Glycolipids from spinach suppress LPS-induced vascular inflammation through eNOS and NK-κB signaling

Anti-inflammatory effect and mechanism of stytontriterpene D on RAW264.7 cells and zebrafish

Introduction

Stytontriterpene D ( STD ) is a compound isolated from dried resin of Styrax tonkinensis (Pierre) Craib ex Hartw. In this study, we explored the anti-inflammatory effect of STD in vitro and in vivo and examined its potential anti-inflammatory mechanism for the first time.

Methods

In vitro, we evaluated the toxicity of STD to RAW 264.7 cells using the CCK8 method and detected the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) contents in cells using diacetyldichlorofluorescein (DCFH-DA) and the Griess method. We detected the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-κ), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and arginase-1 (ARG1) via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and measured the expression of related proteins in the NF-αB pathway via western blotting. The toxicity of STD to AB zebrafish was detected in vivo, and the recruitment of neutrophils and macrophages was evaluated in tail cut -induced and copper sulfate -induced zebrafish inflammation models. We used quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction to study the expression of inflammation-related genes in zebrafish with inflammation induced by copper sulfate.

Results

In lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 cells, STD decreased IL-6, IL-1β, NO, ROS, and TNF-α production, and increased the expression of IL-10 and ARG1 while also blocking inhibitory κBα (IκBα) phosphorylation and suppressing P65 nuclear translocation. STD also reduced the recruitment of inflammatory cells in zebrafish with inflammation induced by tail cutting and copper sulfate. STD not only reduced the copper sulfate-induced gene expression of zebrafish inflammatory factors, but it also inhibited the mRNA levels of NF-κB p65 and IκBα.

Conclusion

These results demonstrated that STD has an obvious anti-inflammatory effect, and its intrinsic molecular mechanism is possibly caused by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway and regulating the phenotypic changes of M1 and M2 macrophages. Thus, STD may play a potential role in the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

The Marine Compound Isaridin E Ameliorates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Vascular Endothelial Inflammation via the Downregulation of the TLR4/NF-κB Signaling Pathway

Isaridin E, a cyclodepsipeptide derived from the marine fungus Beauveria felina (SYSU-MS7908), has been demonstrated to possess multiple biological properties. In this study, we employed both lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and a LPS-induced murine endotoxemia model to investigate its anti-inflammatory effects. Our results revealed that isaridin E suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules in a concentration dependent manner, while also reducing monocyte adhesion to endothelial cells. Furthermore, this compound attenuated vascular hyperpermeability and inflammatory cell infiltration in the lungs, as well as preserving the integrity of the aortic and pulmonary tissues. At the molecular level, isaridin E was found to downregulate TLR4 expression, increase IκBα levels, and inhibit the LPS-induced phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65. In conclusion, our findings indicate that isaridin E exerts robust anti-inflammatory effects in LPS-induced endotoxemia through the suppression of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling axis, positioning it as a promising therapeutic candidate for vascular inflammatory disorders.

Acetyl barlerin from Barleria trispinosa induces chemopreventive NQO1 and attenuates LPS-induced inflammation: in vitro and molecular dynamic studies

Extraction and fractionation of Barleria trispinosa growing in Saudi Arabia yielded four iridoid compounds identified by spectroscopic techniques as acetylbarlerin (1), barlerin (2), shanzhiside methyl ester (3) and 6-⍺-L-rhamnopyranosyl-8-O-acetylshanzihiside methyl ester (4). Preliminary experiments confirmed that compound 1 acts as an inducer of chemopreventive NAD(P)H:Quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) enzymatic activity in a murine hepatoma (Hepa1c1c7) chemoprevention model. It also demonstrated the ability to inhibit the lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO) production in the RAW264.7 macrophage model. Western blotting revealed the ability of compound 1 to up-regulate the protein expression of the NQO1 marker. Furthermore, compound 1 elicited NO suppression in RAW264.7 macrophages by inhibiting iNOS protein expression. Molecular docking and molecular simulation studies of 1 supported its experimental results as an inhibitor of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Nrf2-KEAP1) complex, resulting in Nrf2-mediated induction of chemopreventive NQO1.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Review on critical factor in monocyte adhesion: Nutrients

Endogenous and exogenous factors play a role in endothelial dysfunction. Inflammation, leukocyte adhesion-aggregation, abnormal vascular proliferation, atherosclerosis, and hypertension are among the endogenous factors. Another factor that affects endothelial dysfunction is exogenous factors such as drug treatments, smoking, alcohol, and nutrition. According various studies on nutrition and endothelial function, it is supported that fatty acids, proteins, and phenolic compounds modulate this function. In vitro studies show that nutrients change the adhesion of monocytes to the endothelium. The pathways that play a role in the adhesion process of monocytes are also affected by nutrients. Particularly among these pathways, mTORC1, S6 plaques, monocyte chemotaxis protein, monocyte integrins, monocyte cytokines are transferred to the lesional area selectin protein. In this article, the effects of various nutrients on monocyte adhesion are examined. It explains the changes and possible mechanisms of nutrients such as fatty acids, protein, phenolic compounds, and other dietary components on monocyte adhesion, and examines the relationship between nutrients and monocyte adhesion in our country and allows us to look at our profession from a different perspective. Although not all nutritional elements are included, it is thought that our profession will play a role in taking the first step towards cell studies.

Alkaloids from Piper longum L and their Anti-inflammatory Properties

Piper longum L. (PL) is considered one of the most important species traditionally used for treating various ailments and has indicated the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, and steroids. In this study, we isolated the chemical compounds of PL leaves, and measured NO, IL-6, iNOS, as well as COX-2 protein levels. In addition, molecular docking analysis was used to further understand the anti-inflammation effect of the compounds. We identified one new alkaloid named piperlongumine A (1) with ten known compounds (2-11). The new compound (1) and two other alkaloids 2E)-3-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1-(pyrrol-1-yl) propanone (7) and piperchabamide A (8) significantly reduced NO production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells with the IC50 values of 0.97±0.05 μM, 0.91±0.07 μM, 1.63±0.14 μM, respectively. Moreover, at concentration of 2 μM, compound 1 inhibited approximately 98±0.64 % of IL-6 secretion, and decreased iNOS and COX-2 protein level by about 96 and 19 folds compared to LPS treatment alone, respectively. Furthermore, compounds 1, 7, and 8 were predicted to bind and inhibit IL-6, TNF-α, and iNOS, with compound 1 showing the highest binding energy of -7.09 kcal/mol. This study provides new insights for potential anti-inflammatory drug design and warrants further investigation.

TRPC6 Deletion Enhances eNOS Expression and Reduces LPS-Induced Acute Lung Injury

Acute lung injury (ALI) is characterized by endothelial barrier disruption and associated inflammatory responses, and transient receptor potential cation channel 6 (TRPC6)-mediated Ca2+ influx is critical for endothelial hyperpermeability. In this study, we investigated the role of TRPC6 in LPS-induced ALI, analyzed gene expression in WT and TRPC6-/- lungs using RNA sequencing, and explored the effects of TRPC6 in the LPS-induced hyperpermeability in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Intratracheal instillation of LPS caused edema in the mouse lungs. Deletion of TRPC6 reduced LPS-induced lung edema and decreased cell infiltration. RNA sequencing analysis suggested that downregulated cell adhesion molecules in TRPC6-/- lungs may be responsible for their resistance to LPS-induced injury. In addition, downregulation of TRPC6 significantly alleviated the LPS-induced decrease in eNOS expression in lung tissue as well as in HUVECs. Moreover, inhibition of TRPC6 with the channel antagonist larixyl led to a decrease in LPS-induced hyperpermeability and ROS production in HUVECs, which could be reversed by blocking eNOS. Our findings suggest that inhibition of TRPC6 ameliorates LPS-induced ALI, which may be achieved by acting on the cell adhesion molecule signaling pathway and participating in the regulation of eNOS levels in endothelial cells.

An overview of food lipids toward food lipidomics

Increasing evidence regarding lipids' beneficial effects on human health has changed the common perception of consumers and dietary officials about the role(s) of food lipids in a healthy diet. However, lipids are a wide group of molecules with specific nutritional and bioactive properties. To understand their true nutritional and functional value, robust methods are needed for accurate identification and quantification. Specific analytical strategies are crucial to target specific classes, especially the ones present in trace amounts. Finding a unique and comprehensive methodology to cover the full lipidome of each foodstuff is still a challenge. This review presents an overview of the lipids nutritionally relevant in foods and new trends in food lipid analysis for each type/class of lipids. Food lipid classes are described following the LipidMaps classification, fatty acids, endocannabinoids, waxes, C8 compounds, glycerophospholipids, glycerolipids (i.e., glycolipids, betaine lipids, and triglycerides), sphingolipids, sterols, sercosterols (vitamin D), isoprenoids (i.e., carotenoids and retinoids (vitamin A)), quinones (i.e., coenzyme Q, vitamin K, and vitamin E), terpenes, oxidized lipids, and oxylipin are highlighted. The uniqueness of each food group: oil-, protein-, and starch-rich, as well as marine foods, fruits, and vegetables (water-rich) regarding its lipid composition, is included. The effect of cooking, food processing, and storage, in addition to the importance of lipidomics in food quality and authenticity, are also discussed. A critical review of challenges and future trends of the analytical approaches and computational methods in global food lipidomics as the basis to increase consumer awareness of the significant role of lipids in food quality and food security worldwide is presented.

Knockdown of histone deacetylase 9 attenuates sepsis-induced myocardial injury and inflammatory response

Myocardial cell damage is associated with apoptosis and excessive inflammatory response in sepsis. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are implicated in the progression of heart diseases. This study aims to explore the role of histone deacetylase 9 (HDAC9) in sepsis-induced myocardial injury. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced Sprague Dawley rats and cardiomyocyte line H9C2 were used as models in vivo and in vitro. The results showed that HDAC9 was significantly upregulated after LPS stimulation, and HDAC9 knockdown remarkably improved cardiac function, as evidenced by decreased left ventricular internal diameter end diastole (LVEDD) and left ventricular internal diameter end systole (LVESD), and increased fractional shortening (FS)% and ejection fraction (EF)%. In addition, HDAC9 silencing alleviated release of inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-6 and IL-1β) and cardiomyocyte apoptosis in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, HDAC9 inhibition was proved to suppress nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activation with reducing the levels of p-IκBα and p-p65, and p65 nuclear translocation. Additionally, interaction between miR-214-3p and HDAC9 was determined through bioinformatics analysis, RT-qPCR, western blot and dual luciferase reporter assay. Our data revealed that miR-214-3p directly targeted the 3'UTR of HDAC9. Our findings demonstrate that HDAC9 suppression ameliorates LPS-induced cardiac dysfunction by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway and presents a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of LPS-stimulated myocardial injury.

Anti-inflammatory properties of neutral lipids, glycolipids, and phospholipids isolated from Ammodytes personatus eggs in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells

In the present study, total lipids were extracted from Ammodytes personatus eggs and separated into neutral lipids, glycolipids, and phospholipids. The anti-inflammatory activity of the neutral lipids, glycolipids, and phospholipids was investigated in macrophages, as well as the fatty acid profiles of the lipids. Palmitic acid, oleic acid, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) were the primary fatty acids in the three fractionated lipids. Among the lipids, the phospholipids contained the highest concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), particularly DHA and EPA (31.89 and 16.93% of the total fatty acids, respectively). The anti-inflammatory effects of the three lipids isolated from A. personatus eggs were analyzed in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. The three lipids significantly reduced nitric oxide (NO) production and the mRNA expression of immune-associated genes in a dose-dependent manner. All lipids down-regulated the protein expression of phosphorylated NF-κB-p65 and MAPK (p38, JNK, and ERK1/2) signaling pathways, suggesting that they could inhibit cell signaling pathways by activating NF-κB and MAPK. The expression of CD40 and CD86 in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells was also significantly decreased by A. personatus lipids. Consequently, the neutral lipids, glycolipids, and phospholipids from A. personatus eggs could serve as anti-inflammatory agents.

Ginsenoside Rh1 protects human endothelial cells against lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory injury through inhibiting TLR2/4-mediated STAT3, NF-κB, and ER stress signaling pathways

AIM

Endothelial cell (EC) dysfunction initiates atherosclerosis by inducing inflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules. Herein, we investigated the role of ginsenoside Rh1 (Rh1) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced EC dysfunction.

MAIN METHODS

The inhibitory effect of Rh1 on LPS binding to toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) or TLR4 was evaluated using an immunofluorescence (IF) assay. Annexin V and cleaved caspase-3-positive EC apoptosis were evaluated by flow cytometry and IF assay. Western blotting and quantitative reverse transcription-PCR were performed to clarify underlying molecular mechanisms. In vivo model, effect of Rh1 on EC dysfunction was evaluated by using en face IF assay on aortas isolated C57BL/6 mice.

KEY FINDING

LPS (500 ng/mL) activated inflammatory signaling pathways, including ERK1/2, STAT3, and NF-κB. Interestingly, Rh1 significantly abolished the binding of LPS to TLR2 and TLR4. Consistently, Rh1 inhibited LPS-induced NF-κB activation and its downstream molecules, including inflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules. Furthermore, Rh1 alleviated LPS-induced downregulation of eNOS promoter activity. Notably, inactivation of eNOS by 50 μM L-NAME significantly increased NF-κB promoter activity. In addition, Rh1 abolished LPS-mediated cell cycle arrest and EC apoptosis by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress via PERK/CHOP/ERO1-α signaling pathway. Consistent with in vitro experimental data, Rh1 effectively suppressed LPS-induced VCAM-1 and CHOP expression and rescuing LPS-destroyed tight junctions between ECs as indicated in ZO-1 expression on mice aorta.

SIGNIFICANCE

Rh1 suppresses LPS-induced EC inflammation and apoptosis by inhibiting STAT3/NF-κB and endoplasmic reticulum stress signaling pathways, mediated by blocking LPS binding-to TLR2 and TLR4. Consistently, Rh1 effectively reduced EC dysfunction in vivo model.

Sophorolipid Suppresses LPS-Induced Inflammation in RAW264.7 Cells through the NF-κB Signaling Pathway

Objectives: Biosurfactants with anti-inflammatory activity may alleviate skin irritation caused by synthetic surfactants in cleaning products. Sophorolipid (SL) is a promising alternative to synthetic surfactants. However, there are few reports on the anti-inflammatory activity of SL and the underlying mechanism. The purpose of this work is to verify that lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation could be inhibited through targeting the pathway of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) in RAW264.7 cells. Methods: The influence of SL on cytokine release was investigated by LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells using ELISA. The quantification of the protein expression of corresponding molecular markers was realized by Western blot analysis. Flow cytometry was employed to determine the levels of Ca²⁺ and reactive oxygen species (ROS). The relative expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (INOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) was determined by RT-PCR. An immunofluorescence assay and confocal microscope were used to observe the NF-κB/p65 translocation from the cytoplasm into the nucleus. The likely targets of SL were predicted by molecular docking analysis. Results: SL showed anti-inflammatory activity and reduced the release of inflammatory cytokines including interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and nitric oxide (NO). The experimental results show that SL suppressed the Ca²⁺ and ROS levels influx in the LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells and alleviated the LPS-induced expression of iNOS and COX-2, the LPS-induced translocation of NF-κB (p65) from the cytoplasm into the nucleus, and the expression of phosphorylated proteins such as p65 and IκBα. Furthermore, molecular docking analysis showed that SL may inhibit inflammatory signaling by competing with LPS to bind TLR4/MD-2 through hydrophobic interactions and by inhibiting IKKβ activation through the hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that SL exerted anti-inflammatory activity via the pathway of NF-κB in RAW264.7 cells.

Lactococcus lactis‑fermented spinach juice suppresses LPS‑induced expression of adhesion molecules and inflammatory cytokines through the NF‑κB pathway in HUVECs

Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.), a green leafy vegetable, is widely regarded as a functional food due to its biological activities; however, to the best of our knowledge, there are no previous studies that have investigated the protective effects of fermented spinach against endothelial dysfunction and its underlying mechanisms. Therefore, this study investigated the effects and possible mechanisms of action of fresh spinach juice (S.juice) and fermented S.juice on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory responses in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The HUVECs were treated with S.juice and fermented S.juice for 18 h before LPS exposure, and the levels of cytokines and chemokines, such as monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Furthermore, to examine the changes in inflammatory responses to the two treatments, immunofluorescence analysis was used to visualize the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). Western blot analysis was also performed to detect the differences in the expression of endothelial cell adhesion molecules, specifically vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1) and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). Both S.juice and fermented S.juice inhibited the LPS-induced expression of MCP-1 and IL-6, and suppressed VCAM-1 and ICAM-1. Additionally, fermented S.juice inhibited the LPS-induced activation of NF-κB and degradation of the inhibitor of NF-κB (IκBα) in an LPS dose-dependent manner. These results suggest that the anti-inflammatory effect of vitamin K₂-enriched fermented S.juice is mediated by the suppression of the NF-κB pathway, suggesting its potential as a novel therapeutic candidate for inflammatory cardiovascular disease.

Purple sweet potato leaf extracts suppress adipogenic differentiation of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells

Purple sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) leaf extract (PSPLE) is known to exhibit various biological effects. However, the anti-adipogenic effects of PSPLE on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) remain unknown. In the present study, we investigated the effect of PSPLE on the adipogenic differentiation of human bone marrow MSCs. PSPLE treatment significantly reduced lipid accumulation and triglyceride levels during adipogenic differentiation. PSPLE suppressed the expression of PPARγ and C/EBPα, which are the master transcription factors orchestrating adipogenesis; moreover, it inhibited the expression of adiponectin, adipocyte protein 2 (aP2), and lipoprotein lipase (LPL), which are downstream target genes involved in adipogenic differentiation. Furthermore, PSPLE treatment suppressed glucose transporter 4 expression and intracellular glucose uptake and significantly inhibited the adipogenic differentiation induced factor-stimulated Akt signaling activation. These results indicate that PSPLE suppresses the differentiation of undifferentiated MSCs into adipocyte lineages and inhibits the terminal differentiation from preadipocytes into mature adipocytes. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The increase in the prevalence of obesity worldwide is a problem today. Obesity is induced by an excessive accumulation of adipocytes and causes obesity-related diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. Natural compounds derived from plants and fruits have a variety of biological activities and are expected to exert therapeutic effects against various diseases. This study shows that purple sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) leaf extract (PSPLE) suppresses adipogenesis of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. Thus, PSPLE may be a novel functional food for controlling obesity.

Administration of hydro-alcoholic extract of spinach improves oxidative stress and inflammation in high-fat diet-induced NAFLD rats

Background

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver disease worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of hydro-alcoholic extract of spinach (HES) on hepatic and serum measurements of NAFLD in a rat model.

Methods

In the prevention phase, 18 Sprague–Dawley rats were fed a high-fat diet, a high-fat diet plus 400 mg/kg HES, or a chow diet for seven weeks. For the treatment phase, after the induction of NAFLD, they were fed a high-fat diet, a high-fat diet plus 400 mg/kg HES, a chow diet, or a chow diet plus 400 mg/kg HES for four weeks (n = 6).

Results

Administration of HES combined with high-fat diet in rats was associated with decreased food intake (P < 0.01), weight loss (P = 0.01), and increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) (P = 0.02) enzyme activity in the liver, at the end of the prevention phase. hs-CRP (P < 0.05), PTX-3 (P < 0.05), and TNF-α (P < 0.05) gene expression in the liver were decreased and PPAR-γ (P < 0.05) gene expression in the liver was increased by spinach intake, both in the prevention and treatment phases. Furthermore, administration of spinach in the treatment phase increased serum TAC (P = 0.03) and hepatic GPX (P = 0.01) enzyme activity.

Conclusion

Taking into account the potential beneficial effects of HES on prevention and treatment of NAFLD in the present study, to confirm these findings, we propose that further clinical trials be conducted on human subjects with NAFLD.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-021-03396-x.

Changes of body composition and circulating neopterin, omentin-1, and chemerin in response to thylakoid-rich spinach extract with a hypocaloric diet in obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A randomized controlled trial

This trial evaluated the effects of thylakoid-rich spinach extract supplementation combined with a hypocaloric diet on body composition and serum levels of neopterin, chemerin, and omentin-1 in obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In this randomized controlled trial, 48 obese women with PCOS, aged 20-45 years old, were recruited and randomly divided into thylakoid (n = 24) and placebo (n = 24) groups. They received a low-calorie diet with 5 g/day thylakoid-rich spinach extract or a low-calorie diet with 5 g/day placebo for 12 weeks. The mean age of the participants of the thylakoid group was 31.86 years, and the placebo group was 32.04 years. Thylakoid-rich spinach extract supplementation with a low-calorie diet increased serum levels of omentin-1 (10.90 vs. 3.87 ng/L; p < .001) and decreased fat mass (-5.19 vs. -1.35 kg; p < .001) and serum levels of neopterin (-0.66 vs. -0.38 nmol/L; p = .003) and chemerin (-41.24 vs. -11.26 ng/L; p < .001) in the thylakoid group compared to the placebo group. A significant improvement in omentin-1, chemerin, and neopterin by thylakoid-rich spinach extract supplementation was under the influence of weight change and insulin resistance status throughout the study. A significant decrease in the other anthropometric indices and insulin resistance was also observed in the thylakoid group, compared to the placebo group (p < .001, for all parameters). Thylakoid-rich spinach extract combined with a low-calorie diet increased circulating omentin-1 and decreased fat mass, abdominal obesity, as well as circulating chemerin, neopterin, and insulin in obese women with PCOS.

Nutritional modulation of blood pressure and vascular changes during severe menstrual cramps

Objectives

This study examined the influence of nutrition on the severity of menstrual pains and associated transient changes in blood pressure (BP) and vascular-health indicators. It has also investigated the influence of nutrition on angiotensin (ANG II) and vascular cell adhesion molecules (VCAM-1).

Methods

A total of 207 university students, aged between 18 and 25 years, were grouped into three groups: a no-dysmenorrhoea (control) group, a moderate dysmenorrhoea (MDys) group, and a severe dysmenorrhoea (SDys) group, using the NRS-11 scale and initial contactin-1 (CNTN-1) levels. The groups were separately fed vegetable, protein, and carbohydrate meals. The meal plan involved three different types of food served three times a day (for breakfast, lunch, and dinner), beginning 48 h before menstruation.

Results

We found that 73.9% and 100% of the MDys patients on the protein and carbohydrate diets, respectively, had severe dysmenorrhoea. As many as 69.6% of the SDys patients on vegetable diets experienced no dysmenorrhoea; the BP of 61% of SDys normalised to the standard values of 120/80. The BP of 87% MDys had systolic BP ≥ 130 and ≥90 diastolic BP after carbohydrate meals. On the other hand, 30% of SDys had higher BP after protein meals. With respect to the choice of food, the severity of menstrual pain was positively correlated with ANG II (r = 0.5158) and VCAM-1 (r = 0.5849). ANG-II. Similarly, VCAM-1 were significantly elevated (p < 0.05) in the dysmenorrhoeal participants. The mean VCAM-1 and ANG-II levels of dysmenorrhoeal participants placed on vegetable meals were comparable to the control baseline levels.

Conclusions

This study recommends the intake of a vegetable meal at least 48 h before menstruation as an effective nutritional approach to preventing and managing severe menstrual cramps. This approach can also prevent associated vascular changes. Carbohydrate meals should be avoided at least 48 h before menstruation.

Anti-inflammatory activity of glycolipids isolated from cyanobacterium Nodularia harveyana

Activity-guided fractionations from the freshwater cyanobacterium Nodularia harveyana led to the isolation of two monogalactosyldiacylglycerols (MGDG), two digalactosyldiacylglycerols (DGDG), two monoglucosyldiacylglycerols (MGlcDG) and 1-(O-hexose)-3,25-hexacosanediol (HG). Structures were elucidated by a combination of 1D and 2D NMR analysis, HRMS and GC-MS. The potential for inhibition against TNF-α and NF-κB production of these seven compounds was tested in THP-1 cells. All compounds showed activity, but compound 7 showed higher inhibitory activity of TNF-α and NF-κB, with IC₅₀ of 4.88 ± 0.13 and 3.64 ± 0.45 μM, respectively.

Micronutrients: Essential Treatment for Inflammatory Arthritis?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Synovial inflammation is characteristic of inflammatory chronic arthropathies and can cause progressive articular damage, chronic pain, and functional loss. Scientific research has increasingly focused on investigating anti-inflammatory micronutrients present in fruits, vegetables, spices, seeds, tea, and wine. This review aims to examine the anti-inflammatory effect of polyphenols (phytonutrients present in plants) and other micronutrients described in randomized clinical trials conducted in patients with chronic inflammatory arthropathies.

RECENT FINDINGS

There is an increasing evidence that differences in micronutrient intake might play an essential role in pathogenesis, therapeutic response, and remission of synovitis. Randomized clinical trials with specific micronutrient- or nutrient-enriched food intake show improvement of symptoms and modulation of both pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators. We found convincing evidence of the anti-inflammatory effect of several micronutrients in arthritis symptoms and inflammation. Although in clinical practice nutritional recommendations to patients with chronic joint inflammation are not consistently prescribed, the addition of these nutrients to day-to-day eating habits could potentially change the natural history of inflammatory arthritis. Future research is needed for a consensus on the specific nutritional recommendations for patients with chronic synovial inflammation.

Neutral Lipids, Glycolipids, and Phospholipids, Isolated from Sandfish (Arctoscopus japonicus) Eggs, Exhibit Anti-Inflammatory Activity in LPS-Stimulated RAW264.7 Cells through NF-κB and MAPKs Pathways

Total lipids were extracted from sandfish (Arctoscopus japonicus), and then they were separated into the following three lipid fractions: neutral lipids, glycolipids, and phospholipids. In this study, we analyzed the lipid fractions of A. japonicus eggs and we determined their anti-inflammatory activity in RAW264.7 macrophage cells. In these three lipid-fractions, the main fatty acids were as follows: palmitic acid (16:0), oleic acid (18:1n-9), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5n-3). Among the lipid fractions, phospholipids showed the highest concentration of DHA and EPA (21.70 ± 1.92 and 18.96 ± 1.27, respectively). The three lipid fractions of A. japonicus significantly suppressed the production of NO in macrophages. Moreover, they also significantly inhibited the expression of iNOS, COX-2, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α, in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, the lipid fractions of A. japonicus suppressed the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 subunits in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, they attenuated the activation of MAPKs (p38, ERK1/2, and JNK) phosphorylation in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. These results indicate that all the lipid fractions of A. japonicus exert anti-inflammatory activity by suppressing the activation of NF-κB and MAPK pathways. Therefore, the lipid fractions of A. japonicus might be potentially used as anti-inflammatory agents.

Thykamine Extracts from Spinach Reduce Acute Inflammation In Vivo and Downregulate Phlogogenic Functions of Human Blood Neutrophils In Vitro

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant role of Thykamine, a botanical extract of thylakoides obtained from spinach leaves, has been investigated in animal and cellular models. The oxidative properties have been proven by inhibiting NO production (>98%) in J774A.1 cells and by protecting a linoelic acid emulsion subjected to lipid peroxidation caused by AAPH. Thykamine injected intraperitoneally to rats reduced the inflammatory process of (TNBS)-induced colitis and carrageenan-induced paw edema. As neutrophils are the first cells to migrate to inflammatory sites, the influence of Thykamine on the primary neutrophil functions were studied. Thykamine dose-dependent reduced neutrophil chemiotaxis, phagocytosis, and degranulation. No change in the release of LDH by neutrophils on Thykamine was recorded. Thykamine inhibited by 85% the neutrophil production of O₂⁻. A superoxide recovery activity was observed on a zymography demonstrating a SOD-like enzyme on Thykamine extracts. Spontaneous fluorescence provided by carotenoid and chlorophyll pigments (488/675 nm) detected Thykamine on the surface, in the cytoplasm (mainly central where Golgi are present) and weakly in the nucleus of neutrophils. The results argue that SOD and pigments found in Thykamine are part of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties shown in in vivo and in vitro models of inflammation.

Flaxseed orbitides, linusorbs, inhibit LPS-induced THP-1 macrophage inflammation

Linusorbs (flaxseed orbitides) are a family of naturally-occurring cyclic peptides. Previously, we reported that their anticancer effects were associated with their structures. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory activities of 2 different linusorbs ([1-9-NαC]-linusorb B2 and [1-9-NαC]-linusorb B3) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced THP-1 macrophage activation as well as the underlying mechanism of this inflammatory response. Both molecules suppressed pro-inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, NO and COX-2) and were involved in downregulating the NF-κB signaling pathway. The suppressive effects on pro-inflammatory mediators were comparable and the concentration range of action was similar (1-4 μM). However, the concentration of compound that induced downregulation of the NF-κB pathway was different for each compound. While [1-9-NαC]-linusorb B3 could inhibit the activation of the NF-κB pathway at concentrations of 1 and 2 μM, [1-9-NαC]-linusorb B2 induced a comparable inhibitory effect at a concentration of 4 μM.

1,8-Cineole Ameliorates LPS-Induced Vascular Endothelium Dysfunction in Mice via PPAR-γ Dependent Regulation of NF-κB

1,8-Cineole (eucalyptol), a monoterpene, has been widely reported for the anti-inflammatory effects. Our previous data confirmed that 1,8-cineole ameliorated the inflammatory phenotype of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) by mediating NF-κB expression in vitro. At present, we investigated the protection effects of 1,8-cineole on vascular endothelium in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute inflammatory injury mice and the potential mechanisms involved in the protection in HUVECs. Results from enzyme linked immunosorbent assays revealed that 1,8-cineole suppressed the secretion of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 and increased the expression of IL-10 in the serum of LPS-induced mice. 1,8-Cineole reduced the inflammatory infiltration and the expression of vascular cell adhesion molecular 1 (VCAM-1) in the sections of thoracic aorta in LPS-induced acute inflammatory mice. Western blotting indicated that 1,8-cineole significantly decreased the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 and increased the expression of PPAR-γ in the thoracic aorta tissue. 1,8-Cineole increased the expression of PPAR-γ in LPS-induced HUVECs. 1,8-Cineole and rosiglitazone reduced the protein and mRNA levels of VCAM-1, E-selectin, IL-6, and IL-8 in LPS-induced HUVECs, which could be reversed by the action of GW9662 (inhibitor of PPAR-γ). 1,8-Cineole and rosiglitazone blocked the LPS-induced IκBα degradation and NF-κB p65 nucleus translocation, which could be reversed by the pretreatment of GW9662 or silence of PPAR-γ gene. In conclusion, 1,8-cineole attenuated LPS-induced vascular endothelial cells injury via PPAR-γ dependent modulation of NF-κB.

Protective effect of aqueous spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) extract on spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats

Operation on the thoraco-abdominal aorta may lead to paraplegia or paraparesis is after spinal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of the spinach extract on spinal cord I/R injury. Thirty-five male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five groups: Intact, sham surgery, normal saline (NS), low dose spinach extract (20 mg kg^-1), high dose spinach extract (50 mg kg^-1). Neurological function, biochemical and histological evaluations were performed in 72 hr after ischemia. The mean motor deficit index scores of the spinach extract groups were significantly lower than in the NS group at 72hr after spinal cord ischemia. In addition, Spinach extract groups significantly increased plasma level of total antioxidative capacity and decreased the plasma level of malondialdehyde than the NS group. The spinach extract groups displayed a significantly large number of normal motor neurons compared with the NS group. In conclusion, the present study showed that the spinach extract may preserve more neurons in a rat model of spinal cord I/R injury.

Ganglioside GM3 suppresses lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory responses in rAW 264.7 macrophage cells through NF-κB, AP-1, and MAPKs signaling

Gangliosides are known to specifically inhibit vascular leukocyte recruitment and consequent interaction with the injured endothelium, the basic inflammatory process. In this study, we have found that the production of nitric oxide (NO), a main regulator of inflammation, is suppressed by GM3 on murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cells, when induced by LPS. In addition, GM3 attenuated the increase in cyclooxyenase-2 (COX-2) protein and mRNA levels in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated RAW 264.7 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, GM3 inhibited the expression and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in RAW 264.7 macrophages. At the intracellular level, GM3 inhibited LPS-induced nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and activator protein (AP)-1 in RAW 264.7 macrophages. We, therefore, investigated whether GM3 affects mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation, a process known as the upstream signaling regulator. GM3 dramatically reduced the expression levels of the phosphorylated forms of ERK, JNK, and p38 in LPS-activated RAW 264.7 cells. These results indicate that GM3 is a promising suppressor of the vascular inflammatory responses and ganglioside GM3 suppresses the LPS-induced inflammatory response in RAW 264.7 macrophages by suppression of NF-κB, AP-1, and MAPKs signaling. Accordingly, GM3 is suggested as a beneficial agent for the treatment of diseases that are associated with inflammation.