Research Article
Jong Doo Lee, Emil Joseph S
Abstract
Recent developments from science and medical science show a growing interest in the anti-inflammatory activity of natural materials. Inflammation is the body’s physiologic response to injurious stimulation and is known to be mediated by various pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g. TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 etc) and iNOS (inducible nitric oxide synthase). Quantum energy living body (QELBY) powder is a fusion of a special ceramic powder with natural clay mineral classified as quantum energy radiating material (QERM). The powder, composed mostly of silicon dioxide, is known to radiate reductive radiant energy. This study was designed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activities of QELBY powder on RAW 264.7 mouse macrophage cells. QELBY powder was mixed with DMEM media and was allowed to stand for 48 hours. Afterwards, the supernatant was taken and diluted to various concentrations (0,5,10,20,40 μg/ml) prior to use. CCK-8 assay was done to determine the effects on cell viability. In addition, NO assay performed to elucidate the effect of QELBY on the NO production of LPS-stimulated macrophages. Lastly, RT-PCR and Western blot analysis for the detection of the mRNA and protein expressions, respectively, of proinflammatory cytokines and iNOS was made. Results demonstrated that QELBY powder causes both an increase in cell proliferation and a concentration-dependent decrease in NO production. Moreover, the mRNA and protein expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines and iNOS were also inhibited. Taken together, these show that QELBY powder has anti-inflammatory activity and could therefore be used further in the development of materials that induce such kinds of benefits.