Immunologic and Biochemical Effects of the Fermented Wheat Germ Extract Avemar

Abstract

Avemar (MSC) is a nontoxic fermented wheat germ extract demonstrated to have antitumor effects. Avemar has the potential to significantly improve the survival rate in patients suffering from malignant colon tumors. We studied its effects in the HT-29 human colon carcinoma cell line. Avemar had an inhibiting effect on colonies of HT-29 cells with an IC50 value of 118 microg/ml (7 days of incubation); this value could be decreased to 100 and 75 microg/ml in the presence of vitamin C. In the cell line examined, Avemar induced both necrosis and apoptosis, as demonstrated by Hoechst/propidium iodide staining. The incubation of cells with 3200 microg/ml Avemar for 24 hrs caused necrosis in 28% and the induction of apoptosis in 22% of the cells. Avemar inhibited the cell-cycle progression of HT-29 cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle. In addition, Avemar inhibited the activity of the key enzyme of de novo DNA synthesis, ribonucleotide reductase. In addition, we determined the effects of Avemar on the activity of cyclooxygenase-1 and -2. Both enzymes were significantly inhibited by Avemar with IC50 values of 100 and 300 microg/ml, respectively. We outline new explanations for its antitumor activity, which might serve as the basis for further studies using Avemar.

The Effect of Fermented Wheat Germ Extract on Biochemical, Physiological and Performance Parameters of Broiler Chickens

“…In the United States, FWGE is marketed as a dietary supplement, Avé ® , by American BioSciences, Inc. (Blauvelt, NY). FWGE is manufactured as Avemar ® in Hungary, where it is approved as a "medical nutriment" for cancer patients (Illmer et al, 2005). Stipkovits et al (2004) found that immunomodulators such as FWGE were effective against M. gallisepticum infection, similar to the well-known antimycoplasma drug, tiamulin.…”

Current Controversies in Nutrition: Fermented Wheat Germ Extract—An Adjunct Treatment for Cancer?

“…13 FWGE also reduces several promoters of inflammation, including cyclo-oxygenase-1 (COX-1), cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX-2), and tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a). 14,15 FWGE might also work via a mechanism similar to that of conventional cancer treatments and high-dose vitamin C. Radiation treatments and most chemotherapeutic drugs work by increasing hydrogen peroxide levels in cancer cells, enabling this potent oxidant to destroy cancer cells.…”

A multicentric prospective open trial on the quality of life and oxidative stress in patients affected by advanced head and neck cancer treated with a new benzoquinone-rich product derived from fermented wheat germ (Avemar)

“…An intense antioxidant activity has been shown to be exerted by a fermented wheat-germ extract with a standardized benzoquinone content (code name MSC; brand name Avemar) [14,15]. This product contains large amounts of chinolonics and flavonoids responsible for an immunomodulatory therapeutic effect, with inhibition of IL-4 and IL-10 production.…”