel naturally occurring ARE activator, induces the Nrf2/HO-1 axis and protects against oxidative stress-induced cell injury via activation of PI3K/AKT signaling.
How was it studied?
A in-vitro cell study design used ARE reporter cells as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
4-KPR treatment resulted in a transient increase in AKT phosphorylation and subsequent phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of Nrf2, along with increased expression of ARE-dependent cytoprotective genes, such as heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), aldo-keto reductases, and glutathione synthetic enzyme.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that these observations in an ARE-regulated gene system suggest that 4-KPR is a novel Nrf2/ARE-mediated transcription activator, activates the Nrf2/HO-1 axis, and protects against oxidative stress-induced cell injury via activation of PI3K/AKT signaling.
What could this lead to?
Adlay-derived 4-KPR altered Nrf2/HO-1 signaling and measures related to oxidative injury in cells. Pairing the oxidative-stress endpoint with fraction chemistry can identify responsible compounds and a reproducible potency marker for the yulmu material.
- HealthcarePMID 23244156
Clinical safety and efficacy of Kanglaite® (Coix Seed Oil) injection combined with chemotherapy in treating patients with gastric cancer.
- Study subject
- 60 patients with advanced gastric cancer
- Material or form
- Seed oil / Kanglaite injection plus chemotherapy
- Evidence stage
- Non-randomized comparative human study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Seed oil—Kanglaite injection plus chemotherapy was examined among 60 patients with advanced gastric cancer.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to observe efficacy and side effects, as well as the impact on quality of life, of Kanglaite® (Coix Seed Oil) injections combined with chemotherapy in the treatment of advanced gastric cancer patiensts.
How was it studied?
A consecutive cohort of 60 patients were divided into two groups:the experimental group receiving Kanglaite® Injection combined with chemotherapy and the control group with chemotherapy alone.
What did the study find?
The response rate and KPS score of experimental group were significantly improved as compared with those of the control group(P<0.05). In addition, gastrointestinal reactions and bone marrow suppression were significantly lower than in the control group(P<0.05).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that kanglaite® Injection enhanced efficacy and reduced the side effects of chemotherapy, improving quality of life of gastric cancer patients; use of Kanglaite® injections deserves to be further investigated in randomized control clinical trails.
What could this lead to?
A non-randomized comparison in 60 patients examined Kanglaite injection plus chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer and reported response, performance-status, and toxicity differences. It contributes product-specific clinical evidence that requires bias-aware confirmation and rigorous pharmaceutical standardization.
- Healthcare · Food & nutritionPMID 21618546
Influence of dietary supplementation with Bacillus-fermented adlay on lipid metabolism, antioxidant status and intestinal microflora in hamsters.
- Study subject
- Hamsters with hypercholesterolemia
- Material or form
- Seeds / Bacillus-fermented polished and dehulled adlay
- Evidence stage
- Disease-model animal nutrition
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seeds—Bacillus-fermented polished and dehulled adlay using hamsters with hypercholesterolemia.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate influence of dietary supplementation with Bacillus-fermented adlay on lipid metabolism, antioxidant status and intestinal microflora in hamsters.
How was it studied?
The effects of polished and dehulled Bacillus-fermented adlay on lipid metabolism, antioxidant status and intestinal microflora were examined in hyperlipidaemic hamsters fed a high-cholesterol diet. Hamsters administered Bacillus-fermented adlay experienced significantly reduced (P < 0.05) serum and hepatic total cholesterol (by 37-43% and 42-49% respectively) and triglyceride (by 22-27% and 30-35% respectively) levels compared with the high-cholesterol group.
What did the study find?
Lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratios in serum and increased cholesterol (by 47-52%) and triglyceride (by 40-47%) contents in faeces were also observed. In particular, polished Bacillus-fermented adlay had satisfactory antioxidant activity, similar to that of commercially available natto.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this study has shown that changes in lipid metabolism, antioxidant status and intestinal microflora can be greatly modulated by Bacillus-fermented adlay, suggesting potential novel approaches to the treatment of primary cardiovascular and intestinal diseases.
What could this lead to?
Bacillus-fermented adlay altered lipid, antioxidant, and intestinal-microflora measures in hamsters with hypercholesterolemia. The gut and metabolic measures can be paired with polysaccharide or food composition to test dose, fermentation metabolites, and microbiome reproducibility.
- HealthcarePMID 21452173
Effects of adlay seed oil on blood lipids and antioxidant capacity in hyperlipidemic rats.
- Study subject
- Rats with hyperlipidemia
- Material or form
- Seed oil / supercritical CO2-extracted oil
- Evidence stage
- Disease-model rat preclinical study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed oil—supercritical CO2-extracted oil using rats with hyperlipidemia.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the effects of adlay seed oil, obtained by supercritical CO₂ extraction, on blood lipids and antioxidant capacity in hyperlipidemic rats.
How was it studied?
A disease-model rat preclinical study design used rats with hyperlipidemia as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Adlay seed oil could reduce the abdominal fat tissue and low-density lipoprotein concentration, and increase the total antioxidant capacity in hyperlipidemic rats. Adlay seed oil also significantly decreased the malondialdehyde content in serum, and increased serum total superoxide dismutase activity in hyperlipidemic rats.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that adlay seed oil had blood lipid-reducing and antioxidant effects, and could be used as a supplement in healthcare food and drugs for the prevention of chronic diseases (especially artherosclerosis and coronary artery disease).
What could this lead to?
Supercritical CO2 adlay-seed oil altered LDL, abdominal-fat, and oxidative-stress-related measures in rats with hyperlipidemia. Linking the metabolic response to fatty-acid and minor-lipid profiles will support dose-controlled comparison of yulmu oil batches.
- HealthcarePMID 21866673
[Consensuses on lung cancer treatment by Chinese medicine experts from Beijing and Guangzhou and medication features in the North and South China].
- Study subject
- Prescriptions from eight traditional Chinese medicine oncology specialists
- Material or form
- Seed / 800 multi-herb prescriptions
- Evidence stage
- Clinical prescribing-pattern analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed—800 multi-herb prescriptions in prescriptions from eight traditional Chinese medicine oncology specialists.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate consensuses on lung cancer treatment by Chinese medicine experts from Beijing and Guangzhou and medication features in the North and South China].
How was it studied?
A clinical prescribing-pattern analysis design used prescriptions from eight traditional Chinese medicine oncology specialists as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Smilacis glabra, Rhizoma Smilacis Glabrae, Herba Hedyotis diffusae, Herba Scutellariae Barbatae were herbs used by all experts. However, there were differences between oncologists in North China and South China.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that oncologists in South China paid more attention to heat toxin and blood stasis, while those in North China paid more attention to supplementing both qi and yin.
What could this lead to?
Analysis of 800 multi-herb oncology prescriptions found adlay among commonly used ingredients. This maps regional formula composition and provenance and can guide component-resolved research focused on yulmu.
- HealthcarePMID 21561091
Antimutagenic constituents of adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) with potential cancer chemopreventive activity.
- Study subject
- Ames test and HSC-3 cells
- Material or form
- Hull / acetone extract and isolated constituents
- Evidence stage
- In vitro constituent and cell testing
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined hull—acetone extract and isolated constituents using ames test and HSC-3 cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to identify the antimutagenic constituents from adlay hull by using Ames antimutagenic activity-guide isolation procedures and to investigate their chemopreventive efficacies in cultured cells.
How was it studied?
Moreover, trans-coniferylaldehyde possesses cytoprotective efficacy against tert-butyl hydroperoxide-induced DNA double-strand breaks in cultured cells, and the chemopreventive potency induced by trans-coniferylaldehyde may be through the activation of kinase signals, including p38, ERK1/2, JNK, MEK1/2, and MSK1/2.
What did the study find?
The results demonstrated that six compounds showing great antimutagenic activity were identified by spectroscopic methods and by comparison with authentic samples to be p-hydroxybenzaldehyde, vanillin, syringaldehyde, trans-coniferylaldehyde, sinapaldehyde, and coixol. In summary, we first identified six antimutagenic constituents from adlay hull.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that among them, trans-coniferylaldehyde would be a highly promising agent for cancer chemoprevention and merits further investigation.
What could this lead to?
Six antimutagenic constituents were identified from adlay hull, and some constituents showed Nrf2- and oxidative-damage-related activity in cells. The named or isolated constituents can now be compared for potency, selectivity, abundance in yulmu, and mechanism in matched cancer and normal-cell assays.
- HealthcarePMID 25213953
Anti-inflammatory effects and chemical study of a flavonoid-enriched fraction from adlay bran.
- Study subject
- RAW264.7 cells and mouse peritoneal macrophages
- Material or form
- Bran / ethanol-derived flavonoid-rich fraction
- Evidence stage
- In vitro cell study and constituent analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined bran—ethanol-derived flavonoid-rich fraction using rAW264.7 cells and mouse peritoneal macrophages.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate anti-inflammatory effects and chemical study of a flavonoid-enriched fraction from adlay bran.
How was it studied?
Fifteen compounds, including a novel aurone derivative, two chromones, one dihydrochalcone, one chalcone, four flavanones, five flavones and one isoflavone, were isolated from the active fraction.
What did the study find?
Results showed that the fraction with high phenolic and flavonoid contents from the ethanol extracts of adlay bran suppressed LPS-stimulated IL-6 and TNF-α secretions in a concentration-dependent manner in RAW 264.7 cells and murine peritoneal macrophages. All of the isolates are reported for the first time from adlay except naringenin.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that thus, adlay bran may be beneficial to the health of consumers.
What could this lead to?
A flavonoid-rich yulmu-bran fraction lowered IL-6 and TNF-α in macrophage assays, and 15 compounds were isolated. The paired chemistry and response data support selection of quantitative markers and testing of individual compounds versus the complete fraction.
- HealthcarePMID 21517098
Gastroprotective activities of adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) on the growth of the stomach cancer AGS cell line and indomethacin-induced gastric ulcers.
- Study subject
- AGS cells and animals with indomethacin-induced ulcers
- Material or form
- Dehulled seed, bran, and endosperm / ethanol extracts
- Evidence stage
- Cell study and disease-model rat preclinical study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined dehulled seed, bran, and endosperm—ethanol extracts using AGS cells and animals with indomethacin-induced ulcers.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate gastroprotective activities of adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) on the growth of the stomach cancer AGS cell line and indomethacin-induced gastric ulcers.
How was it studied?
Among the isolated compounds, caffeic and chlorogenic acids significantly suppressed the growth of AGS cells.
What did the study find?
Results indicated that the ABE showed better antiproliferative activity, and 19 compounds were purified from AB in a further phenolic-compound-guided separation. The ulcer index (UI) and oxidative biomarkers in animals decreased, while the non-protein sulfhydryl (NPSH) groups were elevated when given DA.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this is the first investigation of antiulcer activity of adlay, and we demonstrated that the antioxidative-active phenolic acids in DA contribute to some portion of the gastroprotective effects.
What could this lead to?
Adlay-bran extract lowered AGS-cell proliferation markers, while dehulled seed lowered gastric-lesion and oxidative markers in animals. The plant-part-specific activity prioritizes solvent-fraction chemistry, quantitative markers, and selectivity testing before a standardized research extract is defined.
- HealthcarePMID 21669575
Hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cell apoptosis and caspase-8 and Bcl-2 expression induced by injectable seed extract of Coix lacryma-jobi.
- Study subject
- HepG2 cells
- Material or form
- Seed / injectable seed extract
- Evidence stage
- In vitro cancer-cell study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—injectable seed extract using hepG2 cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to assess apoptosis in the hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell line HepG2 induced by an injectable extract from the seed of Coix lacryma-jobi (Semen coicis, SC), and monitored the expression of Bcl-2 and caspase-8.
How was it studied?
Injectable SC was applied to HepG2 cells at different concentrations and the cells were collected 12, 24 and 48 hours later. 5-fluorouracil was used as a positive control group, and fluorescence-activated cell-sorting cytometry was used to measure the apoptosis rate of HepG2 cells and the expression of Bcl-2 and caspase-8 proteins.
What did the study find?
SC induced apoptosis in HepG2 cells in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, and the expression of caspase-8 was elevated and prolonged. However, it did not significantly influence the expression of Bcl-2.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that injectable SC may induce apoptosis in HCC cells by regulating the expression of caspase-8.
What could this lead to?
An injectable adlay-seed extract altered apoptosis- and caspase-8-related markers in HepG2 cells. The response identifies dose, solvent-fraction, active-marker, and mechanism variables for replication with a standardized yulmu extract.
- HealthcarePMID 21395288
Suppressive effect of the ethanolic extract of adlay bran on cytochrome P-450 enzymes in rat liver and lungs.
- Study subject
- Rat liver and lungs; rat and human microsomes
- Material or form
- Bran / ethanol extract
- Evidence stage
- Rat and enzyme study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined bran—ethanol extract using rat liver and lungs; rat and human microsomes.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the effect of the ethanolic extract of adlay bran (ABE) on drug-metabolizing enzymes and glutathione-related antioxidant enzymes in rats, three groups of eight male Sprague-Dawley rats each were fed a control diet or a diet containing 5 or 10% ABE for 4 weeks.
How was it studied?
A rat and enzyme study design used rat liver and lungs; rat and human microsomes as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Significant decreases in microsomal cytochrome P-450 (CYP) 1A1-catalyzed ethoxyresorufin O-deethylation, CYP2C-catalyzed diclofenac 4-hydroxylation, CYP2D-catalyzed dextromethorphan O-demethylation, and CYP3A-catalyzed testosterone 6β-hydroxylation in the liver and CYP1A1-catalyzed ethoxyresorufin O-deethylation in the lungs of rats fed ABE were observed. Immunoblot analyses also showed decreases of CYP1A1, 1A2, 2C6, 2C11, 2D1, 2E1, 3A1, and 3A2 in the liver and CYP1A1 in the lungs.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that moreover, the increase of the antioxidant potential by ABE is tissue-specific.
What could this lead to?
Ethanolic yulmu-bran extract changed several CYP drug-metabolism measures in rats and rat and human microsomes. This flags enzyme-specific interaction assays, exposure thresholds, and extract-composition controls as part of bran-ingredient safety work.
- HealthcarePMID 21284381
Antiproliferative lactams and spiroenone from adlay bran in human breast cancer cell lines.
- Study subject
- MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and T-47D cells
- Material or form
- Bran / ethanol-extract fractions and lactams
- Evidence stage
- In vitro cancer-cell study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined bran—ethanol-extract fractions and lactams using MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and T-47D cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate antiproliferative lactams and spiroenone from adlay bran in human breast cancer cell lines.
How was it studied?
Two new lactams, coixspirolactam D (1) and coixspirolactam E (2), and a new spiroenone, coixspiroenone (3), together with seven known compounds, coixspirolactam A (4), coixspirolactam B (5), coixspirolactam C (6), coixlactam (7), coixol (8), ethyl dioxindole-3-acetate (9), and isoindol-1-one (10), and two neolignans, zhepiresionol (11) and ficusal (12), were isolated from the bioactive subfraction of adlay bran ethanolic extract (ABE). All of the isolated compounds were tested for antiproliferative effects on MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and T-47D cells.
What did the study find?
The structures of new compounds were identified by spectroscopic methods, including infrared (IR) spectrum, 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and mass spectrum (MS). Results showed that compounds 1, 3, 4, 6, and 7 at 50 μM significantly inhibited MCF-7 cell proliferation by 30.2, 19.2, 21.0, 13.5, and 32.4%, respectively; compounds 2, 4, and 7 significantly inhibited T-47D cells at 50 μM by 20.7, 24.8, and 28.9%; and compounds 1, 2, and 12 significantly inhibited MDA-MB-231 cells at 50 μM by 47.4, 25.3, and 69.3%, respectively.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that ABE has antiproliferative activities, and this effect is partially related to the presence of lactams and spiroenone.
What could this lead to?
Lactam and spiroenone constituents were isolated from adlay bran, and some constituents showed antiproliferative activity in breast-cancer cells. The named or isolated constituents can now be compared for potency, selectivity, abundance in yulmu, and mechanism in matched cancer and normal-cell assays.
- AllPMID 21218491
Effects of adlay bran and its ethanolic extract and residue on preneoplastic lesions of the colon in rats.
- Study subject
- Chemically induced rat model
- Material or form
- Bran / ethanol extract and residue
- Evidence stage
- Disease-model rat preclinical study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined bran—ethanol extract and residue using chemically induced rat model.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine the effects of adlay bran and its ethanolic extract and residue on preneoplastic lesions of the colon in rats.
How was it studied?
A disease-model rat preclinical study design used chemically induced rat model as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Adlay bran and its ethanolic extract and residue significantly reduced the number of preneoplastic aberrant crypt foci (ACF) and modified their mucin composition. The inhibitory effect of adlay bran ethanolic extract on ACF showed a dose dependence.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that adlay and its fractions may have the potential to be developed as chemopreventive cereal products.
What could this lead to?
Adlay bran, its ethanol extract, and its residue lowered preneoplastic aberrant crypt foci (ACF) markers in the colon of chemically induced rats. The model defines material, dose, and outcome variables for preclinical replication and chemical standardization of the tested yulmu preparation.
- AllPMID 21547799
Determination of zearalenone in traditional Chinese medicinal plants and related products by HPLC-FLD.
- Study subject
- 107 samples, including nine Coix-seed samples
- Material or form
- Seed / Chinese medicinal-herb samples
- Evidence stage
- Food-safety contamination surveillance
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Seed—Chinese medicinal-herb samples was analyzed across 107 samples, including nine Coix-seed samples.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine zearalenone in traditional Chinese medicinal plants and related products by HPLC-FLD.
How was it studied?
A HPLC-FLD method has been developed and validated for zearalenone (ZON) in 107 widely consumed Chinese medicinal herbs and related products collected from different regions of China. Samples were extracted with methanol/water (80: 20, v/v), and the extracts were cleaned-up through immunoaffinity columns (IAC).
What did the study find?
Naturally occurring ZON was only found in coix seed medicinal herb (all nine samples), with levels ranging from 18.7 to 211.4 µg kg(-1).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this is the first report of ZON contamination of a Chinese medicinal herb.
What could this lead to?
In a survey of Chinese medicinal herbs, zearalenone (ZEN) levels were quantified in all nine Coix-seed samples, indicating a need for raw-material monitoring. Its yulmu-matrix performance provides a basis for lot-release limits and routine multi-toxin surveillance of grain or derived ingredients.
- HealthcarePMID 21091246
Adlay seed extract (Coix lachryma-jobi L.) decreased adipocyte differentiation and increased glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 cells.
- Study subject
- 3T3-L1 cells
- Material or form
- Seed / ethanol-derived ethyl acetate fraction
- Evidence stage
- In vitro cell study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—ethanol-derived ethyl acetate fraction using 3T3-L1 cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate effects of the ethyl acetate fraction of an ethanol extract of Coix lachryma-jobi (ECLJ) on glucose uptake and adipocyte differentiation in 3T3-L1 cells.
How was it studied?
A in vitro cell study design used 3T3-L1 cells as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The ethyl-acetate fraction increased glucose uptake and AMPK and ACC phosphorylation in a dose-responsive manner; compound C attenuated these changes. It also reduced adipogenic-factor expression and lipid-droplet size after six days of differentiation.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that these results suggest a possible role for AMPK in the process of adipose differentiation and that ECLJ targeted for adipocyte functions could be effective in improving the symptoms of metabolic syndrome.
What could this lead to?
An ethyl acetate fraction of adlay seed altered glucose uptake, AMPK signalling, and adipocyte-differentiation markers in 3T3-L1 cells. The defined enzyme or receptor endpoint supports potency comparison of isolated yulmu compounds and development of a quantitative bioactivity assay.
- Featured · Healthcare · Food & nutritionPMID 20954285
Glycemic index, glycemic load and insulinemic index of Chinese starchy foods.
- Study subject
- Ten healthy participants
- Material or form
- Seed; foods containing 50 g available carbohydrate
- Evidence stage
- Randomized crossover, single-meal postprandial human study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Seed; foods containing 50 g available carbohydrate was examined among ten healthy participants.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine the glycemic index (GI), glycemic load (GL) and insulinemic index (II) of five starchy foods that are commonly used in Chinese diets.
How was it studied?
Ten healthy subjects aged between 20-30 years were recruited. Each subject was asked to consume 50 g of available carbohydrate portions of test foods and reference food.
What did the study find?
Among the five starchy foods, brown rice evoked the highest GI and GL at 82 ± 0.2 and 18 ± 0.2, followed by taro (69 ± 0.4, 12 ± 0.2), adlay (55 ± 0.4, 10 ± 0.2), yam (52 ± 0.3, 9 ± 0.0) and mung bean noodles (28 ± 0.5, 7 ± 0.2), respectively. Similarly, brown rice gave the highest II at 81 ± 0.1, followed by taro (73 ± 0.3), adlay (67 ± 0.3), yam (64 ± 0.5) and mung bean noodles (38 ± 0.3).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the GI, GL and II values of starchy foods provide important information for the public to manage their diet and could be useful for the prevention of lifestyle-related diseases such as diabetes mellitus.
What could this lead to?
In a single-meal study, 10 healthy adults consumed foods standardized to 50 g available carbohydrate; adlay was reported to have a GI of 55±0.4, GL of 10±0.2, and insulin index of 67±0.3. This human evidence links a defined yulmu preparation and intake pattern to measurable outcomes and can inform a controlled, adequately powered food study with composition and adherence documented.
- AllPMID 20924416
Construction of a Coix BAC library and isolation of the 22 kDa α-coixin gene cluster.
- Study subject
- Coix accession PI 324059
- Material or form
- Whole plant / gene; BAC library
- Evidence stage
- Plant genomics
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on whole plant—gene; BAC library in coix accession PI 324059.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate construction of a Coix BAC library and isolation of the 22 kDa α-coixin gene cluster.
How was it studied?
Here we report the construction of the first Coix bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) library using accession PI 324059. The library was stored in 12 × 96 pools that could be screened with a PCR protocol.
What did the study find?
This BAC library contains about 230 400 clones with an average insert size of 113 kb, has low organellar DNA contamination, and provides 16.3-fold coverage of the genome. A total of 57 positive pools were identified, and single clones were isolated from 19 of these pools.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that these results demonstrated the suitability of this BAC library for gene isolation and comparative genomics studies of the Coix genome.
What could this lead to?
A BAC library was constructed and a 22 kDa α-coixin gene cluster was isolated. The population differences help structure yulmu germplasm collections and select accessions for cultivar development and trait validation.
- HealthcarePMID 20536243
Ethyl acetate fraction of adlay bran ethanolic extract inhibits oncogene expression and suppresses DMH-induced preneoplastic lesions of the colon in F344 rats through an anti-inflammatory pathway.
- Study subject
- F344 rats
- Material or form
- Bran / ethyl acetate fraction of ethanol extract
- Evidence stage
- Disease-model rat preclinical study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined bran—ethyl acetate fraction of ethanol extract using f344 rats.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to evaluate the effects of the ethyl acetate fraction of an adlay bran ethanolic extract (ABE-Ea) on colon carcinogenesis in an animal model and investigate its mechanism.
How was it studied?
ABE-Ea included considerable a proportion of phenolic compounds, and ferulic acid was the major phenolic acid (5206 microg/g ABE-Ea) on the basis of HPLC analysis.
What did the study find?
Moreover, RAS and Ets2 oncogenes were significantly down-regulated in this group compared to the negative control group, whereas Wee1, a gene involved in the cell cycle, was up-regulated.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that ABE-Ea suppressed DMH-indued preneoplastic lesions of the colon in F344 rats and that ferulic acid may be one of the active compounds.
What could this lead to?
An ethyl acetate fraction of adlay bran lowered colon preneoplastic and inflammation-related markers in DMH-treated rats. The immune-marker pattern identifies fractions, doses, and comparator conditions for replication in the same model before ingredient translation.
- Food & nutritionPMID 20155541
Exposure to aflatoxins in Japan: risk assessment for aflatoxin B1.
- Study subject
- 884 samples across 24 foods and intake data
- Material or form
- Products / Japanese retail foods
- Evidence stage
- Food-safety risk assessment
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Products—Japanese retail foods was analyzed across 884 samples across 24 foods and intake data.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate exposure to aflatoxins in Japan: risk assessment for aflatoxin B1.
How was it studied?
A probabilistic approach using the Monte Carlo method was carried out to simulate an estimate of the AFT (or AFB(1)) intake distributions in each age group in Japan.
What did the study find?
The AFT and AFB(1) survey revealed that peanut, peanut products, cocoa, chocolate, pistachio, white pepper, red pepper, almond, job's tears, buckwheat and corn grits are considered to be contributors of AFT (or AFB(1)) intake in Japan (maximum AFB(1) (AFT) levels ranged from 0.21 to 28.0 microg kg(-1) (from 0.21 to 9.0 microg kg(-1))) in AFT-contaminated food.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the current dietary intake of AFB(1) in Japan has no appreciable effect on health.
What could this lead to?
Job's tears was included in an aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) risk assessment based on Japanese retail foods and intake data, providing reference data for category-specific contamination management. The occurrence data define hazard priorities and sampling plans for supplier qualification, regulatory testing, and storage control of yulmu products.
- HealthcarePMID 20102206
Mast cell-dependent allergic responses are inhibited by ethanolic extract of adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) testa.
- Study subject
- RBL-2H3 cells
- Material or form
- Testa / ethanol-derived ethyl acetate fraction
- Evidence stage
- In vitro cell study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined testa—ethanol-derived ethyl acetate fraction using RBL-2H3 cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the effects of adlay (Job's tears, Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) testa against beta-hexosaminidase release as a marker of degranulation in rat basophilic leukemia (RBL)-2H3 cells.
How was it studied?
Furthermore, the two major active compounds, 4-hydroxyacetophenone and p-coumaric acid, were isolated from the ATE-EtOAc subfractions.
What did the study find?
The 20%-80% EtOAc/Hex subfractions of ATE-EtOAc significantly inhibited histamine release with a IC(50) of 75-100 microg/mL. Adlay testa inhibited the phosphorylation ERK expression.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that ATE had an inhibitory effect on allergic response via the ERK signaling transduction in RBL-2H3 cells.
What could this lead to?
An ethyl acetate fraction of adlay testa lowered histamine-, cytokine-, and ERK-related markers in RBL-2H3 cells. The immune-cell endpoints can guide active-compound isolation, quantitative fraction markers, and concentration-controlled mechanism testing.
- AllPMID 19756690
Divergence in centromere structure distinguishes related genomes in Coix lacryma-jobi and its wild relative.
- Study subject
- Coix and a related wild species
- Material or form
- Whole plant / BAC sequences
- Evidence stage
- Plant genomics
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on whole plant—BAC sequences in coix and a related wild species.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate divergence in centromere structure distinguishes related genomes in Coix lacryma-jobi and its wild relative.
How was it studied?
A plant genomics design used coix and a related wild species as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Two Ty3/gypsy-class retrotransposons, centromeric retrotransposon of C. lacryma-jobi (CRC) and peri-centromeric retrotransposon of C. lacryma-jobi, and a (peri)centromere-specific tandem repeat with a unit length of 153 bp were identified. However, the 153-bp satellite repeat was only detected on 20 out of the 30 chromosomes in C. aquatica.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the evolution of centromeric repeats of C. lacryma-jobi during the polyploidization was discussed.
What could this lead to?
Centromere-associated repeats and retrotransposons were described. The genomic resource provides markers for yulmu genome assembly, cultivar identity, and trait-linked breeding research.
- FeaturedPMID 20834154
Characterization of oil bodies in adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L).
- Study subject
- Seed oil bodies
- Material or form
- Seed / oil-body isolation
- Evidence stage
- Food composition and structure
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed—oil-body isolation in seed oil bodies.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to characterize oil bodies in adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L).
How was it studied?
Stable oil bodies were successfully isolated from the adlay grains. The integrity of the isolated oil bodies was presumably maintained via electronegative repulsion and steric hindrance provided by their surface proteins.
What did the study find?
Thin-layer chromatography revealed that the contents stored in the adlay oil bodies were mainly neutral lipids (>90% triacylglycerols and about 5% diacylglycerols).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that MALDI-MS analyses confirmed that the three full-length cDNA fragments encoded the two oleosin isoforms and one caleosin observed in the oil bodies isolated from the adlay grains.
What could this lead to?
The structure and protein/lipid characteristics of oil bodies were analysed. The compositional differences provide candidate quality markers for comparing yulmu origin, fraction, processing, and storage in food ingredients.
- AllPMID 20460766
Hydroxy monounsaturated fatty acids as agonists for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors.
- Study subject
- Receptor and cell systems
- Material or form
- Seed / isolated hydroxy fatty acid
- Evidence stage
- Cell and receptor testing
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—isolated hydroxy fatty acid using receptor and cell systems.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate hydroxy monounsaturated fatty acids as agonists for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors.
How was it studied?
Adlay-derived (9Z)-11-HOE and related hydroxy monounsaturated fatty acids were tested in PPAR luciferase-reporter assays. UCP2 and CD36 expression, receptor-specific antagonists and structure–activity comparisons assessed receptor-subtype activation.
What did the study find?
(9Z)-11-HOE increased the mRNA levels of UCP2 and CD36 in C2C12 myotubes and THP- 1 cells, respectively, and these effects were blocked by the PPARdelta- and gamma-specific antagonists GSK0660 and T0070907, respectively. Evaluation of the structure.activity relationship between hydroxy MUFAs and PPAR activation revealed that (9E)-11-HOE, the geometrical isomer of (9Z)-11-HOE, activated PPARs more potently than (9Z)-11-HOE, and that PPAR activation by hydroxyl MUFAs was not markedly influenced by the position of the hydroxy group or the double bond, although PPARdelta seemed to possess ligand specificity different to that of PPARalpha or gamma.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that hydroxylation of MUFAs may change these compounds from silent PPAR ligands to active PPAR agonists.
What could this lead to?
A hydroxy monounsaturated fatty acid derived from adlay seed showed potential PPAR activity in receptor and cell tests. The defined enzyme or receptor endpoint supports potency comparison of isolated yulmu compounds and development of a quantitative bioactivity assay.
- AllPMID 19919123
Molecular cloning, mass spectrometric identification, and nutritional evaluation of 10 coixins in adlay ( Coix lachryma-jobi L.).
- Study subject
- Seed-protein analysis
- Material or form
- Seed / isolated coixins
- Evidence stage
- Food composition and nutritional analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed—isolated coixins in seed-protein analysis.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate molecular cloning, mass spectrometric identification, and nutritional evaluation of 10 coixins in adlay ( Coix lachryma-jobi L.).
How was it studied?
Full-length cDNA fragments encoding these 10 coixins were obtained by PCR cloning.
What did the study find?
200 expressed sequence tag (EST) sequences in maturing adlay grains, clones encoding precursor polypeptides of 10 seed storage proteins in the prolamin family, including 8 alpha-coixin isoforms, 1 delta-coixin, and 1 gamma-coixin, were identified.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the company of delta-coixin and gamma-coixin with alpha-coixin isoforms enhances the nutritional value of alday grain for human consumption.
What could this lead to?
The sequences, masses, and nutritional properties of 10 coixins were analysed. The protein composition and functionality can inform yulmu protein-quality assessment, recovery specifications, and cereal-blend formulation.
- HealthcarePMID 19886607
Identification of compounds in adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) seed hull extracts that inhibit lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 macrophages.
- Study subject
- RAW264.7 cells
- Material or form
- Hull / seed-hull extract
- Evidence stage
- In vitro cell study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined hull—seed-hull extract using rAW264.7 cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the effects of adlay seed hull (AH) extracts on the lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory response in RAW 264.7 macrophages.
How was it studied?
A in vitro cell study design used rAW264.7 cells as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Silica gel chromatography of the ethyl acetate fraction yielded 15 subfractions: AHE-Ea-A to AHE-Ea-O. Subfractions AHE-Ea-J, AHE-Ea-K, and AHE-Ea-M had anti-inflammatory activities, as they counteracted the increased cellular production of nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2 induced by lipopolysaccharide by down-regulating inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase 2 expression.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this is the first time that eriodictyol (1) and this ceramide (2) have been found in AH, and the anti-inflammatory properties of the AHE-Ea fraction can be attributed, at least in part, to the presence of these two compounds.
What could this lead to?
An ethyl acetate fraction of adlay seed hull lowered inflammation-related markers in RAW264.7 cells, and relevant constituents were identified. The immune-cell endpoints can guide active-compound isolation, quantitative fraction markers, and concentration-controlled mechanism testing.
- AllPMID 19777151
The complete chloroplast genome of Coix lacryma-jobi and a comparative molecular evolutionary analysis of plastomes in cereals.
- Study subject
- Coix, Joinvillea, and publicly available cereal plastomes
- Material or form
- Chloroplast DNA / direct sequencing of the complete plastome
- Evidence stage
- Chloroplast-genome and comparative-evolution study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on chloroplast DNA—direct sequencing of the complete plastome in coix, Joinvillea, and publicly available cereal plastomes.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the complete chloroplast genome of Coix lacryma-jobi and a comparative molecular evolutionary analysis of plastomes in cereals.
How was it studied?
Over 100 pairs of amplification and sequencing primers were designed and positioned to flank overlapping 1,200-base pair fragments around the entire plastome.
What did the study find?
Readily interpreted mutation patterns were observed, such as small inversions in hairpin-loop regions and indels, which were common in intergenic spacers. Maximum or near-maximum bootstrap support was observed in all analyses resolving relationships between subfamilies.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that thus, characters in complete plastomes can be used over a wide scope of phylogenetic studies.
What could this lead to?
The complete chloroplast genome of Coix was assembled, providing foundational data for cereal phylogeny and breeding genomics research. The plastome sequence supports Coix lineage comparison, cultivar authentication, and chloroplast-marker development for breeding collections.
- AllPMID 19336916
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma ligands isolated from adlay seed (Coix lacryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen STAPF.).
- Study subject
- PPARγ luciferase reporter assay
- Material or form
- Seed / acetone and 70% ethanol extracts; six hydroxy fatty acids isolated
- Evidence stage
- Constituent isolation and receptor-reporter testing
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—acetone and 70% ethanol extracts; six hydroxy fatty acids isolated using PPARγ luciferase reporter assay.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma ligands isolated from adlay seed (Coix lacryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen STAPF.).
How was it studied?
Through screening for natural ligands against peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) using the PPARgamma luciferase reporter assay, 6 hydroxy unsaturated fatty acids were isolated from adlay seed (Coix lacryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen STAPF.) extracts with acetone and 70% ethanol. 9-E,E-HODE (2) exhibited the most potent PPARgamma agonist activity of the isolated hydroxy unsaturated fatty acids.
What did the study find?
The structures of these compounds were determined via spectral analysis as 13-hydroxy-(9E,11E)-octadecadienoic acid (13-E,E-HODE) (1), 9-hydroxy-(10E,12E)-octadecadienoic acid (9-E,E-HODE) (2), 9-hydroxy-(10E)-octadecenoic acid (3), 10-hydroxy-(8E)-octadecenoic acid (4), 8-hydroxy-(9E)-octadecenoic acid (5), 11-hydroxy-(9Z)-octadecenoic acid (6). 9-E,E-HODE (2) exhibited the most potent PPARgamma agonist activity of the isolated hydroxy unsaturated fatty acids.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that 9-E,E-HODE (2) and 13-E,E-HODE (1) are the respective geometrical isomers of 9-hydroxy-(10E,12Z)-octadecadienoic acid and 13-hydroxy-(9Z,11E)-octadecadienoic acid, both of which are likely to be natural PPARgamma agonists produced in various mammalian cells, suggesting that 9-E,E-HODE may also act as PPARgamma agonist.
What could this lead to?
Six hydroxy unsaturated fatty acids were isolated from adlay seed, and their PPARγ ligand activity was compared. The defined enzyme or receptor endpoint supports potency comparison of isolated yulmu compounds and development of a quantitative bioactivity assay.
- HealthcarePMID 19243096
Effect of Adlay ( Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) Testa and its phenolic components on Cu2+-treated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 macrophages.
- Study subject
- Cu2+-treated LDL and LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages
- Material or form
- Yulmu testa extract and isolated phenolic compounds
- Evidence stage
- Biochemical and macrophage in vitro study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on yulmu testa extract and isolated phenolic compounds in cu2+-treated LDL and LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the effects of adlay testa (AT) on Cu(2+)-treated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation, 2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)-scavenging capacity, and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 macrophages and determine its active components.
How was it studied?
A biochemical and macrophage in vitro study design used cu2+-treated LDL and LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Results showed that ATE-Ea, ATE-Bu, ATE-Ea-e, and ATE-Bu-C expressed antiradical, antioxidative, and anti-inflammatory activities with respect to the DPPH-scavenging capacity, LDL protection effect, and nitric oxide (NO) inhibitory activity. The following components were found in ATE-Ea-e and ATE-Bu-C after purification and high-performance liquid chromatographic analysis: chlorogenic acid (CGA), vanillic acid (VA), caffeic acid (CA), p-coumaric acid (PCA), ferulic acid (FA), and 2-O-beta-glucopyranosyl-7-methoxy-4((2)H)-benzoxazin-3-one (GMBO).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that thus, ATE has the potential to be developed as a functional food targeting chronic diseases.
What could this lead to?
The study evaluated how yulmu testa and its phenolic compounds affected Cu2+-induced LDL oxidation and inflammation-related markers in LPS-stimulated macrophages. The immune-cell endpoints can guide active-compound isolation, quantitative fraction markers, and concentration-controlled mechanism testing.
- Featured · Food & nutritionPMID 19343952
Prevalence, genetic diversity, and antibiotic susceptibility of Bacillus cereus strains isolated from rice and cereals collected in Korea.
- Study subject
- 293 cereal samples collected in Korea, including 71 adlay samples
- Material or form
- Culturing, genetic analysis, and antibiotic-susceptibility testing of marketed grain samples
- Evidence stage
- Food-safety contamination surveillance
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Culturing, genetic analysis, and antibiotic-susceptibility testing of marketed grain samples was analyzed across 293 cereal samples collected in Korea, including 71 adlay samples.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate prevalence, genetic diversity, and antibiotic susceptibility of Bacillus cereus strains isolated from rice and cereals collected in Korea.
How was it studied?
Of 293 cereal samples tested, 73 (25%) contained B. cereus strains. The genetic diversity and toxic potential differ among the strains isolated from cereals.
What did the study find?
Incidence of B. cereus isolates varied with respect to sample; they were found in 15 (37%) of 83 brown rice samples, 23 (37%) of 63 glutinous rice samples, 16 (21%) of 76 barley samples, and 19 (27%) of 71 Job's tears samples. Of the genes assayed by the PCR technique, a high frequency of nheA (99%) and hblDC (84%) was found in the genomic DNA of cereal-associated isolates, whereas cytK was less common (55%).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that these results provide important information on toxin gene profiles of cereal-associated B. cereus for population studies.
What could this lead to?
Surveillance of Korean cereals, including 71 adlay samples, combined Bacillus cereus isolation with toxin-gene and antibiotic-susceptibility testing. The design supports organism, virulence, and resistance criteria for microbiological release testing of yulmu grain.
- HealthcarePMID 18691644
Inhibition of Coix seed extract on fatty acid synthase, a novel target for anticancer activity.
- Study subject
- Fatty acid synthase system and rats given seed extract at 2.5, 5, or 10 mL/kg for 10 days
- Material or form
- Seed / seed extract
- Evidence stage
- Enzyme testing and rat metabolism study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—seed extract using fatty acid synthase system and rats given seed extract at 2.5, 5, or 10 mL/kg for 10 days.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to study the anticancer action mechanism of Coix seed extract.
How was it studied?
After the treatment with Coix seed extract (10 microl/ml), the residual activity of fatty acid synthase (FAS) as overall reaction, beta-ketoacyl reduction, enoyl reduction, and acetyl acetyl coenzyme A (AcAcCoA) reduction was separately detected at 340 nm in the UV-190 spectrophotometer. After rats were administrated Coix seed extract (2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 ml/kg) intragastrically for 10 days consecutively, activities of FAS, malate dehydrogenase (MDH), lipid protein lipase (LPL), hepatic lipase (HL), triglyceride (TG), and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) in the plasma, liver and fatty tissues were determined.
What did the study find?
Experiments in vitro showed that the inhibition of Coix seed extract on FAS activity was significant and dose dependent, and two active sites inhibited were beta-ketoacyl reductases (KR) and enoyl reductase (ER). Experiments in vivo showed that Coix seed extract inhibited FAS activity in the liver, and elevated LPL and HL activity in the plasma, and effected G-6-PD activity.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the study supports that FAS is a novel target for anticancer activity, and provides a theoretical foundation for the wide application of Coix seed extract in traditional medicine.
What could this lead to?
Adlay-seed extract altered fatty acid synthase activity in vitro and lipid-metabolism enzyme markers in short-term rats. The response identifies dose, solvent-fraction, active-marker, and mechanism variables for replication with a standardized yulmu extract.
- Featured · Food & nutritionPMID 18717572
Chemical, molecular, and structural characterization of alkali extractable nonstarch polysaccharides from Job's tears.
- Study subject
- Constituent analysis
- Material or form
- Seed / alkali-extractable polysaccharides
- Evidence stage
- Food composition and structure
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed—alkali-extractable polysaccharides in constituent analysis.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate chemical, molecular, and structural characterization of alkali extractable nonstarch polysaccharides from Job's tears.
How was it studied?
The polished Job's tears ( Coix lachryma-jobi L.) seeds, dark and white husk types, were sequentially extracted by hot water (75 degrees C) and 0.5 M NaOH solution.
What did the study find?
The average molecular weight (MW) of arabinoxylans of the dark and white husk types were 741,000 Da (Pd 1.5) and 1,449,000 Da (Pd 2.6), respectively, and their average MW reduced after treatment with protease.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the alpha- l-arabinofuranosyl residues (Ara f) were attached to the main chain mostly at O-3, followed by both O-2 and O-3 of xylopyranosyl residues (Xyl p).
What could this lead to?
The chemical, molecular, and structural properties of polysaccharides were analysed. These structure–function measurements support control of yulmu starch digestibility, pasting, or texture in a defined food process.
- HealthcarePMID 18718024
Chinese herb related molecules of cancer-cell-apoptosis: a minireview of progress between Kanglaite injection and related genes.
- Study subject
- Previously published studies
- Material or form
- Seed oil / Kanglaite
- Evidence stage
- Non-systematic mini-review
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed oil—Kanglaite in previously published studies.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate chinese herb related molecules of cancer-cell-apoptosis: a minireview of progress between Kanglaite injection and related genes.
How was it studied?
A non-systematic mini-review design used previously published studies as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Kanglaite(KLT) injection is an anti-tumor new drug which extracts from Chinese medicine-coix seed with modern advanced pharmaceutical technology, it is also a new biphase extended-spectrum anticancer medicine, the food and drug administration(FDA) of United States also approved a phase II trial of KLT to test its efficacy in treating non-small-cell lung cancer. Some studies show it could inhibit some anti-apoptotic gene and activate some pro-apoptotic gene, its injection solution is one of the new anticancer medicine that can significantly inhibit a various kinds of tumor cells, so it has become the core of research that how to further explore KLT injection to promote tumor cell apoptosis by impacting on related genes.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that in this review, the relationship between KLT and some tumor cell apoptosis molecules had been discussed and reviewed generally.
What could this lead to?
This mini-review summarized research on Kanglaite and genes related to cancer-cell apoptosis. The synthesis helps map the evidence base and identify which yulmu preparation, manufacturing details, outcomes, and study designs require direct verification.
- AllPMID 18538878
Mevinolin, citrinin and pigments of adlay angkak fermented by Monascus sp.
- Study subject
- Fermented-product analysis
- Material or form
- Seed / Monascus-fermented product
- Evidence stage
- Food processing and safety
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Seed—Monascus-fermented product was analyzed across fermented-product analysis.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate mevinolin, citrinin and pigments of adlay angkak fermented by Monascus sp.
How was it studied?
Fermented-product analysis were assessed in a food processing and safety.
What did the study find?
The results elucidated that glucosamine levels expressed as the mold growth in solid-state fermentation corresponded as a relatively reliable indicator to the mevinolin, citrinin and pigments production. M. purpureus DMKU produced the lowest citrinin content of 0.26 ppm and the highest mevinolin content of 25.03 ppm with pigment concentrations expressed by absorbance at wavelengths of 400, 470 and 500 nm for yellow, orange and red pigments of 9.76, 3.03 and 3.43 units respectively and moisture content and pH of 83.51% and 6.54 respectively.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this study suggested that M. purpureus DMKU has a potential for the production of adlay angkak within an authorized citrinin level.
What could this lead to?
Monascus-fermented adlay was analyzed for mevinolin, pigments, and the contaminant citrinin in the same product. The paired measurements support strain selection and fermentation limits that balance target metabolites with toxin control.
- HealthcarePMID 18331775
Isolation and characterization of new lactam compounds that inhibit lung and colon cancer cells from adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) bran.
- Study subject
- Lung and colon cancer cells
- Material or form
- Bran / isolated lactam compounds
- Evidence stage
- Cancer-cell in vitro study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined bran—isolated lactam compounds using lung and colon cancer cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to isolate and characterize new lactam compounds that inhibit lung and colon cancer cells from adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) bran.
How was it studied?
Five active compounds that inhibit cancer cells were isolated from adlay bran (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf), and their structures and activities in vitro were characterized. Assay-guided isolation gave five lactams including three that were previously undocumented; coixspirolactam A (1), coixspirolactam B (2), and coixspirolactam C (3); one isolated from the natural plant for the first time, coixlactam (4); and one known compound, methyl dioxindole-3-acetate (5).
What did the study find?
Pure active compounds were identified by spectral analysis including IR, 1H and 13C NMR, UV-vis, MS and 2D NMR techniques.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that these compounds showed anti-cancer activities with IC50 values between 28.6 and 72.6microg/mL.
What could this lead to?
Five lactams, including new compounds, were isolated from adlay bran and shown to inhibit proliferation of lung and colon cancer cells. The named or isolated constituents can now be compared for potency, selectivity, abundance in yulmu, and mechanism in matched cancer and normal-cell assays.
- HealthcarePMID 18379061
Formulation, preparation and evaluation of an intravenous emulsion containing Brucea javanica oil and Coix Seed oil for anti-tumor application.
- Study subject
- S180 sarcoma-bearing mice and emulsion-property/pharmacokinetic tests
- Material or form
- Seed oil / multicomponent intravenous emulsion
- Evidence stage
- Intravenous combination-emulsion formulation and S180 tumor-mouse preclinical study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed oil—multicomponent intravenous emulsion using s180 sarcoma-bearing mice and emulsion-property/pharmacokinetic tests.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to prepare and evaluate the intravenous emulsion (BCOE) containing Brucea javanica oil (BJO) and Coix seed oil (CSO), which is used in anti-tumor treatment.
How was it studied?
High-pressure homogenization, particle size distribution, zeta-potential and HPLC were carried out.
What did the study find?
The pharmacokinetics of the main component, oleic acid, and anti-tumor activity studies about the tumor growth inhibitory ratios (TGIR) and the mortality experiments were also employed to evaluate BCOE in vivo compared with BJO emulsion (BJOE) and CSO emulsion (CSOE) using S180 sarcoma-bearing mice. The data of TGIR and mortality indicated that BCOE could increase the anti-tumor activity of CSOE and reduced the toxicity of BJOE.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the development and application of BCOE will make an important contribution to anti-tumor therapy.
What could this lead to?
Coix seed oil was one oil phase in an intravenous Brucea–Coix emulsion tested for formulation properties, pharmacokinetics, mortality, and tumor markers in S180 mice. Its yulmu contribution is parenteral carrier composition, release behavior, and safety standardization.
- HealthcarePMID 18544971
Effect of adlay, buckwheat and barley on lipid metabolism and aorta histopathology in rats fed an obesogenic diet.
- Study subject
- Obesity-induced rats
- Material or form
- Seed / grain diets
- Evidence stage
- Animal nutrition
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—grain diets using obesity-induced rats.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to evaluate the nutritional quality of adlay (AD), buckwheat (BW) and waxy barley (WB), with particular respect to their fiber components.
How was it studied?
The rats were then raised for 4 weeks on an obesogenic diet based on the American Institute of Nutrition-93 (AIN-93 G) diets containing 1% cholesterol and 20% dietary lipids. 40 male rats were divided into 4 groups and raised for 4 weeks with a diet containing one of the following grains: WR, AD, BW, or WB.
What did the study find?
Plasma lipid profiles differed significantly according to grain combination, and the levels of triglycerides in the AD, BW and WB groups were significantly lower than that in the WR group. The BW and WB groups showed lower levels of total cholesterol and LDL-C, and higher HDL-C than the WR group, although the group fed on AD did not show such results owing to the high content of lipids and calories.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that consumption of BW- and WB-containing diets significantly improved several cardiovascular risk factors induced by obesity in experimental rats.
What could this lead to?
In a parallel grain-comparison study in rats, intestinal transit time, triglycerides, and aortic indicators in the adlay group were compared with white-rice, buckwheat, and glutinous-barley groups. The outcomes provide variables for a composition-matched feeding study that separates yulmu dose and processing from overall diet effects.
- HealthcarePMID 18296323
Evaluation of osteoporosis prevention by adlay using a tissue culture model.
- Study subject
- Bone-tissue cultures from neonatal and adult rats and from femurs of ovariectomized rats
- Material or form
- Seed / aqueous seed extract
- Evidence stage
- Ex vivo bone-tissue culture preclinical study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Seed—aqueous seed extract was examined among bone-tissue cultures from neonatal and adult rats and from femurs of ovariectomized rats.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate and evaluated the effect of adlay seed on the osteoporosis prevention.
How was it studied?
The methods of in vitro cultures of neonatal rat calvaria tissues or adult rat femoral metaphyseal tissues of bones isolated from normal or ovariectomized female rats were used for further investigation.
What did the study find?
Treatment with water extract of adlay seed could reverse the decreased alkaline phosphatase activities and calcium levels and increased tartrate-resistant acidic phosphatase activities induced by parathyroid hormone in cultured metaphyseal tissues. In ovariectomized rats, the alkaline phosphatase activities and calcium levels were significantly decreased and tartrate-resistant acidic phosphatase activities were increased in femoral metaphyseal tissues as compared with sham-control.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that taken together, these findings imply that adlay is capable of reversing the osteoporotic status in rats, and may be a helpful healthy food for osteoporosis prevention.
What could this lead to?
Aqueous yulmu-seed extract changed bone-formation and resorption measures in cultured rat bone tissue. This ex-vivo result identifies bone-turnover assays and extract markers for dose-controlled animal validation.
- HealthcarePMID 18087221
Coix seed extract, a commonly used treatment for cancer in China, inhibits NFkappaB and protein kinase C signaling.
- Study subject
- MDA-MB-231 cells and corresponding xenograft nude mice
- Material or form
- Seed / seed extract
- Evidence stage
- Breast-cancer cell and xenograft-mouse preclinical study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—seed extract using MDA-MB-231 cells and corresponding xenograft nude mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether coix seed extract, a commonly used treatment for cancer in China, inhibits NFkappaB and protein kinase C signaling.
How was it studied?
Using oligonucleotide microarrays, we determined that Coix seed extract also significantly affects gene expression in these cells, including downregulation of genes (such as COX-2 and matrixmetalloproteinases) that are considered to be important in neoplasia.
What did the study find?
The emulsion suppressed MDA-MB-231 xenograft growth, down-regulated genes including COX-2 and matrix metalloproteinases, inhibited NF-κB reporter activity and RelA/p65 nuclear translocation, and reduced protein-kinase-C activity.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that thus, this Traditional Chinese Medicine-based cancer treatment affects cellular pathways of recognized importance in neoplasia.
What could this lead to?
A pharmaceutical-grade Coix seed extract emulsion changed tumor growth in breast-cancer xenograft mice and cellular NFκB and PKC indicators. The response identifies dose, solvent-fraction, active-marker, and mechanism variables for replication with a standardized yulmu extract.
- AllPMID 17672331
[Mutagenic effects of gamma-rays on Coix lacryma-jobi var. ma-yuen].
- Study subject
- Coix cultivars
- Material or form
- Seed / γ-ray treatment
- Evidence stage
- Agriculture and breeding
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed—γ-ray treatment in coix cultivars.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to study the mutagenic effect of gamma-rays on Coix lacryma-jobi var. ma-yuen.
How was it studied?
A agriculture and breeding design used coix cultivars as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The gamma-rays showed obvious inhibitory action to the seedling growth, and a strong ability in inducing the chlorophyll mutation.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the appropriate dose of gamma-rays is 450 Gy for C. lacryma-jobi var. ma-yuen dormant seeds.
What could this lead to?
Mutation characteristics after γ-ray treatment were reported. The induced variants provide selectable material for linking mutation, agronomic phenotype, and stable inheritance in yulmu breeding.
- AllPMID 17427650
Esophageal thermal injury by hot adlay tea.
- Study subject
- One 69-year-old man
- Material or form
- Tea; hot adlay tea
- Evidence stage
- Case report
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on tea; hot adlay tea in one 69-year-old man.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate esophageal thermal injury by hot adlay tea.
How was it studied?
A case report design used one 69-year-old man as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
This phenomenon is associated with chest pain, dysphagia, odynophagia, and epigastric pain. Nonspecific findings were detected on the laboratory and radiological exams.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that he was treated with pantoprazole, 40 mg/day, for 14 days, and evidenced significant clinical and endoscopic improvement.
What could this lead to?
After drinking five cups of hot adlay tea as a folk remedy, the patient developed thermal injury to the oral cavity and entire esophagus, with odynophagia and dysphagia, and improved after 14 days of pantoprazole treatment. As an individual observation, it is most useful for product traceability and safety surveillance and for defining what a controlled follow-up study would need to document.
- FeaturedPMID 16677844
Ultrasound assisted supercritical fluid extraction of oil and coixenolide from adlay seed.
- Study subject
- Process testing
- Material or form
- Seed / ultrasound-assisted supercritical extraction
- Evidence stage
- Processing and extraction
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
The research focused on seed—ultrasound-assisted supercritical extraction in process testing.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate ultrasound assisted supercritical fluid extraction of oil and coixenolide from adlay seed.
How was it studied?
A processing and extraction design used process testing as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
While ultrasound was applied as in USFE, the following parameters were preferred: T at 40 degrees C, P at 20 MPa, t at 3.5h and F at 3.0 L/h, respectively. The results show that supercritical fluid extraction with the assistance of ultrasound could reduce the temperature, pressure, CO(2) flow rate, as well as time used in the process.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that compared with SFE, USFE could give a 14% increase in the yield for extracting oil and coixenolide from adlay seed with less severe operating conditions.
What could this lead to?
Yields of seed oil and coixenolide were evaluated under different extraction conditions. The reported yield and fraction properties can guide scalable recovery, solvent choice, and marker specifications for the yulmu ingredient.
- HealthcarePMID 17436369
The water extract of adlay seed (Coix lachrymajobi var. mayuen) exhibits anti-obesity effects through neuroendocrine modulation.
- Study subject
- Rats fed a high-fat diet
- Material or form
- Seed / aqueous seed extract, injected at 50 mg/100 g body weight/day for 4 weeks; injection route unspecified
- Evidence stage
- Disease-model animal preclinical study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—aqueous seed extract, injected at 50 mg—100 g body weight—day for 4 weeks; injection route unspecified using rats fed a high-fat diet.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether the water extract of adlay seed (Coix lachrymajobi var. mayuen) exhibits anti-obesity effects through neuroendocrine modulation.
How was it studied?
A disease-model animal preclinical study design used rats fed a high-fat diet as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
The results showed that the optical density of NPY immunoreactivity in paraventricular nucleus of rats increased approximately by 3.4 fold in HFD group compared to the normal diet group. Conversely, that of HFD + adlay group was about 2.6 fold lower than HFD group.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that accordingly, administration of adlay may be considered for therapies targeting obesity.
What could this lead to?
Injected aqueous adlay extract altered hypothalamic NPY-related measures in high-fat-diet rats. The finding supports neuroendocrine mechanism studies, route-specific toxicology, and chemical standardization of the extract.
- AllPMID 17019563
Effects of crude adlay hull acetone extract on corticosterone release from rat zona fasciculata-reticularis cells.
- Study subject
- Rat adrenal zona fasciculata-reticularis cells
- Material or form
- Hull / acetone extract
- Evidence stage
- Cell in vitro study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined hull—acetone extract using rat adrenal zona fasciculata-reticularis cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine the effects of crude adlay hull acetone extract on corticosterone release from rat zona fasciculata-reticularis cells.
How was it studied?
The cells were used to measure the expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein by Western blot.
What did the study find?
The present data demonstrated that: (1) AHA inhibited ACTH-, 8-Br-cAMP-, forskolin-, 25-OH-cholesterol-, pregnenolone-, progesterone- or deoxycorticosterone-stimulated corticosterone release; (2) AHA (800 microg/ml) caused more pregnenolone release in control group, but not in 25-OH-cholesterol, trilostane or 25-OH-cholesterol+trilostane group; (3) kinetic study showed an uncompetitive inhibition model of AHA to P450 side chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc); (4) kinetic study showed a noncompetitive inhibition model of AHA to 11beta-hydroxylase; and (5) AHA inhibited the expression of StAR protein.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that these results indicate the inhibitory mechanism of AHA mediates through an inhibition of the activities of the post-cAMP corticosterone synthesis enzymes, i.e 3beta-HSD, 21-hydroxylase, 11beta-hydroxylase, and inhibition of StAR protein expression.
What could this lead to?
Acetone extract of yulmu hull lowered corticosterone-synthesis measures in isolated rat adrenal cells. Fractionation and steroid-pathway assays can identify the responsible hull compounds and determine concentration-dependent selectivity.
- HealthcarePMID 17245668
Effects of dehulled adlay on plasma glucose and lipid concentrations in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats fed a diet enriched in cholesterol.
- Study subject
- STZ-diabetic rats
- Material or form
- Dehulled seed / cholesterol-enriched diet
- Evidence stage
- Disease-model animal nutrition
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined dehulled seed—cholesterol-enriched diet using STZ-diabetic rats.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the effect of dietary dehulled adlay on plasma lipid and glucose concentrations in diabetic rats.
How was it studied?
The diabetic male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, induced by injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg subcutaneously), were fed a cholesterol-rich diet (0.5% cholesterol) containing corn starch or dehulled adlay for four weeks.
What did the study find?
The results showed that diabetic rats fed a dehulled adlay diet exhibited a greater adipose tissue weight (9.36 +/- 3.43 vs 5.39 +/- 3.04 g, p < 0.05) and a reduced food intake (39.3 +/- 5.9 vs 61.0 +/- 11.7 g/day, p < 0.05) when compared with animals fed a cornstarch diet. Significantly decreased plasma glucose (261.6 +/- 96.6 vs 422.1 +/- 125.4 mg/dL, p < 0.05), total cholesterol (289.4 +/- 140.6 vs 627.3 +/- 230.5 mg/dL, p < 0.05), and triglyceride (52.3 +/- 14.4 vs 96.5 +/- 36.6 mg/dL, p < 0.05) levels were observed in rats fed the dehulled adlay diet.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that dehulled adlay exhibited not only a hypolipidemic effect but also displayed a hypoglycemic ability in diabetic rats, indicating that dehulled adlay may play an important role in the regulation of plasma lipid and glucose metabolisms in diabetic rats induced by streptozotocin.
What could this lead to?
A dehulled adlay diet changed blood-glucose, lipid, and fecal indicators in streptozotocin-induced diabetic, hypercholesterolemic rats. The outcomes provide variables for a composition-matched feeding study that separates yulmu dose and processing from overall diet effects.
- AllPMID 16415120
Effects of herbal extracts on the function of human organic anion-transporting polypeptide OATP-B.
- Study subject
- OATP-B-expressing HEK293 cells
- Material or form
- Job's tears extract; plant part, composition, and dose not specified in detail
- Evidence stage
- Cell transporter assay
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Fifteen dietary-supplement herbal extracts, including Job’s tears, were screened for effects on the intestinal uptake transporter OATP-B.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to test whether transporter inhibition could contribute to herb–drug interactions beyond effects on drug-metabolizing enzymes.
How was it studied?
Estrone-3-sulfate uptake was measured in HEK293 cells stably expressing OATP-B after exposure to each extract at concentrations considered attainable in the intestine. Concentration dependence, reversibility and selected flavonoid components were examined for active extracts.
What did the study find?
Seven extracts inhibited uptake by 55.5–85.4 percent, with concentration-dependent, reversible inhibition by ginkgo; three others produced moderate inhibition. Job’s tears, barley, rutin, rafuma and passionflower extracts were inactive in this assay.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that several supplement extracts may alter absorption of oral OATP-B substrates, while the Job’s tears extract provided an inactive comparator under the tested conditions.
What could this lead to?
OATP-B transport remained near control levels when Job’s tears extract was tested in transporter-expressing cells. This baseline interaction screen supports replication across relevant concentrations using botanically and chemically specified preparations.
- HealthcarePMID 16185833
Effects of okchun-san, a herbal formulation, on blood glucose levels and body weight in a model of Type 2 diabetes.
- Study subject
- Db/db mice
- Material or form
- Seed / multi-herb formulations containing Coicis and Oryzae
- Evidence stage
- Diabetic-mouse multi-herb formulation study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed—multi-herb formulations containing Coicis and Oryzae using db/db mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to examine the effects of Okchun-San (OCS), a Korean herbal medicine formula, on the blood glucose levels in diabetic C57BL/KsJ db/db mice.
How was it studied?
The experimental animals were divided into a control group and three sample groups; the sample groups received OCS-C (200 mg/kg), OCS-O (200 mg/kg), or acarbose (5 mg/kg) orally once a day for 12 days.
What did the study find?
On days 5 and 12, the fasting blood glucose levels of vehicle-treated db/db mice were significantly higher than day 0, while those of OCS-C, OCS-O, or acarbose-treated mice had not increased compared to the control group (p<0.01). During intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT), OCS-C group showed improved glucose sensitivity compared to the control group.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that OCS-C can be useful as an anti-diabetic therapy for Type 2 diabetic patients by lowering the blood glucose level.
What could this lead to?
Okchun-San, a multi-herb formula containing Coicis Semen and rice, changed glucose-related measures in db/db mice. Ingredient-controlled comparisons are needed to determine whether and how yulmu contributes to the formula response.
- HealthcarePMID 15955213
Neutral lipid isolated from endosperm of Job's tears inhibits the growth of pancreatic cancer cells via apoptosis, G2/M arrest, and regulation of gene expression.
- Study subject
- PaTu-8988 and SW1990 cells
- Material or form
- Endosperm / isolated neutral lipid NLEJ
- Evidence stage
- Cancer-cell in vitro study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined endosperm—isolated neutral lipid NLEJ using paTu-8988 and SW1990 cells.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to examine its antiproliferative effects in the PaTu-8988 and SW1990 human pancreatic cancer cells and to investigate its potential mechanism(s).
How was it studied?
A cancer-cell in vitro study design used paTu-8988 and SW1990 cells as the experimental system.
What did the study find?
Flow cytometry analysis showed that NLEJ blocked cell cycle progression at the G(2)/M phase. The cDNA microarray analysis with cell cycle- and apoptosis-targeted arrays showed that the expression signals of 24 genes were found to be significantly altered at 24 h of NLEJ treatment.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that NLEJ might be a chemotherapeutic agent against pancreatic cancer.
What could this lead to?
A neutral lipid from Job's tears endosperm changed indicators related to pancreatic-cancer cell proliferation, G2/M arrest, and apoptosis. The named or isolated constituents can now be compared for potency, selectivity, abundance in yulmu, and mechanism in matched cancer and normal-cell assays.
- HealthcarePMID 16008119
The effect of adlay oil on plasma lipids, insulin and leptin in rat.
- Study subject
- Wistar rats
- Material or form
- Seed oil / 5% or 10% seed-oil diet
- Evidence stage
- Animal nutrition
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed oil—5% or 10% seed-oil diet using wistar rats.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate the effect of dietary adlay oil on plasma lipids, insulin and lipid peroxidation levels in rats.
How was it studied?
Twenty-four male Wistar rats fed diet containing adlay oil and cholesterol were studied for 4 weeks. The animals were divided into three groups: (1) 10% lard (control) group; (2) 5% lard + 5% adlay oil (5% adlay oil) group; and (3) 10% adlay oil group.
What did the study find?
Although there was no significant difference in body weight at the end of the feeding study, rats fed a diet containing adlay oil showed a significant decrease in adipose tissue weight and relative adipose weight. In addition, the rats fed the adlay oil showed significantly decreased low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), insulin, leptin and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) concentrations after 4 weeks of the feeding study.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that dietary adlay oil can reduce leptin, adipose tissue and LDL-C levels in rats.
What could this lead to?
An adlay seed-oil diet changed abdominal-fat, LDL, insulin, leptin, and oxidative indicators in rats. Linking the metabolic response to fatty-acid and minor-lipid profiles will support dose-controlled comparison of yulmu oil batches.
- HealthcarePMID 15234196
Hypolipidemic effects of crude extract of adlay seed (Coix lachrymajobi var. mayuen) in obesity rat fed high fat diet: relations of TNF-alpha and leptin mRNA expressions and serum lipid levels.
- Study subject
- High-fat-diet obese rats
- Material or form
- Crude adlay seed extract, injected at 50 mg/100 g body weight/day; administration route not specified in detail
- Evidence stage
- Disease-model animal nutrition
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined crude adlay seed extract, injected at 50 mg—100 g body weight—day using high-fat-diet obese rats.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate hypolipidemic effects of crude extract of adlay seed (Coix lachrymajobi var. mayuen) in obesity rat fed high fat diet: relations of TNF-alpha and leptin mRNA expressions and serum lipid levels.
How was it studied?
In conclusion, treatments of ACE modulated expressions of leptin and TNF-alpha and reduced body weights, food intake, fat size, adipose tissue mass and serum hyperlipidemia in obesity rat fed HFD.
What did the study find?
The levels of triglyceride, total-cholesterol and leptin in blood serum were significantly decreased in HFD + ACE group compared to those of sham group. Leptin and TNF-alpha mRNA expressions in WAT of rats were remarkably increased more in sham group than in those of ND group.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that accordingly, the oriental medicine extract, adlay seed crude extract, can be considered for obesity therapies controlling.
What could this lead to?
In a 4-week preclinical study in high-fat-diet obese rats, injection of crude adlay seed extract was reported to lower body weight, adipose tissue, serum lipids, and some gene indicators relative to the saline group. The outcomes provide variables for a composition-matched feeding study that separates yulmu dose and processing from overall diet effects.
- Featured · HealthcarePMID 15187421
Effect of young barley leaf extract and adlay on plasma lipids and LDL oxidation in hyperlipidemic smokers.
- Study subject
- 40 hyperlipidemic smokers and nonsmokers in total
- Material or form
- Seed; adlay 60 g/day for 4 weeks; compared separately with young barley leaf extract at 15 g/day
- Evidence stage
- Possibly nonrandomized human before-and-after comparative study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Seed; adlay 60 g—day for 4 weeks; compared separately with young barley leaf extract at 15 g—day was examined among 40 hyperlipidemic smokers and nonsmokers in total.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine the effects of young barley leaf extract and adlay on plasma lipids and LDL oxidation in hyperlipidemic smokers.
How was it studied?
A possibly nonrandomized human before-and-after comparative study design involved 40 hyperlipidemic smokers and nonsmokers in total.
What did the study find?
The plasma total and LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were reduced following treatment with either BL or adlay; furthermore, the lag phase of LDL oxidation increased after either supplementation.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that supplementation with BL or adlay can decrease plasma lipids and inhibit LDL oxidation in hyperlipidemic smokers and/or non-smokers.
What could this lead to?
In a small comparative human study, four weeks of 60 g/day adlay was associated with lower total and LDL cholesterol and a longer LDL-oxidation lag time, with smaller antioxidant changes in smokers. The regimen and smoking-stratified endpoints can inform a randomized, composition-controlled yulmu feeding trial.
- Featured · HealthcarePMID 14640580
Methanolic extract of adlay seed suppresses COX-2 expression of human lung cancer cells via inhibition of gene transcription.
- Study subject
- Human lung-cancer cells and corresponding nude-mouse tumor tissue
- Material or form
- Seed; methanol extract
- Evidence stage
- Lung-cancer cell and xenograft-mouse preclinical study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed; methanol extract using human lung-cancer cells and corresponding nude-mouse tumor tissue.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine whether methanolic extract of adlay seed suppresses COX-2 expression of human lung cancer cells via inhibition of gene transcription.
How was it studied?
the methanolic extract of adlay seed was tested for its regulation of COX-2 expression of human lung cancer cells.
What did the study find?
Western blot analysis showed that the methanolic extract of adlay seed inhibited basal and TPA-induced COX-2 expression in a dose-dependent fashion, whereas COX-1 expression was not affected. By using a promoter activity assay, it was found that the methanolic extract inhibited basal and TPA-stimulated COX-2 expression at the transcription level.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that taken together, these results suggest that inhibition of COX-2 is one of the mechanisms by which the methanolic extract of adlay seed inhibits cancer growth and prevents lung tumorigenesis.
What could this lead to?
COX-2 and PGE2 are key research markers used to investigate inflammatory responses and the tumor microenvironment. These findings suggest that yulmu seed may contain candidate compounds associated with this signaling pathway, providing a basis for isolating active constituents, developing standardized extracts, and studying dose response and mechanism of action.
- Featured · HealthcarePMID 12797741
Suppression of allergic reactions by dehulled adlay in association with the balance of TH1/TH2 cell responses.
- Study subject
- Allergy-model mice
- Material or form
- Dehulled seed; diet/extract
- Evidence stage
- Allergy-model animal preclinical study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined dehulled seed; diet—extract using allergy-model mice.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate suppression of allergic reactions by dehulled adlay in association with the balance of TH1/TH2 cell responses.
How was it studied?
Furthermore, the production of IL-2 by OVA-stimulated splenocytes was augmented in dehulled adlay-fed mice.
What did the study find?
Serum anti-OVA IgG(2a) antibody levels were significantly increased in mice after oral administration of dehulled adlay.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that dehulled adlay has a modulating ability to shift the balance from Th2 to Th1 dominance in the T cell mediated immune system and may be beneficial for the treatment of allergic disorders.
What could this lead to?
Oral dehulled adlay altered IgE, IgG2a, IL-2, and IL-5 in allergy-model mice, with the methanol fraction producing the largest IgE change. This prioritizes fraction chemistry, allergen characterization, dose–response work, and controlled preclinical confirmation.
- Featured · HealthcarePMID 12769541
Antiproliferative and chemopreventive effects of adlay seed on lung cancer in vitro and in vivo.
- Study subject
- A549 cells, tumor-transplanted mice, and NNK-induced A/J lung-tumor mice for 8 months
- Material or form
- Seed; methanol and water extracts; diet containing 30% seed powder
- Evidence stage
- Cell and animal preclinical study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Researchers examined seed; methanol and water extracts; diet containing 30% seed powder using a549 cells, tumor-transplanted mice, and NNK-induced A/J lung-tumor mice for 8 months.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate antiproliferative and chemopreventive effects of adlay seed on lung cancer in vitro and in vivo.
How was it studied?
Groups of mice were pre-fed with different diets, followed by feeding with NNK-containing drinking water for 8 months.
What did the study find?
The data showed that a methanolic extract, but not a water extract, of adlay seed exerted an antiproliferative effect on A549 lung cancer cells by inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. It was also found that tumor growth in vivo was inhibited by the methanolic extract in a dose-dependent manner.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the components of adlay seed exert an anticancer effect in vitro and in vivo and may be useful for the prevention of lung tumorigenesis.
What could this lead to?
Methanol extract inhibited A549-cell and transplanted-tumor growth, and a 30% adlay diet reduced surface lung tumors in NNK-treated mice; activity in the cell assay was specific to methanol extraction. The contrast makes extraction chemistry and exposure standardization central to candidate-compound isolation and mechanism testing.
- FeaturedPMID 8241805
Sensitive determination of zearalenone and alpha-zearalenol in barley and Job's-tears by liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection.
- Study subject
- Barley and Job's tears samples
- Material or form
- Seed; liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection
- Evidence stage
- Food-safety analysis
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Seed; liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection was analyzed across barley and Job's tears samples.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate sensitive determination of zearalenone and alpha-zearalenol in barley and Job's-tears by liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection.
How was it studied?
Barley and Job's tears samples were assessed in a food-safety analysis.
What did the study find?
Known amounts of zearalenone and alpha-zearalenol (25-1250 ng) were added to a barley sample (5 g). Average recoveries for alpha-zearalenol and zearalenone, respectively, ranged from 96 to 102% (mean CV, 3.6%) and from 96 to 103% (mean CV, 3.3%).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that this method is applicable to determination of alpha-zearalenol and zearalenone in barley and Job's tears with satisfactory sensitivity and accuracy.
What could this lead to?
A fluorescence liquid-chromatography method for quantifying ZEN and α-zearalenol in Job's tears and barley matrices showed a 0.2 ng detection limit and approximately 96–103% spike recovery. Its yulmu-matrix performance provides a basis for lot-release limits and routine multi-toxin surveillance of grain or derived ingredients.
- Food & nutritionPMID 8448440
Aflatoxin contamination in foods and foodstuffs in Tokyo: 1986-1990.
- Study subject
- Foods from 1986–1990
- Material or form
- Products; Tokyo food samples
- Evidence stage
- Food-safety contamination surveillance
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Products; Tokyo food samples was analyzed across foods from 1986–1990.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate aflatoxin contamination in foods and foodstuffs in Tokyo: 1986-1990.
How was it studied?
Samples were collected in Tokyo from 1986 to 1990.
What did the study find?
Samples were collected in Tokyo from 1986 to 1990. Aflatoxins were found in rice products, adlay, corn, crude sugar, peanut products, pistachio nuts, brazil nuts, sesame products, butter beans, white pepper, red pepper, paprika, nutmeg, and mixed spices.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that the highest incidence of aflatoxin contamination was observed in nutmeg (80%), and the highest level of aflatoxin B1 was observed in pistachio nuts (1382 ppb).
What could this lead to?
In a survey of 3,054 foods and foodstuffs in Tokyo from 1986–1990, adlay was included among products in which aflatoxin was detected. The occurrence data define hazard priorities and sampling plans for supplier qualification, regulatory testing, and storage control of yulmu products.
- FeaturedPMID 1583791
[Effect of coix seed on the changes in peripheral lymphocyte subsets].
- Study subject
- Seven healthy volunteers
- Material or form
- Seed; six Coix seed tablets for 4 weeks; tablet specification and daily dosing frequency unspecified
- Evidence stage
- Single-arm human before-and-after exploratory study
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Seed; six Coix seed tablets for 4 weeks; tablet specification and daily dosing frequency unspecified was examined among seven healthy volunteers.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to determine the effects of coix seed on the changes in peripheral lymphocyte subsets].
How was it studied?
A single-arm human before-and-after exploratory study design involved seven healthy volunteers.
What did the study find?
The level of CD3+CD56+ (MHC-non restricted cytotoxic T cells) markedly increased at four weeks (before 1.9 +/- 0.5% vs four weeks 4.2 +/- 0.7%, p less than 0.01). The level of CD16+CD57- (the mature, most active natural killer cells) increased at three weeks (before 4.5 +/- 0.8% vs three weeks 5.2 +/- 0.8%, p less than 0.05).
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that coix seed modulate the peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets and may be effective to virus disease through the enhancement of cytotoxic activity.
What could this lead to?
Seven healthy volunteers taking Coix tablets showed changes in peripheral lymphocyte subsets over three to four weeks. The pilot identifies immune-cell endpoints for a controlled human study with the tablet composition, daily dose, and adherence fully specified.
- Healthcare · Food & nutritionPMID 1830779
Detection of aflatoxin B1 in imported food products into Japan by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and high performance liquid chromatography.
- Study subject
- Imported foods in Japan
- Material or form
- Products; imported foods
- Evidence stage
- Food-safety contamination surveillance
Read the study in 6 steps01—06
Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
Products; imported foods was analyzed across imported foods in Japan.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to investigate detection of aflatoxin B1 in imported food products into Japan by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and high performance liquid chromatography.
How was it studied?
In order to detect the presence of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), the use of the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and recovery test was evaluated. The detection limit of ELISA for AFB1 was 1 pg/assay and the recovery from maize spiked with AFB1 exceeded 80%.
What did the study find?
AFB1 was detected by ELISA in seven out of twelve samples of imported food products including peanut, almond, red pepper, cocoa bean, black pepper, buckwheat, walnut, adlay, soybean, popcorn, and pistachio nut, and by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in four of the samples.
How did the authors interpret it?
The authors concluded that ELISA is more sensitive than HPLC and imported food products are broadly contaminated with AFB1.
What could this lead to?
An ELISA/HPLC survey of imported foods reported aggregate AFB1 detection below Japan’s then-current limit and included adlay among the sampled products. The design provides a baseline for method comparison and yulmu-specific sampling in future aflatoxin surveillance.
- Food & nutritionPMID 2933279
A survey of the occurrence of nivalenol, deoxynivalenol and zearalenone in food stuffs and health foods in Japan.
- Study subject
- 76 Japanese retail cereal flours, popcorn, and health-food products in total
- Material or form
- Products; Japanese foods and health foods
- Evidence stage
- Food-safety contamination surveillance
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Follow the research in six clear steps, from its central question to the authors’ conclusion and the possibilities it opens next.
What did the study examine?
A Japanese retail survey measured nivalenol, deoxynivalenol and zearalenone in cereal flours, popcorn and health foods, including Job’s tears.
Why was it studied?
The objective was to document the natural occurrence of the three mycotoxins across 76 marketed food samples.
How was it studied?
A rapid simultaneous-detection method was applied to retail wheat and barley flours, partially milled grains, popcorn and health-food products obtained in Japan.
What did the study find?
Nivalenol and deoxynivalenol contamination occurred in commercial wheat and barley flours and partially milled grains. Imported popcorn contained deoxynivalenol, while Job’s tears showed high nivalenol and zearalenone contamination.
How did the authors interpret it?
The survey identified Job’s tears as a priority matrix for monitoring nivalenol and zearalenone in marketed health foods.
What could this lead to?
A historical survey of Japanese retail foods reported high NIV and ZEN contamination in Job's tears health-food products. The occurrence data define hazard priorities and sampling plans for supplier qualification, regulatory testing, and storage control of yulmu products.
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