Cytokine-stimulation of prostaglandin synthesis from endogenous and exogenous arachidonic acids in polymorphonuclear leukocytes involving activation and new synthesis of cyclooxygenase

Prostaglandin E2 promotes M2 polarization of macrophages via a cAMP/CREB signaling pathway and deactivates granulocytes in teleost fish

The profile of prostaglandin (PG) production is determined by the differential expression of the enzymes involved in their production and degradation. Although the production of PGE2 by fish leukocytes has been relatively well studied in several fish species, knowledge of how its production is regulated, its biological activities and the signaling pathways activated by this PG is scant or even contradictory. In this work we show that in the teleost fish gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata L.) macrophages regulate PGE2 release mainly by inducing the expression of the genes encoding the enzymes responsible for its synthesis, while acidophilic granulocytes (AGs) not only induce these genes quickly after activation but also inhibit the expression of the genes encoding the enzymes responsible for PGE2 degradation at later time points. In addition, treatment of macrophages with PGE2 promoted their M2 polarization, which is characterized by high expression levels of interleukin-10, mannose-receptor c-type 1 and arginase 2 genes. In sharp contrast, PGE2 promoted the deactivation of AGs, since it decreased the production of reactive oxygen species and the expression of genes encoding pro-inflammatory cytokines. These differences are the result of the alternative signaling pathways used by PGE2 in macrophages and AGs, a cAMP/CREB signaling pathway operating in macrophages, but not in AGs, downstream of PGE2. Our data identify for the first time a role for professional phagocyte-derived-PGE2 in the resolution of inflammation in fish and highlight key differences in the PGE2 signaling pathway in macrophages and granulocytes.

Bothrops jararacussu snake venom-induces a local inflammatory response in a prostanoid- and neutrophil-dependent manner

Local tissue reactions provoked by Bothrops venoms are characterized by edema, hemorrhage, pain, and inflammation; however, the mechanisms of tissue damage vary depending upon the species of snake. Here, we investigated the mechanisms involved in the local inflammatory response induced by the Bothrops jararacussu venom (BjcuV). Female Swiss mice were injected with either saline, BjcuV (0.125-8 μg/paw) or loratadine (an H1 receptor antagonist), compound 48/80 (for mast cell depletion), capsaicin (for C-fiber desensitization), infliximab (an anti-TNF-α antibody), indomethacin (a non-specific COX inhibitor), celecoxib (a selective COX-2 inhibitor) or fucoidan (a P- and L-selectins modulator) given before BjcuV injection. Paw edema was measured by plethysmography. In addition, paw tissues were collected for the measurement of myeloperoxidase activity, TNF-α and IL-1 levels, and COX-2 immunoexpression. The direct chemotactic effect of BjcuV and the in vitro calcium dynamic in neutrophils were also investigated. BjcuV caused an edematogenic response with increased local production of TNF-α and IL-1β as well as COX-2 expression. Both edema and neutrophil migration were prevented by pretreatment with indomethacin, celecoxib or fucoidan. Furthermore, BjcuV induced a direct in vitro neutrophil chemotaxis by increasing intracellular calcium. Therefore, BjcuV induces an early onset edema dependent upon prostanoid production and neutrophil migration.

Synthesis and biological activities of some new (Nα-dinicotinoyl)-bis-L-leucyl linear and macrocyclic peptides

A series of linear and macrocyclic peptides 3–12 were synthesized using 3,5-pyridinedicarboxylic acid (1) as starting material and screened for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities. Bis-ester 3 was prepared from 1 and l-leucine methyl ester. Hydrazinolysis and hydrolysis of dipeptide methyl ester 3 with hydrazine hydrate or 1 N sodium hydroxide afforded compounds 4 and 5, respectively. Cyclization of the dipeptide 5 with l-lysine methyl ester afforded cyclic pentapeptide ester 6. Compounds 7–9 were synthesized by reacting hydrazide 4 with phthalic anhydride, 1,8-naphthalene anhydride or acetophenone derivatives. Treatment of acid hydrazide 4 with aromatic aldehydes or tetraacid dianhydrides afforded the corresponding bis-dipeptide hydrazones 10a–e and macrocyclic peptides 11 and 12, respectively. The structures of newly synthesized compounds were confirmed by IR, ¹H-NMR, MS spectral data and elemental analysis. The detailed synthesis, spectroscopic data, biological and pharmacological activities of the synthesized compounds was reported.

Prostaglandin E2 and the suppression of phagocyte innate immune responses in different organs

The local and systemic production of prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) and its actions in phagocytes lead to immunosuppressive conditions. PGE₂ is produced at high levels during inflammation, and its suppressive effects are caused by the ligation of the E prostanoid receptors EP₂ and EP₄, which results in the production of cyclic AMP. However, PGE₂ also exhibits immunostimulatory properties due to binding to EP₃, which results in decreased cAMP levels. The various guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins) that are coupled to the different EP receptors account for the pleiotropic roles of PGE₂ in different disease states. Here, we discuss the production of PGE₂ and the actions of this prostanoid in phagocytes from different tissues, the relative contribution of PGE₂ to the modulation of innate immune responses, and the novel therapeutic opportunities that can be used to control inflammatory responses.

Metabolomics-lipidomics of eicosanoids and docosanoids generated by phagocytes

Lipid mediators derived from essential fatty acids, such as arachidonic acid, play important roles in physiologic and pathophysiologic processes. Prostaglandins, thromboxane, and leukotrienes are well-known eicosanoids that play critical roles in hemodynamics and inflammation. New families of mediators were recently uncovered that constitute a new genus stimulating resolution of acute inflammation, and are organ-protective. These include the resolvins (E-series and D-series), protectins (neuroprotectin D1/protectin D1), and maresins biosynthesized from omega-3 essential fatty acids. Phagocytes play major roles in tissue homeostasis and have a high capacity to produce these mediators, which depend on their tissue and state of activation. It is important to select appropriate methods for identifying target mediators and pathway biomarkers. In this unit, we review state-of-the-art approaches to identify and profile eicosanoid and docosanoid pathways, including specialized pro-resolving mediators resolvins, protectins, and maresins, in relation to their biosynthesis and inactivation by neutrophils and macrophages.

Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anticonvulsant and antiparkinsonian activities of some pyridine derivatives using 2,6-disubstituted isonicotinic acid hydrazides

A series of novel thiazolo derivatives 2-15 was synthesized by initial condensation of 2,6-dihydroxyisonicotinohydrazide 1 and 2-chloro-6-hydrazinylisonicotinohydrazide 11 with different organic reagents. The pharmacological screening showed that many of these obtained compounds have good anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anticonvulsant, and antiparkinsonian activities comparable to diclofenac potassium, Voltarene(®), Carbamazepine(®), and Benzotropene(®) as reference drugs. Initially the acute toxicity of the compounds was assayed via the determination of their LD₅₀. The structures of newly synthesized compounds were confirmed by IR, ¹H-NMR, ¹³C-NMR, MS spectral data and elemental analysis. The detailed synthesis, spectroscopic data, LD₅₀ and pharmacological activities of the synthesized compounds were reported.

A phospholipase A₂ from Bothrops asper snake venom activates neutrophils in culture: expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and PGE₂ biosynthesis

In this study, the production of prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) and up-regulation in cyclooxygenase (COX) pathway induced by a phospholipase A₂ (PLA₂), myotoxin-III (MT-III), purified from Bothrops asper snake venom, in isolated neutrophils were investigated. The arachidonic acid (AA) production and the participation of intracellular PLA₂s (cytosolic PLA₂ and Ca(2+)-independent PLA₂) in these events were also evaluated. MT-III induced COX-2, but not COX-1 gene and protein expression in neutrophils and increased PGE₂ levels. Pretreatment of neutrophils with COX-2 and COX-1 inhibitors reduced PGE₂ production induced by MT-III. Arachidonyl trifluoromethyl ketone (AACOCF₃), an intracellular PLA₂ inhibitor, but not bromoenol lactone (BEL), an iPLA₂ inhibitor, suppressed the MT-III-induced AA and PGE₂ release. In conclusion, MT-III directly stimulates neutrophils inducing COX-2 mRNA and protein expression followed by production of PGE₂. COX-2 isoform is preeminent over COX-1 for production of PGE₂ stimulated by MT-III. PGE₂ and AA release by MT-III probably is related to cPLA₂ activation.

Analgesic, anticonvulsant and anti-inflammatory activities of some synthesized benzodiazipine, triazolopyrimidine and bis-imide derivatives

A series of diazipine, pyrimidine, fused triazolopyrimidine and imide derivatives were newly synthesized using 4-phenyl-but-3-en-2-one 1 as a starting material and compounds 2 and 9 are intermediates. Initially the acute toxicity of the compounds was assayed via the determination of their LD(50). All the compounds were interestingly less toxic than the reference drug. The pharmacological screening showed that many of these obtained compounds have good analgesic, anticonvulsant and anti-inflammatory activities comparable to Valdecoxib, Carbamazepine and Predensilone as reference drugs. Regarding the protection against Carrageenan induced edema, five compounds were found more potent than Prednisolone. On the other hand, in searching for COX-2 inhibitor, the inhibition of plasma PGE2 for the compounds were determined and four compounds were found more potent than Prednisolone. The detailed synthesis, spectroscopic data, pharmacological screening and acute toxicity LD(50) for the synthesized compounds were reported.

Anti-inflammatory profile of some synthesized heterocyclic pyridone and pyridine derivatives fused with steroidal structure

We herein report the anti-inflammatory activity of some newly synthesized heterocyclic pyridone and pyridine derivatives fused with steroidal structure. Initially the acute toxicity of the compounds was assayed via the determination of their LD(50). All compounds, except 3b, 22, and 23, were interestingly less toxic than the reference drug (Prednisolone). Regarding the protection against Carrageenan-induced edema, eight compounds were found to be more potent than Prednisolone. On the other hand, in searching for COX-2 inhibitor, the inhibition of plasma PGE2 for the compounds was determined and four compounds were found to be more potent than the reference drug. The structure assignment of the new compounds was based on chemical and spectroscopic evidence.

Synthesis and anti-inflammatory activities of new cyanopyrane derivatives fused with steroidal nuclei

Thirteen new heterocyclic derivatives containing a cyanopyrane ring fused to a steroidal moiety were conveniently synthesized and screened for their anti-inflammatory potencies comparable to that of the glucocorticoid prednisolone. Four compounds 5a, 5b, 6b, and 8 exhibited superior anti-inflammatory indices (in rats, protection against carrageenan induced edema and inhibition of plasma PGE). All the candidates were less toxic than the reference drug concerning LD(50) values. Synthetic steroidal structures fused to a substituted cyanopyrane ring seem to be a promising approach in search for novel leads for potent anti-inflammatory agents.

Cyclooxygenases and prostaglandins: shaping up the immune response

The relevance of cyclooxygenases (COX)-1 and -2 and their products to inflammation, thrombosis and gastroprotection are well known. Their importance in the immune response was first recognized more than 25 years ago, but has only gained widespread attention recently. In this review, we attempt to integrate information on prostanoids and both the innate and acquired immune responses, including effects on leukocytes, antigen presenting cells, dendritic cells, T and B lymphocytes. Prostanoids may be relevant to immunotolerance, autoimmune disorders, transplantation, immunologic defense against tumors, acquired immunodeficiencies and viral infections. Insight into the role of prostanoids in immune function may afford novel therapeutic opportunities.

Restricted cyclooxygenase-2 expression in the central nervous system following acute and delayed-type hypersensitivity responses to bacillus Calmette-Guérin

The expression of cyclooxygenase-2, a key enzyme in prostaglandin and thromboxane synthesis in inflammation, was studied immunohistochemically in in vivo models of acute and chronic inflammatory responses in rat central nervous system. In the acute inflammatory response to intracranial injection of heat-killed bacillus Calmette-Guérin as well as in the immune-mediated, delayed-type hypersensitivity response to the same pathogen, cyclooxygenase-2 expression was restricted to major infiltrating haematogenous cell populations such as neutrophils and mononuclear phagocytes, while the expression of the enzyme by brain non-neuronal resident cells (astrocytes, microglia, perivascular cells) appeared to be limited to perivascular cells of the blood vessels in the vicinity of the lesion and in the surrounding area. On the basis of their morphology and location, these perivascular cells were identified as perivascular macrophages, but we could not rule out the possibility that some endothelial cells also expressed cyclooxygenase-2. The constitutive neuronal cyclooxygenase-2 was not affected by the ongoing inflammation. Interestingly, in spite of the extensive astrocyte and microglial reaction occurring over a broad area surrounding the inflammatory lesions, there was no obvious cyclooxygenase-2 staining in these cells. These data indicate that the up-regulation of cyclooxygenase-2 expression in acute and chronic, immune-mediated lesions in the brain parenchyma is remarkably restricted to the lesion site. Since cyclooxygenase metabolites can regulate important functions of resident as well as infiltrating cells, the increased synthesis of prostaglandins and thromboxanes, which is likely to occur as a consequence of the expression of cycloxygenase-2 at the lesion site, might represent an important component of the inflammatory processes within the brain.

Inhibition of the synthesis of eicosanoid-like substances in a human oral cancer cell line by interferon-gamma and eicosapentaenoic acid

The objectives were to examine the production of eicosanoids in a Chinese human oral cancer cell line (OEC-M1) and to test the effects of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and enzyme inhibitors on this biosynthesis. The eicosanoids were identified by reverse phase-high performance liquid chromatography. Two predominant peaks appeared in the chromatograms. One compound (P-1) was identified by ultraviolet absorption at a lambda(max) of 278nm with shoulders at 272 and 284nm. The other compound (P-2) was identified by ultraviolet absorption at a lambda(max) of 284 nm with shoulders at 278 and 290 nm. The production of P- was significantly inhibited by the addition of IFN-gamma (200 and 400 U/ml), and EPA (10 to 40 microM). It was only partially inhibited (p < 0.05) by indomethacin (INDO) (0.5 and 1 microM), nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) (30 and 60 microM/ml), and eicosa-5,8,11,14-tetraynoic acid (ETYA) (20-60 microM). It was almost completely inhibited by indomethacin (2 and 3 microM), and dexamethasone (0.6 and 6 microM). The production of P-2 was almost completely inhibited by IFN-gamma (200 and 400 U/ml), and partially inhibited (p < 0.05) by EPA (10 and 20 microM), NDGA (30 and 60 microM), ETYA (20 and 40 microM), dexamethasone (0.6 and 6 microM). The production of both peaks was significantly reduced by excluding arachidonic acid (AA), and almost completely inhibited by heating at 100 degrees C for 10 min during incubation. These results demonstrate that two eicosanoid-like compounds are synthesized by the OEC-M cell line and that their production can be modulated by IFN-gamma, EPA, indomethacin, NDGA, ETYA, and dexamethasone.

The neutrophil: one of the cellular targets of interleukin-10

Interleukin-10 exerts a wide spectrum of in vitro and in vivo biological activities implicated in the regulation of the inflammatory and immune responses. Among the different cell types affected by interleukin-10, monocyte/macrophages and lymphocytes appear to be particularly modified with regard to their function, morphology, and phenotype. However, recent studies performed in our laboratory, as well as by other groups, suggest that a number of functional activities of polymorphonuclear neutrophils are also subject to regulation by interleukin-10. In view of the central role of polymorphonuclear neutrophils in host defense processes and in amplifying inflammatory and immune reactions, the ability of interleukin-10 to act as a potent modulator of this cell type opens new perspectives as to the potential therapeutic utility of interleukin-10. This article reviews what is currently known about the effects of interleukin-10 on neutrophils.

Cytokine-mediated PGE2 expression in human colonic fibroblasts

We investigated prostanoid biogenesis in human colonic fibroblasts (CCD-18Co and 5 primary fibroblast cultures) and epithelial cell lines (NCM460, T84, HT-29, and LS 174T) and the effect of PGE2 on fibroblast morphology. Cytokine-stimulated PGE2 production was measured. PGH synthase-1 and -2 (PGHS-1 and -2) protein and mRNA expression were evaluated. Basal PGE2 levels were low in all cell types (0.15-6.47 ng/mg protein). Treatment for 24 h with interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta; 10 ng/ml) or tumor necrosis factor-alpha (50 ng/ml), respectively, elicited maximal 25- and 6-fold inductions of PGE2 synthesis in CCD-18Co cultures and similar results in primary fibroblast cultures; maximal inductions with IL-1beta in colonic epithelial cell lines were from zero to fivefold. Treatment of CCD-18Co fibroblasts with IL-1beta caused maximal 21- and 53-fold increases, respectively, in PGHS-2 protein and mRNA levels without altering PGHS-1 expression. PGE2 (0.1 micromol/l) elicited a dramatic shape change in selected fibroblasts. Colonic fibroblasts are potentially important as cytokine targets and a source of and target for colonic prostanoids in vivo.

Expression and activity of prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase-2 in agonist-activated human neutrophils

Proinflammatory agents were assessed for their capacity to stimulate the expression of the inducible cyclooxygenase isoform (COX-2) in human neutrophils. A number of agents, including PMA, opsonized bacteria and zymosan, LPS, GM-CSF, TNF-alpha, and fMLP, induced COX-2 protein expression through signaling pathways involving transcription and protein synthesis events. Northern blots showed that freshly isolated neutrophils expressed low levels of COX-2 mRNA, which rapidly increased after incubation with inflammatory agents. A characterization of the signal transduction pathways leading to COX-2 protein expression was initiated. In LPS-treated neutrophils, efficient induction of COX-2 required the presence of serum and involved ligand binding to the CD14 surface antigen. The specific inhibitor of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK), SB 203580, had little effect on the induction of COX-2 expression in neutrophils, in contrast to what had been previously observed with other inflammatory cell types. Depending on the agonist present, ethanol differentially blocked the stimulated expression of COX-2, raising the possibility that phospholipase D activation might take part in the process of COX-2 induction. Major COX-2-derived prostanoids synthesized by inflammatory neutrophils were identified by liquid-chromatography and tandem mass-spectrometry as TXA2 and PGE2. The agonist-induced synthesis of TXA2 and PGE2 was effectively blocked by cycloheximide and by the specific COX-2 inhibitor NS-398. These results show that COX-2 can be induced in an active state by different classes of inflammatory mediators in the neutrophil. They support the concept that, in these cells, the COX-2 isoform is preeminent over COX-1 for the stimulated-production of prostanoids, and also suggest that neutrophil COX-2 displays a distinct profile of expression among circulatory cells.

Integrin-dependent homotypic adhesion of neutrophils. Arachidonic acid activates Raf-1/Mek/Erk via a 5-lipoxygenase- dependent pathway

AA stimulates integrin-dependent neutrophil adhesion, a critical early step in acute inflammation. However, neither the signaling pathway(s) of AA-stimulated adhesion, nor whether AA acts directly or through the generation of active metabolites, has been elucidated. Previously, we have observed a tight association between neutrophil Erk activation and homotypic adhesion in response to chemoattractants acting through G protein-linked receptors. We now report a similar association between homotypic adhesion and Erk activation in response to AA. Erk activation was cyclooxygenase independent and required AA metabolism to 5(S)- hydroperoxyeicosatetraenoic acid (5-HpETE) via 5-lipoxygenase, but not the further lipoxygenase-dependent metabolism of 5-HpETE to leukotrienes. AA stimulation of Erk was accompanied by Raf-1 activation and was sensitive to inhibitors of Raf-1 and Mek. Whereas activation of Erk by AA was pertussis toxin sensitive, [3H]-AA binding to neutrophils was not saturable, suggesting that an AA metabolite activates a G protein. Consistent with this hypothesis, Erk activation by 5(S)-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (5-HETE; lipoxygenase-independent metabolite of 5-HpETE) was also pertussis toxin sensitive. These data suggest that a 5-lipoxygenase metabolite of AA, e.g., 5-HETE, is released from AA-treated cells to engage a plasma membrane-associated, pertussis toxin-sensitive, G protein-linked receptor, leading to activation of Erk and adhesion via the Raf-1/Mek signal transduction pathway.

Inflammatory Agonists Induce Cyclooxygenase Type 2 Expression by Human Neutrophils

The synthesis of prostanoids is regulated by cyclooxygenases (prostaglandin H synthases), which catalyze the conversion of arachidonic acid to PGH2. Cyclooxygenases are the target of aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents. In this study, we found that human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) express the inducible isoform of cyclooxygenase, COX-2, when stimulated by LPS whereas the protein was not detectable in freshly isolated human PMNs. We also found by immunohistochemical analysis that COX-2 is expressed in PMNs in inflamed human tissues. COX-2 was induced in a time- and concentration-dependent fashion when isolated human PMNs were exposed to LPS; COX-2 was also induced, or its expression was increased, by TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-8. Expression of COX-2 in stimulated PMNs was paralleled by secretion of PGE2. The release of PGE2 was blocked by a selective nonsteroidal inhibitor of COX-2, indicating that the enzyme is responsible for the prostanoids produced, and was inhibited by dexamethasone. The time course of LPS-induced COX-2 expression and other features were different in freshly isolated PMNs, monocytes, and macrophages, indicating that COX-2 expression is differentially regulated in myeloid cells of different lineages and degrees of maturation. Consistent with this, IL-4 and IL-10, which suppressed LPS-induced COX-2 expression in monocytes, had little effect on this response by PMNs. These experiments demonstrate that PMNs express COX-2 when appropriately stimulated. Thus, they may actively influence the eicosanoid composition of the acute inflammatory milieu.

Regulation by Interleukin-10 and Interleukin-4 of Cyclooxygenase-2 Expression in Human Neutrophils

Neutrophils are important effector cells of acute inflammation because of their potential capacity to synthesize various proinflammatory mediators, and inhibition of their production is expected to result in anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we investigate the effects of the anti-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin-10 (IL-10) and IL-4, on prostanoid synthesis in human neutrophils. Neutrophils isolated from healthy donors constitutively produced a small amount of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2 ) without any stimulations, whereas they produced a large amount of PGE2 after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation. IL-10 and IL-4 selectively inhibited their LPS-induced PGE2 production. Inhibition by both cytokines occurred at an early stage of LPS stimulation. Anti–IL-10 treatment of LPS-stimulated neutrophils resulted in enhanced PGE2 production. LPS-induced PGE2 and thromboxane B2 (TXB2 ) production in aspirin-treated neutrophils was significantly inhibited by IL-10, IL-4, and NS-398. Moreover, IL-10 and IL-4 inhibited LPS-induced cyclooxygenase (COX) activity in neutrophils. Western blot and immunocytochemical analysis showed that COX-2 protein was clearly induced in LPS-stimulated neutrophils and that its induction was inhibited by both IL-10 and IL-4. Moreover, both of these cytokines inhibited COX-2 mRNA expression in LPS-stimulated neutrophils. These results raise the possibility that these two cytokines may both offer potent clinical utility as anti-inflammatory agents in the future.

Regulation by Interleukin-10 and Interleukin-4 of Cyclooxygenase-2 Expression in Human Neutrophils

Neutrophils are important effector cells of acute inflammation because of their potential capacity to synthesize various proinflammatory mediators, and inhibition of their production is expected to result in anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we investigate the effects of the anti-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin-10 (IL-10) and IL-4, on prostanoid synthesis in human neutrophils. Neutrophils isolated from healthy donors constitutively produced a small amount of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2 ) without any stimulations, whereas they produced a large amount of PGE2 after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation. IL-10 and IL-4 selectively inhibited their LPS-induced PGE2 production. Inhibition by both cytokines occurred at an early stage of LPS stimulation. Anti–IL-10 treatment of LPS-stimulated neutrophils resulted in enhanced PGE2 production. LPS-induced PGE2 and thromboxane B2 (TXB2 ) production in aspirin-treated neutrophils was significantly inhibited by IL-10, IL-4, and NS-398. Moreover, IL-10 and IL-4 inhibited LPS-induced cyclooxygenase (COX) activity in neutrophils. Western blot and immunocytochemical analysis showed that COX-2 protein was clearly induced in LPS-stimulated neutrophils and that its induction was inhibited by both IL-10 and IL-4. Moreover, both of these cytokines inhibited COX-2 mRNA expression in LPS-stimulated neutrophils. These results raise the possibility that these two cytokines may both offer potent clinical utility as anti-inflammatory agents in the future.

Regulation of lysyl oxidase and cyclooxygenase expression in human lung fibroblasts: interactions among TGF-beta, IL-1 beta, and prostaglandin E

Prostaglandin E2, transforming growth factor-beta, and interleukin-1 beta variably regulate the expression of cyclooxygenase 1, cyclooxygenase 2, and lysyl oxidase in IMR90, human embryo lung fibroblasts. Prostaglandin E2 at 100 nM upregulates cyclooxygenase 1 mRNA by approximately three-fold while it downregulates lysyl oxidase mRNA levels. Notably, prostaglandin E2 suppresses the enhancing effect of TGF-beta on basal levels of lysyl oxidase mRNA. These changes in steady state mRNA levels reflect transcriptional level control, at least in part. Corresponding changes are seen in the protein levels of lysyl oxidase, cyclooxygenase 1 and cyclooxygenase 2 and catalytic activities of these enzymes, including net prostaglandin E2 synthesis. Cyclooxygenase 2 mRNA(t1/2, 30 min) is considerably less stable than that of cyclooxygenase 1 (t1/2, 4 h) while lysyl oxidase mRNA is unusually stable (t1/2 > 14 h). Taken together with the differing kinetics with which these genes respond to perturbation by these cytokines, the present results suggest a coordinated, autocrine-like mechanism of regulation of cyclooxygenase 1 and cyclooxygenase 2 and further point to the potential of their metabolic product, prostaglandin E2, to suppress the expression of lysyl oxidase in the inflammatory response to injury.

Effect of leflunomide on constitutive and inducible pathways of cellular eicosanoid generation

Leflunomide exerts its effects primarily via the immunomodulating and antiphlogistic activities of its major metabolite A 77 1726. Our investigation in several eicosanoid forming systems revealed that in human white blood cells the metabolite did not cause any alteration on Ca-ionophore stimulated metabolism of membrane bound arachidonic acid to cis-, trans- and epi-LTB4. Thus, the involved enzyme systems phospholipase A2, 5-lipoxygenase and LTA4-hydrolase can be ruled out as a target of the drug. However, in several cellular systems the drug weakly inhibited the generation of 5-HETE and LTB4 from exogenous arachidonic acid, possibly by interfering with the exogenous substrate's access to the 5-lipoxygenase. In order to get information about the cyclooxygenase (COX-2) which is inducible in human PMNL by inflammatory mediators via de novo protein biosynthesis, we activated the cells with LPS for 18 h. A 77 1726 and indomethacin had no influence on the enzyme activity of the newly induced COX-2. However, both drugs in low concentrations were able to blunt the long term activation process resulting in PGE2 generation. In contrast, the prostaglandins generated by constitutive enzymes (COX-1) are probably involved in maintaining vital functions, and their inhibition by indomethacin and other nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) account for numerous adverse effects, for instance gastric erosion. Our study revealed that leflunomide and A 77 1726 are not to be regarded as COX-1-inhibitors, and thus cannot be associated with the typical adverse effects of the NSAIDs.

Expression of the transforming growth factor-alpha gene by human eosinophils is regulated by interleukin-3, interleukin-5, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor

Transforming growth factor (TGF)-alpha is a pleiotropic polypeptide which mediates a variety of tissue-specific cellular responses such as induction of proliferation, cell migration, vascularization, and formation of extracellular matrix. TGF-alpha is produced by certain tumor cells and embryogenic tissues, as well as by normal cells of different origin. Within the granulocytic lineage, TGF-alpha production has been shown in promyelocytic leukemia cells induced to differentiate, as well as in blood eosinophils of patients with the idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome. The present study was carried out in order to examine expression of the TGF-alpha gene in polymorphonuclear (PMN) and mononuclear (MN) blood cells of normal healthy donors. While MN and neutrophilic PMN failed to synthesize TGF-alpha transcripts and protein, eosinophils constitutively exhibited TGF-alpha transcripts accompanied by the release of immunoreactive TGF-alpha protein. Exposure of PMN and MN cells to the leukocyte-activating cytokines interleukin (IL)-3, IL-5, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor resulted in a several-fold increase of TGF-alpha mRNA expression and protein release by eosinophils, but not by neutrophils and MN cells. PMN and MN were insensitive to induction of TGF-alpha release by IL-8 and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor. These results point to a functional role of eosinophils in disorders characterized by unbalanced TGF-alpha production such as disease states associated with abnormal matrix formation and neovascularization which may be explained by the present demonstration of TGF-alpha production in these cells.

Exogenous group II phospholipase A2 induces prostaglandin E2 production in mouse peritoneal macrophages

Cultures of mouse peritoneal resident macrophages produced prostaglandin E2 when exposed to extracellular group II phospholipase A2. The response to group II phospholipase A2 was concentration dependent, and prostaglandin E2 production in response to 1 microgram/ml purified group II enzyme was comparable to the maximal response elicited by lipopolysaccharide. Group II phospholipase A2 required millimolar concentrations of extracellular Ca2+ for the induction of prostaglandin E2 production, as well as for phospholipase A2 activity. YM-26734 (4-(3,5-didodecanoyl-2,4,6-trihydroxyphenyl)-7-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyph eny l) chroman), a selective inhibitor of group II phospholipase A2, inhibited not only the enzyme activity but also the prostaglandin E2 production-inducing activity of group II phospholipase A2 in a concentration-dependent manner. These findings suggest that group II phospholipase A2 released into the extracellular space may induce prostaglandin E2 production through hydrolysis of plasma membrane phospholipids. Taken together with the previous finding that YM-26734 suppressed inflammatory responses in vivo, these results suggest that group II phospholipase A2 may play a role in the excitation and/or progression of inflammatory processes through the production of eicosanoids.

Effect of E-type prostaglandins on bradykinin-induced plasma extravasation in the knee joint of the rat

We studied the effect of different E-type prostaglandins on an experimental model of inflammation in the rat. Plasma extravasation was induced in the knee joint of the rat by continuous perfusion of two potent inflammatory mediators, bradykinin (160 nM) or platelet activating factor. Both prostaglandin E1 and prostaglandin E2 (0.5-500 ng ml-1), when perfused with bradykinin, produced a similar dose-dependent enhancement of plasma extravasation. Prostaglandin E2 (0.5-500 ng ml-1) also dose dependently enhanced plasma extravasation induced by platelet activating factor, while prostaglandin E1 significantly enhanced platelet activating factor-induced plasma extravasation only at concentrations above 5 ng ml-1. In contrast, co-perfusion of bradykinin or platelet activating factor with the prostaglandin E1 analogues, enisoprost and misoprostol (0.5-500 ng ml-1) did not enhance plasma extravasation. In fact, misoprostol attenuated plasma extravasation induced by bradykinin. These results demonstrate that in the rat knee joint, misoprostol and enisoprost have different pharmacological actions compared to their parent compound, prostaglandin E1 and to prostaglandin E2.

Thromboxane and prostacyclin differentially regulate murine extracellular matrix gene expression

Alterations in the arachidonic acid metabolites thromboxane and prostacyclin are known to contribute to hemodynamic changes observed in certain models of acute and chronic renal failure. We have previously shown that thromboxane may have an important role in mediating glomerulosclerosis by stimulating the expression of certain extracellular matrix proteins. In the present study, we compared the effects of thromboxane and prostacyclin on the expression of genes encoding basement membrane proteins using a murine teratocarcinoma cell line, that when differentiated to an endodermal phenotype synthesizes abundant extracellular matrix. Incubation of these cells with stable analogs of thromboxane and prostacyclin for four hours resulted in changes in basement membrane gene expression. Thromboxane increased steady-state mRNA levels for all three laminin chains, type IV collagen, and fibronectin, but decreased the level of mRNA for heparan sulfate proteoglycan. In contrast, incubation with carbo-prostacyclin, a stable analog of prostacyclin, decreased the steady-state mRNA level for the laminin A and B1 chains, type IV collagen and fibronectin, and increased the mRNA level for heparan sulfate proteoglycan and laminin B2. Carbo-prostacyclin did not affect cellular proliferation or thymidine incorporation. These results indicate that eicosanoids directly modulate matrix gene expression independently of hemodynamic influence, and independently of effects mediated by platelets, or mitogenesis. Furthermore, these findings suggest that the alterations in renal eicosanoid metabolism may directly participate in the pathogenesis of glomerulosclerosis and thus provide a rationale for therapy directed toward the specific inhibition of thromboxane in the treatment of progressive glomerular sclerosis.

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha potentiates phospholipase A2-stimulated release and metabolism of arachidonic acid in cultured intestinal epithelial cells (INT 407)

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), a known pro-inflammatory cytokine, has been suggested to play a role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by mediating damage to the intestinal epithelial cells. The present study demonstrates that TNF-alpha potentiates release and metabolism of 14C-labeled arachidonic acid (14C-AA) in cultured intestinal epithelial cells (INT 407). Although TNF-alpha on its own was but a weak stimulator of cellular 14C-AA turnover, it significantly potentiated the release of 14C-AA and 14C-labeled prostaglandin E2(14C-PGE2) after stimulation with three known phospholipase A2 activators: phospholipase. C from Clostridium perfringens, the calcium ionophore A23187, and the phorbol ester 4-beta-phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA). The phospholipase A2 inhibitor quinacrine significantly reduced both AA and PGE2 release after combined stimulation with phospholipase C and TNF-alpha. In contrast to its effect on the AA turnover, TNF-alpha did not affect the phospholipase C-stimulated production of platelet-activating factor (PAF-acether). Taken together, these findings indicate that a) TNF-alpha potentiates phospholipase A2-stimulated AA release from cultured intestinal epithelial cells; b) TNF-alpha may stimulate phospholipase A2-dependent AA release without affecting the formation of PAF-acether and c) pretreatment with TNF-alpha potentiates the formation of PGE2 after stimulation with phospholipase A2 activators. In summary, the present investigation points to the possibility that TNF-alpha may stimulate intestinal epithelial cells to produce biologically active AA metabolites and that this stimulation may be modulated by components of the intestinal luminal content, like bacterial toxins.

Interactions between the monocyte/macrophage and the vascular smooth muscle cell. Stimulation of mitogenesis by a soluble factor and of prostanoid synthesis by cell-cell contact

The effect of soluble factors from the monocyte/macrophage (M phi) on cell proliferation and the functional effects of cell-cell contact on the arachidonic acid (AA) cascade were studied with vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Peripheral blood M phi s were isolated by adherence or in a Percoll gradient, and alveolar M phi s were obtained by lavage. Conditioned medium (CM) was prepared by preincubating M phi s with medium alone or by separating SMC and M phi cocultures by a membrane insert. Cell proliferation (image analysis) and 6-ketoprostaglandin F1 alpha (6-keto-PGF1 alpha, radioimmunoassay) were measured in SMCs. Labeled prostanoids and other eicosanoid metabolites were isolated by high-performance liquid chromatography from SMCs prelabeled with 14C-AA. M phi s did not synthesize 6-keto-PGF1 alpha. The CM enhanced proliferation but did not stimulate 6-keto-PGF1 alpha synthesis in SMCs. However, cell-cell contact in cocultures of SMCs with the same concentration of M phi s used to generate CM resulted in increased 6-keto-PGF1 alpha synthesis by SMCs. Since the stimulatory effect of cell contact was not blocked by butylated hydroxytoluene, it could not be attributed to an oxidative burst from M phi s. Functional studies showed that the stimulatory effect of cell contact was enhanced by exogenous free AA and by endogenous AA release through A23187. Release of total radioactivity from prelabeled SMCs was enhanced by cell contact, and this effect was blocked by indomethacin (IM). Cell contact did not increase the release of free AA from prelabeled SMCs, even in the presence of IM. Finally, cell contact only stimulated the formation of prostanoids (IM-sensitive eicosanoid metabolites) from prelabeled SMCs. Lipoxygenase and other products of AA were not formed through cell-cell contact. These data showed that M phi s express a soluble factor that enhances SMC proliferation without affecting prostanoid synthesis. Subsequent cell contact between SMCs and M phi s stimulates prostanoid synthesis, which may possibly serve as a local and focal homeostatic mechanism for the regulation of uncontrolled SMC proliferation in atherogenesis.

Poly's lament: the neglected role of the polymorphonuclear neutrophil in the afferent limb of the immune response

The polymorphonuclear leucocyte (PMN) has traditionally been thought to participate in the inflammatory response only as an effector cell. However, recent data demonstrate that PMNs can synthesize and release cytokines, such as IL-1, TNF-alpha and IL-6, and hence modulate both T- and B-cell activities in the evolution of an immune response.

Regulation of prostaglandin secretion from epithelial and stromal cells of the bovine endometrium by interleukin-1 beta, interleukin-2, granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor and tumor necrosis factor-alpha

Bovine endometrium was obtained on day 16 of pregnancy (estrus = 0) and separated into epithelial and stromal cell populations. When confluent, the two cell populations were treated for 24 h with cytokines at 1, 10 and 100 ng/ml. Prostaglandin (PG) E2 was the major prostaglandin produced by both cell types. For control cultures, more PGE2 was secreted into medium by stromal cells than by epithelial cells, whereas secretion of PGF was similar for epithelial and stromal cells. Interleukin-1 beta had no effect on prostaglandin production by stromal cell cultures but increased epithelial production of PGE2 and, to a lesser extent, PGF. Conversely, granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor had no effect on epithelial cells but reduced secretion of PGE2 and PGF from stromal cells. There were no effects of interleukin-2 or tumor necrosis factor-alpha on prostaglandin secretion. Results indicate that certain cytokines can regulate endometrial prostaglandin secretion in a cell type-restricted manner.