Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) Aggravates High Glucose- and Hypoxia/Reoxygenation-Induced Injury through Activating ROS-Dependent NLRP3 Inflammasome-Mediated Pyroptosis in H9C2 Cardiomyocytes

Disruption of the caspase-1/IL-1β axis alleviates myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion injury via improvement of mitochondrial homeostasis and reduction of Pyroptosis

BACKGROUND

Pyroptosis is a novel kind of programmed cell death and Caspase-1 plays key roles in driving pyroptosis. The current study aims to elucidate the molecular mechanism affecting cardiomyocyte pyroptosis in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, both in vivo and in vitro.

METHODS

A murine model of myocardial I/R injury was established and then treated with lentivirus-mediated shRNA targeting Caspase-1 to evaluate the effect of Caspase-1 on myocardial I/R injury. Further, Caspase-1 was silenced in the cardiomyocytes following hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R) to detect the function of Caspase-1 in mitochondrial homeostasis and cardiomyocyte pyroptosis.

RESULTS

Knockdown of Caspase-1 inhibited the secretion of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), improved cardiac dysfunction and decreased pyroptosis in vivo. The cardio-protective effect was verified in the H/R-induced cardiomyocyte model. Recombinant IL-1β protein reversed the inhibitory effect of Caspase-1 knockdown on pyroptosis.

CONCLUSION

Overall, activating the Caspase-1/IL-1β axis by myocardial I/R injury causes mitochondrial homeostasis imbalance, pyroptosis, and the consequent cardiomyocyte injury.

Myeloid SHP2 attenuates myocardial ischemia‑reperfusion injury via regulation of BRD4/SYK/STING/NOX4/NLRP3 signaling

The objective of the present study was to investigate the impact of myeloid Src homology region 2‑containing protein tyrosine phosphatase 2 (SHP2) on myocardial ischemia reperfusion (MI/R) injury and the underlying mechanism. Bioinformatics was used to analyze genes specifically associated with MI/R. In addition, myeloid‑specific SHP2 knockout mice and wild‑type mice were subjected to MI/R or sham surgery. Echocardiography and Masson's staining were used to observe the myocardial function and infarct area of the mice. In addition, double immunofluorescence staining was used to detect the relative fluorescence intensity of SHP2 and bromodomain‑containing protein 4 (BRD4) in bone marrow‑derived macrophages (BMMs) from the mice. Western blot analysis was conducted to determine the expression levels of SHP2, BRD4, spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK), stimulator of interferon genes (STING), NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4), NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3), IL‑1β and gasdermin D (GSDMD) in BMMs and mouse myocardial cells co‑cultured with the BMMs. In addition, flow cytometry was employed to assess myocardial cell apoptosis. Bioinformatics analysis revealed the downregulated expression of SHP2 and upregulated expression of BRD4 and SYK in mice with MI/R. The deletion of myeloid SHP2 aggravated MI/R injury, impaired cardiac function and increased the infarct area in mice. In addition, myeloid SHP2 deletion in BMMs promoted the expression of BRD4, SYK, STING, NOX4 and NLRP3 in BMMs, and the expression of IL‑1β and GSDMD in mouse myocardial cells co‑cultured with the BMMs. In addition, the deletion of myeloid SHP2 promoted cardiomyocyte apoptosis. These results indicate that myeloid SHP2 inhibits MI/R injury by regulating BRD4/SYK/STING/NOX4/NLRP3 signaling in BMMs.

EZH2-induced histone methylation in the Nrf2 promoter region mediates pyroptosis in inflammatory cardiomyocyte injury

Myocardial dysfunction is one of the most severe sepsis syndromes. EZH2 participates in regulating the inflammatory response in tissues; however, its role in septic myocarditis remains unclear. In this study, various concentrations of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were used to treat H9C2 cells in order to mimic sepsis. Cell pyroptosis was detected by flow cytometry, and further confirmed by the expression of biomarkers and levels of cytokines. Caspase-1 activity was evaluated by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence assays. Gene expression was detected by reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) and western blotting. Chromatin Immunoprecipitation - Quantitative PCR was used to detect the levels of histone methylation in the Nrf2 promoter region. Our results showed that LPS activated cell pyroptosis, promoted EZH2 expression, and inhibited Nrf2 expression in H9C2 cells. Overexpression of EZH2 enhanced LPS-induced cell pyroptosis, as shown by increased Caspase-1 activity, increased expression of N-GSDMD and NLRP3 proteins, and higher levels of IL-1β, IL-18, and LDH. Moreover, overexpression of EZH2 inhibited Nrf2 transcription. In contrast, knockdown of EZH2 suppressed pyroptosis and promoted Nrf2 expression in LPS-treated H9C2 cells. Results of chromatin immunoprecipitation - quantitative PCR verified that EZH2 regulated Nrf2 transcription via H3K27me3 modification. Furthermore, overexpression of Nrf2 inhibited cell pyroptosis and knockdown of Nrf2 promoted cell pyroptosis. Knockdown of Nrf2 reversed the cardioprotective effect of EZH2 knockdown. Collectively, our results suggest that EZH2 promotes cell pyroptosis by enhancing H3K27me3 expression and inhibiting Nrf2 transcription in cardiomyocytes under inflammatory conditions.

Alveolar epithelial cell dysfunction and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in pulmonary fibrosis pathogenesis

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a progressive and lethal interstitial lung disease characterized by aberrant scar formation and destruction of alveolar architecture. Dysfunctional alveolar epithelial cells (AECs) play a central role in initiating PF, where chronic injury triggers apoptosis and disrupts epithelial homeostasis, leading to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). This dynamic reprogramming process causes AECs to shed epithelial markers and adopt a mesenchymal phenotype, fueling fibroblast activation and pathological extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. This review systematically explores the multi-layered mechanisms driving AECs dysfunction and EMT, focusing on core signaling axes such as transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/Smad, WNT/β-catenin, NF-κB-BRD4, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), which regulate EMT and fibroblast-ECM interactions. It also highlights emerging regulators, including metabolic reprogramming, exosomal miRNA trafficking, and immune-epithelial interactions. Furthermore, understanding these mechanisms is essential for developing targeted therapeutic strategies to modulate these pathways and halt or reverse fibrosis progression, offering critical insights into potential clinical treatments for PF.

Adiponectin alleviates inflammatory response in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated hepatocyte pyroptosis

BACKGROUND

Activation of NLRP3 (NOD-, LRR- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3) inflammasomes induced by pyroptosis is crucial in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) progression. Adiponectin possesses an anti-inflammatory role in various liver diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of adiponectin on MASH.

METHODS

Adiponectin-mediated anti-inflammatory mechanisms, effects on pyroptosis-related proteins, and activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes were investigated using methionine-choline-deficient (MCD)-induced MASH murine model and in vitro models. The degree of MASH inflammation in liver tissue of C57BL/6J mice was assessed using histopathology. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed to measure levels of inflammatory factors [interleukin-18 (IL-18), IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)] in mice serum and culture medium. Western blot and quantitative polymerase chain reaction were performed to analyze the expression of pyroptosis-related genes and proteins in liver tissues of mouse model and in vitro models. Macrophage recruitment in vitro was evaluated using co-culture of upper and lower chambers.

RESULTS

MASH developed in MCD diet mice [metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) activity score = 6] but not in methionine-choline-sufficient (MCS) diet mice (MASLD activity score = 3). Compared to MCS-fed mice, MCD-fed mice showed increased serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase, IL-18, IL-1β, and TNF-α and higher MASLD activity score (P < 0.001). Adiponectin inhibited these increases (P < 0.05) and suppressed mRNA and protein levels of NLRP3, gasdermin-D (GSDMD), and GSDMD-N in liver tissues (P < 0.05). In vitro, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/palmitic acid (PA) increased the levels of IL-18, IL-1β, and TNF-α, mRNA expressions of CASP1 and GSDMD, and production of CASP1, NLRP3, GSDMD, and GSDMD-N (P < 0.01). Adiponectin reduced the levels of these inflammatory factors and downregulated the mRNA expression and protein generation of pyroptosis-related markers (P < 0.05). HepG2 cells pretreated with LPS/PA recruited more J774A.1 cells (P < 0.001) and increased inflammatory factor secretion by J774A.1 cells (P < 0.001). Adiponectin inhibited this recruitment and reduced inflammatory factor secretion (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Adiponectin inhibits hepatocyte pyroptosis by reducing the production and activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes, CASP1, and GSDMD, thus improving the inflammatory response in MASH and possibly delaying or reversing MASLD progression.

The entrenchment of NLRP3 inflammasomes in autoimmune disease-related inflammation

Autoinflammation and autoimmunity are almost "opposite" phenomena characterized by chronic activation of the immune system, 'innate' in the first and 'adaptive' in the second, leading to inflammation of several tissues with specific protean effectors of tissue damage. The mechanism of involvement of multiprotein complexes called 'inflammasomes' within autoimmune pictures, differently from autoinflammatory conditions, is yet undeciphered. In this review we provide a comprehensive overview on NLRP3 inflammasome contribution into the pathogenesis of some autoimmune diseases. In response to autoantibodies against nucleic acids or tissue-specific antigens the NLRP3 inflammasome is activated within dendritic cells and macrophages of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Crucial is NLRP3 inflammasome to amplify tissue inflammation with interleukin-1 overexpression and matrix metalloproteinase production at the joint level in rheumatoid arthritis. A deregulated NLRP3 inflammasome activation occurs in the serous acini of salivary and lacrimal glands prone to Sjogren's syndrome, but also in the inflammatory process involving endothelial cells, leucocyte recruitment, and platelet plugging of vasculitides. Furthermore, organ-specific autoimmune diseases such as thyroiditis and hepatitis may display hyperactive NLRP3 inflammasomes at the level of resident immune cells within thyroid or liver, respectively. Therefore, it is not unexpected that preclinical studies have shown how specific inflammasome inhibitors may significantly overthrow the severity of different autoimmune diseases and slow down their trend towards an ominous progression. Specific markers of inflammasome activation could also reveal subclinical inflammatory components escaping conventional diagnostic approaches or improve monitoring of autoimmune diseases and personalizing their treatment.

SLC26A4 regulates autophagy and activates the NLRP3 inflammasome to mediate pathological cardiac hypertrophy

Solute carrier family 26 member 4 (SLC26A4) plays an essential role in the progression of pathological cardiac hypertrophy. This study aimed to examine the involvement of SLC26A4 in cardiac hypertrophy by regulation of autophagy and activation of the NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. Cardiomyocytes were treated with 200 µmol/L phenylephrine (PE) to induce cardiac hypertrophy, followed by treatment with 10 mmol/L INF39, an NLRP3 inhibitor. Furthermore, the pLL3.7 lentiviral vector was used to construct a sh-SLC26A4 interference plasmid and a PLL3.7-cardiomyocytesv-SLC26A4 overexpression plasmid to intervene in PE-induced cardiac hypertrophy. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting were performed to measure the expression of ANP, BNP, β-MHC, SLC26A4, NLRP3, apoptosis associated speck-like protein containing a C-terminal caspase recruitment domain (ASC), and caspase-1. Immunofluorescence was used to detect the level of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) to indicate the cardiomyocyte area. The expression levels of the autophagy proteins LC3, beclin-1, and p62 were determined by Western blotting. Finally, an SD rats model of cardiac hypertrophy was established using transverse aortic constriction (TAC) surgery. SLC26A4, NLRP3, IL-1β, ACS and caspase-1 were further examined at gene and protein levels. SLC26A4 expression was associated with cardiac hypertrophy in cell experiments. SLC26A4 promoted autophagy and activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway, regulating the gene and protein expression of LC3, beclin-1, p62, ACS, NLRP3, and caspase-1. Similar results were observed in the TAC rat model, in which SLC26A4 expression was associated with cardiomyocyte enlargement and cardiac interstitial and perivascular fibrosis. SLC26A4 was involved in cardiac hypertrophy by promoting autophagy and activating the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. Targeting the expression of SLC26A4 may provide a new treatment option for cardiac hypertrophy.

Kaempferol inhibits cardiomyocyte pyroptosis via promoting O-GlcNAcylation of GSDME and improved acute myocardial infarction

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a leading fatal cardiovascular disease and poses a major threat to human health. Pyroptosis, an inflammation-related programmed cell death, plays a critical role in the progression of AMI. Kaempferol is a natural flavonoid compound with a variety of pharmacological effects, which exerts a significant cardioprotective function. The role of O-GlcNAcylation, a post-translation modification, has received attention in diseases including AMI. In this research, we explored the therapeutic potential of Kaempferol to AMI due to its well-known cardioprotective effect, including its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) model was adopted to provoke myocardial injury and AMI mice model was established. Our findings indicated that H/R lessened cell viability and contributed to the release of LDH, IL-1β and IL-18, cell pyroptosis rate, and the expression of NLRP3, active caspase 1 and GSDMD-N-terminal domain (GSDMD-N). Kaempferol mitigated myocardial damage caused by H/R through repressing cell pyroptosis. Besides, we discovered that Kaempferol restored the levels of O-GlcNAcylation by regulating the activity of OGT (O-GlcNAc transferase) and OGA (O-GlcNAcase) in H/R-treated H9c2 cells. Notably, molecular docking revealed the binding relationship between Kaempferol and OGT. Further, we proved that knockdown of OGT abrogated the function of Kaempferol in H/R-induced pyroptosis. In AMI mice, Kaempferol relieved the myocardial tissue injury and decreased the NLRP3 and GSDME-N protein levels. More importantly, our results illustrated that OGT was responsible for the O-GlcNAcylation of GSDME at T94 site and acted as an inducing factor for GSDME phosphorylation. Namely, this study validated that Kaempferol facilitated GSDME O-GlcNAcylation to inhibit H/R-induced pyroptosis in an OGT-dependent manner.

Targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome in Parkinson's disease: From molecular mechanism to therapeutic strategy

Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, characterized by substantial loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons, the formation of Lewy bodies (LBs) in the substantia nigra, and pronounced neuroinflammation. The nucleotide-binding domain like leucine-rich repeat- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is one of the pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that function as intracellular sensors in response to both pathogenic microbes and sterile triggers associated with Parkinson's disease. These triggers include reactive oxygen species (ROS), misfolding protein aggregation, and potassium ion (K+) efflux. Upon activation, it recruits and activates caspase-1, then processes the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-18, which mediate neuroinflammation in Parkinson's disease. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of NLRP3 inflammasome, detailing its structure, activation pathways, and the factors that trigger its activation. We also explore the pathological mechanisms by which NLRP3 contributes to Parkinson's disease and discuss potential strategies for targeting NLRP3 as a therapeutic approach.

Selenium Yeast Alleviates Escherichia coli-Induced Endometritis in Goats Under High Cortisol Background

During the postpartum period, domestic ruminants suffer elevated endogenous cortisol levels, which are associated with an increased risk of uterine infections. Selenium is a trace mineral nutrient with beneficial impacts on animals. The study aimed to investigate whether selenium yeast (SeY) could attenuate Escherichia coli (E. coli)-induced endometrial injury in goats with high cortisol background. Goats were examined after oral SeY administration for 21 days and were treated with glacial acetic acid, E. coli, and hydrocortisone to establish an endometritis model with high cortisol background. The results showed that endometrial injury caused by E. coli was aggravated under high cortisol background. Supplementation with SeY alleviated endometrial inflammation and serum LDH content. The mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and defensin beta 2 and the phosphorylation level of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor kappa-b (NF-κB) signaling pathways were decreased by SeY supplementation. Total antioxidant capacity and antioxidant enzymes activities were increased by SeY supplementation, but malondialdehyde and 4-hydroxynonenal content were decreased. Moreover, nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2 (NRF2) in the nucleus, heme oxygenase-1, and NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 were increased by SeY supplementation. So, supplementation with SeY alleviated E. coli-induced endometritis in goats by activating the NRF2 pathway and inhibiting the activation of the MAPK and NF-κB pathways under postpartum stress.

Fatty acid synthase inhibition improves hypertension-induced erectile dysfunction by suppressing oxidative stress and NLRP3 inflammasome-dependent pyroptosis through activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway

Background

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a prevalent male sexual disorder, commonly associated with hypertension, though the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood.

Objective

This study aims to explore the role of Fatty acid synthase (Fasn) in hypertension-induced ED and evaluate the therapeutic potential of the Fasn inhibitor C75.

Materials and methods

Erectile function was assessed by determining the intracavernous pressure/mean arterial pressure (ICP/MAP) ratio, followed by the collection of cavernous tissue for transcriptomic and non-targeted metabolomic analyses. In vitro, a concentration of 10-6 M angiotensin II (Ang II) was applied to rat aortic endothelial cells (RAOECs) to establish a model of hypertension. In vivo, spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were randomly divided into two groups. The SHR+C75 group received intraperitoneal injections of C75 at a dose of 2 mg/kg once a week. After five weeks of treatment, the erectile function of the rats was assessed, and penile tissues were harvested for further analysis. Molecular and protein expression were assessed using Western blotting, qRT-PCR, immunofluorescence staining, and immunohistochemistry.

Results

The SHR exhibited ED, indicated by reduced maximum ICP/MAP ratios. Histologically, corpus cavernosum tissue of SHR showed elevated fibrosis and endothelial dysfunction. Additionally, increased expression of the NLRP3 inflammasome, Caspase-1, GSDMD, and the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18 was observed. Multi-omics analysis revealed significant enrichment in lipid metabolic pathways, with Fasn identified as a hub gene. In vitro, siFasn and C75 enhanced antioxidant markers Nrf2 and HO-1, reduced ROS accumulation, and suppressed NLRP3 and GSDMD levels. In vivo, C75 treatment restored endothelial function and reversed erectile dysfunction, accompanied by decreased oxidative stress and pyroptosis in the penile corpus cavernosum.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that Fasn inhibition may offer a promising therapeutic strategy for hypertension-induced ED by alleviating oxidative stress and suppressing NLRP3 inflammasome-dependent endothelial cell pyroptosis via activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.

A reactive oxygen species-responsive hydrogel loaded with Apelin-13 promotes the repair of spinal cord injury by regulating macrophage M1/M2 polarization and neuroinflammation

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a chronic condition whereby persistent aberrant macrophage activation hinders the repair process. During acute trauma, dominant M1 macrophages produce high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to increased apoptosis in neurons, glial cells, and oligodendrocytes. This study investigated the specific effects of a ROS-responsive hydrogel loaded with Apelin-13 (Apelin-13@ROS-hydrogel) on macrophage polarization and neuroinflammation, thereby exploring its role in boosting SCI repair. Apelin-13@ROS-hydrogel was prepared, and its ROS-scavenging capacities were evaluated using DPPH, H2O2, and ·O2- assays. The effects of Apelin-13@ROS-hydrogel on macrophage polarization, inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress were assessed in LPS-pre-treated microglia BV2 cells and an SCI rat model. Apelin-13 was downregulated in SCI rats. Treatment with Apelin-13 improved functional recovery and reduced inflammatory factors and M1 markers but increased the M2 marker Arg-1. Apelin-13@ROS-hydrogel showed significantly higher ROS-scavenging capacities compared to the control hydrogel. Apelin-13@ROS-hydrogel decreased pro-inflammatory mediators and increased anti-inflammatory mediators in BV2 cells. Apelin-13@ROS-hydrogel enhanced the healing process and neurological functions, reducing inflammatory factors and M1 markers while increasing Arg-1 levels by day 28 in SCI rats. Collectively, Apelin-13 enhances SCI repair through macrophage regulation, M1/M2 polarization, and neuroinflammation. The ROS-responsive hydrogel further amplifies these effects, offering a promising therapeutic strategy for SCI.

E3 ubiquitin ligase Smurf1 promotes cardiomyocyte pyroptosis by mediating ubiquitin-dependent degradation of TRIB2 in a rat model of heart failure

OBJECTIVE

Heart failure (HF) causes structural and functional changes in the heart, with the pyroptosis-mediated inflammatory response as the core link in HF pathogenesis. E3 ubiquitin ligases participate in cardiovascular disease progression. Here, we explored the underlying molecular mechanisms of E3 ubiquitin ligase Smurf1 in governing HF.

METHODS

HF rat/H9C2 cell models were established by doxorubicin intraperitoneal injections/hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R), and treated with Smurf1 siRNA and oe-TRIB2 lentivirus plasmids or the NF-κB pathway inhibitor PDTC/si-smurf1, si-TRIB2, protease inhibitor MG132, or lysosomal inhibitor NH4Cl. The cardiac function/cardiac tissue pathological changes/fibrosis in HF rats were evaluated by echocardiography/H&E and Masson staining. GSDMD-N expression was determined by immunohistochemistry. Cell viability/lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity/IL-1β and IL-18 levels were measured by CCK-8/LDH kit/ELISA. The interaction between TRIB2 and Smurf1/TRIB2 ubiquitination levels was assessed by co-immunoprecipitation assay. The expression levels of Smurf1 and TRIB2 messenger RNA (mRNA) were determined by RT-qPCR. Levels of Smurf1/TRIB2/the NF-κB pathway-related factors/pyroptosis-related factors and TRIB2 mRNA were determined by Western blot/RT-qPCR.

RESULTS

Smurf1 was highly expressed in H/R-induced H9C2 cells/HF rats, while its knockdown up-regulated TRIB2 and repressed the NF-κB pathway, reduced cardiomyocyte pyroptosis, and attenuated HF. Mechanistically, Smurf1 promoted TRIB2 degradation through an ubiquitin-dependent manner and activated the NF-κB pathway under H/R conditions. TRIB2 silencing annulled Smurf1 knockdown-regulated NF-κB pathway and cardiomyocyte pyroptosis. TRIB2 overexpression inactivated the NF-κB pathway and reduced cardiomyocyte pyroptosis, thus retarding HF.

CONCLUSION

Smurf1 was highly expressed in HF rats, which promoted TRIB2 ubiquitination degradation and activated the NF-κB pathway, thereby promoting cardiomyocyte pyroptosis in HF rats.

Tianxiangdan (TXD) alleviates myocardial ischemia reperfusion-induced ferroptosis through the activation of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα)

Tianxiangdan (TXD), a traditional Chinese herbal remedy, demonstrates efficacy in mitigating myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R)-induced damage. This study employed network pharmacology to evaluate the therapeutic targets and mechanisms of TXD in treating I/R. High-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) identified 86 compounds in TXD. Network pharmacological analysis predicted potential target genes and their modes of action. Cardiac function, ischaemic ST changes, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, myocardial fiber, and infarct size were assessed using in vivo and in vitro I/R injury models. Estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) protein expression and estradiol (E2) levels were measured to confirm TXD's impact on estrogen levels and ERα expression. To examine if TXD reduces I/R injury through ERα, an AZD group (300 nmol·L-1 AZD9496 and 15% TXD serum) was compared to a TXD group (15% TXD serum). The study hypothesized that TXD upregulates the ERα-mediated iron metamorphosis pathway. I/R injury-induced ferroptosis was identified using a Fer-1 group (1.0 μmol·L-1 Fer-1 and 15% TXD serum) to elucidate the potential association between ferroptosis and ERα proteins. A DCFH-DA probe detected reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Fe2+, while Western blotting assessed target protein expression. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that TXD attenuated I/R injury by reducing elevated ST-segment levels, improving cardiac injury biomarkers (LDH, MDA, and SOD), alleviating pathological features, and preventing I/R-induced loss of cell viability in vitro. The effects and mechanisms of TXD on I/R injury-associated ferroptosis were investigated using I/R-induced H9c2 cells. The TXD group showed significantly decreased ROS and Fe2+ levels, while the AZ group (treated with AZD9496) exhibited increased levels. The TXD group demonstrated enhanced expression of ERα and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), with reduced levels of P53 protein and ferritin-heavy polypeptide 1 (FTH1). The AZ group exhibited contrasting effects on these expression levels. The literature indicated a novel connection between ERα and ferroptosis. TXD activates the ERα signaling pathway, promoting protection against I/R-induced myocardial cell ferroptosis. This study provides evidence supporting TXD use for myocardial ischemia treatment, particularly in older female patients who may benefit from its therapeutic outcomes.

Aflatoxin B1 Promotes Pyroptosis in IPEC-J2 Cells by Disrupting Mitochondrial Dynamics through the AMPK/NLRP3 Pathway

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is one of the most toxic mycotoxins in food and feed, seriously jeopardizing the intestinal health, while the effects of AFB1 on intestinal damage remain to be well understood. This study aims to evaluate the effect of AFB1 on intestinal injury by regulating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-mediated pyroptosis in vitro. The present study showed that AFB1 led to the formation of large number of bubble-like protrusions on the cell membrane, releasing lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β). Stimulation with AFB1 resulted in the activation of the NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) pathway, as indicated by the increased expression of pyroptosis-associated factor mRNAs and proteins, which ultimately led to a significant upregulation of the pyroptosis rate. Meanwhile, AFB1 caused dysfunction of mitochondrial dynamics by activating the AMPK signaling pathway as mainly evidenced by upregulating dynamin-1-like protein 1 (Drp1) mRNA and protein expression. Moreover, inhibition of NLRP3 and AMPK pathways by MCC950 and compound C, respectively, significantly alleviated AFB1-induced damage in IPEC-J2 cells, evidenced by suppressed NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis, and ameliorated AMPK-mediated mitochondrial dynamics imbalance. In conclusion, these results demonstrated that AFB1 promoted pyroptosis of IPEC-J2 cells by interfering with mitochondrial dynamics by activating the AMPK/NRLP3 pathway.

Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies for Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Diabetic States

In patients with myocardial infarction, one of the complications that may occur after revascularization is myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), characterized by a depleted myocardial oxygen supply and absence of blood flow recovery after reperfusion, leading to expansion of myocardial infarction, poor healing of myocardial infarction and reversal of left ventricular remodeling, and an increase in the risk for major adverse cardiovascular events such as heart failure, arrhythmia, and cardiac cell death. As a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus increases myocardial susceptibility to myocardial IRI through various mechanisms, increases acute myocardial infarction and myocardial IRI incidence, decreases myocardial responsiveness to protective strategies and efficacy of myocardial IRI protective methods, and increases diabetes mellitus mortality through myocardial infarction. This Review summarizes the mechanisms, existing therapeutic strategies, and potential therapeutic targets of myocardial IRI in diabetic states, which has very compelling clinical significance.

Cathelicidin peptide LL-37: A multifunctional peptide involved in heart disease

Heart disease is a common human disease with high morbidity and mortality. Timely and effective prevention and treatment is an urgent clinical problem. The pathogenesis of heart disease is complex and diverse, involving hypertension, diabetes, atherosclerosis, drug toxicity, thrombosis, infection and other aspects. LL-37, an endogenous peptide, is well known for its antimicrobial properties. In recent years, LL-37 has been found to have a variety of biological functions, including its role in the regulation of atherosclerosis, thrombosis, inflammatory responses, and cardiac hypertrophy. Engineered LL-37-related peptides were developed and proved to regulate the development of disease, which revealed its potential clinical application. A comprehensive review and summary of LL-37 is presented to clarify its role in heart disease and to provide a reference and direction for future research.

P-selectin-targeted Polyguluronate sulfate-copper peroxide Nanomicelles for Chemodynamic therapy of breast Cancer

The exploration of efficient and safe chemodynamic therapy (CDT)-based cancer treatment is expected but still faces challenges. Herein, a kind of multifunctional nanomicelles was constructed for CDT, combined with biocompatible polysaccharides as nanocarriers, pH responsiveness and active targeting of P-selectin overexpressed tumors. The P-selectin-targeted ligand, polyguluronate sulfate (PGS), complexed with copper peroxide to form PGS-Cu nanomicelles by electrostatic interactions. Under acidic conditions, PGS-Cu nanomicelles released copper ions with H2O2 and were able to produce •OH by Fenton-like reaction. In vitro data demonstrated PGS-Cu nanomicelles had high selectivity targeting P-selectin over-expressed cancer cells and induced cell death via CDT. In vivo evaluation showed PGS-Cu nanomicelles were enriched in tumor tissues and significantly inhibited tumor growth. This study identified that PGS-Cu nanomicelles could be a highly effective strategy for CDT cancer treatment.

Role of the transcription factor NRF2 in maintaining the integrity of the Blood-Brain Barrier

BACKGROUND

The Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) is a complex and dynamic interface that regulates the exchange of molecules and cells between the blood and the central nervous system. It undergoes structural and functional throughout oxidative stress and inflammation, which may compromise its integrity and contribute to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases.

MAIN BODY

Maintaining BBB integrity is of utmost importance in preventing a wide range of neurological disorders. NRF2 is the main transcription factor that regulates cellular redox balance and inflammation-related gene expression. It has also demonstrated a potential role in regulating tight junction integrity and contributing to the inhibition of ECM remodeling, by reducing the expression of several metalloprotease family members involved in maintaining BBB function. Overall, we review current insights on the role of NRF2 in addressing protection against the effects of BBB dysfunction, discuss its involvement in BBB maintenance in different neuropathological diseases, as well as, some of its potential activators that have been used in vitro and in vivo animal models for preventing barrier dysfunction.

CONCLUSIONS

Thus, emerging evidence suggests that upregulation of NRF2 and its target genes could suppress oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation, restore BBB integrity, and increase its protection.

Naringenin can Inhibit the Pyroptosis of Osteoblasts by Activating the Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathway and Alleviate the Differentiation Disorder of Osteoblasts Caused by Microgravity

Naringenin (4,5,7-trihydroxyflavone, NAR) is an effective active ingredient in Rhizoma Drynariae, which has many biological functions, encompassing anti-inflammatory and -oxidant functions. Prior research has shown that NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasomes possessed a significant contribution to osteoporosis. However, the NAR impact on bone loss caused by microgravity remains unclear. Classical microgravity simulation methods were used to induce simulated microgravity (SMG) in mice and cells. Microcomputed tomography, immunohistochemical examination, and hematoxylin and eosin staining were implemented to ascertain alterations in bone microstructure and morphology in mice subsequent to NAR gavage. Cellular investigations were implemented encompassing quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence labeling to investigate the molecular mechanism behind NAR resistance to microgravity-induced bone loss. Our research has shown that NAR can significantly enhance the SMG-stimulated alterations in bone microstructure and morphology in mice, mainly by increasing the trabecular thickness, bone volume fraction, and trabecular number while increasing the bone trabecula number. Cell experiments also showed that SMG caused the activation of inflammatory corpuscles of NLRP3 and induced pyroptosis simultaneously, which can be confirmed by the upregulation of protein and mRNA expression levels such as those of NLRP3, cleaved caspase-1, gasdermin D, and apoptosis-associated speck-like protein. The occurrence of pyroptosis further led to the disorder of osteogenic differentiation, which showed that the osteopontin, Runt-related transcription factor 2, bone morphogenetic protein 2, and alkaline phosphatase expression levels were decreased. The intervention of NAR can activate the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 (Nrf2/HO-1) pathway, reverse this phenomenon via controlling the reactive oxygen species generation in cells and correcting mitochondrial malfunction, weaken the pyroptosis of osteoblasts (OBs), and promote osteogenic differentiation. In summary, NAR could hinder the pyroptosis of OBs caused by SMG and promote osteogenic differentiation via activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. This provides a unique view for inhibiting bone loss under weightlessness and confirms the NAR capacity in treating microgravity-stimulated bone loss, giving new ideas and methods for future space medicine development.

Cirsilineol improves anesthesia/surgery-induced postoperative cognitive dysfunction through attenuating oxidative stress and modulating microglia M1/M2 polarization

Background

Cirsilineol is a trimethoxy and dihydroxy flavonoid isolated from plant species such as Artemisia vestita and has a variety of pharmacological properties. This study analyzed whether cirsilineol could prevent postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD).

Methods

A POCD mouse model induced by anesthesia/surgery induction and a cell model established with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced microglia BV-2 were employed to explore the efficacy of cirsilineol on POCD. The cognition function of the mice were assessed by carrying out behavioral tests (Morris water maze test and Y-maze test). We assessed the activation and polarization status of microglia using immunofluorescence analysis and detected the expression levels of CD86 and CD206 using the quantitative PCR (qPCR). Subsequently, cell viability was determined by CCK-8 assay and apoptosis was assessed using Calcein-AM/PI staining. Meanwhile, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in plasma and cell culture medium were detected using chemiluminescence. Finally, the phosphorylation levels of JAK/STAT signaling pathway-related proteins were analyzed by Western blot.

Results

Cirsilineol reduced the escape latency and times of crossing island and increased spontaneous alternation (SA) rate, restoring the cognitive dysfunctions of POCD-modeled mice. Meanwhile, POCD elevated CD86 expression and malondialdehyde content and lowered the level of SOD; however, cirsilineol promoted CD206 expression and generation of SOD and inhibited malondialdehyde production. In H2O2-induced microglia BV-2, cirsilineol treatment increased SOD content and suppressed the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde, modulating microglia M1/M2 polarization and JAK/STAT pathway.

Conclusion

Cirsilineol prevented against POCD by attenuating oxidative stress and modulating microglia M1/M2 polarization, providing novel insights for the management of POCD.

The pyroptosis and fibrotic diseases: a bibliometric analysis from 2010 to 2024

BACKGROUND

Fibrosis is the ultimate, common pathological ending of most chronic inflammatory diseases and increases the chances of developing life-threatening illnesses. Pyroptosis, a newfound form of lytic programmed cell death initiated by the inflammasome, has received more and more attention because of its association with fibrotic diseases. Therefore, this study visualizes the connection between pyroptosis and fibrosis research through bibliometric methods, aimed at providing global research hits and tendencies in the field.

METHODS

We collected and analyzed the articles on pyroptosis and fibrosis from 2010 to 2024 via Web of Science. Visual data analysis was performed for countries, institutions, authors, references, and keywords in the field using VOSviewer, CiteSpace software, the "Bibliometrix" R package, the bibliometric website ( https://bibliometric.com/ ), and Excel software. We analyzed the data by utilizing the bibliometric review method.

RESULTS

A total of 566 articles and reviews relating to pyroptosis and fibrosis were identified in the Web of Science. The number of publications in the domain has continued to grow since 2010. These scientific outputs were mainly from 129 countries/regions and 1919 institutions, particularly China (n = 423) and the USA (n = 83). More importantly, although China publishes a vast majority of articles, its centrality is lower than that of the USA (0.59 vs 0.61). Among the 3833 authors involved in this field, Feldstein, A. E. is the most prolific author. Shi, J. J. is the world's most-cited author among the 12,143 authors in these academic journals. Frontiers in Immunology was a prolific contributor, and Nature was the most frequently cited journal. After analysis, Cleavage of GSDMD by inflammatory caspases determines pyroptotic cell death were the top-cited articles. The analysis of keywords displayed that pyroptosis, fibrosis, and pathways were the main research hotspots and frontier directions in recent years.

CONCLUSION

We analyzed the characteristics of published articles and drew a fundamental knowledge structure on pyroptosis and fibrosis research via bibliometric analysis. The potential mechanism between fibrosis and pyroptosis is deeply tied to the current moment. Our findings can help researchers make clear the research status and value of fibrosis and pyroptosis and provide new directions for future research as soon as possible.

Deciphering interleukin-18 in diabetes and its complications: Biological features, mechanisms, and therapeutic perspectives

Interleukin-18 (IL-18), a potent and multifunctional pro-inflammatory cytokine, plays a critical role in regulating β-cell failure, β-cell death, insulin resistance, and various complications of diabetes mellitus (DM). It exerts its effects by triggering various signaling pathways, enhancing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide (NO), as well as promoting immune cells infiltration and β-cells death. Abnormal alterations in IL-18 levels have been revealed to be strongly associated with the onset and development of DM and its complications. Targeting IL-18 may present a novel and promising approach for DM therapy. An increasing number of IL-18 inhibitors, including chemical and natural inhibitors, have been developed and have been shown to protect against DM and diabetic complications. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of the production, biological functions, action mode, and activated signaling pathways of IL-18. Next, we shed light on how IL-18 contributes to the pathogenesis of DM and its associated complications with links to its roles in the modulation of β-cell failure and death, insulin resistance in various tissues, and pancreatitis. Furthermore, the therapeutic potential of targeting IL-18 for the diagnosis and treatment of DM is also highlighted. We hope that this review will help us better understand the functions of IL-18 in the pathogenesis of DM and its complications, providing novel strategies for DM diagnosis and treatment.

Ruscogenin Exerts Anxiolytic-Like Effect via Microglial NF-κB/MAPKs/NLRP3 Signaling Pathways in Mouse Model of Chronic Inflammatory Pain

Long-term inflammation can cause chronic pain and trigger patients' anxiety by sensitizing the central nervous system. However, effective drugs with few side effects for treating chronic pain-induced anxiety are still lacking. The anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory effects of ruscogenin (RUS), an important active compound in Ophiopogon japonicus, were evaluated in a mouse model of chronic inflammatory pain and N9 cells. RUS (5, 10, or 20 mg/kg/day, i.g.) was administered once daily for 7 days after CFA injection; pain- and anxiety-like behaviors were assessed in mice. Anti-inflammatory effect of RUS (0.1, 1, 10 μM) on N9 microglia after LPS treatment was evaluated. Inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, CD86, IL-4, ARG-1, and CD206) were measured using qPCR. The levels of IBA1, ROS, NF-κB, TLR4, P-IKK, P-IκBα, and P65, MAPKs (ERK, JNK, and P38), NLRP3 (caspase-1, ASC, and NLRP3) were detected by Western blotting or immunofluorescence staining. The potential target of RUS was validated by molecular docking and adeno-associated virus injection. Mice in CFA group exhibited allodynia and anxiety-like behaviors. LPS induced neuroinflammation in N9 cells. Both CFA and LPS increased the levels of IBA1, ROS, and inflammatory markers. RUS (10 mg/kg in vivo and 1 μM in vitro) alleviated these alterations through NF-κB/MAPKs/NLRP3 signaling pathways but had no effect on pain hypersensitivity. TLR4 strongly interacted with RUS, and TLR4 overexpression abolished the effects of RUS on anxiety and neuroinflammation. RUS exerts anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic effects via TLR4-mediated NF-κB/MAPKs/NLRP3 signaling pathways, which provides a basis for the treatment of chronic pain-induced anxiety.

Isoquercitrin Inhibits Lung Cancer Cell Growth Through Triggering Pyroptosis and Ferroptosis

Isoquercitrin possesses anti-tumor activity in several types of cancers, however, its effects and underlying mechanisms on lung cancer have not been reported. Human lung cancer cell lines as well as normal lung epithelial BEAS-2B cells were treated with isoquercitrin. The influences of isoquercitrin in vitro were evaluated by determining cell viability, apoptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis. Additionally, A549 tumor-bearing mice were generated to explore the anti-cancer effect of isoquercitrin in vivo. We found that isoquercitrin dose-dependently reduced lung cancer cells' viability, with no toxicity against BEAS-2B cells. Isoquercitrin at 40 μM and 80 μM was used in vitro. Isoquercitrin increased apoptosis, elevated NLRP3 inflammasome activation-mediated pyroptosis, and promoted ferroptosis in lung cancer cells. NLRP3 knockdown and caspase-1 selective inhibitor VX-765 attenuated isoquercitrin-induced pyroptosis and ferroptosis, but not apoptosis. Furthermore, isoquercitrin accelerated ROS generation, while ROS inhibitor N-acetylcysteine abrogated isoquercitrin-induced apoptosis, NLRP3 related-pyroptosis and ferroptosis. In vivo, isoquercitrin (1 mg/kg and 5 mg/kg) inhibited tumor growth, increased apoptosis, NLRP3-related pyroptosis, ferroptosis and ROS generation in tumors. Taken together, isoquercitrin inhibits lung cancer growth by triggering ROS/NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis and ferroptosis, with ROS also directly inducing apoptosis. This suggests that isoquercitrin might be a potential therapeutic agent for lung cancer.

Role for NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated, Caspase1-dependent response in glaucomatous trabecular meshwork cell death and regulation of aqueous humor outflow

Purpose

Acute ocular hypertension (AOH) is the defining feature of acute glaucoma. The mechanical stress and excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during episodes can directly or indirectly damage the trabecular meshwork (TM). Despite its significance, a clear understanding of its pathogenesis and an effective therapeutic target remain lacking in acute glaucoma. In the present study, we explored the potential molecular mechanisms underlying TM cell death following oxidative damage and AOH. The use of NAC/VX-765 as a potential pharmaceutical intervention for reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) was discussed.

Methods

The levels of NLRP3 and caspase-1 were compared between normal and glaucomatous TM samples. An in vitro oxidative damage model and an AOH rat model were used to investigate the potential molecular mechanism behind TM cell death. The ROS scavenger N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) and caspase-1 inhibitor VX-765 were used to counteract TM damage.

Results

Elevated levels of NLRP3 and caspase-1 were observed in patients with acute glaucoma. H2O2 exposure decreased the viability of human trabecular meshwork (HTM) cells and increased intracellular ROS levels. Both Gene and protein expressions of NLRP3, caspase-1, GSDMD-N, and IL-1β were notably upregulated in H2O2-induced HTM cells and the rodent AOH model. Both NAC and VX-765 demonstrated protective effects against TM injury by inhibiting pyroptosis. The IOP-lowering effects of NAC and VX-765 persisted for 7 days.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that the classical pyroptosis pathway, NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1β, plays a key role in acute glaucomatous TM injury. Targeting pyroptosis provides novel therapeutic avenues for treating AOH-induced irreversible TM injury. This provides not only a promising therapeutic target for glaucoma but also introduces a new approach to intervention.

Regulated Cell Death Pathways in Pathological Cardiac Hypertrophy

Cardiac hypertrophy is characterized by an increased volume of individual cardiomyocytes rather than an increase in their number. Myocardial hypertrophy due to pathological stimuli encountered by the heart, which reduces pressure on the ventricular walls to maintain cardiac function, is known as pathological hypertrophy. This eventually progresses to heart failure. Certain varieties of regulated cell death (RCD) pathways, including apoptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, necroptosis, and autophagy, are crucial in the development of pathological cardiac hypertrophy. This review summarizes the molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways underlying these RCD pathways, focusing on their mechanism of action findings for pathological cardiac hypertrophy. It intends to provide new ideas for developing therapeutic approaches targeted at the cellular level to prevent or reverse pathological cardiac hypertrophy.

Overview of pyroptosis mechanism and in-depth analysis of cardiomyocyte pyroptosis mediated by NF-κB pathway in heart failure

The pyroptosis of cardiomyocytes has become an essential topic in heart failure research. The abnormal accumulation of these biological factors, including angiotensin II, advanced glycation end products, and various growth factors (such as connective tissue growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, transforming growth factor beta, among others), activates the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway in cardiovascular diseases, ultimately leading to pyroptosis of cardiomyocytes. Therefore, exploring the underlying molecular biological mechanisms is essential for developing novel drugs and therapeutic strategies. However, our current understanding of the precise regulatory mechanism of this complex signaling pathway in cardiomyocyte pyroptosis is still limited. Given this, this study reviews the milestone discoveries in the field of pyroptosis research since 1986, analyzes in detail the similarities, differences, and interactions between pyroptosis and other cell death modes (such as apoptosis, necroptosis, autophagy, and ferroptosis), and explores the deep connection between pyroptosis and heart failure. At the same time, it depicts in detail the complete pathway of the activation, transmission, and eventual cardiomyocyte pyroptosis of the NF-κB signaling pathway in the process of heart failure. In addition, the study also systematically summarizes various therapeutic approaches that can inhibit NF-κB to reduce cardiomyocyte pyroptosis, including drugs, natural compounds, small molecule inhibitors, gene editing, and other cutting-edge technologies, aiming to provide solid scientific support and new research perspectives for the prevention and treatment of heart failure.

Enhancing Cardiomyocyte Resilience to Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: The Therapeutic Potential of an Indole-Peptide-Tempo Conjugate (IPTC)

Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury leads to apoptosis and extensive cellular and mitochondrial damage, triggered by the early generation and subsequent accumulation of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS). This condition not only contributes to the pathology of I/R injury itself but is also implicated in a variety of other diseases, especially within the cardiovascular domain. Addressing mitochondrial oxidative stress thus emerges as a critical therapeutic target. In this context, our study introduces an indole-peptide-tempo conjugate (IPTC), a compound designed with dual functionalities: antioxidative properties and the ability to modulate autophagy. Our findings reveal that IPTC effectively shields H9C2 cardiomyocytes against hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) damage, primarily through counteracting mtROS overproduction linked to impaired mitophagy and mitochondrial dysfunction. We propose that IPTC operates by simultaneously reducing mtROS levels and inducing mitophagy, highlighting its potential as a novel therapeutic strategy for mitigating mitochondrial oxidative damage and, by extension, easing I/R injury and potentially other related cardiovascular conditions.

FGF21 inhibits ferroptosis caused by mitochondrial damage to promote the repair of peripheral nerve injury

Introduction

Ferroptosis is a new type of cell death characterized by lipid peroxidation and iron dependency, representing an emerging disease regulation mechanism. The limited understanding of ferroptosis in peripheral nerve injury (PNI) complicates the management of such injuries. Mitochondrial dysfunction, which contributes to ferroptosis, further exacerbates the challenges of peripheral nerve repair.

Methods

In this study, we established an in vitro model of Schwann cells model treated with TBHP and an in vivo sciatic nerve crush injury model in rats. These models were used to investigate the effects of fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) on PNI, both in vitro and in vivo, and to explore the potential mechanisms linking injury-induced ferroptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction.

Results

Our findings reveal that PNI triggers abnormal accumulation of lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inactivates mitochondrial respiratory chain complex III, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction. This dysfunction catalyzes the oxidation of excessive polyunsaturated fatty acids, resulting in antioxidant imbalance and loss of ferroptosis suppressor protein 1 (FSP1), which drives lipid peroxidation. Additionally, irregular iron metabolism, defective mitophagy, and other factors contribute to the induction of ferroptosis. Importantly, we found that FGF21 attenuates the abnormal accumulation of lipid ROS, restores mitochondrial function, and suppresses ferroptosis, thus promoting PNI repair. Notably, glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), a downstream target of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and the ERK/Nrf2 pathway are involved in the regulation of ferroptosis by FGF21.

Conclusion

FGF21 promotes peripheral nerve repair by inhibiting ferroptosis caused by mitochondrial dysfunction. Therefore, targeting mitochondria and ferroptosis represents a promising therapeutic strategy for effective PNI repair.

Matrine Suppresses Arsenic-Induced Malignant Transformation of SV-HUC-1 Cells via NOX2

Arsenic (As) has been classified as a carcinogen for humans. There is abundant evidence indicating that arsenic increases the risk of bladder cancer among human populations. However, the underlying mechanisms have yet to be fully understood and elucidated. NADPH oxidases (NOXs) are the main enzymes for ROS production in the body. NADPH Oxidase 2 (NOX2), which is the most distinctive and ubiquitously expressed subunit of NOXs, can promote the formation and development of tumors. The utilization of NOX2 as a therapeutic target has been proposed to modulate diseases resulting from the activation of NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3). Matrine has been reported to exhibit various pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic, antitumor, and analgesic properties. However, it has not been reported whether matrine can inhibit malignant transformation induced by arsenic in uroepithelial cells through NOX2. We have conducted a series of experiments using both a sub-chronic NaAsO2 exposure rat model and a long-term NaAsO2 exposure cell model. Our findings indicate that arsenic significantly increases cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis in vivo and in vitro. Arsenic exposure resulted in an upregulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), NOX2, and NLRP3 inflammasome expression. Remarkably, both in vivo and in vitro, the administration of matrine demonstrated a significant improvement in the detrimental impact of arsenic on bladder epithelial cells. This was evidenced by the downregulation of proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis, as well as the expression of the NOX2 and NLRP3 inflammasomes. Collectively, these findings indicate that matrine possesses the ability to reduce NOX2 levels and inhibit the transformation of bladder epithelial cells.

Puerarin-Loaded Liposomes Co-Modified by Ischemic Myocardium-Targeting Peptide and Triphenylphosphonium Cations Ameliorate Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

Purpose

Mitochondrial damage may lead to uncontrolled oxidative stress and massive apoptosis, and thus plays a pivotal role in the pathological processes of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. However, it is difficult for the drugs such as puerarin (PUE) to reach the mitochondrial lesion due to lack of targeting ability, which seriously affects the expected efficacy of drug therapy for myocardial I/R injury.

Methods

We prepared triphenylphosphonium (TPP) cations and ischemic myocardium-targeting peptide (IMTP) co-modified puerarin-loaded liposomes (PUE@T/I-L), which effectively deliver the drug to mitochondria and improve the effectiveness of PUE in reducing myocardial I/R injury.

Results

In vitro test results showed that PUE@T/I-L had sustained release and excellent hemocompatibility. Fluorescence test results showed that TPP cations and IMTP double-modified liposomes (T/I-L) enhanced the intracellular uptake, escaped lysosomal capture and promoted drug targeting into the mitochondria. Notably, PUE@T/I-L inhibited the opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore, reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, thereby decreasing the percentage of Hoechst-positive cells and improving the survival of hypoxia-reoxygenated (H/R)-injured H9c2 cells. In a mouse myocardial I/R injury model, PUE@T/I-L showed a significant myocardial protective effect against myocardial I/R injury by protecting mitochondrial integrity, reducing myocardial apoptosis and decreasing infarct size.

Conclusion

This drug delivery system exhibited excellent mitochondrial targeting and reduction of myocardial apoptosis, which endowed it with good potential extension value in the precise treatment of myocardial I/R injury.

Effect of IL-9 neutralising antibody on pyroptosis via SGK1/NF-κB/NLRP3/GSDMD in allergic rhinitis mice

Allergic rhinitis is a common non-infectious inflammatory disease that affects approximately 15 % of people worldwide and has a complex and unclear aetiology. In recent years, pyroptosis has been found to play a role in the development of allergic rhinitis. IL-9, pyroptosis, serum and glucocorticoid-induced protein kinase 1 (SGK1), NOD-like receptor 3 (NLRP3), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) have been shown to influence each other. Herein, we aimed to explore the role of IL-9 neutralising antibody in pyroptosis involving IL-9, SGK1, NF-κB, and NLRP3 in allergic rhinitis. We observed a decrease in cytokines involved in pyroptosis and gasdermin D (GSDMD) compared with those in mice with allergic rhinitis. Further, phosphorylation of NF-κB/p65 decreased compared with that in mice with allergic rhinitis; NLRP3 and ASC also decreased, although the levels were higher than those in controls. SGK1 levels decreased compared with that in mice with allergic rhinitis and increased after using IL-9 neutralising antibodies, thus demonstrating its negative regulatory effects. The IL-9 neutralising antibody reduced the inflammatory and pyroptosis responses via SGK1 and NF-κB/NLRP3/GSDMD pathway. Our research results indicate that IL-9 regulates allergic rhinitis via the influence of SGK1 and NF-κB/NLRP3/GSDMD signalling pathway, providing new insights for developing novel drugs to treat allergic rhinitis.

NLRP3 Inflammasome Deficiency Alleviates Inflammation and Oxidative Stress by Promoting PINK1/Parkin-Mediated Mitophagy in Allergic Rhinitis Mice and Nasal Epithelial Cells

Purpose

Accumulating evidence indicates that oxidative stress and inflammation are the pathological basis of allergic diseases. Inhibition of NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome could ameliorate allergic rhinitis (AR). Here, we explored the effects and mechanisms that underlie NLRP3 inhibition on oxidative stress and inflammation in AR.

Methods

Ovalbumin (OVA)-induced AR murine model was established using wild-type (WT) and NLRP3-deficient mice. HNEpCs were stimulated with interleukin (IL)-13 with MCC950 pretreatment or PTEN-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1) siRNA. The indicators of oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and mitophagy were determined both in vivo and in vitro.

Results

NLRP3 knockout (KO) reduced the frequency of nasal rubbing and sneezing, the infiltration of eosinophils, the number of mast cells, and the accumulation of goblet cells in AR mice after OVA stimulation. The NLRP3 KO AR mice exhibited the increased concentrations of OVA-specific immunoglobulin E (OVA-sIgE), IL-1β, IL-4, IL-13, IL-6, TNF-α, and the upregulated level of IFN-γ. NLRP3 KO significantly inhibited oxidative stress, and also markedly decreased apoptosis in the nasal mucosa of AR mice. Moreover, evaluated protein expressions of PINK1, enzyme 3 (E3) ubiquitin ligase PRKN (Parkin), and LC3 II, decreased expression of TOM20, as well as the increased colocalization of LC3 with mitochondria were observed in NLRP3 KO AR mice. In vitro, IL-13 exposure increased the levels of NLRP3 and IL-1β. Inhibition of NLRP3 using MCC950 enhanced PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy but attenuated inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. However, PINK1 knockdown abrogated mitophagy and also reversed the protective effects of MCC950 on inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in HNEpCs stimulated with IL-13.

Conclusion

Inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome exerts the protective effects on AR by facilitating mitophagy regulated by PINK1/Parkin signaling pathway.

The effects of hyaluronan and proteoglycan link protein 1 (HAPLN1) in ameliorating spinal cord injury mediated by Nrf2

Excessive inflammatory response and oxidative stress (OS) play an important role in the pathogenesis of spinal cord injury (SCI). Balance of inflammation and prevention of OS have been considered an effective strategy for the treatment of SCI. Hyaluronan and proteoglycan link protein 1 (HAPLN1), also known as cartilage link protein, has displayed a wide range of biological and physiological functions in different types of tissues and cells. However, whether HAPLN1 regulates inflammation and OS during SCI is unknown. Therefore, we aimed to examine whether HAPLN1 can have a protective effect on SCI. In this study, both in vitro and in vivo SCI models were established. Nissl staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling staining assays were used. Western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were employed to assess the expression of proteins. Our results demonstrate that the administration of HAPLN1 promoted the recovery of motor neurons after SCI by increasing the Basso mouse scale score, increasing the numbers of motor neurons, and preventing apoptosis of spinal cord cells. Additionally, HAPLN1 mitigated OS in spinal cord tissue after SCI by increasing the content of superoxide dismutase SOD and the activity of glutathione peroxidase but reducing the levels of malondialdehyde. Importantly, we found that HAPLN1 stimulated the activation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/antioxidant response element (ARE) pathway and stimulated the expression of heme oxygenase-1 and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate quinone oxidoreductase-1, which mediated the attenuation of HAPLN1 in activation of the NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome by reducing the levels of NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC), caspase-1, and interleukin-1β. Correspondingly, in vitro experiments show that the presence of HAPLN1 suppressed the NLRP3 inflammasome and prevented cell injury against H2O2 in PC12 cells. These effects were mediated by the Nrf2/ARE pathway, and inhibition of Nrf2 with ML385 abolished the beneficial effects of HAPLN1. Based on these findings, we conclude that HAPLN1 inhibits the NLRP3 inflammasome through the stimulation of the Nrf2/ARE pathway, thereby suppressing neuroinflammation, enhancing motor neuronal survival, and improving the recovery of nerve function after SCI.

Puerarin enhances TFEB-mediated autophagy and attenuates ROS-induced pyroptosis after ischemic injury of random-pattern skin flaps

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Necrosis of random-pattern flaps restricts their application in clinical practice. Puerarin has come into focus due to its promising therapeutic effects in ischemic diseases. Here, we employed Puerarin and investigated its role and potential mechanisms in flap survival.

EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE

The effect of Puerarin on the viability of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was assessed by CCK-8, EdU staining, migration, and scratch assays. Survival area measurement and laser Doppler blood flow (LDBF) were utilized to assess the viability of ischemic injury flaps. Levels of molecules related to oxidative stress, pyroptosis, autophagy, transcription factor EB (TFEB), and the AMPK-TRPML1-Calcineurin signaling pathway were detected using western blotting, immunofluorescence, dihydroethidium (DHE) staining, RT-qPCR and Elisa.

KEY RESULTS

The findings demonstrated that Puerarin enhanced the survivability of ischemic flaps. Autophagy, oxidative stress, and pyroptosis were implicated in the ability of Puerarin in improving flap survival. Increased autophagic flux and augmented tolerance to oxidative stress contribute to Puerarin's suppression of pyroptosis. Additionally, Puerarin modulated the activity of TFEB through the AMPK-TRPML1-Calcineurin signaling pathway, thereby enhancing autophagic flux.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Puerarin promoted flap survival from ischemic injury through upregulation of TFEB-mediated autophagy and inhibition of oxidative stress. Our findings offered valuable support for the clinical application of Puerarin in the treatment of ischemic diseases, including random-pattern flaps.

Obeticholic Acid Inhibit Mitochondria Dysfunction Via Regulating ERK1/2-DRP Pathway to Exert Protective Effect on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Myocardial Injury

Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) plays critical regulatory roles in cardiovascular physiology/pathology. However, the role of FXR agonist obeticholic acid (OCA) in sepsis-associated myocardial injury and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. C57BL/6J mice are treated with OCA before lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration. The histopathology of the heart and assessment of FXR expression and mitochondria function are performed. To explore the underlying mechanisms, H9c2 cells, and primary cardiomyocytes are pre-treated with OCA before LPS treatment, and extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) inhibitor PD98059 is used. LPS-induced myocardial injury in mice is significantly improved by OCA pretreatment. Mechanistically, OCA pretreatment decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and blocked the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) in cardiomyocytes. The expression of glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1), superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF-2) increased in the case of OCA pretreatment. In addition, OCA improved mitochondria respiratory chain with increasing Complex I expression and decreasing cytochrome C (Cyt-C) diffusion. Moreover, OCA pretreatment inhibited LPS-induced mitochondria dysfunction via suppressing ERK1/2-DRP signaling pathway. FXR agonist OCA inhibits LPS-induced mitochondria dysfunction via suppressing ERK1/2-DRP signaling pathway to protect mice against LPS-induced myocardial injury.

Apigenin alleviates doxorubicin-induced myocardial pyroptosis by inhibiting glycogen synthase kinase-3β in vitro and in vivo

Apigenin, a natural flavonoid compound found in chamomile (Matricaia chamomilla L.) from the Asteraceae family, has been shown in our previous study to possess antimyocardial hypertrophy and anti-cardiac fibrosis effects. However, its effects and mechanisms on the pyroptosis of cardiomyocytes induced by doxorubicin (DOX) are poorly understood. The objective of this study was to investigate the role of GSK-3β and the effects of apigenin in DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. H9c2 cells stimulated with DOX were treated with SB216763 and apigenin. Additionally, a mouse model of DOX-induced cardiotoxicity was prepared and further treated with apigenin and SB216763 for 30 days. The findings revealed that treatment with SB216763 or apigenin resulted in a significant reduction in the levels of pyroptosis-related factors. Furthermore, the phosphorylation of GSK-3β was enhanced while the phosphorylation of nuclear factor-kB (NF-κB) p65 was reduced following treatment with either SB216763 or apigenin. Conversely, the effects of apigenin treatment were nullified in siRNA-GSK-3β-transfected cells. Results from computer simulation and molecular docking analysis supported that apigenin could directly target the regulation of GSK-3β. Therefore, our study confirmed that the inhibition of GSK-3β and treatment with apigenin effectively suppressed the pyroptosis of cardiomyocytes in both DOX-stimulated H9c2 cells and mice. These benefits may be attributed in part to the decrease in GSK-3β expression and subsequent reduction in NF-κB p65 activation. Overall, our findings revealed that the pharmacological targeting of GSK-3β may offer a promising therapeutic approach for alleviating DOX-induced cardiotoxicity.

MiR-202-3p Targets Calm1 and Suppresses Inflammation in a Mouse Model of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is regarded as a type of respiratory failure. Emerging evidence has demonstrated the significant roles of microRNAs in various disorders. Nevertheless, the role of miR-202-3p in ARDS is unclear. Forty male C57BL/6 mice treated with phosphate buffer saline/lipopolysaccharide (PBS/LPS) and administrated with NC/miR-202-3p agomir were divided into four groups. A reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to evaluate the level of miR-202-3p, its target genes, and proinflammatory factors. Hematoxylin‑eosin was utilized for histological observation of the lung tissues. The Wet/Dry ratio, myeloperoxidase activity, and total protein concentration in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were assessed to determine pulmonary edema. Western blotting was used for quantifying protein levels of proinflammatory factors, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), and NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) signaling-associated proteins. Calmodulin 1 (Calm1) protein expression in murine lung tissues was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. The binding relation between miR-202-3p and Calm1 was assessed by luciferase reporter assay. The results showed that miR-202-3p was lowly expressed in the lung tissues of ARDS mice. Overexpressed miR-202-3p relieved LPS-induced edema, reduced proinflammatory factors, and inactivated NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling in murine lung tissues. Calm1 was targeted by miR-202-3p and displayed a high level of LPS-induced ARDS. In conclusion, miR-202-3p targets Calm1 and suppresses inflammation in LPS-induced ARDS, thereby inhibiting the pathogenesis of ARDS in a mouse model.

Exploring novel function of Gpx5 antioxidant activity: Assisting epididymal cells secrete functional extracellular vesicles

Glutathione peroxisomal-5 (Gpx5) promotes the elimination of H2O2 or organic hydrogen peroxide, and plays an important role in the physiological process of resistance to oxidative stress (OS). To directly and better understand the protection of Gpx5 against OS in epididymal cells and sperm, we studied its mechanism of antioxidant protection from multiple aspects. To more directly investigate the role of Gpx5 in combating oxidative damage, we started with epididymal tissue morphology and Gpx5 expression profiles in combination with the mouse epididymal epithelial cell line PC1 (proximal caput 1) expressing recombinant Gpx5. The Gpx5 is highly expressed in adult male epididymal caput, and its protein signal can be detected in the sperm of the whole epididymis. Gpx5 has been shown to alleviate OS damage induced by 3-Nitropropionic Acid (3-NPA), including enhancing antioxidant activity, reducing mitochondrial damage, and suppressing cell apoptosis. Gpx5 reduces OS damage in PC1 and maintains the well-functioning extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by PC1, and the additional epididymal EVs play a role in the response of sperm to OS damage, including reducing plasma membrane oxidation and death, and increasing sperm motility and sperm-egg binding ability. Our study suggests that GPX5 plays an important role as an antioxidant in the antioxidant processes of epididymal cells and sperm, including plasma membrane oxidation, mitochondrial oxidation, apoptosis, sperm motility, and sperm-egg binding ability.

Dexmedetomidine alleviates Hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in cardiomyocytes via activation of Sirt3/Prdx3 pathway

BACKGROUND

Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MIRI) seriously threatens the health of people. The mitochondrial dysfunction in cardiomyocytes can promote the progression of MIRI. Dexmedetomidine (Dex) could alleviate the myocardial injury, which was known to reverse mitochondrial dysfunction in lung injury. However, the function of Dex in mitochondrial dysfunction during MIRI remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the function of Dex in mitochondrial dysfunction during MIRI.

METHODS

To investigate the function of Dex in MIRI, H9C2 cells were placed in condition of hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R). CCK8 assay was performed to test the cell viability, and the mitochondrial membrane potential was evaluated by JC-1 staining. In addition, the binding relationship between Sirt3 and Prdx3 was explored by Co-IP assay. Furthermore, the protein expressions were examined using western blot.

RESULTS

Dex could abolish H/R-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in H9C2 cells. In addition, H/R treatment significantly inhibited the expression of Sirt3, while Dex partially restored this phenomenon. Knockdown of Sirt3 or Prdx3 obviously reduced the protective effect of Dex on H/R-induced mitochondrial injury. Meanwhile, Sirt3 could enhance the function of Prdx3 via deacetylation of Prdx3.

CONCLUSION

Dex was found to attenuate H/R-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in cardiomyocytes via activation of Sirt3/Prdx3 pathway. Thus, this study might shed new lights on exploring new strategies for the treatment of MIRI.

Inflammation and coronary microvascular disease: relationship, mechanism and treatment

Coronary microvascular disease (CMVD) is common in patients with cardiovascular risk factors and is linked to an elevated risk of adverse cardiovascular events. Although modern medicine has made significant strides in researching CMVD, we still lack a comprehensive understanding of its pathophysiological mechanisms due to its complex and somewhat cryptic etiology. This greatly impedes the clinical diagnosis and treatment of CMVD. The primary pathological mechanisms of CMVD are structural abnormalities and/or dysfunction of coronary microvascular endothelial cells. The development of CMVD may also involve a variety of inflammatory factors through the endothelial cell injury pathway. This paper first reviews the correlation between the inflammatory response and CMVD, then summarizes the possible mechanisms of inflammatory response in CMVD, and finally categorizes the drugs used to treat CMVD based on their effect on the inflammatory response. We hope that this paper draws attention to CMVD and provides novel ideas for potential therapeutic strategies based on the inflammatory response.

Upregulated dual oxidase 1-induced oxidative stress and caspase-1-dependent pyroptosis reflect the etiologies of heart failure

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of heart failure. Dual oxidase 1 (DUOX1) might be important in heart failure development through its mediating role in oxidative stress. This study was designed to evaluate the potential role of DUOX1 in heart failure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

AC16 cells were treated with 2 µmol/L of doxorubicin (DOX) for 12, 24, and 48 h to construct a heart failure model. DUOX1 overexpression and silencing in AC16 cell were established. DUOX1 expression was detected by Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blot. Pyroptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were measured by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Increased DUOX1 expression levels were observed after DOX treatment for 24 h in AC16 cells. DUOX1 silencing inhibited DOX-induced pyroptosis and ROS production. The release of IL-1β, IL-18, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and expression levels of pyroptosis-related proteins were also decreased. DUOX1 overexpression increased pyroptosis, ROS production, IL-1β, IL-18, and LDH release, and pyroptosis-related protein expression. N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) significantly reversed DUOX1-induced pyroptosis, ROS, and related factors.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that DUOX1-derived genotoxicity could promote heart failure development. In the process, oxidative stress and pyroptosis may be involved in the regulation of DUOX1 in heart failure.

Crosstalk between hypoxia-induced pyroptosis and immune escape in cancer: From mechanisms to therapy

Pyroptosis can be triggered through both canonical and non-canonical inflammasome pathways, involving the cleavage of gasdermin (GSDM) protein family members, like GSDMD and GSDME. The impact of pyroptosis on tumors is nuanced, because its role in regulating cancer progression and anti-tumor immunity may vary depending on the tumor type, stage, location, and immune status. However, pyroptosis cannot be simply categorized as promoting or inhibiting tumors based solely on whether it is acute or chronic in nature. The interplay between pyroptosis and cancer is intricate, with some evidence suggesting that chronic pyroptosis may facilitate tumor growth, while the acute induction of pyroptosis could stimulate anti-cancer immune responses. Tumor hypoxia activates hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) signaling to modulate pyroptosis and immune checkpoint expression. Targeting this hypoxia-pyroptosis-immune escape axis could be a promising therapeutic strategy. This review highlights the complex crosstalk between hypoxia, pyroptosis, and immune evasion in the TME.

Lentinus edodes mycelium polysaccharide inhibits AGEs-induced HUVECs pyroptosis by regulating LncRNA MALAT1/miR-199b/mTOR axis and NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD pathway

A novel Lentinus edodes mycelia polysaccharide (LMP) prepared in our laboratory has been identified to be effective in inhibiting the damage of islet β cells induced by glucose toxicity. However, whether it can effectively alleviate the pyroptosis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) induced by advanced glycation end products (AGEs) remains unclear. Bioinformatics and cell biology techniques were used to explore the mechanism of LMP inhibiting AGEs-induced HUVECs damage. The results indicated that AGEs significantly increased the expression of LncRNA MALAT1, decreased cell viability to 79.67 %, increased intracellular ROS level to 248.19 % compared with the control group, which further led to cell membrane rupture. The release of LDH in cellular supernatant was increased to 149.42 %, and the rate of propidium iodide staining positive cells increased to 277.19 %, indicating the cell pyroptosis occurred. However, the above trend was effectively retrieved after the treatment with LMP. LMP effectively decreased the expression of LncRNA MALAT1 and mTOR, promoted the expression of miR-199b, inhibited AGEs-induced HUVECs pyroptosis by regulating the NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD pathway. LncRNA MALAT1 might be a new target for LMP to inhibit AGEs-induced HUVECs pyroptosis. This study manifested the role of LMP in improving diabetes angiopathy and broadens the application of polysaccharide.

Ginsenoside Rg1 attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced chronic liver damage by activating Nrf2 signaling and inhibiting inflammasomes in hepatic cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ginseng (Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer) is a precious traditional Chinese medicine with multiple pharmacological effects. Ginsenoside Rg1 is a main active ingredient extracted from ginseng, which is known for its age-delaying and antioxidant effects. Increasing evidence indicates that Rg1 exhibits anti-inflammatory properties in numerous diseases and may ameliorate oxidative damage and inflammation in many chronic liver diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Chronic inflammatory injury in liver cells is an important pathological basis of many liver diseases. However, its mechanism remains unclear and therapeutic strategies to prevent its development need to be further explored. Thus, our study is to delve the protective effect and mechanism of Rg1 against chronic hepatic inflammatory injuries induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The chronic liver damage model in mice was build up by injecting intraperitoneally with LPS (200 μg/kg) for 21 days. Serum liver function indicators and levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were examined by using corresponding Kits. Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E), Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), and Masson stains were utilized to visualize hepatic histopathological damage, glycogen deposition, and liver fibrosis. The nuclear import of p-Nrf2 and the generation of Col4 in the liver were detected by IF, while IHC was employed to detect the expressions of NLRP3 and AIM2 in the hepatic. The Western blot and q-PCR were used to survey the expressions of proteins and mRNAs of fibrosis and apoptosis, and the expressions of Keap1, p-Nrf2 and NLRP3, NLRP1, AIM2 inflammasome-related proteins in mouse liver. The cell viability of human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2) was detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 to select the action concentration of LPS, and intracellular ROS generation was detected using a kit. The expressions of Nuclear Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1 and NLRP3, NLRP1, and AIM2 inflammasome-related proteins in HepG2 cells were detected by Western blot. Finally, the feasibility of the molecular interlinking between Rg1 and Nrf2 was demonstrated by molecular docking.

RESULTS

Rg1 treatment for 21 days decreased the levels of ALT, AST, and inflammatory factors of serum IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α in mice induced by LPS. Pathological results indicated that Rg1 treatment obviously alleviated hepatocellular injury and apoptosis, inflammatory cell infiltration and liver fibrosis in LPS stimulated mice. Rg1 promoted Keap1 degradation and enhanced the expressions of p-Nrf2, HO-1 and decreased the levels of NLRP1, NLRP3, AIM2, cleaved caspase-1, IL-1β and IL-6 in livers caused by LPS. Furthermore, Rg1 effectively suppressed the rise of ROS in HepG2 cells induced by LPS, whereas inhibition of Nrf2 reversed the role of Rg1 in reducing the production of ROS and NLRP3, NLRP1, and AIM2 expressions in LPS-stimulated HepG2 cells. Finally, the molecular docking illustrated that Rg1 exhibits a strong affinity towards Nrf2.

CONCLUSION

The findings indicate that Rg1 significantly ameliorates chronic liver damage and fibrosis induced by LPS. The mechanism may be mediated through promoting the dissociation of Nrf2 from Keap1 and then activating Nrf2 signaling and further inhibiting NLRP3, NLRP1, and AIM2 inflammasomes in liver cells.

Mechanisms of chondrocyte regulated cell death in osteoarthritis: Focus on ROS-triggered ferroptosis, parthanatos, and oxeiptosis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common chronic inflammatory degenerative disease. Since chondrocytes are the only type of cells in cartilage, their survival is critical for maintaining cartilage morphology. This review offers a comprehensive analysis of how reactive oxygen species (ROS), including superoxide anions, hydrogen peroxide, hydroxyl radicals, nitric oxide, and their derivatives, affect cartilage homeostasis and trigger several novel modes of regulated cell death, including ferroptosis, parthanatos, and oxeiptosis, which may play roles in chondrocyte death and OA development. Moreover, we discuss potential therapeutic strategies to alleviate OA by scavenging ROS and provide new insight into the research and treatment of the role of regulated cell death in OA.

Irbesartan ameliorates diabetic nephropathy by activating the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway and suppressing NLRP3 inflammasomes in vivo and in vitro

OBJECTIVES

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is characterized by albuminuria and renal dysfunction caused by diabetes. At present there is no specific treatment for DN. Irbesartan (IRB) is an angiotensin receptor inhibitor indicated for the treatment of hypertension and DN. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of IRB on DN remains obscure.

METHODS

RAW264.7 macrophages were incubated in RPMI-1640, cell viability was evaluated by CCK-8 assays, transcriptional level of proinflammatory cytokines and was measured by ELISA and qPCR, NLRP3 inflammasome and Nrf2/Keap1 related proteins were measured by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic male C57BL/6 mice were used to evaluate the therapeutic effect of IRB on DN. Key findings First, we found that IRB improved high glucose-induced cell inflammation by inhibiting the transcription of IL-1β and IL-18. IRB activated the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway and decreased the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS). IRB also suppressed the expression of NLRP3 and caspase-1. IRB combined with the N-acetylcysteine (NAC) significantly inhibited the activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes. Conversely, IRB combined with the Nrf2-related inhibitor ML385 enhanced NLRP3 inflammasome activation, suggesting that IRB suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome via the Nrf2 pathway. In vivo study, HE staining and immunohistochemistry analysis further showed that IRB ameliorated high glucose-induced renal injury by elevating the expression of the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway and suppressing the proinflammatory cytokine and NLRP3 inflammasome activation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggested that IRB ameliorates diabetic nephropathy by activating the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway and suppressing the NLRP3 inflammasomes in vivo and in vitro. These findings provide new therapeutic strategies of diabetic nephropathy.

Mechanistic insights into targeting caspase-3 activation and alveolar macrophage pyroptosis by Ephedra and bitter almond compounds for treating pediatric pneumonia via network pharmacology and bioinformatics

This study investigates the molecular mechanism of Ma Huang-Ku Xing Ren, a traditional Chinese medicine formula, in treating pediatric pneumonia. The focus is on the regulation of caspase-3 activation and reduction of alveolar macrophage necrosis through network pharmacology and bioinformatics analyses of Ephedra and bitter almond components. Active compounds and targets from ephedrine and bitter almond were obtained using TCMSP, TCMID, and GeneCards databases, identifying pediatric pneumonia-related genes. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed, and core targets were screened. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses identified relevant genes and pathways. An acute pneumonia mouse model was created using the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) inhalation method, with caspase-3 overexpression induced by a lentivirus. The mice were treated with Ephedra and bitter almond through gastric lavage. Lung tissue damage, inflammatory markers (IL-18 and IL-1β), and cell death-related gene activation were assessed through H&E staining, ELISA, western blot, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence. The study identified 128 active compounds and 121 gene targets from Ephedra and bitter almond. The PPI network revealed 13 core proteins, and pathway analysis indicated involvement in inflammation, apoptosis, and cell necrosis, particularly the caspase-3 pathway. In vivo results showed that Ephedra and bitter almond treatment significantly mitigated LPS-induced lung injury in mice, reducing lung injury scores and inflammatory marker levels. It also decreased caspase-3 activity and cell death in alveolar macrophages. In conclusion, the active ingredients of Ma Huang-Ku Xing Ren, particularly targeting caspase-3, may effectively treat pediatric pneumonia by reducing apoptosis in alveolar macrophages, as demonstrated by both network pharmacology, bioinformatics analyses, and experimental data.