NOX enzymes: potential target for the treatment of acute lung injury

Suppression of NOX2-Derived Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) Reduces Epithelial-to-MesEnchymal Transition Through Blocking SiO2-Regulated JNK Activation

(1) Background: Silicosis, a chronic lung fibrosis disorder triggered by the accumulation of silica dust in the deep lung regions, is characterized by intricate molecular mechanisms. Among these, the NOX2 (NADPH oxidase 2) and JNK (C-Jun N-terminal kinase) signaling pathways play pivotal roles in the progression of pulmonary fibrosis. Despite their significance, the precise mechanisms underlying the crosstalk between these pathways remain largely unexplored. (2) Methods: To unravel these interactions, we examined the interplay between JNK and NOX2 in human epithelial cells subjected to silica dust exposure through in vivo assays, followed by validation using single-cell sequencing. Our findings consistently revealed elevated expression levels of key components from both the JNK signaling pathway and NOX2 in the lungs of silicosis-induced mice and silica-treated human epithelial cells. (3) Results: Notably, the activation of these pathways was linked to increased ROS (reactive oxygen species) production, elevated levels of profibrogenic factors, and diminished cell proliferation in silica-exposed human lung epithelial cells. Further mechanistic analyses demonstrated that JNK signaling amplifies NOX2 expression and ROS production induced by silica exposure, while treatment with the JNK inhibitor SP600125 mitigates these effects. Conversely, overexpression of NOX2 enhanced silica-induced JNK activation and the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related factors, whereas NOX2 knockdown exerted the opposite effect. These results suggest a positive feedback loop between JNK and NOX2 signaling, which may drive EMT in lung epithelial cells following silica exposure. (4) Conclusions: This reciprocal interaction appears to play a critical role in lung epithelial cell damage and the pathogenesis of silicosis, shedding light on the molecular mechanisms underlying profibrogenic disease and offering potential avenues for therapeutic intervention.

Involvement of PRDX6 in the protective role of MANF in acute lung injury in rats

Aim/Purpose of the study: Acute lung injury (ALI) is a severe respiratory disease with high mortality, mainly due to overactivated oxidative stress and subsequent pyroptosis. Mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factor (MANF), an inducible secretory endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress protein, inhibits lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI). However, the exact molecular mechanism remains unclear. Peroxiredoxin 6 (PRDX6), a peroxidase with a dual enzymatic function, is essential in regulating oxidative stress, which is closely associated with ALI. Furthermore, PRDX6 is an interacting protein of MANF. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the role of PRDX6 in the protective effect of MANF on ALI.

Materials and Methods: In this study, we used LPS to establish the LPS-induced ALI model. Recombinant human MANF was administrated to wide-type (WT) and PRDX6 knockout (PRDX6-/-) rats.

Results: In WT rats, MANF reversed the increases of PRDX6, ROS overgeneration, and pyroptosis-related protein-Gasdermin D (GSDMD) induced by LPS challenge. In PRDX6-/- rats, ROS generation, the protein level of GSDMD-N, and lung injury were not significantly decreased after human recombinant MANF administration in LPS-induced ALI.

Conclusions: PRDX6 is involved in the protective role of MANF on ALI. It is a key target molecule for MANF to exert ALI inhibitory effects.

Mechanisms of Sepsis-Induced Acute Lung Injury and Advancements of Natural Small Molecules in Its Treatment

Sepsis-induced acute lung injury (ALI), characterized by widespread lung dysfunction, is associated with significant morbidity and mortality due to the lack of effective pharmacological treatments available clinically. Small-molecule compounds derived from natural products represent an innovative source and have demonstrated therapeutic potential against sepsis-induced ALI. These natural small molecules may provide a promising alternative treatment option for sepsis-induced ALI. This review aims to summarize the pathogenesis of sepsis and potential therapeutic targets. It assembles critical updates (from 2014 to 2024) on natural small molecules with therapeutic potential against sepsis-induced ALI, detailing their sources, structures, effects, and mechanisms of action.

Guben Qingfei decoction attenuates LPS-induced acute lung injury by modulating the TLR4/NF-κB and Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathways

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a life-threatening and widespread disease, with exceptionally high morbidity and mortality rates. Unfortunately, effective drugs for ALI treatment are currently lacking. Guben Qingfei decoction (GBQF) is a Chinese herbal compound known for its efficacy in treating viral pneumonia, yet the precise underlying mechanisms remain unknown.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to validate the mitigating effect of GBQF on ALI and to further investigate its mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An ALI mice model was established by infusing LPS into the endotracheal tube. The effects of GBQF on ALI were investigated by measuring lung W/D; MPO; BALF total protein concentration; total number of cells; TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels; pathological changes in lung tissue, and oxidation products. Immunohistochemistry and Western Blotting were performed to verify the underlying mechanisms. MH-S and BEAS-2B cells were induced by LPS, and the effects of GBQF were confirmed by RT-PCR and immunofluorescence.

RESULTS

GBQF significantly reduced LPS-induced ALI in mice, improved lung inflammation, reduced the production of oxidative products, increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes, and reduced the degree of lung tissue damage. GBQF prevents MH-S cells from releasing inflammatory factors and reduces oxidative damage to BEAS-2B cells. In vivo studies have delved deeper into the mechanism of action of GBQF, revealing its correlation with the TLR4/NF-κB and Keap1/Nrf2 pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates that GBQF is an effective treatment for ALI, providing a new perspective on medication development for ALI treatment.

Protective effects of Prussian blue nanozyme against sepsis-induced acute lung injury by activating HO-1

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition involving dysfunctional organ responses stemming from dysregulated host immune reactions to various infections. The lungs are most prone to failure during sepsis, resulting in acute lung injury (ALI). ALI is associated with oxidative stress and inflammation, and current therapeutic strategies are limited. To develop a more specific treatment, this study aimed to synthesise Prussian blue nanozyme (PBzyme), which can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, to alleviate ALI. PBzyme with good biosafety was synthesised using a modified hydrothermal method. PBzyme was revealed to be an activator of haem oxygenase-1 (HO-1), improving survival rate and ameliorating lung injury in mice. Zinc protoporphyrin, an inhibitor of HO-1, inhibited the prophylactic therapeutic efficacy of PBzyme on ALI, and affected the nuclear factor-κB signaling pathway and activity of HO-1. This study demonstrates that PBzyme can alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation through HO-1 and has a prophylactic therapeutic effect on ALI. This provides a new strategy and direction for the clinical treatment of sepsis-induced ALI.

Signaling pathways and potential therapeutic targets in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a common condition associated with critically ill patients, characterized by bilateral chest radiographical opacities with refractory hypoxemia due to noncardiogenic pulmonary edema. Despite significant advances, the mortality of ARDS remains unacceptably high, and there are still no effective targeted pharmacotherapeutic agents. With the outbreak of coronavirus disease 19 worldwide, the mortality of ARDS has increased correspondingly. Comprehending the pathophysiology and the underlying molecular mechanisms of ARDS may thus be essential to developing effective therapeutic strategies and reducing mortality. To facilitate further understanding of its pathogenesis and exploring novel therapeutics, this review provides comprehensive information of ARDS from pathophysiology to molecular mechanisms and presents targeted therapeutics. We first describe the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of ARDS that involve dysregulated inflammation, alveolar-capillary barrier dysfunction, impaired alveolar fluid clearance and oxidative stress. Next, we summarize the molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways related to the above four aspects of ARDS pathophysiology, along with the latest research progress. Finally, we discuss the emerging therapeutic strategies that show exciting promise in ARDS, including several pharmacologic therapies, microRNA-based therapies and mesenchymal stromal cell therapies, highlighting the pathophysiological basis and the influences on signal transduction pathways for their use.

Complement as a vital nexus of the pathobiological connectome for acute respiratory distress syndrome: An emerging therapeutic target

The hallmark of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) pathobiology is unchecked inflammation-driven diffuse alveolar damage and alveolar-capillary barrier dysfunction. Currently, therapeutic interventions for ARDS remain largely limited to pulmonary-supportive strategies, and there is an unmet demand for pharmacologic therapies targeting the underlying pathology of ARDS in patients suffering from the illness. The complement cascade (ComC) plays an integral role in the regulation of both innate and adaptive immune responses. ComC activation can prime an overzealous cytokine storm and tissue/organ damage. The ARDS and acute lung injury (ALI) have an established relationship with early maladaptive ComC activation. In this review, we have collected evidence from the current studies linking ALI/ARDS with ComC dysregulation, focusing on elucidating the new emerging roles of the extracellular (canonical) and intracellular (non-canonical or complosome), ComC (complementome) in ALI/ARDS pathobiology, and highlighting complementome as a vital nexus of the pathobiological connectome for ALI/ARDS via its crosstalking with other systems of the immunome, DAMPome, PAMPome, coagulome, metabolome, and microbiome. We have also discussed the diagnostic/therapeutic potential and future direction of ALI/ARDS care with the ultimate goal of better defining mechanistic subtypes (endotypes and theratypes) through new methodologies in order to facilitate a more precise and effective complement-targeted therapy for treating these comorbidities. This information leads to support for a therapeutic anti-inflammatory strategy by targeting the ComC, where the arsenal of clinical-stage complement-specific drugs is available, especially for patients with ALI/ARDS due to COVID-19.

Time-Dependent Oxidative Alterations in Plasma and Lung Tissue after Meconium Aspiration in a Rabbit Model

Aspirated meconium into a newborn's airways induces the transcription of pro-oxidative mediators that cooperate in the pathogenesis of inflammatory changes and may negatively affect the commonly used exogenous surfactant therapy. However, inflammation is not treated at present, nor is the time dependence of oxidative damage known. The aim of our study was to describe the time course of oxidative stress marker production during meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) and its relationship to leukocyte infiltration. New Zealand rabbits were instilled with saline or meconium suspension and ventilated for 5.5 h. Respiratory parameters were recorded and blood samples were taken before meconium application and in time intervals of 15 and 30 min, 1.0, 1.5, 3.5 and 5.5 h after application to evaluate oxidative markers and differential leukocytes count. Meconium aspiration led to a worsening of respiratory parameters and a decrease in leukocytes in the first 15 min. Changes in leukocytes were correlated both with nitrotyrosine (3NT) levels and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) levels, with the latter also related to changes in neutrophil count. The production of 3NT and TBARS increased in 1.5 and 3.5 h, respectively, in different ways, suggesting more than one source of oxidative agents and a potential risk of exogenous surfactant inactivation in a short time. We observed that MAS triggered neutrophil migration to the alveolar space and activation, as shown by the increased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and generation of indicators of oxidative damage to proteins and lipids during the time period when iNOS and NO metabolites were released.

Effects of Corilagin on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Lung Injury via Regulation of NADPH Oxidase 2 and ERK/NF-κB Signaling Pathways in a Mouse Model

Acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome are clinically life-threatening diseases. Corilagin, a major polyphenolic compound obtained from the herb Phyllanthus urinaria, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and in this study, we sought to evaluate the protective effects and mechanisms of corilagin on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI in mice. ALI was induced in the mice by the intratracheal administration of LPS, and following 30 min of LPS challenge, corilagin (5 and 10 mg/kg body weight) was administered intraperitoneally. At 6 h post-LPS administration, lung tissues were collected for analysis. Corilagin treatment significantly attenuated inflammatory cell infiltration, the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, and oxidative stress in lung tissues. In addition, corilagin inhibited the LPS-induced expression of NOX2, ERK, and NF-κB. Corilagin has anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects, and can effectively reduce ALI via attenuation of the NOX2 and ERK/NF-κB signaling pathways.

Polyphenols-Rich Fraction from Annona muricata Linn. Leaves Attenuates Oxidative and Inflammatory Responses in Neutrophils, Macrophages, and Experimental Lung Injury

Annona muricata Linn. is a common plant found in the warmest regions of South and Central America and its use in traditional medicine has been reported for the treatment of various illnesses. In the current study, we investigate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of crude extract and fractions from A. muricata L. leaves in isolated murine phagocytic immune cells as well as experimental LPS-induced acute lung injury (ALI). In a luminol-dependent chemiluminescence assay, we showed that ethyl acetate (EtOAc.f) and n-butanol (BuOH.f) fractions—both rich in polyphenols—reduced the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by neutrophils stimulated with opsonized zymosan; similar results were found in culture of bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs). By evaluating anti-inflammatory activity in BMDMs, EtOAc.f and BuOH.f reduced secretion of IL-6 and expression of the co-stimulatory molecule CD40. Furthermore, in LPS-induced ALI, oral administration of EtOAc.f reduced myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in lung tissue. In addition, on a mechanism dependent on glutathione levels, the oxidative damage was also attenuated. These findings revealed direct antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of polyphenols-rich fractions of A. muricata L. leaves on neutrophils and macrophages. Moreover, the reduced oxidative damage and levels of inflammatory markers in experimental ALI suggest that these fractions might be explored for the development of new therapies for inflammatory conditions.

Profiling Distinctive Inflammatory and Redox Responses to Hydrogen Sulfide in Stretched and Stimulated Lung Cells

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) protects against stretch-induced lung injury. However, the impact of H2S on individual cells or their crosstalk upon stretch remains unclear. Therefore, we addressed this issue in vitro using relevant lung cells. We have explored (i) the anti-inflammatory properties of H2S on epithelial (A549 and BEAS-2B), macrophage (RAW264.7) and endothelial (HUVEC) cells subjected to cycling mechanical stretch; (ii) the intercellular transduction of inflammation by co-culturing epithelial cells and macrophages (A549 and RAW264.7); (iii) the effect of H2S on neutrophils (Hoxb8) in transmigration (co-culture setup with HUVECs) and chemotaxis experiments. In stretched epithelial cells (A549, BEAS-2B), the release of interleukin-8 was not prevented by H2S treatment. However, H2S reduced macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2) release from unstretched macrophages (RAW264.7) co-cultured with stretched epithelial cells. In stretched macrophages, H2S prevented MIP-2 release by limiting nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase-derived superoxide radicals (ROS). In endothelial cells (HUVEC), H2S inhibited interleukin-8 release and preserved endothelial integrity. In neutrophils (Hoxb8), H2S limited MIP-2-induced transmigration through endothelial monolayers, ROS formation and their chemotactic movement. H2S induces anti-inflammatory effects in a cell-type specific manner. H2S limits stretch- and/or paracrine-induced inflammatory response in endothelial, macrophage, and neutrophil cells by maintaining redox homeostasis as underlying mechanism.

Protective effect and mechanism of loganin and morroniside on acute lung injury and pulmonary fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Loganin and morroniside are two iridoid glycosides with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-tumor effects. Whether they have effect on acute lung injury and pulmonary fibrosis are still unknown.

PURPOSE

To explore the potential effects of loganin and morroniside against acute lung cancer and pulmonary fibrosis, and the underlying molecular mechanism.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Cell and animal models of acute lung injury were established by the induction of LPS. After intervention with loganin and morroniside, the pathological symptom of lung tissue was assessed, pro-inflammatory factors in cells and lung tissues were detected, NF- κB/STAT3 signaling pathway related proteins were detected by western blotting. Mice pulmonary fibrosis model was induced by bleomycin, pathological symptom was assessed by HE and Masson staining. Fibrosis related indicators were detected by qPCR or western blot. CD4+/CD8+ was detected by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Loganin and morroniside relieved the pathological symptom of lung tissue in acute lung injury, pro-inflammatory factors such as IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α mRNA were inhibited. Expression of p-p65 and STAT3 in lung tissues were also downregulated. In addition, loganin and morroniside downregulated the expression of collagen fiber, hydroxyproline and TGF-β1, collagen I and α-SMA mRNA in lung tissues of pulmonary fibrosis model. This study proved that loganin and morroniside have protective effect on acute lung injury and pulmonary fibrosis, and may provide theoretical basis for the development of new clinical drugs.

Oridonin attenuates LPS-induced early pulmonary fibrosis by regulating impaired autophagy, oxidative stress, inflammation and EMT

CONTEXT

Oridonin (Ori) possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antitumor properties. However, the effects of Ori on Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced early pulmonary fibrosis remain unclear.

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the protective effects of Ori on the mice model of pulmonary fibrosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The BALB/C mice were given LPS (1 mg/kg) or Ori (20 mg/kg) according to experimental grouping. Then the left lung tissues were used for HE, immunohistochemical and Masson staining, and the right lung tissues were used for hydroxyproline measurement and western blot experiments. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was collected for Giemsa staining.

RESULTS

The high levels of hydroxyproline induced by LPS were reduced by Ori treatment. Immunohistochemical staining and western blot analysis showed that Ori inhibited the increased levels of fibrosis-related proteins (α-smooth muscle actin, transforming growth factor-β, Collagen Ⅰ and phosphorylated-smad). Additionally, Ori treatment increased E-cadherin levels and decreased in Snail and Slug levels. Besides, Ori could suppress LPS-induced the infiltration of neutrophils and activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. In addition, LPS caused the upregulation of NADPH oxidase 4 and exacerbated lung fibrosis. As the activator of NF-E2 related factor-2, Ori exerted protective effects in this animal model. Moreover, Ori reversed the LPS-triggered increases in Beclin-1, P62/sequestosome 1, autophagy related 3 and LC3.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggested that Ori protected against LPS-induced early pulmonary fibrosis by inhibiting NLRP3-dependent inflammation, NADPH oxidase 4-dependent oxidative stress, the impaired autophagy and epithelial mesenchymal transformation.

Oxidative Stress-Related Mechanisms in SARS-CoV-2 Infections

The COVID-19 pandemic caused relatively high mortality in patients, especially in those with concomitant diseases (i.e., diabetes, hypertension, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)). In most of aforementioned comorbidities, the oxidative stress appears to be an important player in their pathogenesis. The direct cause of death in critically ill patients with COVID-19 is still far from being elucidated. Although some preliminary data suggests that the lung vasculature injury and the loss of the functioning part of pulmonary alveolar population are crucial, the precise mechanism is still unclear. On the other hand, at least two classes of medications used with some clinical benefits in COVID-19 treatment seem to have a major influence on ROS (reactive oxygen species) and RNS (reactive nitrogen species) production. However, oxidative stress is one of the important mechanisms in the antiviral immune response and innate immunity. Therefore, it would be of interest to summarize the data regarding the oxidative stress in severe COVID-19. In this review, we discuss the role of oxidative and antioxidant mechanisms in severe COVID-19 based on available studies. We also present the role of ROS and RNS in other viral infections in humans and in animal models. Although reactive oxygen and nitrogen species play an important role in the innate antiviral immune response, in some situations, they might have a deleterious effect, e.g., in some coronaviral infections. The understanding of the redox mechanisms in severe COVID-19 disease may have an impact on its treatment.

NR4A1 Promotes LPS-Induced Acute Lung Injury through Inhibition of Opa1-Mediated Mitochondrial Fusion and Activation of PGAM5-Related Necroptosis

Mitochondrial dysfunction and necroptosis have been perceived as the primary molecular mechanisms underscoring acute lung injury. Meanwhile, nuclear receptor subfamily 4 group A member 1 (NR4A1) is considered a regulator of inflammation-related endothelial injury in lung tissue although the downstream molecular events remain elusive. In this study, we employed NR4A1-/- mice to decipher the role of NR4A1 in the onset and progression of acute lung injury with a focus on mitochondrial damage and necroptosis. Our results demonstrated that NR4A1 was significantly upregulated in lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) treated lung tissues. Knockout of NR4A1 overtly improved lung tissue morphology, inhibited inflammation, and reduced oxidative stress in LPS-treated lung tissue. A cell signaling study suggested that NR4A1 deletion repressed levels of PGAM5 and attenuated LPS-mediated necroptosis in primary murine alveolar epithelial type II (ATII) cells, the effects of which were mitigated by PGAM5 overexpression. Moreover, LPS-mediated mitochondrial injury including mitochondrial membrane potential collapse and mitochondrial oxidative stress was drastically improved by NR4A1 deletion. Furthermore, NR4A1 deletion preserved mitochondrial homeostasis through activation of Opa1-related mitochondrial fusion. Silencing of Opa1 triggered mitochondrial dysfunction in NR4A1-deleted ATII cells. Taken together, our data identified NR4A1 as a novel regulator of LPS-related acute lung injury through regulation of mitochondrial fusion and necroptosis, indicating therapeutic promises of targeting NR4A1 in the treatment of acute lung injury in clinical practice.

Friend or Foe? The Roles of Antioxidants in Acute Lung Injury

Acute lung injury (ALI) is an acute hypoxic respiratory insufficiency caused by various intra- and extra-pulmonary injury factors. The oxidative stress caused by excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced in the lungs plays an important role in the pathogenesis of ALI. ROS is a "double-edged sword", which is widely involved in signal transduction and the life process of cells at a physiological concentration. However, excessive ROS can cause mitochondrial oxidative stress, leading to the occurrence of various diseases. It is well-known that antioxidants can alleviate ALI by scavenging ROS. Nevertheless, more and more studies found that antioxidants have no significant effect on severe organ injury, and may even aggravate organ injury and reduce the survival rate of patients. Our study introduces the application of antioxidants in ALI, and explore the mechanisms of antioxidants failure in various diseases including it.

Nuclear factor-kappaB regulates the transcription of NADPH oxidase 1 in human alveolar epithelial cells

Objective

Acute lung injury (ALI) is characterized by inflammation and oxidative stress. Nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) mediates the expression of various inflammation-related genes, including the NADPH oxidase family. This study aimed to identify the potential regulatory role of NF-κB on NADPH oxidases in tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-induced oxidative stress in human alveolar epithelial cells.

Methods

A549 cells were treated with TNF-α for 24 h to establish ALI cell models. RT-PCR, western blot, assessment of oxidative stress, Alibaba 2.1 online analysis, electrophoretic mobility shift assays and luciferase reporter analysis were employed to identify the potential regulatory role of NF-κB on NADPH oxidases in TNF-α-induced oxidative stress in human alveolar epithelial cells.

Results

The expression of NF-κB/p65 was notably upregulated in TNF-α-stimulated A549 cells. NF-κB knockdown by siRNA significantly inhibited the TNF-α-induced oxidative stress. Moreover, NF-κB/p65 siRNA could inhibit the activation of NOX1, NOX2 and NOX4 mRNA and protein expression in TNF-α-stimulated A549 cells. The next study demonstrated that NF-κB activated the transcription of NOX1 by binding to the -261 to -252 bp (NOX1/κB2, TAAAAATCCC) region of NOX1 promoter in TNF-α-stimulated A549 cells.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrated that NF-κB can aggravate TNF-α-induced ALI by regulating the oxidative stress response and the expression of NOX1, NOX2 and NOX4. Moreover, NF-κB could promote the NOX1 transcriptional activity via binding its promoter in TNF-α-stimulated A549 cells.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12890-021-01464-z.

Astragaloside IV alleviates PM2.5-induced lung injury in rats by modulating TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signalling pathway

OBJECTIVE

Astragaloside IV (AS IV) is antioxidant and anti-inflammatory product, which is extracted from the Chinese herb Astragalus membranaceus. It is widely used in a variety of inflammatory diseases. The research was to explored the protective effects of AS IV against lung injury induced by particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) in vivo.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Thirty-five male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups (n=7 per group). (1) Normal saline group (NS), (2) AS IV group (AS) (100 mg/kg), (3) PM2.5 group (PM2.5), (4) PM2.5 + AS IV group (ASL) (50 mg/kg), and (5) PM2.5 + AS IVgroup (ASH) (100 mg/kg). Rats were pre-treated with AS IV intraperitoneally (50 and 100 mg/kg/day) for three days. Then, PM2.5 (7.5 mg/kg) was given by intratracheal instillation to induce lung injury. Six hours after PM2.5 stimulation, the rats were euthanized. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was collected for assay of cytokines. Lung tissue was collected for oxidative stress, histology, immunohistochemistry, transmission electron microscope, and western blot analyses.

RESULTS

AS IV alleviated PM2.5-induced lung injury by decreasing lung dry-wet ratio, reducing the level of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and C-reactive protein (CRP) in BALF, and reduced oxidative stress response in lung tissue. Western blot results revealed that AS-IV regulated the expression of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway proteins in lung tissues.

CONCLUSION

AS IV mitigated PM2.5 induced lung injury by regulating the activity of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signalling pathway, reducing inflammatory and oxidative stress responses.

Protective Effects of Kirenol against Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Lung Injury through the Modulation of the Proinflammatory NFκB Pathway and the AMPK2-/Nrf2-Mediated HO-1/AOE Pathway

Acute lung injury (ALI) is an acute and life-threatening inflammatory disease of the lung parenchyma that is associated with high mortality worldwide. No therapeutic strategies have been developed for the mitigation of the proinflammatory response that characterizes ALI. Kirenol has anti-inflammatory, antiarthritic, and immunoregulatory effects. In the present study, we investigated the protective effects of kirenol against lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced ALI in mice. Kirenol reduced the LPS-induced histopathology changes involving edema and thickening of the interstitial or alveolar walls, infiltration of leukocytes, formation of hyaline membrane. Pretreatment with kirenol reduced leukocytes infiltration in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), the alveolar-capillary barrier disruption and lipid peroxidation in lung tissues induced by LPS. Kirenol significantly inhibited the secretion of cytokines, IL-1β, IL6, and TNFα, into the BALF of the mice with LPS-induced ALI through NFκB activation. Moreover, kirenol attenuated the downregulation of the antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase that was induced by LPS. HO-1 expression and the phosphorylation of Nrf2 and AMPK2 were also induced by kirenol. The results indicate that kirenol can be developed as a treatment strategy for ALI, and its effects are induced through the inhibition of the NF-κB proinflammatory pathway and promotion of AMPK2/Nrf2-mediated HO-1 and antioxidant enzymes (AOE) activation.

Flavonoids isolated from loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) leaves inhibit oxidative stress and inflammation induced by cigarette smoke in COPD mice: the role of TRPV1 signaling pathways

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic, progressive lung disease with few successful treatments, and is strongly associated with cigarette smoking (CS). Since the novel coronavirus has spread worldwide seriously, there is growing concern that patients who have chronic respiratory conditions like COPD can easily be infected and are more prone to having severe illness and even mortality because of lung dysfunction. Loquat leaves have long been used as an important material for both pharmaceutical and functional applications in the treatment of lung disease in Asia, especially in China and Japan. Total flavonoids (TF), the main active components derived from loquat leaves, showed remarkable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. However, their protective activity against CS-induced COPD airway inflammation and oxidative stress and its underlying mechanism still remain not well-understood. The present study uses a CS-induced mouse model to estimate the morphological changes in lung tissue. The results demonstrated that TF suppressed the histological changes in the lungs of CS-challenged mice, as evidenced by reduced generation of pro-inflammatory cytokines including interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), nitric oxide (NO), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and diminished the protein expression of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1). Moreover, TF also inhibited phosphorylation of IKK, IκB and NFκB and increased p-Akt. Interestingly, TF could inhibit CS-induced oxidative stress in the lungs of COPD mice. TF treatment significantly inhibited the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD). In addition, TF markedly downregulated TRPV1 and cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) and upregulated the expression of SOD-2, while the p-JNK level was observed to be inhibited in COPD mice. Taken together, our findings showed that the protective effect and putative mechanism of the action of TF resulted in the inhibition of inflammation and oxidative stress through the regulation of TRPV1 and the related signal pathway in lung tissues. It suggested that TF derived from loquat leaves could be considered to be an alternative or a new functional material and used for the treatment of CS-induced COPD.

Effects of nitric oxide donor on the lung functions in a saline lavage-induced model of ARDS

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is characterized by acute hypoxemia, neutrophil-mediated inflammation, and lung edema formation. Whereas lung damage might be alleviated by nitric oxide (NO), goal of this study was to evaluate if intratracheal NO donor S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP) can positively influence the lung functions in experimental model of ARDS. New Zealand rabbits with respiratory failure induced by saline lavage (30 ml/kg, 9+/-3 times) were divided into: ARDS group without therapy, ARDS group treated with SNAP (7 mg/kg i.t.), and healthy Control group. During 5 h of ventilation, respiratory parameters (blood gases, ventilatory pressures) were estimated. After anesthetics overdosing, left lung was saline-lavaged and cell count, cell viability and protein content in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were measured. Right lung tissue was used for estimation of wet/dry weight ratio, concentration of NO metabolites, and histomorphological investigation. Repetitive lung lavage induced lung injury, worsened gas exchange, and damaged alveolar-capillary membrane. Administration of SNAP reduced cell count in BALF, lung edema formation, NO metabolites, and histopathological signs of injury, and improved respiratory parameters. Treatment with intratracheal SNAP alleviated lung injury and edema and improved lung functions in a saline-lavaged model of ARDS suggesting a potential of NO donors also for patients with ARDS.

Inhibition of LPS-induced Nox2 activation by VAS2870 protects alveolar epithelial cells through eliminating ROS and restoring tight junctions

Inhibiting the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in alveolar epithelial cells (AECs) under oxidative distress becomes a new therapeutic strategy for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Herein in the present study, we investigated effects of Nox2, the catalytic subunit of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase type 2, on LPS-induced epithelium injury in ARDS mice and in human alveolar epithelial A549 cells. Severe lung injury, disruption of alveolar-capillary barrier with the loss of zonula occluden (ZO)-1 and up-regulated expression of Nox2 in AECs were exhibited in ARDS mice. In vitro, LPS induced decreased cell viability coupled with activated Nox2, high level of ROS, and destroyed ZO-1 distribution. Moreover, VAS2870 proved to inhibit Nox2 expression, reduce ROS generation, restore epithelium barrier integrity, and preserve cell viability in LPS-induced A549 cells. These data demonstrate that Nox2/ROS/ZO-1 axis is of great importance in AECs damage induced by LPS, and the utilization of VAS2870 to inhibit this pathway might lighten LPS-induced ARDS.

Protective Effect of Jianpiyifei II Granule against Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease via NF-κB Signaling Pathway

Jianpiyifei II granule (JPYF II) is an oriental herbal formula used clinically in China to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The aim of the present study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidative activities of JPYF II in a mouse model of COPD induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and cigarette smoke (CS) and in RAW264.7 cells stimulated with cigarette smoke extract (CSE). Mice were given LPS via intratracheal instillation on days 1 and 15 and exposed to CS generated from 4 cigarettes/day for 28 days. The mice were treated with 0.75, 1.5, or 3 g/kg/d JPYF II by intragastric administration in low, middle, and high dose groups, respectively, for two weeks. RAW264.7 cells were stimulated by CSE and treated with JPYF II at doses of 12.5, 25, or 50 μg/mL. In the mouse model of LPS and CS-induced COPD, JPYF II decreased inflammatory cell counts in broncho alveolar lavage fluid (BALF), in addition to mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines and metalloproteinases (MMPs) in lung tissues. In addition, JPYF II elevated catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities and reduced the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and IκBα and p65 phosphorylation and inflammatory cell infiltration in the lung tissues. In RAW264.7 cells stimulated with CSE, JPYF II inhibited the mRNA levels of inflammatory mediators and the phosphorylation of IκBα and p65. Our results suggest that JPYF II enhanced anti-inflammatory and antioxidative activities in a mouse model of COPD induced by LPS and CS and in RAW264.7 cells stimulated with CSE via inhibition of the NF-κB pathway.

Cordycepin alleviates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury via Nrf2/HO-1 pathway

AIMS

The present study is to investigate the protective effect of cordycepin on inflammatory reactions in rats with acute lung injury (ALI) induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), as well as the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

Wistar rat model of ALI was induced by intravenous injection of LPS (30 mg/kg body weight). One hour later, intravenous injection of cordycepin (1, 10 or 30 mg/kg body weight) was administered. The wet-to-dry weight ratio of lung tissues and myeloperoxidase activity in the lung tissues were measured. The contents of nitrite and nitrate were measured by reduction method, while chemiluminescence was used to determine the content of superoxide. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting were used to determine the expression of mRNA and protein, respectively. Colorimetry was performed to determine the enzymatic activity of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Nuclear translocation of Nrf2 was identified by Western blotting. The plasma contents of cytokines were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

Cordycepin enhanced the expression and enzymatic activity of HO-1 in ALI rats, and activated Nrf2 by inducing the translocation of Nrf2 from cytoplasm to nucleus. In addition, cordycepin regulated the secretion of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-10 via HO-1, and suppressed inflammation in lung tissues of ALI rats by inducing the expression of HO-1. HO-1 played important roles in the down-regulation of superoxide levels in lung tissues by cordycepin, and HO-1 expression induced by cordycepin affected nitrite and nitrate concentrations in plasma and iNOS protein expression in lung tissues. Cordycepin showed protective effect on injuries in lung tissues.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrates that cordycepin alleviates inflammation induced by LPS via the activation of Nrf2 and up-regulation of HO-1 expression.

Hydrogen Sulfide Exerts Anti-oxidative and Anti-inflammatory Effects in Acute Lung Injury

Acute lung injury (ALI) caused by septic stimuli is still a major problem in critical care patients. We have shown previously that hydrogen sulfide (H2S) mediates anti-inflammatory and lung protective effects. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the underlying mechanisms. C57BL/6N mice were instilled with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) intranasally in the absence or presence of inhaled H2S for 6 h. LPS instillation led to alveolar wall thickening, an elevated ALI score, increased neutrophil transmigration, and elevated interleukin-1β cytokine release into the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. In contrast, H2S inhalation prevented lung injury and inflammation despite LPS treatment. Moreover, H2S inhalation significantly inhibited protein expression of cystathionine-β-synthetase, heat shock protein 70, phosphorylated p38 MAP kinase, NADPH oxidase 2, and the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in LPS-challenged animals. In conclusion, H2S prevents LPS-induced ALI by inhibition of pro-inflammatory and oxidative responses via the concerted attenuation of stress protein, MAP kinase, and ROS signaling pathways.

Sulphur dioxide suppresses inflammatory response by sulphenylating NF-κB p65 at Cys38 in a rat model of acute lung injury

The present study was designed to investigate whether endogenous sulphur dioxide (SO2) controlled pulmonary inflammation in a rat model of oleic acid (OA)-induced acute lung injury (ALI). In this model, adenovirus expressing aspartate aminotransferase (AAT) 1 was delivered to the lungs, and the levels of SO2 and proinflammatory cytokines in rat lung tissues were measured. In the human alveolar epithelial cell line A549, the nuclear translocation and DNA binding activities of wild-type (wt) and C38S (cysteine-to-serine mutation at p65 Cys38) NF-κB p65 were detected. GFP-tagged C38S p65 was purified from HEK 293 cells and the sulphenylation of NF-κB p65 was studied. OA caused a reduction in SO2/AAT pathway activity but increased pulmonary inflammation and ALI. However, either the presence of SO2 donor, a combination of Na2SO3 and NaHSO3, or AAT1 overexpression in vivo successfully blocked OA-induced pulmonary NF-κB p65 phosphorylation and consequent inflammation and ALI. Either treatment with an SO2 donor or overexpression of AAT1 down-regulated OA-induced p65 activity, but AAT1 knockdown in alveolar epithelial cells mimicked OA-induced p65 phosphorylation and inflammation in vitro. Mechanistically, OA promoted NF-κB nuclear translocation, DNA binding activity, recruitment to the intercellular cell adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 promoter, and consequent inflammation in epithelial cells; these activities were reduced in the presence of an SO2 donor. Furthermore, SO2 induced sulphenylation of p65, which was blocked by the C38S mutation on p65 in epithelial cells. Hence, down-regulation of SO2/AAT is involved in pulmonary inflammation during ALI. Furthermore, SO2 suppressed inflammation by sulphenylating NF-κB p65 at Cys38.

Cryopreserved, Xeno-Free Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Reduce Lung Injury Severity and Bacterial Burden in Rodent Escherichia coli-Induced Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Although mesenchymal stem/stromal cells represent a promising therapeutic strategy for acute respiratory distress syndrome, clinical translation faces challenges, including scarcity of bone marrow donors, and reliance on bovine serum during mesenchymal stem/stromal cell proliferation. We wished to compare mesenchymal stem/stromal cells from human umbilical cord, grown in xeno-free conditions, with mesenchymal stem/stromal cells from human bone marrow, in a rat model of Escherichia coli pneumonia. In addition, we wished to determine the potential for umbilical cord-mesenchymal stem/stromal cells to reduce E. coli-induced oxidant injury.

DESIGN

Randomized animal study.

SETTING

University research laboratory.

SUBJECTS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats.

INTERVENTIONS

Acute respiratory distress syndrome was induced in rats by intratracheal instillation of E. coli (1.5-2 × 10 CFU/kg). "Series 1" compared the effects of freshly thawed cryopreserved umbilical cord-mesenchymal stem/stromal cells with bone marrow-mesenchymal stem/stromal cells on physiologic indices of lung injury, cellular infiltration, and E. coli colony counts in bronchoalveolar lavage. "Series 2" examined the effects of cryopreserved umbilical cord-mesenchymal stem/stromal cells on survival, as well as measures of injury, inflammation and oxidant stress, including production of reactive oxidative species, reactive oxidative species scavenging by superoxide dismutase-1 and superoxide dismutase-2.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

In "Series 1," animals subjected to E. coli pneumonia who received umbilical cord-mesenchymal stem/stromal cells had improvements in oxygenation, respiratory static compliance, and wet-to-dry ratios comparable to bone marrow-mesenchymal stem/stromal cell treatment. E. coli colony-forming units in bronchoalveolar lavage were reduced in both cell therapy groups, despite a reduction in bronchoalveolar lavage neutrophils. In series 2, umbilical cord-mesenchymal stem/stromal cells enhanced animal survival and decreased alveolar protein and proinflammatory cytokine concentrations, whereas increasing interleukin-10 concentrations. Umbilical cord-mesenchymal stem/stromal cell therapy decreased nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-oxidase 2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase and enhanced lung concentrations of superoxide dismutase-2, thereby reducing lung tissue reactive oxidative species concentrations.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate that freshly thawed cryopreserved xeno-free human umbilical cord-mesenchymal stem/stromal cells reduce the severity of rodent E. coli-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome. Umbilical cord-mesenchymal stem/stromal cells, therefore, represent an attractive option for future clinical trials in acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Early application of low-dose glucocorticoid improves acute respiratory distress syndrome: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Previous clinical trials have investigated the effect of glucocorticoid therapy in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), with controversial results, particularly with regard to the early administration of low dose glucocorticoid. The present meta-analysis aimed to assess whether the application of glucocorticoid was able to reduce mortality in patients with ARDS. A literature search was performed using online databases, including MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane and CNKI regardless of whether the studies were published in English or Chinese. Following assessment via inclusion and exclusion criteria, two reviewers screened controlled randomized trials which investigated glucocorticoid therapy in ARDS patients and independently extracted data. The quality of all of the included trials was evaluated based on blinding, randomization and other methods. A total of 14 studies with 1,441 patients met the inclusion criteria. The results of the meta-analysis demonstrated that glucocorticoid significantly reduced the overall mortality of patients with ARDS [relative ratio (RR), 0.68; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.50-0.91; P<0.05], particularly with a low-dose of glucocorticoid (RR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.39-0.84; P<0.05) at the early phase of ARDS (RR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.16-0.86; P<0.05), and a longer duration of steroids (RR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.30-0.64; P<0.05). Administration of steroids also significantly increased the number of days that patients remained alive and were off mechanical ventilation (RR, 3.08; 95% CI, 1.49-4.68; P<0.05) without significantly increasing the novel infection rate (RR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.44-2.25; P<0.05). Due to inconsistencies and other limitations, the quality of the studies used for the meta-analysis of the effect of glucocorticoid on mortality was low. In conclusion, early use of low dose glucocorticoid may effectively reduce mortality in patients with ARDS. However, this conclusion may be affected by the limited quality of the studies included in the present meta-analysis.

Hydrogen Sulfide Prevents Formation of Reactive Oxygen Species through PI3K/Akt Signaling and Limits Ventilator-Induced Lung Injury

The development of ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI) is still a major problem in mechanically ventilated patients. Low dose inhalation of hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) during mechanical ventilation has been proven to prevent lung damage by limiting inflammatory responses in rodent models. However, the capacity of H₂S to affect oxidative processes in VILI and its underlying molecular signaling pathways remains elusive. In the present study we show that ventilation with moderate tidal volumes of 12 ml/kg for 6 h led to an excessive formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in mice lungs which was prevented by supplemental inhalation of 80 parts per million of H₂S. In addition, phosphorylation of the signaling protein Akt was induced by H₂S. In contrast, inhibition of Akt by LY294002 during ventilation reestablished lung damage, neutrophil influx, and proinflammatory cytokine release despite the presence of H₂S. Moreover, the ability of H₂S to induce the antioxidant glutathione and to prevent ROS production was reversed in the presence of the Akt inhibitor. Here, we provide the first evidence that H₂S-mediated Akt activation is a key step in protection against VILI, suggesting that Akt signaling limits not only inflammatory but also detrimental oxidative processes that promote the development of lung injury.

Dysregulated Nox4 ubiquitination contributes to redox imbalance and age-related severity of acute lung injury

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a devastating critical illness disproportionately affecting the elderly population, with both higher incidence and mortality. The integrity of the lung endothelial cell (EC) monolayer is critical for preservation of lung function. However, mechanisms mediating EC barrier regulation in the context of aging remain unclear. We assessed the severity of acute lung injury (ALI) in young (2 mo) and aged (18 mo) mice using a two-hit preclinical model. Compared with young cohorts, aged mice exhibited increased ALI severity, with greater vascular permeability characterized by elevated albumin influx and levels of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cells (neutrophils) and protein. Aged/injured mice also demonstrated elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the BAL, which was associated with upregulation of the ROS-generating enzyme, Nox4. We evaluated the role of aging in human lung EC barrier regulation utilizing a cellular model of replicative senescence. Senescent EC populations were defined by increases in β-galactosidase activity and p16 levels. In response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge, senescent ECs demonstrate exacerbated permeability responses compared with control "young" ECs. LPS challenge led to a rapid induction of Nox4 expression in both control and senescent ECs, which was posttranslationally mediated via the proteasome/ubiquitin system. However, senescent ECs demonstrated deficient Nox4 ubiquitination, resulting in sustained expression of Nox4 and alterations in cellular redox homeostasis. Pharmacological inhibition of Nox4 in senescent ECs reduced LPS-induced alterations in permeability. These studies provide insight into the roles of Nox4/senescence in EC barrier responses and offer a mechanistic link to the increased incidence and mortality of ARDS associated with aging.

Cdc42 regulates LPS-induced proliferation of primary pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells via ERK pathway

BACKGROUND

After stimulation due to injury, cell division cycle protein 42 (Cdc42) restores and enhances barrier functions by strengthening intercellular adherens junctions; however, its influence on cell proliferation after injury remains unknown.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we sought to investigate the effect of stimulation using small doses of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on the proliferation of pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (PMVECs).

METHODS

We stimulated PMVECs with different doses of LPS and evaluated the effects on cell proliferation. We also constructed a primary gene-knockout cell line lacking Cdc42 to verify the role of Cdc42 in regulating the proliferation of PMVECs that were stimulated using LPS and to explore related signaling pathways.

RESULTS

Stimulating PMVECs with small doses of LPS increased proliferation. Cdc42 is involved in regulating this process, which was mediated by the extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK) pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Cdc42 plays a role in regulating the proliferation of PMVECs stimulated with small doses of LPS, and this regulation involves the ERK pathway.

Anti-inflammatory and Anti-oxidative Effects of Dexpanthenol on Lipopolysaccharide Induced Acute Lung Injury in Mice

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of dexpanthenol in a model of acute lung injury (ALI) induced by lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Lung injury was induced by exposure to atomized LPS. Mice were randomly divided into four groups: control group; Dxp (500 mg/kg) group; LPS group; LPS + Dxp (500 mg/kg) group. The effects of dexpanthenol on LPS-induced neutrophil recruitment, cytokine levels, total protein concentration, myeloperoxidase (MPO), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione (GSH) contents were examined. Additionally, lung tissue was examined by histology to investigate the changes in pathology in the presence and absence of dexpanthenol. In LPS-challenged mice, dexpanthenol significantly improved lung edema. Dexpanthenol also markedly inhibited the LPS-induced neutrophiles influx, protein leakage, and release of TNF-α and IL-6 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Furthermore, dexpanthenol attenuated MPO activity and MDA contents and increased SOD and GSH activity in the LPS-challenged lung tissue. These data suggest that dexpanthenol protects mice from LPS-induced acute lung injury by its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative activities.

Post-Intake of S-Ethyl Cysteine and S-Methyl Cysteine Improved LPS-Induced Acute Lung Injury in Mice

The effects of S-ethyl cysteine (SEC) and S-methyl cysteine (SMC) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury in mice were examined. Eight hours after LPS challenge, SEC or SMC was supplied in drinking water at 0.5% or 1% for 3 days. LPS increased lung myeloperoxidase activity, neutrophil counts and edema. SEC or SMC post-intake attenuated these events. SEC or SMC suppressed LPS-induced lung expression of cyclooxygenase-2, nuclear factor-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase, and lowered the generation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and prostaglandin E₂. LPS enhanced the expression of p47^phox, gp91^phox, Bax and cleaved caspase-3, and increased the production of reactive oxygen species in the lung. SEC or SMC post-intake reversed these alterations. These findings suggest that these agents could protect the lung through their anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and anti-apoptotic activities.

NADPH Oxidase 1 Is Associated with Altered Host Survival and T Cell Phenotypes after Influenza A Virus Infection in Mice

The role of the reactive oxygen species-producing NADPH oxidase family of enzymes in the pathology of influenza A virus infection remains enigmatic. Previous reports implicated NADPH oxidase 2 in influenza A virus-induced inflammation. In contrast, NADPH oxidase 1 (Nox1) was reported to decrease inflammation in mice within 7 days post-influenza A virus infection. However, the effect of NADPH oxidase 1 on lethality and adaptive immunity after influenza A virus challenge has not been explored. Here we report improved survival and decreased morbidity in mice with catalytically inactive NADPH oxidase 1 (Nox1*/Y) compared with controls after challenge with A/PR/8/34 influenza A virus. While changes in lung inflammation were not obvious between Nox1*/Y and control mice, we observed alterations in the T cell response to influenza A virus by day 15 post-infection, including increased interleukin-7 receptor-expressing virus-specific CD8+ T cells in lungs and draining lymph nodes of Nox1*/Y, and increased cytokine-producing T cells in lungs and spleen. Furthermore, a greater percentage of conventional and interstitial dendritic cells from Nox1*/Y draining lymph nodes expressed the co-stimulatory ligand CD40 within 6 days post-infection. Results indicate that NADPH oxidase 1 modulates the innate and adaptive cellular immune response to influenza virus infection, while also playing a role in host survival. Results suggest that NADPH oxidase 1 inhibitors may be beneficial as adjunct therapeutics during acute influenza infection.

NOX2 As a Target for Drug Development: Indications, Possible Complications, and Progress

SIGNIFICANCE

NOX2 is important for host defense, and yet is implicated in a large number of diseases in which inflammation plays a role in pathogenesis. These include acute and chronic lung inflammatory diseases, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Diseases.

RECENT ADVANCES

Recent drug development programs have targeted several NOX isoforms that are implicated in a variety of diseases. The focus has been primarily on NOX4 and NOX1 rather than on NOX2, due, in part, to concerns about possible immunosuppressive side effects. Nevertheless, NOX2 clearly contributes to the pathogenesis of many inflammatory diseases, and its inhibition is predicted to provide a novel therapeutic approach.

CRITICAL ISSUES

Possible side effects that might arise from targeting NOX2 are discussed, including the possibility that such inhibition will contribute to increased infections and/or autoimmune disorders. The state of the field with regard to existing NOX2 inhibitors and targeted development of novel inhibitors is also summarized.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

NOX2 inhibitors show particular promise for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, both acute and chronic. Theoretical side effects include pro-inflammatory and autoimmune complications and should be considered in any therapeutic program, but in our opinion, available data do not indicate that they are sufficiently likely to eliminate NOX2 as a drug target, particularly when weighed against the seriousness of many NOX2-related indications. Model studies demonstrating efficacy with minimal side effects are needed to encourage future development of NOX2 inhibitors as therapeutic agents.

NOX Modifiers-Just a Step Away from Application in the Therapy of Airway Inflammation?

SIGNIFICANCE

NADPH oxidase (NOX) enzymes, which are widely expressed in different airway cell types, not only contribute to the maintenance of physiological processes in the airways but also participate in the pathogenesis of many acute and chronic diseases. Therefore, the understanding of NOX isoform regulation, expression, and the manner of their potent inhibition might lead to effective therapeutic approaches.

RECENT ADVANCES

The study of the role of NADPH oxidases family in airway physiology and pathophysiology should be considered as a work in progress. While key questions still remain unresolved, there is significant progress in terms of our understanding of NOX importance in airway diseases as well as a more efficient way of using NOX modifiers in human settings.

CRITICAL ISSUES

Agents that modify the activity of NADPH enzyme components would be considered useful tools in the treatment of various airway diseases. Nevertheless, profound knowledge of airway pathology, as well as the mechanisms of NOX regulation is needed to develop potent but safe NOX modifiers.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Many compounds seem to be promising candidates for development into useful therapeutic agents, but their clinical potential is yet to be demonstrated. Further analysis of basic mechanisms in human settings, high-throughput compound scanning, clinical trials with new and existing molecules, and the development of new drug delivery approaches are the main directions of future studies on NOX modifiers. In this article, we discuss the current knowledge with regard to NOX isoform expression and regulation in airway inflammatory diseases as well as the aptitudes and therapeutic potential of NOX modifiers.

[Genetic predisposition and Pediatric Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: New tools for genetic study]

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is the most severe form of respiratory failure. Theoretically, any acute lung condition can lead to ARDS, but only a small percentage of individuals actually develop the disease. On this basis, genetic factors have been implicated in the risk of developing ARDS. Based on the pathophysiology of this disease, many candidate genes have been evaluated as potential modifiers in patient, as well as in animal models, of ARDS. Recent experimental data and clinical studies suggest that variations of genes involved in key processes of tissue, cellular and molecular lung damage may influence susceptibility and prognosis of ARDS. However, the pathogenesis of pediatric ARDS is complex, and therefore, it can be expected that many genes might contribute. Genetic variations such as single nucleotide polymorphisms and copy-number variations are likely associated with susceptibility to ARDS in children with primary lung injury. Genome-wide association (GWA) studies can objectively examine these variations, and help identify important new genes and pathogenetic pathways for future analysis. This approach might also have diagnostic and therapeutic implications, such as predicting patient risk or developing a personalized therapeutic approach to this serious syndrome.

Endogeous sulfur dioxide protects against oleic acid-induced acute lung injury in association with inhibition of oxidative stress in rats

The role of endogenous sulfur dioxide (SO2), an efficient gasotransmitter maintaining homeostasis, in the development of acute lung injury (ALI) remains unidentified. We aimed to investigate the role of endogenous SO2 in the pathogenesis of ALI. An oleic acid (OA)-induced ALI rat model was established. Endogenous SO2 levels, lung injury, oxidative stress markers and apoptosis were examined. OA-induced ALI rats showed a markedly downregulated endogenous SO2/aspartate aminotransferase 1 (AAT1)/AAT2 pathway and severe lung injury. Chemical colorimetry assays demonstrated upregulated reactive oxygen species generation and downregulated antioxidant capacity in OA-induced ALI rats. However, SO2 increased endogenous SO2 levels, protected against oxidative stress and alleviated ALI. Moreover, compared with OA-treated cells, in human alveolar epithelial cells SO2 downregulated O2(-) and OH(-) generation. In contrast, L-aspartic acid-β-hydroxamate (HDX, Sigma-Aldrich Corporation), an inhibitor of endogenous SO2 generating enzyme, promoted free radical generation, upregulated poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase expression, activated caspase-3, as well as promoted cell apoptosis. Importantly, apoptosis could be inhibited by the free radical scavengers glutathione (GSH) and N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC). The results suggest that SO2/AAT1/AAT2 pathway might protect against the development of OA-induced ALI by inhibiting oxidative stress.

Inhibition of the phospholipase A2 activity of peroxiredoxin 6 prevents lung damage with exposure to hyperoxia

Lung injury associated with hyperoxia reflects in part the secondary effects of pulmonary inflammation and the associated production of reactive oxygen species due to activation of NADPH oxidase, type 2 (NOX2). Activation of NOX2 requires the phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity of peroxiredoxin 6 (Prdx6). Therefore, we evaluated whether blocking Prdx6 PLA2 activity using the inhibitor MJ33 would be protective in a mouse model of acute lung injury resulting from hyperoxic exposure. Mice were treated with an intraperitoneal injection of MJ33 (2.5nmol/g body weight) at the start of exposure (zero time) and at 48h during continuous exposure to 100% O2 for 80h. Treatment with MJ33 reduced the number of neutrophils and the protein content in the fluid obtained by bronchoalveolar lavage, inhibited the increase in lipid peroxidation products in lung tissue, decreased the number of apoptotic cells in the lung, and decreased the perivascular edema associated with the 80h exposure to hyperoxia. Thus, blocking Prdx6 PLA2 activity by MJ33 significantly protected lungs against damage from hyperoxia, presumably by preventing the activation of NOX2 and the amplification of lung injury associated with inflammation. These findings demonstrate that MJ33, a potent inhibitor of Prdx6 PLA2 activity, can protect mouse lungs against the manifestations of acute lung injury due to oxidative stress.

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-mediated angiopoietin-2-dependent autocrine angiogenesis is regulated by NADPH oxidase 2 (Nox2) in human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells

Sepsis-mediated endothelial Angiopoeitin-2 (Ang2) signaling may contribute to microvascular remodeling in the developing lung. The mechanisms by which bacterial cell wall components such as LPS mediate Ang2 signaling in human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (HPMECs) remain understudied. In HPMEC, LPS-induced Ang2, Tie2, and VEGF-A protein expression was preceded by increased superoxide formation. NADPH oxidase 2 (Nox2) inhibition, but not Nox4 or Nox1 inhibition, attenuated LPS-induced superoxide formation and Ang2, Tie2, and VEGF-A expression. Nox2 silencing, but not Nox4 or Nox1 silencing, inhibited LPS-mediated inhibitor of κ-B kinase β (IKKβ) and p38 phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of NF-κB and AP-1. In HPMECs, LPS increased the number of angiogenic tube and network formations in Matrigel by >3-fold. Conditioned media from LPS-treated cells also induced angiogenic tube and network formation in the presence of Toll-like receptor 4 blockade but not in the presence of Ang2 and VEGF blockade. Nox2 inhibition or conditioned media from Nox2-silenced cells attenuated LPS-induced tube and network formation. Ang2 and VEGF-A treatment rescued angiogenesis in Nox2-silenced cells. We propose that Nox2 regulates LPS-mediated Ang2-dependent autocrine angiogenesis in HPMECs through the IKKβ/NF-κB and MAPK/AP-1 pathways.

Dual oxidase 2 in lung epithelia is essential for hyperoxia-induced acute lung injury in mice

AIMS

Acute lung injury (ALI) induced by excessive hyperoxia has been employed as a model of oxidative stress imitating acute respiratory distress syndrome. Under hyperoxic conditions, overloading quantities of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are generated in both lung epithelial and endothelial cells, leading to ALI. Some NADPH oxidase (NOX) family enzymes are responsible for hyperoxia-induced ROS generation in lung epithelial and endothelial cells. However, the molecular mechanisms of ROS production in type II alveolar epithelial cells (AECs) and ALI induced by hyperoxia are poorly understood.

RESULTS

In this study, we show that dual oxidase 2 (DUOX2) is a key NOX enzyme that affects hyperoxia-induced ROS production, particularly in type II AECs, leading to lung injury. In DUOX2 mutant mice (DUOX2(thyd/thyd)) or mice in which DUOX2 expression is knocked down in the lungs, hyperoxia-induced ALI was significantly lower than in wild-type (WT) mice. DUOX2 was mainly expressed in type II AECs, but not endothelial cells, and hyperoxia-induced ROS production was markedly reduced in primary type II AECs isolated from DUOX2(thyd/thyd) mice. Furthermore, DUOX2-generated ROS are responsible for caspase-mediated cell death, inducing ERK and JNK phophorylation in type II AECs.

INNOVATION

To date, no role for DUOX2 has been defined in hyperoxia-mediated ALI despite it being a NOX homologue and major ROS source in lung epithelium.

CONCLUSION

Here, we present the novel finding that DUOX2-generated ROS induce AEC death, leading to hyperoxia-induced lung injury.

Short-term glutamine supplementation decreases lung inflammation and the receptor for advanced glycation end-products expression in direct acute lung injury in mice

Background

Glutamine (GLN) has been reported to improve clinical and experimental sepsis outcomes. However, the mechanisms underlying the actions of GLN remain unclear, and may depend upon the route of GLN administration and the model of acute lung injury (ALI) used. The aim of this study was to investigate whether short-term GLN supplementation had an ameliorative effect on the inflammation induced by direct acid and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge in mice.

Methods

Female BALB/c mice were divided into two groups, a control group and a GLN group (4.17% GLN supplementation). After a 10-day feeding period, ALI was induced by intratracheal administration of hydrochloric acid (pH 1.0; 2 mL/kg of body weight [BW]) and LPS (5 mg/kg BW). Mice were sacrificed 3 h after ALI challenge. In this early phase of ALI, serum, lungs, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) from the mice were collected for further analysis.

Results

The results of this study showed that ALI-challenged mice had a significant increase in myeloperoxidase activity and expression of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α in the lung compared with unchallenged mice. Compared with the control group, GLN pretreatment in ALI-challenged mice reduced the levels of receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) and IL-1β production in BALF, with a corresponding decrease in their mRNA expression. The GLN group also had markedly lower in mRNA expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and NADPH oxidase-1.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the benefit of dietary GLN may be partly contributed to an inhibitory effect on RAGE expression and pro-inflammatory cytokines production at an early stage in direct acid and LPS-induced ALI in mice.

NADPH oxidases in lung health and disease

SIGNIFICANCE

The evolution of the lungs and circulatory systems in vertebrates ensured the availability of molecular oxygen (O2; dioxygen) for aerobic cellular metabolism of internal organs in large animals. O2 serves as the physiologic terminal acceptor of mitochondrial electron transfer and of the NADPH oxidase (Nox) family of oxidoreductases to generate primarily water and reactive oxygen species (ROS), respectively.

RECENT ADVANCES

The purposeful generation of ROS by Nox family enzymes suggests important roles in normal physiology and adaptation, most notably in host defense against invading pathogens and in cellular signaling.

CRITICAL ISSUES

However, there is emerging evidence that, in the context of chronic stress and/or aging, Nox enzymes contribute to the pathogenesis of a number of lung diseases.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Here, we review evolving functions of Nox enzymes in normal lung physiology and emerging pathophysiologic roles in lung disease.

The quest for selective nox inhibitors and therapeutics: challenges, triumphs and pitfalls

SIGNIFICANCE

Numerous studies in animal models and human subjects corroborate that elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a pivotal role in the progression of multiple diseases. As a major source of ROS in many organ systems, the NADPH oxidase (Nox) has become a prime target for therapeutic development.

RECENT ADVANCES

In recent years, intense efforts have been dedicated to the development of pan- and isoform-specific Nox inhibitors as opposed to antioxidants that proved ineffective in clinical trials. Over the past decade, an array of compounds has been proposed in an attempt to fill this void.

CRITICAL ISSUES

Although many of these compounds have proven effective as Nox enzyme family inhibitors, isoform specificity has posed a formidable challenge to the scientific community. This review surveys the most prominent Nox inhibitors, and discusses potential isoform specificity, known mechanisms of action, and shortcomings. Some of these inhibitors hold substantial promise as targeted therapeutics.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Increased insight into the mechanisms of action and regulation of this family of enzymes as well as atomic structures of key Nox subunits are expected to give way to a broader spectrum of more potent, efficacious, and specific molecules. These lead molecules will assuredly serve as a basis for drug development aimed at treating a wide array of diseases associated with increased Nox activity.

NOX1 is responsible for cell death through STAT3 activation in hyperoxia and is associated with the pathogenesis of acute respiratory distress syndrome

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) contribute to alveolar cell death in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and we previously demonstrated that NOX1-derived ROS contributed to hyperoxia-induced alveolar cell death in mice. The study investigates whether NOX1 expression is modulated in epithelial cells concomitantly to cell death and associated to STAT3 signaling in the exudative phase of ARDS. In addition, the role of STAT3 activation in NOX1-dependent epithelial cell death was confirmed by using a lung epithelial cell line and in mice exposed to hyperoxia. NOX1 expression, cell death and STAT3 staining were evaluated in the lungs of control and ARDS patients by immunohistochemistry. In parallel, a stable NOX1-silenced murine epithelial cell line (MLE12) and NOX1-deficient mice were used to characterize signalling pathways. In the present study, we show that NOX1 is detected in alveolar epithelial cells of ARDS patients in the exudative stage. In addition, increased alveolar epithelial cell death and phosphorylated STAT3 are observed in ARDS patients and associated with NOX1 expression. Phosphorylated STAT3 is also correlated with TUNEL staining. We also confirmed that NOX1-dependent STAT3 activation participates to alveolar epithelial cell death. Silencing and acute inhibition of NOX1 in MLE12 led to decreased cell death and cleaved-caspase 3 induced by hyperoxia. Additionally, hyperoxia-induced STAT3 phosphorylation is dependent on NOX1 expression and associated with cell death in MLE12 and mice. This study demonstrates that NOX1 is involved in human ARDS pathophysiology and is responsible for the damage occurring in alveolar epithelial cells at least in part via STAT3 signalling pathways.