Innate immunity and inflammation

Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant potential of dispiro-indanedione hybrid of parthenin via regulating Nrf2 and NF-κB/MAPK pathways

Steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are widely used for treating a spectrum of inflammatory conditions; however, their systemic adverse effects hinder their usage. Therefore, alternate therapeutic strategies are required to treat inflammatory disorders. Parthenin, a lactone derived from Parthenium hysterophorus, has demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity; however, its toxic nature limits its application. We proposed modifications of parthenin to enhance its efficacy while reducing toxicity. In this context, we screened parthenin derivatives for anti-inflammatory efficacy and identified dispiro-indanedione hybrid of parthenin (DIHP) as a potent anti-inflammatory agent. Macrophages were pre-treated with DIHP followed by LPS stimulation to evaluate the in-vitro anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity. We assessed in-vivo anti-inflammatory effect of DIHP in carrageenan-induced paw edema and LPS-induced sepsis model. Our findings showed that DIHP exerts negligible effect on cell viability, effectively attenuates the production of inflammatory markers (NO, TNF-α, IL-6 &IL-1β) and down-regulates NF-κB, MAPK pathways in in-vitro and in-vivo system. Additionally, DIHP inhibited LPS-induced generation of prostaglandin E2, leukotriene B4, ROS and upregulated the expression of superoxide dismutase, catalase, nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma. Furthermore, DIHP effectively reduced carrageenan-induced paw edema and curtailed the levels of liver, and kidney damage markers (AST, ALT, CRE, and BUN), protected the lung, liver and kidney against pathological damage and enhanced the survival rate in LPS-challenged mice. DIHP demonstrated comparable efficacy to dexamethasone in reducing inflammatory markers. In conclusion, our study strongly suggests that DIHP curtailed inflammation and oxidative stress by down regulating NF-κB and MAPK pathways and enhanced anti-oxidant response.

Study on the relationship between the non-HDL/HDL cholesterol ratio (NHHR) and endometriosis: a cross-sectional analysis utilizing the NHANES dataset

BACKGROUND

Numerous previous studies have suggested dyslipidemia is possibly linked to endometriosis (EMs). The connection between endometriosis and NHHR remains largely unexplored. Thus, this investigation examined whether NHHR is correlated with endometriosis development among adult women in the United States of America.

METHODS

Data from the 1999-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were analyzed in a cross-sectional study, with a final sample of 4,990 participants. To investigate the potential association between NHHR and the likelihood of developing endometriosis, we employed two statistical models: a weighted multivariate logistic regression model and a restricted cubic spline model. Data visualization included scatter plots with locally estimated scatterplot smoothing (LOESS) curves to illustrate the relationship between NHHR and the probability of endometriosis. To ensure the reliability of our findings, we subsequently conducted subgroup analyses and interaction tests to assess their stability.

RESULTS

In this study, after accounting for all potential confounders, it was found that for every one-point elevation in NHHR, the risk of developing endometriosis increased by 17% (95% CI: 1.05-1.35, p = 0.04). A linear dose-response association was identified that connected NHHR with the risk of endometriosis (P for nonlinear = 0.1315). Interaction results from subgroup analyses suggested that an association between NHHR and risk of endometriosis was largely unaffected by race, educational background, or marital status, among others.

CONCLUSION

NHHR and the probability of developing endometriosis are significantly correlated in the U.S. population, suggesting that further research on NHHR could assist in non-invasive diagnosis of endometriosis.

Predictive and prognostic value of preoperative pan-immune-inflammation value in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer

This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of the pan-immune-inflammation value (PIV) in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) who received neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) followed by total mesorectal excision. We retrospectively collected and analyzed the clinicopathological data of 215 resected LARC patients. X-tile software was used to determine the optimal threshold value for PIV in predicting overall survival (OS). The predictive ability of PIV for pathological complete regression (pCR), OS, and disease-free survival (DFS) was evaluated and compared with other inflammation markers. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses for pCR and Cox regression analyses for OS and DFS were conducted. The optimal threshold value for PIV was determined to be 454.7 based on the X-tile software. Patients were then categorized into low (≤ 454.7) and high (> 454.7) PIV groups comprising 153 and 62 patients, respectively. PIV demonstrated superior predictive ability for pCR, OS, and DFS compared to other inflammation markers. LARC patients with low PIV had significantly higher pCR (P = 0.029), OS (P = 0.002), and DFS (P = 0.001) rates compared to those with high PIV. Multivariate regression analysis identified PIV as an independent prognostic factor for pCR (odds ratio = 0.32; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.10-0.80; P = 0.014), OS (hazard ratio = 3.08; 95% CI, 1.77-5.35; P = 0.001), and DFS (hazard ratio = 2.53; 95% CI, 1.58-4.06; P = 0.002). This study confirmed that preoperative PIV could serve as a useful independent prognostic factor in LARC patients treated with nCRT.

Ovalbumin alters DAF-16 Class-II/I gene expressions via insulin/insulin-like growth factor-1 signaling to initiate the innate immune response of Caenorhabditis elegans

Innate immunity, as a significant defense system of the body, plays a key role in allergic reactions, but the mechanism of how food allergens trigger innate immune signaling is still unclear. Ovalbumin (OVA) is a model allergen in food allergy studies. Previous studies by our group have demonstrated that the innate immunity of Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) elicited by OVA treatment was related to the insulin/insulin-like growth factor-1 signaling (IIS) pathway, but the details remain unknown. Therefore, in this study, the molecular mechanism of innate immune signaling transduction of C. elegans stimulated by OVA was determined using genetic mutations as well as RT-PCR, GFP fluorescence visualization monitoring, and slow-killing experiments. Results showed that the expression levels of DAF-16-class-I/II genes in the IIS pathway were significantly changed in C. elegans after OVA treatment, and the upstream gene daf-2 played an important role, which up-regulated the levels of DAF-16-class-II genes dod-22 and F55G11.8 by the daf-2-pqm-1 pathway, and down-regulated the level of DAF-16-class-I gene thn-2 by the daf-2-daf-16 pathway. Moreover, the upstream genes daf-2 and nhr-14, and the transcription factors DAF-16, PQM-1, and SKN-1 in the IIS pathway all participated in the up-regulations of DAF-16-class-II genes dod-17, dod-24, and F55G11.2. In conclusion, details of OVA activating innate immunity in C. elegans through the IIS pathway are reported here, and the results can be further extrapolated to mammals, which will contribute to a better understanding of the mechanism of the occurrence of food allergic reactions from the perspective of innate immunity.

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios and systemic immune-inflammation index in patients with post-traumatic stress disorder

BACKGROUND

Low-grade systemic inflammation has been reported in many psychiatric diseases and is described as a non-severe state of the inflammatory response. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a chronic psychiatric disorder characterized by symptoms of avoidance, re-experiencing and hyperarousal that develop secondary to a serious traumatic event. The trauma itself creates psychological and biological changes in the individual, apart from PTSD. This complex situation has still not been clarified and researchers have tended to research on inflammatory processes. Systemic immune inflammation index (SII), as a new index related to inflammation, is a comprehensive value based on peripheral lymphocyte, neutrophil and platelet counts. SII has been used as a marker of subclinical inflammation and prognosis in various studies. Although the presence of inflammation in PTSD was tried to be demonstrated through cytokines, inflammatory variables such as neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and SII, which are low-cost and easily shown in routine examinations, have not been studied before.

METHOD

We compared PTSD patients with healthy controls. 160 subjects (80 PTSD and 80 controls) were enrolled for study. All patients were evaluated with Structured clinical study form for DSM-V Axis 1 disorders. Exclusion criteria were as follows: presence of PTSD symptoms shorter than one month, presence of psychiatric comorbidity, being diagnosed with psychotic disorder, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorder, presence of mental retardation, being under psychotropic drug treatment, presence of a neurological disease that may cause serious disability (epilepsy, cerebrovascular disease), migraine, presence of organic brain damage, smoking, alcohol and substance use disorder, presence of a chronic disease such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, chronic lung diseases, being in pregnancy and breastfeeding, presence of heart disease were determined as exclusion criteria. Additionally, patients with diseases that could affect the leukocyte count (hematopoietic disease, malignancy, acute infection, acute or chronic renal failure, liver failure) and medication use (chemotherapy, history of glucocorticoid use in the last three months) were not included in the study. Patients who smoked more than fifteen cigarettes per day and had a body mass index > 30 were also excluded. SII is calculated as follows; SII = platelet count x neutrophil count / lymphocyte count.

RESULTS

Sociodemographic data were comparable among groups. Neutrophil and platelet levels of PTSD patients were significantly higher than controls although both groups' values were in normal range. Moreover, NLR, PLR and SII were significantly higher in PTSD group.

CONCLUSION

We found that NLR, PLR and SII values, which are easily calculable and cost-effective markers of systemic inflammation, were significantly higher in PTSD patients than in the control group. These values may be considered to identify patients who may benefit from adjuvant anti-inflammatory pharmacological treatment on top of psychotherapeutic treatment.

Protective effects of Pelargonium graveolens (geranium) oil against cefotaxime-induced hepato-renal toxicity in rats

Cefotaxime is a broad-spectrum antibiotic targeting Gram-negative bacteria used for diverse infections, but it can be toxic to the stomach, liver, and kidneys. This study explored the protective effects of geranium oil against cefotaxime-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in rats, employing biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical evaluations. Thirty rats were divided into five groups of six animals each one. Group 1 received orally normal saline for 14 days, Group 2 was given orally 2.5% DMSO for 14 days, Group 3 received cefotaxime (200 mg/kg/day IM) for 14 days, Group 4 received with cefotaxime (200 mg/kg/day IM) and geranium oil (67 mg/kg b. w./day orally in DMSO) for 14 days, and Group 5 received geranium oil alone (67 mg/kg b. w./day orally in DMSO) for 14 days. Geranium oil significantly reduced cefotaxime-induced damage, evidenced by lower serum levels of liver enzymes (AST, ALT), renal markers (urea, creatinine), and other indicators (alkaline phosphatase, TNF-alpha, IL-1Beta, MAPK, nitric oxide, MDA). It also increased levels of protective tissue biomarkers such as NrF2, albumin, catalase, Beclin 1, and reduced glutathione (GSH). Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses revealed significant protective effects in liver and renal tissues in rats treated with Geranium oil. These results suggest that Geranium oil is effective in mitigating cefotaxime-induced hepatotoxicity and renal toxicity.

Decorin-armed oncolytic adenovirus promotes natural killers (NKs) activation and infiltration to enhance NK therapy in CRC model

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a prevalent malignant tumor of the gastrointestinal system, with the third and second highest incidence and mortality rates globally in 2020, respectively. Immunotherapy has developed rapidly in recent years. Natural killer (NK) cells have received increasing attention in the field of tumor immunotherapy due to their recognition and killing tumor cells without the limitations of major histocompatibility complexes. However, constraints within the tumor microenvironment that impede the infiltration and proliferation of NK cells result in poor efficacy of NK cell therapy for solid tumors. Oncolytic viral therapy is an immunogenic treatment with the potential to enhance anti-tumour immune responses and promote immune cell infiltration. In this study, we synergistically combine NK cells with an oncolytic adenovirus carrying Decorin (rAd.DCN) for the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) in a xenograft mouse model. By using Flow cytometry, real-time quantitative PCR and Calcein-AM release assay, we found that rAd.DCN could effectively promote proliferation, activation and degranulation of NK cells, up-regulate expression and secretion of NK cell killing activity-related factors, and enhance their killing activity. The efficacy is better than that of the blank control oncolytic virus rAd.Null. Combined treatment significantly inhibited tumor growth, increased the number of NK cells in peripheral blood, promoted the killing function of NK cells, and increased the expression levels of perforin and IFN-γ. At the same time, more NK cells were recruited to infiltrate tumor tissue. Our study established the feasibility of combination NK cells and oncolytic adenovirus application, thus expanding the scope of potentially curative treatments for NK cells in CRC.

Elevated levels of oxLDL and LOX-1: Implications for schizophrenia pathophysiology

Inflammation and oxidative stress are both considered to be factors in the etiopathogenesis of schizophrenia. LOX-1 (lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1) and ox-LDL (oxidized low-density lipoprotein) have been reported to be active in neuroinflammation pathways in which they are involved in oxidative stress and inflammation. However, its relationship with schizophrenia is unclear. This study aimed to assess the potential connection between serum ox-LDL and LOX-1 levels in schizophrenia patients, their unaffected first-degree relatives, and healthy controls. The study comprised 63 schizophrenia patients, 57 first-degree relatives, and 63 healthy controls who were age, gender, and BMI-matched. Serum ox-LDL and LOX-1 levels were measured. PANSS was used to assess the severity of the disease. Levels of both ox-LDL and LOX-1 were markedly elevated in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia when compared to both their relatives and a control group. While ox-LDL levels were significantly higher in relatives of patients compared to controls, there was no significant difference between relatives of patients and control groups for LOX-1 levels. Significant correlations were observed between PANNS general and total and ox-LDL levels and PANNS negative and LOX-1 levels. The relationship between ox-LDL and LOX-1 and schizophrenia is quite limited in the literature and is a new field of study. Future studies are needed to evaluate their role in etiopathogenesis.

Tropane Alkaloid Isolated from Erythroxylum bezerrae Exhibits Neuropharmacological Potential in an Adult Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Model

This study carried out to investigate the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effect of tropane alkaloid (EB7) isolated from E. bezerrae. It evaluated the toxicity and possible involvement of ion channels in the antinociceptive effect of EB7, as well as its anti-inflammatory effect in adult zebrafish (Zfa). Docking studies with EB7 and COX-1 and 2 were also performed. The tested doses of EB7 (4, 20 and 40 mg/kg) did not show any toxic effect on Zfa during the 96h of analysis (LD50>40 mg/kg). They did not produce any alteration in the locomotor behavior of the animals. Furthermore, EB7 showed promising pharmacological effects as it prevented the nociceptive behavior induced by hypertonic saline, capsaicin, formalin and acid saline. EB7 had its analgesic effect blocked by amiloride involving the neuromodulation of ASICs in Zfa. In evaluating the anti-inflammatory activity, the edema induced by κ-carrageenan 3.5 % was reduced by the dose of 40 mg/kg of EB7 observed after the fourth hour of analysis, indicating an effect similar to that of ibuprofen. Molecular docking results indicated that EB7 exhibited better affinity energy when compared to ibuprofen control against the two evaluated targets binding at different sites in the cocrystallized COX-1 and 2 inhibitors.

Synthesis, characterization, and anti-inflammatory activity of tetrahydropiperine, piperic acid, and tetrahydropiperic acid via down regulation of NF-κB pathway

The present study describes the synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of tetrahydropiperine (THP), piperic acid (PA), and tetrahydropiperic acid (THPA) as anti-inflammatory agents. THPA demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory activity among all the compounds. The anti-inflammatory potential was investigated in both in-vitro and in-vivo experimental models. Our findings demonstrated that THPA effectively suppressed the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, including nitric oxide and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) in both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, THPA attenuated the expression of i-NOS and COX-2 in RAW 264.7 macrophages. The oral administration of THPA significantly reduced carrageenan induced paw edema thickness and alleviated liver, lung, and kidney injury induced by LPS. THPA also reduced the infiltration of inflammatory cells, prevented the occurrence of significant lesions, and mitigated tissue damage. Moreover, THPA significantly improved the survival rate of mice challenged with LPS. Our western blot studies also found that LPS induced NF-κB activation was downregulated by treatment with THPA in an in vivo system. These results collectively illustrated the potential of THPA as a therapeutic agent for treating inflammatory diseases.

UHPLC-MS/MS analysis and protective effects on neurodegenerative diseases of phenolic compounds in different parts of Diospyros kaki L. cv. Mopan

Persimmon (Diospyros kaki L. cv. Mopan.), an important commercial crop belonging to the genus of Diospyros in the Ebenaceae family, is rich in bioactive phenolic compounds. In this study, the phenolic compounds from fruits, leaves, and calyces of persimmon were qualitatively and quantitatively determined by UPLC-Q-Exactive-Orbitrap/MS and UPLC-QqQ-MS/MS, respectively. Furthermore, the role of phenolic extract from different parts of persimmon on neuroprotective activity in vitro, through against oxidative stress and anti-neuroinflammation effect was firstly evaluated. The results showed that 75 phenolic compounds, and 3 other kinds of compounds were identified, among which 44 of phenolic compounds were quantified from different parts of persimmon. It is the first time that epicatechin-epigallocatechin, catechin-epigallocatechin, catechin-epigallocatechin (A-type), and glycoside derivatives of laricitrin were identified in persimmon extract. The dominated phenolic compounds in three parts of persimmon were significantly different. All phenolic extracts from each part of persimmon showed strong neuroprotective activities against H2O2-induced oxidative stress in PC-12 cells and LPS-induced BV2 cells. The fruit extract presented the strongest activity, followed by calyx and leaf extract. The systematic knowledge on the phytochemical composition along with activity evaluation of different parts of persimmon could contribute to their targeted selection and development.

Neuronal NPR-15 modulates molecular and behavioral immune responses via the amphid sensory neuron-intestinal axis in C. elegans

The survival of hosts during infections relies on their ability to mount effective molecular and behavioral immune responses. Despite extensive research on these defense strategies in various species, including the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans, the neural mechanisms underlying their interaction remain poorly understood. Previous studies have highlighted the role of neural G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in regulating both immunity and pathogen avoidance, which is particularly dependent on aerotaxis. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a screen of mutants in neuropeptide receptor family genes. We found that loss-of-function mutations in npr-15 activated immunity while suppressing pathogen avoidance behavior. Through further analysis, NPR-15 was found to regulate immunity by modulating the activity of key transcription factors, namely GATA/ELT-2 and TFEB/HLH-30. Surprisingly, the lack of pathogen avoidance of npr-15 mutant animals was not influenced by oxygen levels. Moreover, our studies revealed that the amphid sensory neuron ASJ is involved in mediating the immune and behavioral responses orchestrated by NPR-15. Additionally, NPR-15 was found to regulate avoidance behavior via the TRPM (transient receptor potential melastatin) gene, GON-2, which may sense the intestinal distension caused by bacterial colonization to elicit pathogen avoidance. Our study contributes to a broader understanding of host defense strategies and mechanisms underlining the interaction between molecular and behavioral immune responses.

Neuronal NPR-15 modulates molecular and behavioral immune responses via the amphid sensory neuron-intestinal axis in C. elegans

The survival of hosts during infections relies on their ability to mount effective molecular and behavioral immune responses. Despite extensive research on these defense strategies in various species, including the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans, the neural mechanisms underlying their interaction remain poorly understood. Previous studies have highlighted the role of neural G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in regulating both immunity and pathogen avoidance, which is particularly dependent on aerotaxis. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a screen of mutants in neuropeptide receptor family genes. We found that loss-of-function mutations in npr-15 activated immunity while suppressing pathogen avoidance behavior. Through further analysis, NPR-15 was found to regulate immunity by modulating the activity of key transcription factors, namely GATA/ELT-2 and TFEB/HLH-30. Surprisingly, the lack of pathogen avoidance of npr-15 mutant animals was not influenced by oxygen levels. Moreover, our studies revealed that the amphid sensory neuron ASJ is involved in mediating the immune and behavioral responses orchestrated by NPR-15. Additionally, NPR-15 was found to regulate avoidance behavior via the TRPM gene, GON-2, which may sense the intestinal distension caused by bacterial colonization to elicit pathogen avoidance. Our study contributes to a broader understanding of host defense strategies and mechanisms underlining the interaction between molecular and behavioral immune responses.

Involvement of TNFα, IL-1β, COX-2 and NO in the anti-inflammatory activity of Tamarix aphylla in Wistar albino rats: an in-vivo and in-vitro study

BACKGROUND

With the emergence of many side effects from synthetic drugs, there is an urgent need to find a natural alternative to these products. Therefore, our primary aim was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of Tamarix aphylla (TA) and investigate the potential mechanism underlying this action.

METHODS

Initially, to ensure the safety of the extract and for dose selection, we performed an acute oral toxicity Assay through the oral administration of graded doses up to 4 g\kg in Wistar rats. then, we used the carrageenan-induced edema model to elucidate the anti-inflammatory activity. Using specific ELISA kits, we measured the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, COX-2 and NO inside the inflamed paw tissue. Finally, for the in-vitro anti-inflammatory experiment, we used the erythrocyte membrane stability test.

RESULTS

Based on the acute oral toxicity assay, T. aphylla was considered generally safe and three different doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg were chosen for further experiments. Additionally, TA expressed a significant (P < 0.05) anti-inflammatory activity, showing the maximum inhibition percentage at the fifth hour of measurement at 53.47% and 70.06%, at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg respectively, compared to 63.81% for the standard drug. Similarly, we found that TA effectively reduced the levels of TNF-α and IL-1β at all tested doses (100-200-400 mg/kg) to a greater extent than the standard drug. Moreover, at 400 mg/kg, TA was able to significantly lower the levels of COX-2 and NO inside the inflamed tissue to a level comparable (P < 0.05) with that measured inside the paw tissue of normal rats. Finally, Tamarix aphylla at 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg doses significantly (P < 0.05) inhibited the heat-induced hemolysis of RBCs membrane by 67.78, 74.82 and 82.08%, respectively, compared to 83.89% produced by Aspirin.

CONCLUSION

T. aphylla produced a significant (P < 0.05) anti-inflammatory activity compared to the standard drugs either through the reduction of pro-inflammatory mediators or the protection of the lysosomal membrane.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Clematis terniflora Leaf on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Lung Injury

For centuries, natural products are regarded as vital medicines for human survival. Clematis terniflora var. mandshurica (Rupr.) Ohwi is an ingredient of the herbal medicine, Wei Ling Xian, which has been used in Chinese medicine to alleviate pain, fever, and inflammation. In particular, C. terniflora leaves have been used to cure various inflammatory diseases, including tonsillitis, cholelithiasis, and conjunctivitis. Based on these properties, this study aimed to scientifically investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of an ethanol extract of leaves of C. terniflora (EELCT) using activated macrophages that play central roles in inflammatory response. In this study, EELCT inhibited the essential inflammatory mediators, such as nitric oxide, cyclooxygenase-2, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin- (IL-) 6, IL-1β, and inducible nitric oxide synthase, by suppressing the nuclear factor-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase activation in macrophages. Acute lung injury (ALI) is a fatal respiratory disease accompanied by serious inflammation. With high mortality rate, the disease has no effective treatments. Therefore, new therapeutic agents must be developed for ALI. We expected that EELCT can be a promising therapeutic agent for ALI by reducing inflammatory responses and evaluated its action in a lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced ALI model. EELCT alleviated histological changes, immune cell infiltration, inflammatory mediator production, and protein-rich pulmonary edema during ALI. Collectively, our results may explain the traditional usage of C. terniflora in inflammatory diseases and suggest the promising potential of EELCT as therapeutic candidate for ALI.

Comparative Analysis of Molecular Landscape in Mouse Models and Patients Reveals Conserved Inflammation Pathways in Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to identify key genes and their regulatory networks that are conserved in mouse models of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and human AMD.

Methods

Retinal RNA-Seq was performed in laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) mice at day 3 and day 7 after photocoagulation. Mass spectrometry-based proteomic analysis was performed with retinas collected at day 3. Retinal RNA-Seq data was further compared among mouse models of laser-induced CNV and NaIO3-induced retinal degeneration (RD) and a large AMD cohort.

Results

Retinal RNA-Seq revealed upregulated genes and pathways related to innate immunity and inflammation in mice with CNV, with more profound changes at the early stage (day 3). Proteomic analysis further validated these differentially expressed genes and their networks in retinal inflammation during CNV. Notably, the most evident overlap in the retina of mice with laser-induced CNV and NaIO3-induced RD was the upregulation of inflammation-related genes, pointing to a common vital role of retinal inflammation in the early stage for both mouse AMD models. Further comparative transcriptomic analysis of the mouse AMD models and human AMD identified 48 conserved genes mainly involved in inflammation response. Among them, B2M, C3, and SERPING1 were upregulated in all stages of human AMD and the mouse AMD models compared to controls.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates conserved molecular changes related to retinal inflammation in mouse AMD models and human AMD and provides new insight into the translational application of these mouse models in studying AMD mechanisms and treatments.

Effect of Microsatellite Status and Pan-Immune-Inflammation Score on Pathological Response in Patients with Clinical Stage III Stomach Cancer Treated with Perioperative Chemotherapy

Background and Objective: This study evaluated the relationship between microsatellite status (MSI) and pan-immune-inflammation score (PIV) in tumor response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in patients with clinical stage III gastric cancer (cStage III GC). Materials and Methods: Microsatellite instability (MSI) status was evaluated based on pathology preparations. Pan-immune-inflammation score (PIV) was obtained from pre-treatment blood tests. The relationship of both parameters with pathological complete response (pCR) was evaluated. Results: A total of 104 patients were included in this study. All the patients were stage III GC patients receiving perioperative treatment. There were 13 patients in total who achieved a pCR response. While CNS was detected in 11 of the patients who achieved a pCR, the MSI status of the other two patients was unknown. No pCR was observed in any patient with MSI-H. According to the cut-off value for PIV, 25 (24%) patients were in the PIV-low (≤53.9) group, while 79 (76%) were in the PIV-high (>53.9) group. Based on univariate analysis, a higher PIV was associated with worse outcomes for pathological response, disease recurrence, and survival (p < 0.05). Conclusions: In patients with clinically stage III GC, the presence of MSI-H may predict no benefit from perioperative treatment. Conversely, a pre-treatment PIV score using specific cut-off values may provide a positive prediction of pathological response and survival.

Overview of Caffeine Effects on Human Health and Emerging Delivery Strategies

Caffeine is a naturally occurring alkaloid found in various plants. It acts as a stimulant, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and even an aid in pain management, and is found in several over-the-counter medications. This naturally derived bioactive compound is the best-known ingredient in coffee and other beverages, such as tea, soft drinks, and energy drinks, and is widely consumed worldwide. Therefore, it is extremely important to research the effects of this substance on the human body. With this in mind, caffeine and its derivatives have been extensively studied to evaluate its ability to prevent diseases and exert anti-aging and neuroprotective effects. This review is intended to provide an overview of caffeine's effects on cancer and cardiovascular, immunological, inflammatory, and neurological diseases, among others. The heavily researched area of caffeine in sports will also be discussed. Finally, recent advances in the development of novel nanocarrier-based formulations, to enhance the bioavailability of caffeine and its beneficial effects will be discussed.

A New Generation of IMiDs as Treatments for Neuroinflammatory and Neurodegenerative Disorders

The immunomodulatory imide drug (IMiD) class, which includes the founding drug member thalidomide and later generation drugs, lenalidomide and pomalidomide, has dramatically improved the clinical treatment of specific cancers, such as multiple myeloma, and it combines potent anticancer and anti-inflammatory actions. These actions, in large part, are mediated by IMiD binding to the human protein cereblon that forms a critical component of the E3 ubiquitin ligase complex. This complex ubiquitinates and thereby regulates the levels of multiple endogenous proteins. However, IMiD-cereblon binding modifies cereblon's normal targeted protein degradation towards a new set of neosubstrates that underlies the favorable pharmacological action of classical IMiDs, but also their adverse actions-in particular, their teratogenicity. The ability of classical IMiDs to reduce the synthesis of key proinflammatory cytokines, especially TNF-α levels, makes them potentially valuable to reposition as drugs to mitigate inflammatory-associated conditions and, particularly, neurological disorders driven by an excessive neuroinflammatory element, as occurs in traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, and ischemic stroke. The teratogenic and anticancer actions of classical IMiDs are substantial liabilities for effective drugs in these disorders and can theoretically be dialed out of the drug class. We review a select series of novel IMiDs designed to avoid binding with human cereblon and/or evade degradation of downstream neosubstrates considered to underpin the adverse actions of thalidomide-like drugs. These novel non-classical IMiDs hold potential as new medications for erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL), a painful inflammatory skin condition associated with Hansen's disease for which thalidomide remains widely used, and, in particular, as a new treatment strategy for neurodegenerative disorders in which neuroinflammation is a key component.

Recent Advances in Apical Periodontitis Treatment: A Narrative Review

Apical periodontitis is an inflammatory response caused by pulp infection. It induces bone resorption in the apical and periapical regions of the tooth. The most conservative approach to treat this condition is nonsurgical endodontic treatment. However, clinical failure has been reported with this approach; thus, alternative procedures are required. This review highlights recent literature regarding advanced approaches for the treatment of apical periodontitis. Various therapies, including biological medications, antioxidants, specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators, and stem cell therapy, have been tested to increase the success rate of treatment for apical periodontitis. Some of these approaches remain in the in vivo phase of research, while others have just entered the translational research phase to validate clinical application. However, a detailed understanding of the molecular mechanisms that occur during development of the immunoinflammatory reaction in apical periodontitis remains unclear. The aim of this review was to summarize advanced approaches for the treatment of apical periodontitis. Further research can confirm the potential of these alternative nonsurgical endodontic treatment approaches.

ACKR4a induces autophagy to block NF-κB signaling and apoptosis to facilitate Vibrio harveyi infection

Autophagy and apoptosis are two recognized mechanisms of resistance to bacterial invasion. However, bacteria have likewise evolved the ability to evade immunity. In this study, we identify ACKR4a, a member of an atypical chemokine receptor family, as a suppressor of the NF-κB pathway, which cooperates with Beclin-1 to induce autophagy to inhibit NF-κB signaling and block apoptosis, facilitating Vibrio harveyi infection. Mechanistically, V. harveyi-induced Ap-1 activates ACKR4a transcription and expression. ACKR4a forms a complex with Beclin-1 and MyD88, respectively, inducing autophagy and transporting MyD88 into the lysosome for degradation to suppress inflammatory cytokine production. Meanwhile, ACKR4a-induced autophagy blocks apoptosis by inhibiting caspase8. This study proves for the first time that V. harveyi uses both autophagy and apoptosis to evade innate immunity, suggesting that V. harveyi has evolved the ability to against fish immunity.

Renal sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is a systemic inflammatory disease of unknown etiology. The pathogenesis rests on an aberrant T cell response to unidentified antigens in individuals predisposed by genetic and environmental factors. Increased expression of polarized macrophages and disequilibrium between effector and regulator T cells contribute to the formation of noncaseating granulomas, that are frequently found in affected organs. The main kidney abnormalities in sarcoidosis are granulomatous interstitial nephritis (GIN) and hypercalcemia-related disorders. The clinical diagnosis is difficult. The outcome is variable, ranging from spontaneous remission to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Early diagnosis and prompt treatment with corticosteroids can improve the prognosis. Hypercalcemia may be responsible for acute kidney injury (AKI) caused by vasoconstriction of afferent arterioles. Complications of persistent hypercalcemia include nephrocalcinosis and renal stones. In patients with ESKD, dialysis and transplantation can offer results comparable to those observed in patients with other causes of kidney failure. Based on a review of the literature, we present an overview of the etiopathogenesis, the renal manifestations of sarcoidosis and their complications, management and prognosis.

Evaluation of Simple Markers of Inflammation and Systemic Immune Inflammation Index in Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder Patients and Healthy Controls

OBJECTIVE

Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), mean platelet volume (MPV), and systemic immune inflammation index (SII) are recently used as indicators of inflammation. NLR, PLR, MLR, and MPV have been evaluated in many studies in patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. However, there are no studies investigating SII. This study aims to evaluate NLR, PLR, MLR, MPV and SII values and complete blood count elements in patients hospitalized with diagnoses of the schizophrenia with psychotic episode and bipolar disorder with manic episode by comparing them with the control group.

METHOD

A total of 149 patients who were hospitalized with the diagnoses of the schizophrenia with psychotic episode and bipolar disorder with manic episode and who met the inclusion criteria were included in our study where the control group was composed of 66 healthy individuals. White blood cell (WBC), neutrophil, lymphocyte, platelet, and monocyte counts were obtained retrospectively from complete blood counts at the time of admission, based on which NLR, PLR, MLR, and SII were calculated.

RESULTS

In this study, higher NLR, PLR, and SII values and lower MPV and lymphocyte counts were observed in schizophrenia patients compared to the control group. NLR, PLR, and SII values and neutrophil counts were higher in patients with bipolar disorder compared to the control group. Lower MPV values were found in patients with schizophrenia compared to patients with bipolar disorder.

CONCLUSION

Simple inflammatory and SII values in our study indicate the presence of low-grade systemic inflammation in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Vagus Nerve Stimulation: A Personalized Therapeutic Approach for Crohn's and Other Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

Inflammatory bowel diseases, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, are incurable autoimmune diseases characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. There is increasing evidence that inappropriate interaction between the enteric nervous system and central nervous system and/or low activity of the vagus nerve, which connects the enteric and central nervous systems, could play a crucial role in their pathogenesis. Therefore, it has been suggested that appropriate neuroprosthetic stimulation of the vagus nerve could lead to the modulation of the inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and consequent long-term control of these autoimmune diseases. In the present paper, we provide a comprehensive overview of (1) the cellular and molecular bases of the immune system, (2) the way central and enteric nervous systems interact and contribute to the immune responses, (3) the pathogenesis of the inflammatory bowel disease, and (4) the therapeutic use of vagus nerve stimulation, and in particular, the transcutaneous stimulation of the auricular branch of the vagus nerve. Then, we expose the working hypotheses for the modulation of the molecular processes that are responsible for intestinal inflammation in autoimmune diseases and the way we could develop personalized neuroprosthetic therapeutic devices and procedures in favor of the patients.

Chlorogenic acid attenuates pro-inflammatory response in the blood of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

BACKGROUND

Chlorogenic acid (CGA) has been shown to reduce pro-inflammation by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species. In this study, the anti-inflammatory effect of CGA was expanded to streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. The inter-relationships among oxidative stress, pro-inflammation, and cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A enzymes were also investigated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of STZ-diabetic rats.

RESULTS

The levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, increased by approximately 3.4- and 2.9-fold, respectively, and the albumin concentration decreased in the serum of STZ-induced diabetic rats compared to normal rats. The C-reactive protein (CRP) values also increased by about 3.8-fold higher, indicating that STZ induced an inflammation in the blood of STZ-diabetic rats. The expression levels and catalytic activities of CYP1A enzymes were elevated by approximately 2.2-2.5- and 4.3-6.7-fold, respectively, in the PBMC of STZ-treated rats. A decrease in the amount of PBMC-bound albumin was also observed. In contrast, the levels of cytokines and CRP in serum and the activities of CYP1A enzymes in PBMC were significantly reduced in CGA-treated diabetic rats in a CGA concentration-dependent manner. In addition, STZ-mediated elevation of ROS in serum and PBMC was decreased by the CGA administration. However, the CGA treatment did not change the enhanced blood glucose level and expression of CYP1A enzymes by STZ. STZ-mediated decrease in the levels of serum and PBMC-bound albumin was not also restored by the CGA administration.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that CGA could be used to treat type 1 diabetes-induced inflammation.

Effects of Lycium barbarum Polysaccharides on Immunity and Metabolic Syndrome Associated with the Modulation of Gut Microbiota: A Review

Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs) have attracted increasing attention due to their multiple pharmacological activities and physiological functions. Recently, both in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that the biological effects of dietary LBPs are related to the regulation of gut microbiota. Supplementation with LBPs could modulate the composition of microbial communities, and simultaneously influence the levels of active metabolites, thus exerting their beneficial effects on host health. Interestingly, LBPs with diverse chemical structures may enrich or reduce certain specific intestinal microbes. The present review summarizes the extraction, purification, and structural types of LBPs and the regulation effects of LBPs on the gut microbiome and their derived metabolites. Furthermore, the health promoting effects of LBPs on host bidirectional immunity (e.g., immune enhancement and immune inflammation suppression) and metabolic syndrome (e.g., obesity, type 2 diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease) by targeting gut microbiota are also discussed based on their structural types. The contents presented in this review might help to better understand the health benefits of LBPs targeting gut microbiota and provide a scientific basis to further clarify the structure-function relationship of LBPs.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Cajanin, an Isoflavonoid Derivative Isolated from Canavalia lineata Pods

The bioactive components of Canavalia lineata (Thunb.) DC pods were investigated using bioactivity-guided isolation, and the chemical structures of flavonoids 1–3, isoflavonoid derivatives 4–11, and phenolic compounds 12 and 13 were identified by comparing NMR, MS, and CD spectral data with previously reported spectroscopic data. Compounds 1–13 were evaluated for their anti-inflammatory effects on LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. Among these compounds, the isoflavonoid derivative cajanin (7) exhibited the most potent anti-inflammatory activity (IC₅₀ of NO = 19.38 ± 0.05 µM; IC₅₀ of IL-6 = 7.78 ± 0.04 µM; IC₅₀ of TNF-α = 26.82 ± 0.11 µM), exerting its anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing the activation and nuclear translocation of the transcription factor NF-κB by phosphorylating IκB and p65. These results suggested that cajanin (7) may be a potential candidate for improving the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

A toxicological profile of silica nanoparticles

Humans are regularly exposed to silica nanoparticles in environmental and occupational contexts, and these exposures have been implicated in the onset of adverse health effects. Existing reviews on silica nanoparticle toxicity are few and not comprehensive. There are natural and synthetic sources by which crystalline and amorphous silica nanoparticles are produced. These processes influence physiochemical properties, which are factors that can dictate toxicological effects. Toxicological assessment includes exposure scenario (e.g. environmental, occupational), route of exposure, toxicokinetics, and toxicodynamics. Broader considerations include pathology, risk assessment, regulation, and treatment after injury. This review aims to consolidate the most relevant and up-to-date research in these areas to provide an exhaustive toxicological profile of silica nanoparticles.

Deinococcus radiodurans R1 Lysate Induces Tolerogenic Maturation in Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated Dendritic Cells and Protects Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis in Mice

Deinococcus radiodurans is an extremophilic bacterium that can thrive in harsh environments. This property can be attributed to its unique metabolites that possess strong antioxidants and other pharmacological properties. To determine the potential of D. radiodurans R1 lysate (DeinoLys) as a pharmacological candidate for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), we investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of DeinoLys in bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) and a colitis mice model. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated BMDCs treated with DeinoLys exhibited alterations in their phenotypic and functional properties by changing into tolerogenic DCs, including strongly inhibited proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-12p70) and surface molecule expression and activated DC-induced T cell proliferation/activation with high IL-10 production. These phenotypic and functional changes in BMDCs induced by DeinoLys in the presence of LPS were abrogated by IL-10 neutralization. Furthermore, oral administration of DeinoLys significantly reduced clinical symptoms against dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis, including body weight loss, disease activity index, histological severity in colon tissue, and lower myeloperoxidase level in mice. Our results establish DeinoLys as a potential anti-inflammatory candidate for IBD therapy.

The Association between the Pan-Immune-Inflammation Value and Cancer Prognosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Prognostic scores derived from the blood count have garnered significant interest as an indirect measure of the inflammatory pressure in cancer. The recently developed pan-immune-inflammation value (PIV), an equation including the neutrophil, platelet, monocyte, and lymphocyte levels, has been evaluated in several cohorts, although with variations in the tumor types, disease stages, cut-offs, and treatments. Therefore, we evaluated the association between survival and PIV in cancer, performing a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: We conducted a systematic review from the Pubmed, Medline, and Embase databases to filter the published studies until 17 May 2022. The meta-analyses were performed with the generic inverse-variance method with a random-effects model. Results: Fifteen studies encompassing 4942 patients were included. In the pooled analysis of fifteen studies, the patients with higher PIV levels had significantly increased risk of death than those with lower PIV levels (HR: 2.00, 95% CI: 1.51−2.64, p < 0.001) and increased risk of progression or death (HR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.39−2.32, p < 0.001). Analyses were consistent across several clinical scenarios, including non-metastatic or metastatic disease, different cut-offs (500, 400, and 300), and treatment with targeted therapy or immunotherapy (p < 0.001 for each). Conclusion: The available evidence demonstrates that PIV could be a prognostic biomarker in cancer. However, further research is needed to explore the promise of PIV as a prognostic biomarker in patients with non-metastatic disease or patients treated without immunotherapy or targeted therapy.

Peedanil Gold, Herbo-Mineral Formulation, Moderates Cytokine Levels and Attenuates Pathophysiology in Monosodium Iodoacetate Induced Osteoarthritis in SD Rat Model

The inflammatory cartilaginous degeneration of the articular joints, mostly those of knee, hips and hands, is osteoarthritis (OA). The available treatment strategies for osteoarthritis are designed for pain relief, molecular targeting, cartilage regeneration and surgical intervention. However, meta-analysis of clinical trials has shown these strategies to be sub-optimal, thereby, eliciting a need for investigating alternative options. The herbo-mineral formulation, Peedanil Gold (PN-G) has been used against joint pains and inflammation. In the current study, anti-osteoarthritic effects of PN-G were investigated in rat model of OA, induced by intra-articular injection of monosodium-iodoacetate. PN-G treatment improved the clinical and Kellgren & Lawrence scores; and rescued the osteoarthritic rats from hyperalgesia and allodynia. Besides, PN-G treatment ameliorated joint inflammation and abrogated in vivo osteoarthritic pathology through effective cartilage regeneration, measured radiologically and histopathologically. PN-G also reduced the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), in a dose dependent manner, in inflamed human macrophagic THP-1 cells, thereby, reaffirming its anti-inflammatory property at cytosafe concentrations. Ultra High performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) revealed the presence of several analgesic and anti-inflammatory phytocompounds, like ellagic acid, guggulsterone E, guggulsterone Z, 5-(hydroxymethyl) furfural, corilagin, cinnamic acid, ferulic acid, gallic acid and protocatechuic acid in PN-G. In conclusion, this study has succinctly demonstrated that PN-G is capable of relieving the clinical symptoms of osteoarthritis, which is measurable through the established osteoarthritic serum biomarker, Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein (COMP).

A 4-Benzene-Indol Derivative Alleviates LPS-Induced Acute Lung Injury Through Inhibiting the NLRP3 Inflammasome

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a common complication of critical illness that could frequently lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome and other serious clinical consequences. Sepsis is one of the major and most common inducements among all causes of ALI. Due to its high incidence and mortality rate and also the complexity in treatment, sepsis-related ALI has become an urgent clinical problem waiting to be solved effectively. At present, only the protective ventilation strategy, restrictive fluid management, and antibiotics application are measures that can improve the prognosis with evidence-based medical proof. No pharmacological treatment is currently available to protect or significantly reverse the prognosis. Seeking for effective interventions measures for sepsis-related ALI is one of the most necessitous research directions. In this research, a conspicuous discovery of treatment-related translational use for a 4-benzene-indol derivative was elaborated by screening a large number of chemical compounds. The results showed that 4-benzene-indol derivative could not only suppress the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome both in vitro and alleviate LPS-induced ALI in vivo but also suppress the NLRP3 inflammasome in human myeloid leukemia mononuclear cells (THP-1) cell lines. Mechanistically, 1,2-diol blocks the NLRP3 inflammasome activation by disrupting NLRP3–NEK7 interaction and the subsequent NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and activation. To summarize, this research indicated that the newly-discovered 4-benzene-indol derivative targets NLRP3 inflammasome signaling, which consequently alleviates sepsis-related ALI. Collectively, the 4-benzene-indol derivative may serve as a potential therapeutic drug and NLRP3 inflammasome signaling would be a novel pharmaceutical target for clinical treatment of sepsis-related ALI.

Advancement of nanomedicines in chronic inflammatory disorders

Chronic diseases, as stated by the WHO, are a threat to human health which kill 3 out of every 5 people worldwide. Therapeutics for such illnesses can be developed using traditional medicine. However, it is not an easy path from natural products to Western pharmacological and pharmaceutical methods. For several decades, chronic inflammatory disorders, especially in Westernized countries, have increased incidence and prevalence. Several NSAIDs are used to decrease inflammation and pain; however, there are numerous negative consequences of these anti-inflammatory medications, whereas plant-based natural products have anti-inflammatory therapeutic benefits that have little or no adverse effects. Nanoparticles are a new type of drug delivery device that may be designed to provide excellent target selectivity for certain cells and tissues while also having a high drug loading capacity, resulting in better pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics (PKPD), and therapeutic bioavailability. The size and polarity of phytochemical compounds make it hard to pass the blood-brain barrier (BBB), blood-vessel endothelial lining, gastrointestinal tract and mucosa. In addition, the gastrointestinal system is enzymatically destroyed. Therefore, nanoparticles or nanocrystals might also be used for encapsulation or conjugation of these chemicals as a method to improve their organic effectiveness through their gastrointestinal stability, absorption rate and dispersion. The therapy of numerous inflammatory illnesses, including arthritis, gastritis, Nephritis, Hepatitis (Type A, B &C), ulcerative colitis, Alzheimer's disease, atherosclerosis, allergic responses (asthma, eczema) or autoimmune disorders, is characterised by nanoparticles. This review paper provides information on the numerous nanosystem described with their probable mechanism to treat chronic inflammatory diseases.

Predictive Value of the Baseline and Early Changes in Blood Eosinophils for Short-Term Mortality in Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Background

Eosinophils play an essential role in the pathogenesis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We aimed to assess the association between the baseline blood eosinophils, eosinophil changes during the first week in the intensive care unit (ICU) and short-term patient outcomes.

Methods

All patients meeting the Berlin definition of ARDS from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV database were retrospectively analyzed. We used logistic regression, Kaplan–Meier survival and random forest analysis to determine the association between the baseline eosinophils and short-term mortality. Then the trends in eosinophils over time were compared between the survivors and non-survivors using a generalized additive mixed model (GAMM), which is a common approach used for analysis of repeated measurement data. Area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) was used to evaluate the predictive value.

Results

A total of 1685 patients were included, and the 30-day mortality was 25.1%. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that patients with high baseline eosinophils (>0.3%) had lower 30-day mortality (p < 0.001). Random forest model selected the baseline eosinophils as an important factor associated with 30-day mortality. Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified high baseline eosinophils as an independent factor for 30-day mortality (OR 0.743, 95% CI 0.568–0.970). The GAMM result showed that the levels of eosinophils were increased in both survival and non-survival groups, and the between-group differences increased over time, with an average of 0.154 daily after adjusting for confounders. The AUC of changes in eosinophils within the first week was significantly higher than that of baseline eosinophils.

Conclusion

There is a negative association between the baseline eosinophils and short-term mortality in ARDS patients, and the differences in eosinophils increased over time between the survivors and non-survivors. Higher increase in eosinophils is associated with decreased short-term mortality, and dynamic monitoring of eosinophils could better predict the survival of ARDS patients.

Point your SmartPhone at the code above. If you have a QR code reader the video abstract will appear. Or use:

https://youtu.be/Xe5dqxVxw_M

Treatment with Commelina communis Extract Exerts Anti-inflammatory Effects in Murine Macrophages via Modulation of the Nuclear Factor-κB Pathway

The incidence of severe inflammatory diseases caused by chronic inflammation has increased owing to unprecedented changes brought about by industrialization. In this study, we aimed to assess the effect of treatment of lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced murine macrophages with Commelina communis Linne extract (CCE) on synthesis of nitric oxide (NO), hypersecretion of proinflammatory cytokines, intranuclear transition of the p65 subunit of nuclear factor- (NF-) κB, and degradation of the NF-κB inhibitor IκBα. Notably, CCE treatment did not affect cell viability even at a final concentration of 1.5 mg/mL. At a high concentration of CCE, the LPS-induced high levels of NO, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin- (IL-) 1β, and IL-6 were decreased via downregulation of inducible NO synthase and proinflammatory cytokine mRNA expression. Furthermore, phosphorylation of IκBα was significantly decreased upon CCE treatment, and the intranuclear transition of NF-κB p65 triggered by LPS was inhibited at a high concentration of CCE. Polyphenols and flavonoids, secondary metabolites in CCE that regulate the NF-κB pathway, may be responsible for its anti-inflammatory activity. We suggest that CCE has anti-inflammatory effects related to suppression of the NF-κB pathway and can be used to treat chronic inflammation.

Modulation of Inflammatory Signaling Molecules in Bordetella pertussis Antigen-Challenged Human Monocytes in Presence of Adrenergic Agonists

BscF is a type III secretion system (T3SS) needle protein from Bordetella pertussis and has previously been shown to induce a sufficient Th1 and Th17 response in human monocytes and mice as a prerequisite for long-lasting protective immunity against pertussis infection. In our current study, we aim to compare the modulation of inflammatory signaling molecules as a direct measure of the immune response to the B. pertussis antigens BscF and Tdap in the presence or absence of the adrenergic receptor agonists phenylephrine (PE) or isoproterenol (ISO) to observe differences that may contribute to the diminished protective immunity of the current acellular pertussis (aP) vaccine, Tdap. Stimulation of human monocyte THP-1 cells with LPS, BscF, and Tdap induced a robust elevation of CCL20, CXCL10, PGE2, and PGF2α among most chemokine and prostanoid members when compared with the control treatment. Treatment with the adrenergic agonist PE or ISO significantly enhanced the BscF- and Tdap-stimulated modulation of CCL20 and CXCL10 but not PGE2 and PGF2α, suggesting that adrenergic modulation of pertussis antigen responses might be a new therapeutic strategy to improve the longevity of pertussis immunity. Stimulation of THP-1 cells with BscF alone initiated significant expression of CXCL10 and PGF2α but not when Tdap was used, suggesting that BscF might be an important pertussis antigen for next-generation pertussis vaccines or when combined with the current aP vaccine. Our data offer opportunities for designing new therapeutic approaches against pertussis infection.

Ginsenoside Ro, an oleanolic saponin of Panax ginseng, exerts anti-inflammatory effect by direct inhibiting toll like receptor 4 signaling pathway

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Pathogenesis-based new perspectives of management of ANCA-associated vasculitis

While the pathogenesis of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody associated vasculitis (AAV) is still not fully elucidated, there is a mounting evidence that it is initiated by inflammation and activation of innate immunity in the presence of predisposing factors, innate immunity, aberrant responses of the adaptive immune system, and complement system activation. Biologics targeting inflammation-related molecules in the immune system have been explored to treat AVV, and these treatments have provided revolutionary advances. When focusing on the pathogenic mechanisms of AVV, this review presents the new findings regarding novel therapeutic approaches for the management of these conditions.

Efficacy of probiotics for managing infantile colic due to their anti-inflammatory properties: a meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

Infantile colic (IC) is excessive crying in otherwise healthy children. Despite vast research efforts, its etiology remains unknown.

PURPOSE

Most treatments for IC carry various side effects. The collection of evidence may inform researchers of new strategies for the management and treatment of IC as well as new clues for understanding its pathogenesis. This review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and possible mechanisms of probiotics for mananaging IC.

METHODS

Ten papers met the study inclusion and exclusion criteria, and the meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager (RevMan) software and a random-effects model.

RESULTS

This meta-analysis revealed that probiotics are effective for treating infantile colic, while the review showed that this efficacy may be due to their anti-inflammatory effects.

CONCLUSION

Probiotics may be an important treatment option for managing infantile colic due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

Microglia and macrophage exhibit attenuated inflammatory response and ferroptosis resistance after RSL3 stimulation via increasing Nrf2 expression

BACKGROUND

Many neurological diseases involve neuroinflammation, during which overproduction of cytokines by immune cells, especially microglia, can aggregate neuronal death. Ferroptosis is a recently discovered cell metabolism-related form of cell death and RSL3 is a well-known inducer of cell ferroptosis. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of RSL3 in neuroinflammation and sensitivity of different type of microglia and macrophage to ferroptosis.

METHODS

Here, we used quantitative RT-PCR analysis and ELISA analysis to analyze the production of proinflammatory cytokine production of microglia and macrophages after lipopolysaccharides (LPS) stimulation. We used CCK8, LDH, and flow cytometry analysis to evaluate the sensitivity of different microglia and macrophages to RSL3-induced ferroptosis. Western blot was used to test the activation of inflammatory signaling pathway and knockdown efficiency. SiRNA-mediated interference was conducted to knockdown GPX4 or Nrf2 in BV2 microglia. Intraperitoneal injection of LPS was performed to evaluate systemic inflammation and neuroinflammation severity in in vivo conditions.

RESULTS

We found that ferroptosis inducer RSL3 inhibited lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced inflammation of microglia and peritoneal macrophages (PMs) in a cell ferroptosis-independent manner, whereas cell ferroptosis-conditioned medium significantly triggered inflammation of microglia and PMs. Different type of microglia and macrophages showed varied sensitivity to RSL3-induced ferroptosis. Mechanistically, RSL3 induced Nrf2 protein expression to inhibit RNA Polymerase II recruitment to transcription start site of proinflammatory cytokine genes to repress cytokine transcription, and protect cells from ferroptosis. Furthermore, simultaneously injection of RSL3 and Fer-1 ameliorated LPS-induced neuroinflammation in in vivo conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

These data revealed the proinflammatory role of ferroptosis in microglia and macrophages, identified RSL3 as a novel inhibitor of LPS-induced inflammation, and uncovered the molecular regulation of microglia and macrophage sensitivity to ferroptosis. Thus, targeting ferroptosis in diseases by using RSL3 should consider both the pro-ferroptosis effect and the anti-inflammation effect to achieve optimal outcome.

Inflammation and early life stress: An updated review of childhood trauma and inflammatory markers in adulthood

Inflammation, as a neurobiological consequence of childhood trauma, has frequently been reported across research, however, recent investigations suggest this relationship may be dependent on specificities such as type of trauma, type of inflammatory marker, and additional mediatory variables - such as body mass index (BMI), age, and sex. As an updated version of a previous review by Baumeister et al., the current review comprised a search of PubMed, which identified 37 articles that collectively assessed 4 inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6, TNFα and IL-1β). A review of the studies revealed predominantly non-significant associations between childhood trauma and elevated levels of all inflammatory markers in adulthood. However, in line with previous research, discrepancies in significance arose when considering type of trauma, type of inflammatory marker, and additional variables. Compared to neglect, abuse showed greater significant associations with elevated inflammatory markers in adulthood, though this was dependent on the individual subtypes (emotional, physical or sexual). Mediation analyses reported BMI as a significant mediator, though, when controlled for, no significant differences were found. Sex differences were reported but investigations were sparse. Future research should investigate the mediatory role of sex differences in the inflammatory effects of childhood trauma. Many studies in the review were restricted by use of the same trauma measure - the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. To assess greater variety of trauma types, future studies should utilize other standardized measures to explore these avenues.

Diversity of ACE2 and its interaction with SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain

COVID-19, the clinical syndrome caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has rapidly spread globally causing hundreds of millions of infections and over two million deaths. The potential animal reservoirs for SARS-CoV-2 are currently unknown, however sequence analysis has provided plausible potential candidate species. SARS-CoV-2 binds to the angiotensin I converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) to enable its entry into host cells and establish infection. We analyzed the binding surface of ACE2 from several important animal species to begin to understand the parameters for the ACE2 recognition by the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein receptor binding domain (RBD). We employed Shannon entropy analysis to determine the variability of ACE2 across its sequence and particularly in its RBD interacting region, and assessed differences between various species' ACE2 and human ACE2. Recombinant ACE2 from human, hamster, horseshoe bat, cat, ferret, and cow were evaluated for RBD binding. A gradient of binding affinities were seen where human and hamster ACE2 were similarly in the low nanomolar range, followed by cat and cow. Surprisingly, horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus sinicus) and ferret (Mustela putorius) ACE2s had poor binding activity compared with the other species' ACE2. The residue differences and binding properties between the species' variants provide a framework for understanding ACE2-RBD binding and virus tropism.

Pattern recognition receptors and their roles in the host response to Helicobacter pylori infection

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is highly prevalent, affecting 4.4 billion people globally. This pathogen is a risk factor in the pathogenesis of more than 75% of worldwide cases of gastric cancer. Pattern recognition receptors are essential in the innate immune response to H. pylori infection. They recognize conserved pathogen structures and myriad alarmins released by host cells in response to microbial components, cytokines or cellular stress, thus triggering a robust proinflammatory response, which is crucial in H. pylori-induced gastric carcinogenesis. In this review, we intend to highlight the main pattern recognition receptors involved in the recognition and host response to H. pylori, as well as the main structures recognized and the subsequent inflammatory response.

Innate-like Lymphocytes and Innate Lymphoid Cells in Asthma

Asthma is a chronic pulmonary disease, highly associated with immune disorders. The typical symptoms of asthma include airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), airway remodeling, mucus overproduction, and airflow limitation. The etiology of asthma is multifactorial and affected by genetic and environmental factors. Increasing trends toward dysbiosis, smoking, stress, air pollution, and a western lifestyle may account for the increasing incidence of asthma. Based on the presence or absence of eosinophilic inflammation, asthma is mainly divided into T helper 2 (Th2) and non-Th2 asthma. Th2 asthma is mediated by allergen-specific Th2 cells, and eosinophils activated by Th2 cells via the secretion of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, and IL-13. Different from Th2 asthma, non-Th2 asthma shows little eosinophilic inflammation, resists to corticosteroid treatment, and occurs mainly in severe asthmatic patients. Previous studies of asthma primarily focused on the function of Th2 cells, but, with the discovery of non-Th2 asthma and the involvement of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) in the pathogenesis of asthma, tissue-resident innate immune cells in the lung have become the focus of attention in asthma research. Currently, innate-like lymphocytes (ILLs) and ILCs as important components of the innate immune system in mucosal tissues are reportedly involved in the pathogenesis of or protection against both Th2 and non-Th2 asthma. These findings of the functions of different subsets of ILLs and ILCs may provide clues for the treatment of asthma.

A shedding soluble form of interleukin-17 receptor D exacerbates collagen-induced arthritis through facilitating TNF-α-dependent receptor clustering

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is exacerbated by TNF-alpha signaling. However, it remains unclear whether TNF-α-activated TNFR1 and TNFR2 are regulated by extracellular factors. Here, we showed that soluble glycosylated interleukin-17 receptor D (sIL-17RD), which was produced by proteolytic cleavage, enhanced TNF-α-induced RA. We revealed that IL-17RD shedding was induced by the proteolytic enzyme TACE and enhanced by TNF-α expression in macrophages. Intriguingly, sIL-17RD was elevated in the sera of arthritic mice and rats. Recombinant sIL-17RD significantly enhanced the TNF-α-induced proinflammatory response by promoting TNF-α-TNFR-sIL-17RD complex formation and receptor clustering, leading to the accelerated development of collagen-induced arthritis. Our observations revealed that ectodomain shedding of IL-17RD occurred in RA to boost the TNF-α-induced inflammatory response. Targeting sIL-17RD may provide a new strategy for the therapy of RA.

Lithium inhibits NF-κB nuclear translocation and modulate inflammation profiles in Rift valley fever virus-infected Raw 264.7 macrophages

Introduction

Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a zoonotic life-threatening viral infection endemic across sub-Saharan African countries and the Arabian Peninsula; however, there is a growing panic of its spread to non-endemic regions. This viral infection triggers a wide spectrum of symptoms that span from fibril illnesses to more severe symptoms such as haemorrhagic fever and encephalitis. These severe symptoms have been associated with dysregulated immune response propagated by the virulence factor, non-structural protein (NSs). Thus, this study investigates the effects of lithium on NF-κB translocation and RFVF-induced inflammation in Raw 264.7 macrophages.

Methods

The supernatant from RVFV-infected Raw 264.7 cells, treated with lithium, was examined using an ELISA assay kit to measure levels of cytokines and chemokines. The H₂DCF-DA and DAF-2 DA florigenic assays were used to determine the levels of ROS and RNS by measuring the cellular fluorescence intensity post RVFV-infection and lithium treatment. Western blot and immunocytochemistry assays were used to measure expression levels of the inflammatory proteins and cellular location of the NF-κB, respectively.

Results

Lithium was shown to stimulate interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) production as early as 3 h pi. Production of the secondary pro-inflammatory cytokine and chemokine, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES), were elevated as early as 12 h pi. Treatment with lithium stimulated increase of production of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and Interleukin-10 (IL-10) in RVFV-infected and uninfected macrophages as early as 3 h pi. The RVFV-infected cells treated with lithium displayed lower ROS and RNS production as opposed to lithium-free RVFV-infected control cells. Western blot analyses demonstrated that lithium inhibited iNOS expression while stimulating expression of heme oxygenase (HO) and IκB in RVFV-infected Raw 264.7 macrophages. Results from immunocytochemistry and Western blot assays revealed that lithium inhibits NF-κB nuclear translocation in RVFV-infected cells compared to lithium-free RVFV-infected cells and 5 mg/mL LPS controls.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that lithium inhibits NF-kB nuclear translocation and modulate inflammation profiles in RVFV-infected Raw 264.7 macrophage cells.

The inflammatory state is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and graft fibrosis in kidney transplantation

Several factors, such as donor brain death, ischemia-reperfusion injury, rejection, infection, and chronic allograft dysfunction, may induce an inflammatory state in kidney transplantation. Furthermore, inflammatory cells, cytokines, growth factors, complement and coagulation cascade create an unbalanced interaction with innate and adaptive immunity, which are both heavily involved in atherogenesis. The crosstalk between inflammation and thrombosis may lead to a prothrombotic state and impaired fibrinolysis in kidney transplant recipients increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Inflammation is also associated with elevated levels of fibroblast growth factor 23 and low levels of Klotho, which contribute to major adverse cardiovascular events. Hyperuricemia, glucose intolerance, arterial hypertension, dyslipidemia, and physical inactivity may create a condition called metaflammation that concurs in atherogenesis. Another major consequence of the inflammatory state is the development of chronic hypoxia that through the mediation of interleukins 1 and 6, angiotensin II, and transforming growth factor beta can result in excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix, which can disrupt and replace functional parenchyma, leading to interstitial fibrosis and chronic allograft dysfunction. Lifestyle and regular physical activity may reduce inflammation. Several drugs have been proposed to control the graft inflammatory state, including low-dose aspirin, statins, renin-angiotensin inhibitors, xanthine-oxidase inhibitors, vitamin D supplements, and interleukin-6 blockade. However, no prospective controlled trial with these measures has been conducted in kidney transplantation.

The Role of Formyl Peptide Receptors in Permanent and Low-Grade Inflammation: Helicobacter pylori Infection as a Model

Formyl peptide receptors (FPRs) are cell surface pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), belonging to the chemoattractant G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) family. They play a key role in the innate immune system, regulating both the initiation and the resolution of the inflammatory response. FPRs were originally identified as receptors with high binding affinity for bacteria or mitochondria N-formylated peptides. However, they can also bind a variety of structurally different ligands. Among FPRs, formyl peptide receptor-like 1 (FPRL1) is the most versatile, recognizing N-formyl peptides, non-formylated peptides, and synthetic molecules. In addition, according to the ligand nature, FPRL1 can mediate either pro- or anti-inflammatory responses. Hp(2-20), a Helicobacter pylori-derived, non-formylated peptide, is a potent FPRL1 agonist, participating in Helicobacter pylori-induced gastric inflammation, thus contributing to the related site or not-site specific diseases. The aim of this review is to provide insights into the role of FPRs in H. pylori-associated chronic inflammation, which suggests this receptor as potential target to mitigate both microbial and sterile inflammatory diseases.

Ultrasound May Suppress Tumor Growth, Inhibit Inflammation, and Establish Tolerogenesis by Remodeling Innatome via Pathways of ROS, Immune Checkpoints, Cytokines, and Trained Immunity/Tolerance

BACKGROUND

The immune mechanisms underlying low-intensity ultrasound- (LIUS-) mediated suppression of inflammation and tumorigenesis remain poorly determined.

METHODS

We used microarray datasets from the NCBI GEO DataSet repository and conducted comprehensive data-mining analyses, where we examined the gene expression of 1376 innate immune regulators (innatome genes (IGs) in cells treated with LIUS.

RESULTS

We made the following findings: (1) LIUS upregulates proinflammatory IGs and downregulates metastasis genes in cancer cells, and LIUS upregulates adaptive immunity pathways but inhibits danger-sensing and inflammation pathways and promote tolerogenic differentiation in bone marrow (BM) cells. (2) LIUS upregulates IGs encoded for proteins localized in the cytoplasm, extracellular space, and others, but downregulates IG proteins localized in nuclear and plasma membranes, and LIUS downregulates phosphatases. (3) LIUS-modulated IGs act partially via several important pathways of reactive oxygen species (ROS), reverse signaling of immune checkpoint receptors B7-H4 and BTNL2, inflammatory cytokines, and static or oscillatory shear stress and heat generation, among which ROS is a dominant mechanism. (4) LIUS upregulates trained immunity enzymes in lymphoma cells and downregulates trained immunity enzymes and presumably establishes trained tolerance in BM cells. (5) LIUS modulates chromatin long-range interactions to differentially regulate IGs expression in cancer cells and noncancer cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis suggests novel molecular mechanisms that are utilized by LIUS to induce tumor suppression and inflammation inhibition. Our findings may lead to development of new treatment protocols for cancers and chronic inflammation.