For instance, preparation of total free rhubarb anthraquinones from R. officinale was found to ameliorate severe acute pancreatitis in rats and reduce the level of pro-inflammatory markers, including the intestinal and serum levels of diamine oxidase (DAO), IL-1, IL-18, the high mobility group protein B1 (HMGB1), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). The gene discussed is IL18; the disease is acute pancreatitis.