Effect of emodin on long non-coding RNA-mRNA networks in rats with severe acute pancreatitis-induced acute lung injury

Effect of emodin on acute lung injury: a meta-analysis of preclinical trials

BACKGROUND

Emodin has protective effects on acute lung injury (ALI) or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). This meta-analysis intended to illustrate the efficacy of emodin on ALI/ARDS animal models.

METHODS

Relevant preclinical studies were searched on PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) with corresponding confidence intervals (CIs) were used to compare lung injury scores, lung wet-to-dry weight ratios (W/D), myeloperoxidase (MPO), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-18, PaO2, and PaCO2 between the treatment and control groups. The article quality was appraised using the SYRCLE tool.

RESULTS

Twenty one studies published between 2014 and 2023 were enrolled. Compared with the control group, emodin significantly reduced lung injury scores (SMD: -3.63; 95% CI: -4.36, -2.90; p < 0.00001), W/D ratios (SMD: -3.23; 95% CI: -4.29, -2.16; p < 0.00001), and MPO levels (SMD: -2.96; 95% CI: -3.92, -1.99; p < 0.00001). Furthermore, emodin downregulated TNF-α (SMD: -3.04; 95% CI: -3.62, -2.47; p < 0.00001), IL-1β (SMD: -3.76; 95% CI: -4.65, -2.87; p < 0.00001), IL-6 (SMD: -3.19; 95% CI: -3.95, -2.43; p < 0.00001), and IL-18 levels (SMD: -4.83; 95% CI: -6.10, -3.57; p < 0.00001). Emodin improved gas exchange dysfunction, increased PaO2 (SMD: 3.76; 95% CI: 2.41, 5.11; p < 0.00001), and decreased PaCO2 (SMD: -3.83; 95% CI: -4.90, -2.76; p < 0.00001). Sensitivity analyses and stratified analyses were conducted for outcome measures with heterogeneity.

CONCLUSIONS

Emodin treatment can effectively reduce the severity of ALI in animal models. Additional animal investigations and clinical trials involving human subjects are imperative.

Pharmacological mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine against acute lung injury: From active ingredients to herbal formulae

BACKGROUND

Acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are the leading causes of acute respiratory failure in many critical diseases and are among the main respiratory diseases with high clinical mortality. The global outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can cause severe ARDS, resulting in a steep rise in the number of patient deaths. Therefore, it is important to explore the pathogenesis of ALI and find effective therapeutic agents. In recent years, thanks to modern biomedical tools, some progress has been made in the application of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatment principles based on syndromic differentiation and holistic concepts in clinical and experimental studies of ALI. More and more TCM effective components and formulae have been verified to have significant curative effects, which have a certain guiding significance for clinical practice.

PURPOSE

It is hoped to provide reference for the clinical research of ALI/ARDS and provide theoretical basis and technical support for the scientific application of TCM in respiratory related diseases.

METHODS

We performed a literature survey using traditional books of Chinese medicine and online scientific databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and others up to January 2023.

RESULTS

In recent years, thanks to modern biomedical tools, some progress has been made in the application of TCM treatment principles based on syndromic differentiation and holistic concepts in clinical and experimental studies of ALI. This paper mainly reviews the research progress of ALI/ARDS mechanism, the understanding of its etiology and pathogenesis by TCM, and the therapeutic effects of TCM formulae and active ingredients of Chinese medicine. A large number of studies have shown that the effective components and formulae of TCM can prevent or treat ALI/ARDS in vivo and in vitro experiments.

CONCLUSION

TCM effective components and formulae play an important role in the prevention and treatment of ALI/ARDS through multiple approaches and multiple targets, and provide necessary theoretical support for the further development and utilization of TCM resources.

Identifying the ceRNA Regulatory Network in Early-Stage Acute Pancreatitis and Investigating the Therapeutic Potential of NEAT1 in Mouse Models

Purpose

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common digestive disorder characterized by high morbidity and mortality. This study aims to uncover differentially expressed long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and mRNAs, as well as related pathways, in the early stage of acute pancreatitis (AP), with a focus on the role of Neat1 in AP and severe acute pancreatitis (SAP).

Methods

In this study, we performed high-throughput RNA sequencing on pancreatic tissue samples from three normal mice and three mice with cerulein-induced AP to describe and analyze the expression profiles of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and mRNAs. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were conducted on the differentially expressed mRNAs to identify enriched pathways and biological processes. An lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA interaction network was constructed to elucidate potential regulatory mechanisms. Furthermore, we utilized Neat1 knockout mice to investigate the role of Neat1 in the pathogenesis of cerulein-AP and L-arginine-severe acute pancreatitis (SAP).

Results

Our results revealed that 261 lncRNAs and 1522 mRNAs were differentially expressed in the cerulein-AP group compared to the control group. GO and KEGG analyses of the differentially expressed mRNAs indicated that the functions of the corresponding genes are enriched in cellular metabolism, intercellular structure, and positive regulation of inflammation, which are closely related to the central events in the pathogenesis of AP. A ceRNA network involving 5 lncRNAs, 226 mRNAs, and 61 miRNAs were constructed. Neat1 was identified to have the potential therapeutic effects in AP. Neat1 knockout in mice inhibited pyroptosis in both the AP/SAP mouse models.

Conclusion

We found that lncRNAs, particularly Neat1, play a significant role in the pathogenesis of AP. This finding may provide new insights into further exploring the pathogenesis of SAP and could lead to the identification of new targets for the treatment of AP and SAP.

Emodin alleviates lung injury via the miR-217-5p/Sirt1 axis in rats with severe acute pancreatitis

Acute lung injury (ALI) is closely related to high mortality in severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). This study unveils the therapeutic effect and mechanism of miR-217-5p on SAP-associated ALI. The miR-217-5p RNA expression was significantly up-regulated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated primary rat alveolar epithelial type II cells (AEC II) and sodium taurocholate-treated pancreas and lung in SAP rats. miR-217 inhibition protected AEC II from LPS-induced damage by inhibiting apoptosis and reducing the TNF-α, IL-6, and ROS levels. miR-217 inhibition suppressed apoptosis and alleviated mitochondrial damage through mitochondria-mediated apoptotic pathway in vitro. Sirt1 is a direct target of miR-217-5p. Dual-luciferase reporter assay confirmed the binding of miR-217-5p to Sirt1 mRNA 3'-UTR. The rescue experiment identified that the anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidative effects of miR-217 inhibition were mediated by Sirt1 in vitro. Emodin (EMO) protected AEC II from LPS-induced damage and alleviated pancreatic and lung tissue injuries. EMO exerted similar effects as miR-217 inhibition in vitro and in vivo. The effects of EMO were abolished by miR-217 overexpression. In conclusion, miR-217-5p inhibition exerts protective effects on SAP-ALI in vitro and in vivo by repressing apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress through Sirt1 activation. EMO protects against lung injuries in SAP-associated ALI rats through miR-217-5p/Sirt1 axis.

Rhei Radix et Rhizoma and its anthraquinone derivatives: Potential candidates for pancreatitis treatment

BACKGROUND

Pancreatitis is a common exocrine inflammatory disease of the pancreas and lacks specific medication currently. Rhei Radix et Rhizoma (RR) and its anthraquinone derivatives (AQs) have been successively reported for their pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms in experimental and clinical pancreatitis. However, an overview of the anti-pancreatitis potential of RR and its AQs is limited.

PURPOSE

To summarize and analyze the pharmacological effects of RR and its AQs on pancreatitis and the underlying mechanisms, and discuss their drug-like properties and future perspectives.

METHODS

The articles related to RR and its AQs were collected from the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang data, PubMed, and the Web of Science using relevant keywords from the study's inception until April first, 2024. Studies involving RR or its AQs in cell or animal pancreatitis models as well as structure-activity relationship, pharmacokinetics, toxicology, and clinical trials were included.

RESULTS

Most experimental studies are based on severe acute pancreatitis rat models and a few on chronic pancreatitis. Several bioactive anthraquinone derivatives of Rhei Radix et Rhizoma (RRAQs) exert local protective effects on the pancreas by maintaining pancreatic acinar cell homeostasis, inhibiting inflammatory signaling, and anti-fibrosis, and they improve systemic organ function by alleviating intestinal and lung injury. Pharmacokinetic and toxicity studies have revealed the low bioavailability and wide distribution of RRAQs, as well as hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. However, there is insufficient research on the clinical application of RRAQs in pancreatitis. Furthermore, we propose effective strategies for subsequent improvement in terms of balancing effectiveness and safety.

CONCLUSION

RRAQs can be developed as either candidate drugs or novel lead structures for pancreatitis treatment. The comprehensive review of RR and its AQs provides references for optimizing drugs, developing therapies, and conducting future studies on pancreatitis.

Mechanism Investigation and Clinical Retrospective Evaluation of Qingyi Granules: Pancreas Cleaner About Ameliorating Severe Acute Pancreatitis with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Background

Despite its extensive utilization in Chinese hospitals for treating acute pancreatitis (AP) and related acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), the active components and mechanisms underlying the action of Qingyi Granule (QYKL) remain elusive.

Methods

This study consists of four parts. First, we used Mendelian randomization (MR) to investigate the causal relationship between AP, cytokine, and ARDS. Next, 321 patients were collected to evaluate the efficacy of QYKL combined with dexamethasone (DEX) in treating AP. In addition, we used UHPLC-QE-MS to determine the chemical constituents of QYKL extract and rat serum after the oral administration of QYKL. The weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) method was used to find the main targets of AP-related ARDS using the GSE151572 dataset. At last, a AP model was established by retrograde injection of 5% sodium taurocholate.

Results

MR showed that AP may have a causal relationship with ARDS by mediating cytokine storms. Retrospective study results showed early administration of QYKL was associated with a lower incidence of ARDS, mortality, admissions to the intensive care unit, and length of stay in AP patients compared to the Control group. Furthermore, we identified 23 QYKL prototype components absorbed into rat serum. WGCNA and differential expression analysis identified 1558 APALI-related genes. The prototype components exhibited strong binding activity with critical targets. QYKL has a significant protective effect on pancreatic and lung injury in AP rats, and the effect is more effective after combined treatment with DEX, which may be related to the regulation of the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway.

Conclusion

By integrating MR, retrospective analysis, and systematic pharmacological methodologies, this study systematically elucidated the therapeutic efficacy of QYKL in treating AP-related ARDS, establishing a solid foundation for its medicinal use.

Emodin Ameliorates Severe Acute Pancreatitis-Associated Acute Lung Injury in Rats by Modulating Exosome-Specific miRNA Expression Profiles

Background

Numerous preclinical investigations have exhibited the beneficial impact of emodin (EMO) on the management of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP)-associated acute lung injury (ALI). However, the potential of EMO to mitigate organ damage through the modulation of exosome (Exo)-specific miRNA expression profiles remains unclear.

Methods

The SAP rat model was established by retrograde injection of 5% sodium taurocholate into the pancreatic bile duct. Rats received intragastric administration of EMO at 2 h and 12 h post-modeling. Plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF)-derived exosomes were isolated and purified from SAP rats treated with EMO. The therapeutic effects of these Exos in SAP rats were assessed using hematoxylin-eosin staining and measurement of inflammatory factor levels. MicroRNA (miRNA) sequencing was conducted on plasma and BALF-derived Exos, and rescue experiments were performed to investigate the function of NOVEL miR-29a-3p in the treatment of SAP using EMO.

Results

EMO exhibits ameliorative effects on pancreatic and lung injury and inflammation in rats with SAP. Plasma/BALF-derived Exos from EMO-treated SAP rats also have therapeutic effects on SAP rats. The miRNA expression profile of plasma and BALF-derived Exos in SAP rats underwent significant changes upon exposure to EMO. In particular, 34 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) were identified when comparing BALF-SAP+EMO-Exo and BALF-SAP-Exo. 39 DEmiRNAs were identified when comparing plasma-SAP+EMO-Exo to plasma-SAP-Exo. We found that SAP rats treated with Exos derived from BALF exhibited a more potent therapeutic response than those treated with Exos derived from plasma. EMO may rely on NOVEL-rno-miR-29a-3p expression to prevent pulmonary injury in SAP rats.

Conclusion

The mechanism of action of EMO is observed to have a significant impact on the miRNA expression profile of Exos derived from plasma and BALF in SAP rats. NOVEL-rno-miR-29a-3p, which is specific to Exos, and is derived from BALF, may play a crucial role in the therapeutic efficacy of EMO.

Long non-coding RNA MM2P suppresses M1-polarized macrophages-mediated excessive inflammation to prevent sodium taurocholate-induced acute pancreatitis by blocking SHP2-mediated STAT3 dephosphorylation

M1 macrophage-mediated excessive inflammatory response plays a key role in the onset and progression of acute pancreatitis (AP), and this study aimed to investigate the role and underlying mechanisms by which the macrophage polarization-related long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) MM2P participated in the regulation of AP progression. By performing quantitative reverse-transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) assay, lncRNA MM2P was found to be downregulated in both sodium taurocholate-induced AP model mice tissues and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells, and gain-of-function experiments confirmed that overexpression of lncRNA MM2P counteracted inflammatory responses, reduced macrophage infiltration and facilitated M1-to-M2 transformation of macrophages to ameliorate AP development in vitro and in vivo. Further mechanical experiments revealed that lncRNA MM2P inhibited Src homology 2 containing protein tyrosine phosphatase 2 (SHP2)-mediated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) dephosphorylation to activate the STAT3 signaling, and silencing of SHP2 suppressed M1 type skewing in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells. Interestingly, our rescuing experiments verified that lncRNA MM2P-induced suppressing effects on M1-polarization of LPS-treated RAW264.7 cells were abrogated by co-treating cells with STAT3 inhibitor stattic. Collectively, our data for the first time revealed that lncRNA MM2P suppressed M1-polarized macrophages to attenuate the progression of sodium taurocholate-induced AP, and lncRNA MM2P might be an ideal biomarker for AP diagnosis and treatment.

Role of lncRNAs in acute pancreatitis: pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapy

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is one of the most common acute abdominal diseases characterized by an injury and inflammatory disorder of the pancreas with complicated pathological mechanisms. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to play an important role in various physiological and pathological processes in humans, and they have emerged as potential biomarkers of diagnosis and therapeutic targets in various diseases. Recently, accumulating evidence has shown significant alterations in the expression of lncRNAs, which are involved in the pathogenesis of AP, such as premature trypsinogen activation, impaired autophagy, inflammatory response, and acinar cell death. Moreover, lncRNAs can be the direct target of AP treatment and show potential as biomarkers for the diagnosis. Thus, in this review, we focus on the role of lncRNAs in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapy of AP and emphasize the future directions to study lncRNAs in AP, providing new insight into understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms of AP and seeking novel biomarkers for the diagnosis and therapeutic targets to improve clinical management in the future.

Toll-like receptor 2 deficiency alleviates acute pancreatitis by inactivating the NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway

The early aseptic immune response is the key factor leading to the aggravation of acute pancreatitis (AP). Toll-like receptor (TLR) 2 is an important member of the TLR family, but the role of TLR2 in AP remains to be investigated. In the present study, we found that TLR2 expression was significantly increased in AP patients. In a mouse model of cerulein-induced AP, TLR2 deficiency resulted in reduced inflammation, reduced infiltration of pancreatic neutrophils and macrophages, and decreased expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-17 and IL-18. In addition, transcriptomic analysis revealed that nod-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) expression was increased in AP, and there was a significant correlation between NLRP3 and TLR2. This study found that TLR2 deficiency can lead to a decrease in the activation of the NF-κB/NLRP3 signalling pathway, and the NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 can alleviate AP in mice. Therefore, this study confirmed that TLR2 participates in the development of AP by activating the NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway. This study suggested that TLR2 might be a novel therapeutic target for AP.

Efficacy and safety of Dachaihu Decoction for acute pancreatitis: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Dachaihu Decoction (DCD) is a traditional herbal formula widely used for treating acute pancreatitis (AP) in China. However, the efficacy and safety of DCD has never been validated, limiting its application. This study will assess the efficacy and safety of DCD for AP treatment.

METHODS

Relevant randomized controlled trials of DCD in treating AP will be searched through Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, China National Knowledge Infrastructure database, Wanfang Database, VIP Database, and Chinese Biological Medicine Literature Service System database. Only studies published between the inception of the databases and May 31, 2023 shall be considered. Searches will also be performed in the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Preprint databases and grey literature sources such as OpenGrey, British Library Inside, ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global, and BIOSIS preview will also be searched for relevant resources. The primary outcomes to be assessed will include mortality rate, rate of surgical intervention, proportion of patients with severe acute pancreatitis transferred to ICU, gastrointestinal symptoms, and the acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II score. Secondary outcomes will include systemic complications, local complications, the normalization period of C-reactive protein, length of stay in the hospital, TNF-α, IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10 levels, and adverse events. Study selection, data extraction, and assessment of bias risk will be conducted independently by two reviewers using the Endnote X9 and Microsoft Office Excel 2016 software. The risk of bias of included studies will be assessed by the Cochrane "risk of bias" tool. Data analysis will be performed using the RevMan software (V.5.3). Subgroup and sensitivity analysis will be performed where necessary.

RESULTS

This study will provide high-quality current evidence of DCD for treating AP.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review will provide evidence of whether DCD is an effective and safe therapy for treating AP.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration number CRD42021245735. The protocol for this study was registered at PROSPERO, and is available in the S1 Appendix. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021245735.

Identification of novel immune-related targets mediating disease progression in acute pancreatitis

Introduction

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an inflammatory disease with very poor outcomes. However, the order of induction and coordinated interactions of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and compensatory anti-inflammatory response syndrome (CARS) and the potential mechanisms in AP are still unclear.

Methods

An integrative analysis was performed based on transcripts of blood from patients with different severity levels of AP (GSE194331), as well as impaired lung (GSE151572), liver (GSE151927) and pancreas (GSE65146) samples from an AP experimental model to identify inflammatory signals and immune response-associated susceptibility genes. An AP animal model was established in wild-type (WT) mice and Tlr2-deficient mice by repeated intraperitoneal injection of cerulein. Serum lipase and amylase, pancreas impairment and neutrophil infiltration were evaluated to assess the effects of Tlr2 in vivo.

Results

The numbers of anti-inflammatory response-related cells, such as M2 macrophages (P = 3.2 × 10^-3), were increased with worsening AP progression, while the numbers of pro-inflammatory response-related cells, such as neutrophils (P = 3.0 × 10^-8), also increased. Then, 10 immune-related AP susceptibility genes (SOSC3, ITGAM, CAMP, FPR1, IL1R1, TLR2, S100A8/9, HK3 and MMP9) were identified. Finally, compared with WT mice, Tlr2-deficient mice exhibited not only significantly reduced serum lipase and amylase levels after cerulein induction but also alleviated pancreatic inflammation and neutrophil accumulation.

Discussion

In summary, we discovered SIRS and CARS were stimulated in parallel, not activated consecutively. In addition, among the novel susceptibility genes, TLR2might be a novel therapeutic target that mediates dysregulation of inflammatory responses during AP progression.

Downregulation of lncRNA NEAT1 Relieves Caerulein-Induced Cell Apoptosis and Inflammatory Injury in AR42J Cells Through Sponging miR-365a-3p in Acute Pancreatitis

Mounting evidence suggests that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs exert a critical regulatory role in acute pancreatitis. The present study aimed to explore the role of lncRNA nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) in acute pancreatitis (AP) that was induced by caerulein in rat pancreatic acinar cells (AR42J). The potential target sites of lncRNA NEAT1 and miR-365a-3p were predicted using starBase and were confirmed using dual-luciferase reporter assay. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed to assess lncRNA NEAT1 and miR-365a-3p expression levels in AP induced by caerulein. Cell Counting Kit-8 and flow cytometry assays were performed to assess AR42J cell viability. Western blotting was performed to evaluate the expression of apoptosis-related proteins. Interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α levels were detected by ELISA. The results of the dual-luciferase reporter assay confirmed that miR-365a-3p could bind to NEAT1. LncRNA NEAT1 was upregulated in AR42J cells treated with 10 nmol/l caerulein, and miR-365a-3p was expressed at low levels in an AP model. Overexpression of miR-365a-3p suppressed the apoptosis and inflammatory response of AR42J cells induced by caerulein. Importantly, inhibition of lncRNA NEAT1 decreased apoptosis and inflammation in caerulein-treated AR42J cells, while these effects were reverted upon co-transfection with a miR-365a-3p inhibitor. In conclusion, lncRNA NEAT1 was involved in AP progression by sponging miR-365a-3p and may thus be a novel target for treating patients with AP.

Inhibition of Necroptosis in Acute Pancreatitis: Screening for RIPK1 Inhibitors

This work utilizes the anthraquinone (AQ) database to identify potential inhibitors of the RIPK1 protein for developing medicines targeting AP-associated necroptosis. Screening for necroptosis-related genes that play a crucial role in AP is based on the GEO and GSEA databases. An optimum AQ for receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) inhibition was virtually screened using the Discovery Studio 2019 tool, with a previously described RIPK1 inhibitor (necrostatin-1) as a reference ligand. Using LibDock and CDOCKER molecular docking, an AQ that robustly binds to RIPK1 was identified. The DOCKTHOR web server was used to calculate the ligand–receptor binding energy. The pharmacological properties and toxicity of potential AQ were evaluated using the ADME module and ProTox-II web server. The stability of ligand–receptor complexes was examined using molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. All 12 AQs showed solid binding activity to RIPK1, 5 of which were superior to necrostatin-1. Rheochrysin and Aloe-Emodin-8-O-Beta-D-Glucopyranoside (A8G) were safe RIPK1 inhibitors based on pharmacological characterization and toxicity studies. Additionally, the potential energy of the candidate AQs with RIPK1 was greater than that of the reference ligand, necrostatin-1. MD simulations also showed that the candidate AQs could bind stably to RIPK1 in the natural environment. Rheochrysin and A8G are safe and effective anthraquinones that inhibit the RIPK1 protein. This research takes a first step toward developing RIPK1 inhibitors by screening AQs that have the potential to be more effective than the reference ligand necrostatin-1.

Galangin ameliorates severe acute pancreatitis in mice by activating the nuclear factor E2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase 1 pathway

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common serious acute condition of the digestive system that remains a clinical challenge. Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) in particular is characterized by high morbidity and mortality. The present study was designed to investigate the protective effect of Galangin (Gal), a natural flavonol obtained from lesser galangal, on L-arginine-induced SAP in mice and in AR42J cells. Amylase and lipase activities were measured and the histopathology of the pancreas, lung, and kidney was evaluated. Inflammation and oxidative stress were assessed using ELISA, western blotting, RT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry. Gal was shown to reduce proinflammatory cytokine production and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in vivo and in vitro. L-arginine treatment reduced the expression of components of the nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway and the downstream protein heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in mice, whereas Gal increased their expression. Furthermore, the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway inhibitor brusatol prevented the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Gal in mice with SAP. Taken together, our results imply that Gal has protective effects in L-arginine-induced SAP that are induced by the upregulation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Thus, Gal may represent a promising treatment for SAP.

Emodin inhibits the progression of acute pancreatitis via regulation of lncRNA TUG1 and exosomal lncRNA TUG1

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is one of the most frequent gastrointestinal diseases and has no specific treatment. It has been shown that dysfunction of pancreatic acinar cells can lead to AP progression. Emodin is a natural product, which can alleviate the symptoms of AP. However, the mechanism by which emodin regulates the function of pancreatic acinar cells remains unclear. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the mechanism by which emodin modulates the function of pancreatic acinar cells. To mimic AP in vitro, pancreatic acinar cells were cotreated with caerulein and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Exosomes were isolated using the ExoQuick precipitation kit. Western blot analysis, Nanosight Tracking analysis and transmission electron microscopy were performed to detect the efficiency of exosome separation. Gene expression was detected by reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR. The levels of IL‑1β and TNF‑α were detected by ELISA. The data indicated that emodin significantly decreased the levels of IL‑1β and TNF‑α in the supernatant samples derived from AR42J cells cotreated with caerulein and LPS. In addition, emodin significantly promoted the proliferation of AR42J cells cotreated with caerulein and LPS, and inhibited apoptosis, while the effect of emodin was reversed by long non‑coding (lnc)RNA taurine upregulated 1 (TUG1) overexpression. The expression level of TUG1 in AR42J cells or exosomes derived from AR42J cells was significantly increased following treatment of the cells with LPS and caerulein, while this effect was notably reversed by emodin treatment. In addition, exosomes derived from caerulein and LPS cotreated AR42J cells inhibited the differentiation and anti‑inflammatory function of regulatory T cells, while treatment of the cells with emodin significantly decreased this effect. In conclusion, the data indicated that emodin inhibited the induction of inflammation in AR42J cells by regulating the expression of cellular and exosomal lncRNA. Therefore, emodin may be used as a potential agent for the treatment of AP.

The Health Benefits of Emodin, a Natural Anthraquinone Derived from Rhubarb-A Summary Update

Emodin (6-methyl-1,3,8-trihydroxyanthraquinone) is a naturally occurring anthraquinone derivative found in roots and leaves of various plants, fungi and lichens. For a long time it has been used in traditional Chinese medicine as an active ingredient in herbs. Among other sources, it is isolated from the rhubarb Rheum palmatum or tuber fleece-flower Polygonam multiflorum. Emodin has a wide range of biological activities, including diuretic, antibacterial, antiulcer, anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antinociceptive. According to the most recent studies, emodin acts as an antimalarial and antiallergic agent, and can also reverse resistance to chemotherapy. In the present work the potential therapeutic role of emodin in treatment of inflammatory diseases, cancers and microbial infections is analysed.

Emodin ameliorates acute pancreatitis-induced lung injury by suppressing NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated neutrophil recruitment

Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) activates the systemic inflammatory response and is potentially lethal. The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of emodin on acute lung injury (ALI) in rats with SAP and investigate the role of the Nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome and its association with neutrophil recruitment. Sodium taurocholate (5.0%) was used to establish the SAP model. All animals were randomly assigned into four groups: Sham, SAP, emodin and dexamethasone (positive control drug) groups (n=10 mice per group). Histopathology observation of pancreatic and lung tissues was detected by hematoxylin and eosin staining. The levels of serum amylase, IL-1β and IL-18 were measured by ELISA. Single-cell suspensions were obtained from enzymatically digested lung tissues, followed by flow cytometric analysis for apoptosis. In addition, the expression levels of NLRP3 inflammasome-associated and apoptosis-associated proteins in lung tissues were measured by western blotting. Moreover, lymphocyte antigen 6 complex locus G6D⁺ (Ly6G⁺) cell recruitment was detected using immunohistochemical analysis. The results revealed that emodin markedly improved pancreatic histological injury and decreased the levels of serum amylase, IL-1β and IL-18. Pulmonary edema and apoptosis were significantly alleviated by emodin. Additionally, the protein expression levels of intercellular adhesion molecule 1, NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD and cleaved caspase-1 were downregulated following emodin treatment. Moreover, emodin inhibited Ly6G⁺ cell recruitment in lung tissues. The present study demonstrated that emodin may offer protection against ALI induced by SAP via inhibiting and suppressing NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated neutrophil recruitment and may be a novel therapeutic strategy for the clinical treatment of ALI.

Emodin Alleviates Severe Acute Pancreatitis-Associated Acute Lung Injury by Inhibiting the Cold-Inducible RNA-Binding Protein (CIRP)-Mediated Activation of the NLRP3/IL-1β/CXCL1 Signaling

Objective: Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) can lead to acute lung injury (ALI). This study investigated the therapeutic effect of emodin and its molecular mechanisms in a rat model of SAP-ALI.

Methods: Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into the groups: Control (CON), SAP (SAP), emodin (EMO), and C23 (C23). The latter three groups of rats were induced for SAP-ALI by retrograde injection of 5% sodium taurocholate into the biliary-pancreatic duct and were treated with vehicle, emodin or C23, respectively. One day post induction, their pancreatic and lung injury was assessed by histology and arterial blood gas analysis. In vitro, rat alveolar macrophages (NR8383 cells) were treated with recombinant rat CIRP in the presence or absence of TAK242 (a TLR4 inhibitor), C23 or emodin. The CIRP-mediated activation of the NLRP3/IL-1β/CXCL1 signaling in rat lungs and NR8383 cells was determined. Similarly, the role of IL-1β in the CIRP-induced CXCL1 expression was investigated.

Results: Emodin treatment significantly reduced inflammation and tissue damages in the pancreatic and lung tissues in rats with SAP-ALI, accompanied by decreasing serum amylase, CIRP and IL-1β levels and improving lung function. Furthermore, emodin significantly mitigated the SAP-up-regulated CIRP expression in the pancreatic islets and lung tissues, and attenuated the SAP-activated NF-κB signaling, NLRP3 inflammasome formation and CXCL1 expression in lung resident macrophages as well as neutrophil infiltration in the lungs of rats. In addition, treatment with CIRP significantly activated the NF-κB signaling and NLRP3 inflammasome formation and induced IL-1β and CXCL1 expression and pyroptosis in NR8383 cells, which were abrogated by TAK242 and significantly mitigated by C23 or emodin. Moreover, CIRP only induced very lower levels of CXCL1 expression in IL-1β-silencing NR8383 cells and treatment with IL-1β induced CXCL1 expression in NR8383 cells in a dose and time-dependent manner.

Conclusion: Emodin may inhibit the CIRP-activated NLRP3/IL-1β/CXCL1signaling to decrease neutrophil infiltration and ameliorate the SAP-ALI in rats.

Effect of emodin on long non-coding RNA-mRNA networks in rats with severe acute pancreatitis-induced acute lung injury

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) contribute to disease pathogenesis and drug treatment effects. Both emodin and dexamethasone (DEX) have been used for treating severe acute pancreatitis-associated acute lung injury (SAP-ALI). However, lncRNA regulation networks related to SAP-ALI pathogenesis and drug treatment are unreported. In this study, lncRNAs and mRNAs in the lung tissue of SAP-ALI and control rats, with or without drug treatment (emodin or DEX), were assessed by RNA sequencing. Results showed both emodin and DEX were therapeutic for SAP-ALI and that mRNA and lncRNA levels differed between untreated and treated SAP-ALI rats. Gene expression profile relationships for emodin-treated and control rats were higher than DEX-treated and -untreated animals. By comparison of control and SAP-ALI animals, more up-regulated than down-regulated mRNAs and lncRNAs were observed with emodin treatment. For DEX treatment, more down-regulated than up-regulated mRNAs and lncRNAs were observed. Functional analysis demonstrated both up-regulated mRNA and co-expressed genes with up-regulated lncRNAs were enriched in inflammatory and immune response pathways. Further, emodin-associated lncRNAs and mRNAs co-expressed modules were different from those associated with DEX. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction demonstrates selected lncRNA and mRNA co-expressed modules were different in the lung tissue of emodin- and DEX-treated rats. Also, emodin had different effects compared with DEX on co-expression network of lncRNAs Rn60_7_1164.1 and AABR07062477.2 for the blue lncRNA module and Nrp1 for the green mRNA module. In conclusion, this study provides evidence that emodin may be a suitable alternative or complementary medicine for treating SAP-ALI.