Eupafolin nanoparticles protect HaCaT keratinocytes from particulate matter-induced inflammation and oxidative stress

Nanotechnology-Based Approaches for Cosmeceutical and Skin Care: A Systematic Review

Cosmeceuticals have gained great importance and are among the top-selling products used for skin care. Because of changing lifestyles, climate, and increasing pollution, cosmeceuticals are utilized by every individual, thereby making cosmeceuticals a fruitful field for research and the economy. Cosmeceuticals provide incredibly pleasing aesthetic results by fusing the qualities of both cosmetics and medicinal substances. Cosmeceuticals are primarily utilized to improve the appearance of skin by making it smoother, moisturized, and wrinkle-free, in addition to treating dermatological conditions, including photoaging, burns, dandruff, acne, eczema, and erythema. Nanocosmeceuticals are cosmetic products that combine therapeutic effects utilizing nanotechnology, allowing for more precise and effective target-specific delivery of active ingredients, and improving bioavailability.

Anti-Inflammatory Artificial Extracellular Vesicles with Notable Inhibition of Particulate Matter-Induced Skin Inflammation and Barrier Function Impairment

Particulate matter (PM) exposure disrupts the skin barrier, causing cutaneous inflammation that may eventually contribute to the development of various skin diseases. Herein, we introduce anti-inflammatory artificial extracellular vesicles (AEVs) fabricated through cell extrusion using the biosurfactant PEGylated mannosylerythritol lipid (P-MEL), hereafter named AEVP-MEL. The P-MEL has anti-inflammatory abilities with demonstrated efficacy in inhibiting the secretion of pro-inflammatory mediators. Mechanistically, AEVP-MEL enhanced anti-inflammatory response by inhibiting the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway and decreasing the release of inflammatory mediators such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and pro-inflammatory cytokines in human keratinocytes. Moreover, AEVP-MEL promoted increased expression levels of skin barrier proteins (e.g., involucrin, IVL) and water-proteins (e.g., aquaporin 3, AQP3). In vivo studies revealed that repeated PM exposure to intact skin resulted in cutaneous inflammatory responses, including increased skin thickness (hyperkeratosis) and mast cell infiltration. Importantly, our data showed that the AEVP-MEL treatment significantly restored immune homeostasis in the skin affected by PM-induced inflammation and enhanced the intrinsic skin barrier function. This study highlights the potential of the AEVP-MEL in promoting skin health against PM exposure and its promising implications for the prevention and treatment of PM-related skin disorders.

AuAg nanocomposites suppress biofilm-induced inflammation in human osteoblasts

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus)forms biofilm that causes periprosthetic joint infections and osteomyelitis (OM) which are the intractable health problems in clinics. The silver-containing nanoparticles (AgNPs) are antibacterial nanomaterials with less cytotoxicity than the classic Ag compounds. Likewise, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have also been demonstrated as excellent nanomaterials for medical applications. Previous studies have showed that both AgNPs and AuNPs have anti-microbial or anti-inflammatory properties. We have developed a novel green chemistry that could generate the AuAg nanocomposites, through the reduction of tannic acid (TNA). The bioactivity of the nanocomposites was investigated inS. aureusbiofilm-exposed human osteoblast cells (hFOB1.19). The current synthesis method is a simple, low-cost, eco-friendly, and green chemistry approach. Our results showed that the AuAg nanocomposites were biocompatible with low cell toxicity, and did not induce cell apoptosis nor necrosis in hFOB1.19 cells. Moreover, AuAg nanocomposites could effectively inhibited the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in mitochondria and in rest of cellular compartments after exposing to bacterial biofilm (by reducing 0.78, 0.77-fold in the cell and mitochondria, respectively). AuAg nanocomposites also suppressed ROS-triggered inflammatory protein expression via MAPKs and Akt pathways. The current data suggest that AuAg nanocomposites have the potential to be a good therapeutic agent in treating inflammation in bacteria-infected bone diseases.

Nanoparticles for Topical Application in the Treatment of Skin Dysfunctions-An Overview of Dermo-Cosmetic and Dermatological Products

Nanomaterials (NM) arouse interest in various fields of science and industry due to their composition-tunable properties and the ease of modification. They appear currently as components of many consumer products such as sunscreen, dressings, sports clothes, surface-cleaning agents, computer devices, paints, as well as pharmaceutical and cosmetics formulations. The use of NPs in products for topical applications improves the permeation/penetration of the bioactive compounds into deeper layers of the skin, providing a depot effect with sustained drug release and specific cellular and subcellular targeting. Nanocarriers provide advances in dermatology and systemic treatments. Examples are a non-invasive method of vaccination, advanced diagnostic techniques, and transdermal drug delivery. The mechanism of action of NPs, efficiency of skin penetration, and potential threat to human health are still open and not fully explained. This review gives a brief outline of the latest nanotechnology achievements in products used in topical applications to prevent and treat skin diseases. We highlighted aspects such as the penetration of NPs through the skin (influence of physical-chemical properties of NPs, the experimental models for skin penetration, methods applied to improve the penetration of NPs through the skin, and methods applied to investigate the skin penetration by NPs). The review summarizes various therapies using NPs to diagnose and treat skin diseases (melanoma, acne, alopecia, vitiligo, psoriasis) and anti-aging and UV-protectant nano-cosmetics.

Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of Blue Fenugreek Kale Extract on Skin Health and Aging: In-vitro and Clinical Evidences

Background

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Anticonvulsive and Neuroprotective Effects of Eupafolin in Rats Are Associated with the Inhibition of Glutamate Overexcitation and Upregulation of the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway

Several plant compounds have been found to possess neuroactive properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the anticonvulsant effect of eupafolin, a major active component extracted from Salvia plebeia, a herb used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. To this end, we assessed the anticonvulsant effects of eupafolin in rats intraperitoneally (i.p.) injected with kainic acid (KA) to elucidate this mechanism. Treatment with eupafolin (i.p.) for 30 min before KA administration significantly reduced behavioral and electrographic seizures induced by KA, similar to carbamazepine (i.p.), a widely used antiepileptic drug. Eupafolin treatment also significantly decreased KA seizure-induced neuronal cell death and glutamate elevation in the hippocampus. In addition, eupafolin notably reversed KA seizure-induced alterations in α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor subunit GluR2, glutamate decarboxylase 67 (GAD67, GABAergic enzyme), and Wnt signaling-related proteins, including porcupine, Wnt1, phosphorylated-glycogen synthase kinase-3β, β-catenin, and Bcl-2 in the hippocampus. Furthermore, the increased level of Dickkopf-related protein 1 (Dkk-1, a Wnt signaling antagonist) and the decreased level of Disheveled1 (Dvl-1, a Wnt signaling activator) in the hippocampus of KA-treated rats were reversed by eupafolin. This study provides evidence of the anticonvulsant and neuroprotective properties of eupafolin and of the involvement of regulation of glutamate overexcitation and Wnt signaling in the mechanisms of these properties. These findings support the benefits of eupafolin in treating epilepsy.

A New Topical Candidate in Acne Treatment: Characterization of the Meclozine Hydrochloride as an Anti-Inflammatory Compound from In Vitro to a Preliminary Clinical Study

Acne is a chronic inflammatory multifactorial disease involving the anaerobic bacterium Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes). Current acne treatments are associated with adverse effects, limiting treatment compliance and use. We showed that meclozine, an anti-histaminic H1 compound, has anti-inflammatory properties. In Vitro, meclozine reduced the production of CXCL8/IL-8 and IL-1β mRNA and protein by C. acnes-stimulated human keratinocytes and monocytes. No cell toxicity was observed at the IC50. Meclozine prevented the phosphorylation of ERK and JNK. In Vivo, 1% meclozine gel significantly decreased C. acnes-mouse ear induced inflammation by 26.7% (p = 0.021). Ex vivo experiments on human skin explants showed that meclozine decreased the production of GM-CSF, IL-1β and TNF-α at transcriptional and translational levels. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled proof-of-concept clinical trial on 60 volunteers, 2% meclozine pharmaceutical gel decreased by 20.1% (p < 0.001) the ASI score in the treated group after 12 weeks of treatment. No adverse event was reported. Together, these results indicate that meclozine is a potent topical anti-inflammatory compound of potential value for acne treatment.

Food bioactives lowering risks of chronic diseases induced by fine particulate air pollution: a comprehensive review

Airborne particulate matter (PM) exerts huge negative impacts on human health worldwide, not only targeting the respiratory system but more importantly inducing and aggravating associated chronic diseases like asthma, lung cancer, atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus and Alzheimer diseases. Food-derived bioactive compounds like vitamins, dietary polyphenols, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and sulforaphane are feasible alternative therapeutic approaches against PM-mediated potential health damages, drawing great attention in recent years. In this review, the association between PM exposure and risks of developing chronic diseases, and the detailed mechanisms underlying the detrimental effects of PM will be discussed. Subsequently, principal food-derived bioactive compounds, with emphasize on the preventative or protective effects against PM, along with potential mechanisms will be elucidated. This comprehensive review will discuss and present current research findings to reveal the nutritional intervention as a preventative or therapeutic strategy against ambient air pollution, thereby lowering the risk of developing chronic diseases.

Role of Phenolic Compounds in Human Disease: Current Knowledge and Future Prospects

Inflammation is a natural protective mechanism that occurs when the body's tissue homeostatic mechanisms are disrupted by biotic, physical, or chemical agents. The immune response generates pro-inflammatory mediators, but excessive output, such as chronic inflammation, contributes to many persistent diseases. Some phenolic compounds work in tandem with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to inhibit pro-inflammatory mediators' activity or gene expression, including cyclooxygenase (COX). Various phenolic compounds can also act on transcription factors, such as nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) or nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2), to up-or downregulate elements within the antioxidant response pathways. Phenolic compounds can inhibit enzymes associated with the development of human diseases and have been used to treat various common human ailments, including hypertension, metabolic problems, incendiary infections, and neurodegenerative diseases. The inhibition of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) by phenolic compounds has been used to treat hypertension. The inhibition of carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzyme represents a type 2 diabetes mellitus therapy, and cholinesterase inhibition has been applied to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD). Phenolic compounds have also demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties to treat skin diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Plant extracts and phenolic compounds exert protective effects against oxidative stress and inflammation caused by airborne particulate matter, in addition to a range of anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-aging, antibacterial, and antiviral activities. Dietary polyphenols have been used to prevent and treat allergy-related diseases. The chemical and biological contributions of phenolic compounds to cardiovascular disease have also been described. This review summarizes the recent progress delineating the multifunctional roles of phenolic compounds, including their anti-inflammatory properties and the molecular pathways through which they exert anti-inflammatory effects on metabolic disorders. This study also discusses current issues and potential prospects for the therapeutic application of phenolic compounds to various human diseases.

SH-29 and SK-119 Attenuates Air-Pollution Induced Damage by Activating Nrf2 in HaCaT Cells

Air pollution has been repeatedly linked to numerous health-related disorders, including skin sensitization, oxidative imbalance, premature extrinsic aging, skin inflammation, and increased cancer prevalence. Nrf2 is a key player in the endogenous protective mechanism of the skin. We hypothesized that pharmacological activation of Nrf2 might reduce the deleterious action of diesel particulate matter (DPM), evaluated in HaCaT cells. SK-119, a recently synthesized pharmacological agent as well as 2,2′-((1E,1′E)-(1,4-phenylenebis(azaneylylidene))bis(methaneylylidene))bis(benzene-1,3,5-triol) (SH-29) were first evaluated in silico, suggesting a potent Nrf2 activation capacity that was validated in vitro. In addition, both compounds were able to attenuate key pathways underlying DPM damage, including cytosolic and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, tested by DC-FDA and MitoSOX fluorescent dye, respectively. This effect was independent of the low direct scavenging ability of the compounds. In addition, both SK-119 and SH-29 were able to reduce DPM-induced IL-8 hypersecretion in pharmacologically relevant concentrations. Lastly, the safety of both compounds was evaluated and demonstrated in the ex vivo human skin organ culture model. Collectively, these results suggest that Nrf2 activation by SK-119 and SH-29 can revert the deleterious action of air pollution.

Nepetin Acts as a Multi-Targeting Inhibitor of Protein Tyrosine Phosphatases Relevant to Insulin Resistance

Protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) are essential modulators of signal transduction pathways and has been implicated in many human diseases such as cancer, diabetes, obesity, autoimmune disorders, and neurological diseases, indicating that PTPs are next-generation drug targets. Since PTPN1, PTPN2, and PTPN11 have been reported to be negative regulators of insulin action, the identification of PTP inhibitors may be an effective strategy to develop therapeutic agents for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. In this study, we observed for the first time that nepetin inhibits the catalytic activity of PTPN1, PTPN2, and PTPN11 in vitro, indicating that nepetin acts as a multi-targeting inhibitor of PTPN1, PTPN2, and PTPN11. Furthermore, treatment of mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes with 20 μM nepetin stimulates glucose uptake through AMPK activation. Taken together, our findings provide evidence that nepetin, a multi-targeting inhibitor of PTPN1, PTPN2, and PTPN11, could be a promising therapeutic candidate for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Eupafolin Suppresses P/Q-Type Ca2+ Channels to Inhibit Ca2+/ Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase II and Glutamate Release at Rat Cerebrocortical Nerve Terminals

Eupafolin, a constituent of the aerial parts of Phyla nodiflora, has neuroprotective property. Because reducing the synaptic release of glutamate is crucial to achieving pharmacotherapeutic effects of neuroprotectants, we investigated the effect of eupafolin on glutamate release in rat cerebrocortical synaptosomes and explored the possible mechanism. We discovered that eupafolin depressed 4-aminopyridine (4-AP)-induced glutamate release, and this phenomenon was prevented in the absence of extracellular calcium. Eupafolin inhibition of glutamate release from synaptic vesicles was confirmed through measurement of the release of the fluorescent dye FM 1-43. Eupafolin decreased 4-AP-induced [Ca²⁺]_i elevation and had no effect on synaptosomal membrane potential. The inhibition of P/Q-type Ca²⁺ channels reduced the decrease in glutamate release that was caused by eupafolin, and docking data revealed that eupafolin interacted with P/Q-type Ca²⁺ channels. Additionally, the inhibition of calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) prevented the effect of eupafolin on evoked glutamate release. Eupafolin also reduced the 4-AP-induced activation of CaMK II and the subsequent phosphorylation of synapsin I, which is the main presynaptic target of CaMKII. Therefore, eupafolin suppresses P/Q-type Ca²⁺ channels and thereby inhibits CaMKII/synapsin I pathways and the release of glutamate from rat cerebrocortical synaptosomes.

Genomic Approach to the Assessment of Adverse Effects of Particulate Matters on Skin Cancer and Other Disorders and Underlying Molecular Mechanisms

Air pollutants are in the spotlight because the human body can easily be exposed to them. Among air pollutants, the particulate matter (PM) represents one of the most serious toxicants that can enter the human body through various exposure routes. PMs have various adverse effects and classified as severe carcinogen by International Agency for Research on Cancer. Their physical and chemical characteristics are distinguished by their size. In this review, we summarized the published information on the physicochemical characteristics and adverse effects of PMs on the skin, including carcinogenicity. Through comparisons of biological networks constructed from relationships discussed in the previous scientific publications, we show it is possible to predict skin cancers and other disorders from particle-size-specific signaling alterations of PM-responsive genes. Our review not only helps to grasp the biological association between ambient PMs and skin diseases including cancer, but also provides new approaches to interpret chemical-gene-disease associations regarding the adverse effects of these heterogeneous particles.

Nanoparticle platforms for dermal antiaging technologies: Insights in cellular and molecular mechanisms

Aging is a continuous process defined by a progressive functional decline in physiological parameters. Skin, being one of the most vulnerable organs, shows early signs of aging which are predominantly affected by intrinsic factors like hormone, gender, mood, enzymes, and genetic predisposition, and extrinsic factors like exposure to radiation, air pollution, and heat. Visible morphological and anatomical changes associated with skin aging occur due to underlying physiological aberrations governed by numerous complex interactions at cellular and subcellular levels. Nanoparticles are perceived as a powerful tool in the cosmeceutical industry both for augmenting the efficacy of existing agents and as a novel standalone therapy. Both organic and inorganic nanoparticles have been extensively investigated in antiaging applications. The use of nanoparticles helps to enhance the activity of antiaging molecules by selectively targeting cellular and molecular pathways. On the other hand, the nanoparticle platforms also gained increasing popularity as the skin protectant against extrinsic factors such as UV radiation and pollutants. This review comprehensively discusses skin aging and its mechanism by highlighting the impact on cellular, subcellular, and epigenetic elements. Importantly, the review elaborates on the examples of organic and inorganic nanoparticle-based formulations developed for antiaging application and provides mechanistic insights on how they modulate the mechanisms of skin aging. The clinical progress of nanoparticle antiaging technologies and factors that impact clinical translation are also explored. This article is categorized under: Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies.

Chemical Constituents and their Anti-Tumor Mechanism of Plants from Artemisia

BACKGROUND

At present, chemotherapy is still the main treatment method for cancer, but its side effects and multidrug resistance limit the therapeutic effect seriously. Now the screening of anti-tumor drugs with higher efficiency and lower toxicity from natural products is one of the important research directions for oncotherapy. Artemisia has a variety of anti-tumor constituents, which can exert its anti-tumor effect by inducing tumor cell apoptosis, inhibiting tumor angiogenesis, arresting cell cycle, accelerating iron ion-mediated oxidative damage, etc. Objective: This paper will provide a focused, up-to-date and comprehensive overview of the anti-tumor active constituents and their mechanisms of plants in Artemisia.

METHOD

The relevant information about Artemisia and its bioactive components comes from scientific databases (such as PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct).

RESULTS

Here we have discussed the present situation and mechanism of bioactive components of Artemisia in anti-tumor. The application prospect of active components of Artemisia in cancer prevention and treatment was investigated.

CONCLUSION

The information summarized in this review may provide new ideas for the follow-up treatment of cancer and contribute to the development of new, effective, multi-side effects and fewer side effects of antineoplastic drugs.

Sargassum horneri (Turner) C. Agardh ethanol extract attenuates fine dust-induced inflammatory responses and impaired skin barrier functions in HaCaT keratinocytes

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sargassum horneri (Turner) C. Agardh is well known in East Asia as an edible brown alga rich in bioactive compounds. It has an ethnopharmacological significance in traditional Chinese medicine to treat inflammatory disorders varying from edema, furuncles, dysuria to cardiovascular diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Surge of fine dust (FD), in densely populated areas, have been reported to cause adverse health conditions ranging from respiratory diseases to inflammatory skin disorders. The current study investigates the protective effects of an ethanol extract from S. horneri (SHE) on FD-induced inflammatory responses and impaired skin hydration in HaCaT keratinocytes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was evaluated with the 2',7'-Dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFH-DA) stain. Anti-inflammatory properties of SHE in FD-stimulated HaCaT keratinocytes were investigated for the suppression of nuclear factor (NF)-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways and downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines. As a means of studying FD-induced skin barrier disruption and the effects of SHE on stratum corneum hydration-controlling factors, tight junction regulatory mediators, and hyaluronic acid (HA) production were evaluated using keratinocytes.

RESULTS

SHE suppressed the intracellular ROS production, simultaneously improving cell viability in FD-stimulated keratinocytes. Also, SHE upregulated anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-4 while downregulating inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α; epidermal and epithelial cytokines IL-25, IL-33, and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP); thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC), macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC) and regulated upon activation, normally T-expressed, and presumably secreted expression and suppressed (RANTES) chemokine, MAPK and NF-κB mediators in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, SHE ameliorated filaggrin, involucrin, lymphoepithelial Kazal-type-related inhibitor (LEKTI), signifying its beneficial effects on deteriorated skin hydration caused by FD-induced inflammation. SHE further exhibited its skin protective effects regulating the tight junction proteins; Occludin, zonula occludens (ZO)-1, claudin-1, claudin-4, claudin-7, and claudin-23 while increasing the production of HA minimizing skin damage.

CONCLUSIONS

Anti-inflammatory effects of, SHE against FD-induced keratinocyte inflammation is attributable to the suppression of upstream MAPK and NF-κB mediators. SHE indicated potential anti-inflammatory properties attenuating deteriorated skin barrier function in HaCaT keratinocytes. The effects are attributable to the polyphenols and other antioxidant compounds in SHE. Further studies could envisage the use of SHE for developing rejuvenating cosmetics.

Anti-pollution skincare: Research on effective ways to protect skin from particulate matter

While there is increasing interest in anti-pollution care to particulate matter (PM), there has been no research evaluating the efficacy of skin care products in a real-world setting. Our objective was to find effective ways to protect skin from PM. In total, 64 volunteers whose skin was classified as reactive to PM concentration in the previous study were enrolled. Through split-face study, different combinations of skin care products (barrier cream, barrier cream/micellar water, antioxidant, and antioxidant/micellar water) were applied for 4 weeks during the high-PM period. The biophysical properties were measured, and a facial analysis system was used to evaluate skin condition at days 0, 14, and 28. The concentrations of PM and daily events that may affect skin conditions were also recorded. The mean concentration levels of PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 from days 0 to 14 were higher in the barrier cream group than in the antioxidant group. For each group, aside from skin tone in the antioxidant/micellar water group, there were no statistically significant differences in skin measurements before and after the application, which reflects no aggravation in skin condition during high-PM periods. Intergroup analysis showed no differences in skin measurements among the four groups from day 0 to day 14, from day 14 to day 28, and from day 0 to 28. For anti-pollution care, maintaining skin barrier function using barrier cream seems to be sufficient in individuals sensitive to PM.

Natural compounds protect the skin from airborne particulate matter by attenuating oxidative stress

Particulate matter (PM) is a common indirect indicator of air pollution and threatens public health upon prolonged exposure, leading to oxidative stress, increasing the risk of develop respiratory and cardiovascular, as well as several autoimmune diseases and cancer. Nowadays, as a first line defense against PM, skin health attracted much attention. Our review summarized the skin damage mechanism induced by PM, including damage skin barrier directly, reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, autophagy, and two canonical signaling pathways. Furthermore, ROS and oxidative stress have been considered pathogenesis centers, with essential skin damage roles. Extracts from plants and natural compounds which present high antioxidant capacity could be used to treat or protect against air pollution-related skin damage. We conclude the extracts reported in recent studies with protective effects on PM-mediated skin damage. Besides, the mechanism of extracts' positive effects has been revealed partially.

Fermented blueberry and black rice containing Lactobacillus plantarum MG4221: a novel functional food for particulate matter (PM2.5)/dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced atopic dermatitis

Particulate matter (PM_2.5) is a risk factor for the deterioration of atopic dermatitis (AD) and certain constituents of PM_2.5 can induce inflammation via oxidative stress. Natural functional foods, including antioxidative blueberry and black rice, can be the best alternative for the development of AD therapy. Thus, we investigated whether PM_2.5 regulated the expression of proinflammatory cytokines involved in the progression of AD and further investigated the improvement effect of fermented blueberry and black rice extract (FBBBR) containing Lactobacillus plantarum MG4221 in vitro and in vivo. The FBBBR treatment significantly ameliorated skin inflammation compared with the control treatments via regulation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathways in PM_2.5-treated HaCaT cells. In PM_2.5/dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-treated NC/Nga mice, the oral administration of FBBBR significantly decreased transepidermal water loss and erythema, the incidence of scratching behavior, and the production of serum immunoglobin E and T helper 2-associated cytokine and, similar to dexamethasone treatment, up-regulated the protein expression of filaggrin and involucrin in skin tissue. Syringic acid and kuromanin, standard compounds found in FBBBR, significantly decreased the interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 levels in PM_2.5-treated HaCaT cells. Therefore, we can suggest that FBBBR may serve as an important functional food for AD.

Effects of metal nanoparticles on tight junction-associated proteins via HIF-1α/miR-29b/MMPs pathway in human epidermal keratinocytes

Background

The increasing use of metal nanoparticles in industry and biomedicine raises the risk for unintentional exposure. The ability of metal nanoparticles to penetrate the skin ranges from stopping at the stratum corneum to passing below the dermis and entering the systemic circulation. Despite the potential health risks associated with skin exposure to metal nanoparticles, the mechanisms underlying the toxicity of metal nanoparticles on skin keratinocytes remain unclear. In this study, we proposed that exposure of human epidermal keratinocytes (HaCaT) to metal nanoparticles, such as nickel nanoparticles, dysregulates tight-junction associated proteins by interacting with the HIF-1α/miR-29b/MMPs axis.

Methods

We performed dose-response and time-response studies in HaCaT cells to observe the effects of Nano-Ni or Nano-TiO₂ on the expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9, and on the expression of tight junction-associated proteins, TIMP-1, TIMP-2, miR-29b, and HIF-1α. In the dose-response studies, cells were exposed to 0, 10, or 20 μg/mL of Nano-Ni or Nano-TiO₂ for 24 h. In the time-response studies, cells were exposed to 20 μg/mL of Nano-Ni for 12, 24, 48, or 72 h. After treatment, cells were collected to either assess the expression of mRNAs and miR-29b by real-time PCR or to determine the expression of tight junction-associated proteins and HIF-1α nuclear accumulation by Western blot and/or immunofluorescent staining; the conditioned media were collected to evaluate the MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities by gelatin zymography assay. To further investigate the mechanisms underlying Nano-Ni-induced dysregulation of tight junction-associated proteins, we employed a HIF-1α inhibitor, CAY10585, to perturb HIF-1α accumulation in one experiment, and transfected a miR-29b-3p mimic into the HaCaT cells before Nano-Ni exposure in another experiment. Cells and conditioned media were collected, and the expression and activities of MMPs and the expression of tight junction-associated proteins were determined as described above.

Results

Exposure of HaCaT cells to Nano-Ni resulted in a dose-dependent increase in the expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 and the activities of MMP-2 and MMP-9. However, exposure of cells to Nano-TiO₂ did not cause these effects. Nano-Ni caused a dose-dependent decrease in the expression of miR-29b and tight junction-associated proteins, such as ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-1, while Nano-TiO₂ did not. Nano-Ni also caused a dose-dependent increase in HIF-1α nuclear accumulation. The time-response studies showed that Nano-Ni caused significantly increased expressions of MMP-2 at 24 h, MMP-9 at 12, 24, and 48 h, TIMP-1 from 24 to 72 h, and TIMP-2 from 12 to 72 h post-exposure. The expression of miR-29b and tight junction-associated proteins such as ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-1 decreased as early as 12 h post-exposure, and their levels declined gradually over time. Pretreatment of cells with a HIF-1α inhibitor, CAY10585, abolished Nano-Ni-induced miR-29b down-regulation and MMP-2/9 up-regulation. Introduction of a miR-29b-3p mimic into HaCaT cells by transfection before Nano-Ni exposure ameliorated Nano-Ni-induced increased expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and restored Nano-Ni-induced down-regulation of tight junction-associated proteins.

Conclusion

Our study herein demonstrated that exposure of human epidermal keratinocytes to Nano-Ni caused increased HIF-1α nuclear accumulation and increased transcription and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and down-regulation of miR-29b and tight junction-associated proteins. Nano-Ni-induced miR-29b down-regulation was through Nano-Ni-induced HIF-1α nuclear accumulation. Restoration of miR-29b level by miR-29b-3p mimic transfection abolished Nano-Ni-induced MMP-2 and MMP-9 activation and down-regulation of tight junction-associated proteins. In summary, our results demonstrated that Nano-Ni-induced dysregulation of tight junction-associated proteins in skin keratinocytes was via HIF-1α/miR-29b/MMPs pathway.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12989-021-00405-2.

Environmentally-Induced (Extrinsic) Skin Aging: Exposomal Factors and Underlying Mechanisms

As a barrier organ, the skin is an ideal model to study environmentally-induced (extrinsic) aging. In this review, we explain the development of extrinsic skin aging as a consequence of skin exposure to specific exposomal factors, their interaction with each other, and the modification of their effects on the skin by genetic factors. We also review the evidence that exposure to these exposomal factors causes extrinsic skin aging by mechanisms that critically involve the accumulation of macromolecular damage and the subsequent development of functionally altered and/or senescent fibroblasts in the dermal compartment of the skin.

Particulate Matter-Induced Inflammation/Oxidative Stress in Macrophages: Fucosterol from Padina boryana as a Potent Protector, Activated via NF-κB/MAPK Pathways and Nrf2/HO-1 Involvement

Fucosterol is a phytosterol that is abundant in marine brown algae and is a renowned secondary metabolite. However, its ability to protect macrophages against particulate matter (PM) has not been clarified with regard to inflammation; thus, this study aimed to illustrate the above. Padina boryana, a brown algae that is widespread in Indo-Pacific waters, was applied in the isolation of fucosterol. Isolation was conducted using silica open columns, while identification was assisted with gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) and NMR. Elevated levels of PM led the research objectives toward the implementation of it as a stimulant. Both inflammation and oxidative stress were caused due the fact of its effect. RAW 264.7 macrophages were used as a model system to evaluate the process. It was apparent that the increased NO production levels, due to the PM, were mediated through the inflammatory mediators, such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (i.e., interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1 (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), including prostaglandin E2 (PGE2)). Further, investigations provided solid evidence regarding the involvement of NF-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in the process. Oxidative stress/inflammation which are inseparable components of the cellular homeostasis were intersected through the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Conclusively, fucosterol is a potent protector against PM-induced inflammation in macrophages and hence be utilized as natural product secondary metabolite in a sustainable manner.

Engineered nanoparticle bio-conjugates toxicity screening: The xCELLigence cells viability impact

Introduction: The vast diverse products and applications of engineered nanoparticle bio-conjugates (ENPBCs) are increasing, and thus flooding the-markets. However, the data to support risk estimates of ENPBC are limited. While it is important to assess the potential benefits, acceptability and uptake, it is equally important to understand where ENPBCs safety is and how to expand and affirm consumer security concerns. Methods: Online articles were extracted from 2013 to 2016 that pragmatically used xCELLigence real-time cell analysis (RTCA) technology to describe the in-vitro toxicity of ENPBCs. The xCELLigence is a +noninvasive in vitro toxicity monitoring process that mimics exact continuous cellular bio-responses in real-time settings. On the other hand, articles were also extracted from 2008 to 2016 describing the in vivo animal models toxicity of ENPBCs with regards to safety outcomes. Results: Out of 32 of the 121 (26.4%) articles identified from the literature, 23 (71.9%) met the in-vitro xCELLigence and 9(28.1%) complied with the in vivo animal model toxicity inclusion criteria. Of the 23 articles, 4 of them (17.4%) had no size estimation of ENPBCs. The xCELLigence technology provided information on cell interactions, viability, and proliferation process. Eighty-three (19/23) of the in vitro xCELLigence technology studies described ENPBCs as nontoxic or partially nontoxic materials. The in vivo animal model provided further toxicity information where 1(1/9) of the in vivo animal model studies indicated potential animal toxicity while the remaining results recommended ENPPCs as potential candidates for drug therapy though with limited information on toxicity. Conclusion: The results showed that the bioimpacts of ENPBCs either at the in vitro or at in vivo animal model levels are still limited due to insufficient information and data. To keep pace with ENPBCs biomedical products and applications, in vitro, in vivo assays, clinical trials and long-term impacts are needed to validate their usability and uptake. Besides, more real-time ENPBCs-cell impact analyses using xCELLigence are needed to provide significant data and information for further in vivo testing.

Impact of airborne particulate matter on skin: a systematic review from epidemiology to in vitro studies

BACKGROUND

Air pollution is killing close to 5 million people a year, and harming billions more. Air pollution levels remain extremely high in many parts of the world, and air pollution-associated premature deaths have been reported for urbanized areas, particularly linked to the presence of airborne nano-sized and ultrafine particles.

MAIN TEXT

To date, most of the research studies did focus on the adverse effects of air pollution on the human cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Although the skin is in direct contact with air pollutants, their damaging effects on the skin are still under investigation. Epidemiological data suggested a correlation between exposure to air pollutants and aggravation of symptoms of chronic immunological skin diseases. In this study, a systematic literature review was conducted to understand the current knowledge on the effects of airborne particulate matter on human skin. It aims at providing a deeper understanding of the interactions between air pollutants and skin to further assess their potential risks for human health.

CONCLUSION

Particulate matter was shown to induce a skin barrier dysfunction and provoke the formation of reactive oxygen species through direct and indirect mechanisms, leading to oxidative stress and induced activation of the inflammatory cascade in human skin. Moreover, a positive correlation was reported between extrinsic aging and atopic eczema relative risk with increasing particulate matter exposure.

Glycofullerenes Inhibit Particulate Matter Induced Inflammation and Loss of Barrier Proteins in HaCaT Human Keratinocytes

Exposure to particulate matter (PM) has been linked to pulmonary and cardiovascular dysfunctions, as well as skin diseases, etc. PM impairs the skin barrier functions and is also involved in the initiation or exacerbation of skin inflammation, which is linked to the activation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) pathways. Fullerene is a single C₆₀ molecule which has been reported to act as a good radical scavenger. However, its poor water solubility limits its biological applications. The glyco-modification of fullerenes increases their water solubility and anti-bacterial and anti-virus functions. However, it is still unclear whether it affects their anti-inflammatory function against PM-induced skin diseases. Hence, glycofullerenes were synthesized to investigate their effects on PM-exposed HaCaT human keratinocytes. Our results showed that glycofullerenes could reduce the rate of PM-induced apoptosis and ROS production, as well as decrease the expression of downstream mitogen-activated protein kinase and Akt pathways. Moreover, PM-induced increases in inflammatory-related signals, such as cyclooxygenase-2, heme oxygenase-1, and prostaglandin E2, were also suppressed by glycofullerenes. Notably, our results suggested that PM-induced impairment of skin barrier proteins, such as filaggrin, involucrin, repetin, and loricrin, could be reduced by pre-treatment with glycofullerenes. The results of this study indicate that glycofullerenes could be potential candidates for treatments against PM-induced skin diseases and that they exert their protective effects via ROS scavenging, anti-inflammation, and maintenance of the expression of barrier proteins.

NADPH Oxidase-Mediated Activation of Neutral Sphingomyelinase Is Responsible for Diesel Particulate Extract-Induced Keratinocyte Apoptosis

Human epidermis is positioned at the interface with the external environment, protecting our bodies against external challenges, including air pollutants. Emerging evidence suggests that diesel particulate extract (DPE), a major component of air pollution, leads to impairment of diverse cellular functions in keratinocytes (KC). In this study, we investigated the cellular mechanism underlying DPE-induced KC apoptosis. We first addressed cell death occurring in KC exposed to DPE, paralleled by increased activation of NADPH oxidases (NOXs) and subsequent ROS generation. Blockade of NOX activation with a specific inhibitor attenuated the expected DPE-induced KC apoptosis. In contrast, pre-treatment with a specific inhibitor of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation did not reverse DPE/NOX-mediated increase in KC apoptosis. We next noted that NOX-mediated KC apoptosis is mainly attributable to neutral sphingomyelinase (SMase)-mediated stimulation of ceramides, which is a well-known pro-apoptotic lipid. Moreover, we found that inhibition of NOX activation significantly attenuated DPE-mediated increase in the ratio of ceramide to its key metabolite sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), an important determinant of cell fate. Together, these results suggest that activation of neutral SMase serves as a key downstream signal for the DPE/NOX activation-mediated alteration in ceramide and S1P productions, and subsequent KC apoptosis.

Can Plant Phenolic Compounds Protect the Skin from Airborne Particulate Matter?

The skin is directly exposed to the polluted atmospheric environment, and skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis and acne vulgaris, can be induced or exacerbated by airborne particulate matter (PM). PM can also promote premature skin aging with its accompanying functional and morphological changes. PM-induced skin diseases and premature skin aging are largely mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the harmful effects of PM may be ameliorated by safe and effective natural antioxidants. Experimental studies have shown that the extracts and phenolic compounds derived from many plants, such as cocoa, green tea, grape, pomegranate, and some marine algae, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on PM-exposed cells. The phenolic compounds can decrease the levels of ROS in cells and/or enhance cellular antioxidant capacity and, thereby, can attenuate PM-induced oxidative damage to nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids. They also lower the levels of cytokines, chemokines, cell adhesion molecules, prostaglandins, and matrix metalloproteinases implicated in cellular inflammatory responses to PM. Although there is still much research to be done, current studies in this field suggest that plant-derived phenolic compounds may have a protective effect on skin exposed to high levels of air pollution.

Water-Soluble Fullerenol C60(OH)36 toward Effective Anti-Air Pollution Induced by Urban Particulate Matter in HaCaT Cell

Particulate matter (PM), a widespread air pollutant, consists of a complex mixture of solid and liquid particles suspended in air. Many diseases have been linked to PM exposure, which induces an imbalance in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated in cells, and might result in skin diseases (such as aging and atopic dermatitis). New techniques involving nanomedicine and nano-delivery systems are being rapidly developed in the medicinal field. Fullerene, a kind of nanomaterial, acts as a super radical scavenger. Lower water solubility levels limit the bio-applications of fullerene. Hence, to improve the water solubility of fullerene, while retaining its radical scavenger functions, a fullerene derivative, fullerenol C₆₀(OH)₃₆, was synthesized, to examine its biofunctions in PM-exposed human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells. The PM-induced increase in ROS levels and expression of phosphorylated mitogen-activated protein kinase and Akt could be inhibited via fullerenol pre-treatment. Furthermore, the expression of inflammation-related proteins, cyclooxygenase-2, heme oxygenase-1, and prostaglandin E2 was also suppressed. Fullerenol could preserve the impaired state of skin barrier proteins (filaggrin, involucrin, repetin, and loricrin), which was attributable to PM exposure. These results suggest that fullerenol could act against PM-induced cytotoxicity via ROS scavenging and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, and the maintenance of expression of barrier proteins, and is a potential candidate compound for the treatment of skin diseases.

Dihydroartemisinin derivative DC32 inhibits inflammatory response in osteoarthritic synovium through regulating Nrf2/NF-κB pathway

Synovitis is an aseptic inflammation that leads to joint effusion, pain and swelling. As one of the main drivers of pathogenesis in osteoarthritis (OA), the presence of synovitis contributes to pain, incidence and progression of OA. In our previous study, DC32 [(9α,12α-dihydroartemisinyl) bis(2'-chlorocinnmate)], a dihydroartemisinin derivative, was found to have an antirheumatic ability via immunosuppression, but the effect of DC32 on synovitis has not been fully illuminated. In this study, we chose to evaluate the effect and mechanism of DC32 on attenuating synovial inflammation. Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) of papain-induced OA rats were isolated and cultured. And DC32 significantly inhibited the invasion and migration of cultured OA-FLSs, as well as the transcription of IL-6, IL-1β, CXCL12 and CX3CL1 in cultured OA-FLSs measured by qPCR. DC32 remarkably inhibited the activation of ERK and NF-κB pathway, increased the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 in cultured OA-FLSs detected by western blot. DC32 inhibited the degradation and phosphorylation of IκBα which further prevented the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 and the effect of DC32 could be relieved by siRNA for Nrf2. In papain-induced OA mice, DC32 significantly alleviated papain-induced mechanical allodynia, knee joint swelling and infiltration of inflammatory cell in synovium. DC32 upregulated the mRNA expression of Type II collagen and aggrecan, and downregulated the mRNA expression of MMP2, MMP3, MMP13 and ADAMTS-5 in the knee joints of papain-induced OA mice measured by qPCR. The level of TNF-α in the serum and secretion of TNF-α in the knee joints were also reduced by DC32 in papain-induced OA mice. In conclusion, DC32 inhibited the inflammatory response in osteoarthritic synovium through regulating Nrf2/NF-κB pathway and attenuated OA. In this way, DC32 may be a potential agent in the treatment of OA.

Effect of Fermented Fish Oil on Fine Particulate Matter-Induced Skin Aging

Skin is exposed to various harmful environmental factors such as air pollution, which includes different types of particulate matter (PM). Atmospheric PM has harmful effects on humans through increasing the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which have been reported to promote skin aging via the induction of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which in turn can cause the degradation of collagen. In this study, we investigated the effect of fermented fish oil (FFO) derived from mackerel on fine PM (particles with a diameter < 2.5 µm: PM_2.5)-induced skin aging in human keratinocytes. We found that FFO inhibited the PM_2.5-induced generation of intracellular ROS and MMPs, including MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9. In addition, FFO significantly abrogated the elevation of intracellular Ca²⁺ levels in PM_2.5-treated cells and was also found to block the PM_2.5-induced mitogen-activated protein kinase/activator protein 1 (MAPK/AP-1) pathway. In conclusion, FFO has an anti-aging effect on PM_2.5-induced aging in human keratinocytes.

Potential of joyweed Alternanthera sessilis for rapid treatment of domestic sewage in SHEFROL® bioreactor

In a first-ever report on this subject, it is shown that a common amphibious plant joyweed (Alternanthera sessilis) can be used in rapid and efficient treatment of biodegradable wastewaters, typified by domestic sewage. The plant was effective when used indoors under artificial lighting, as well as outdoors. It enabled treatment of sewage, varying widely in strength (from 300 mg/L to 1800 mg/L in chemical oxygen demand), to the extent of 78.9-83.9%. It was also able to remove biological oxygen demand, suspended solids, phosphorous, nitrogen, and the heavy metal copper to the extent of 87%, 93%, 45%, and 43%, respectively. Over 99% of total coliforms, faecal coliforms, and faecal streptococci were also removed. The treatment was very swiftly achieved, at a hydraulic retention time of just 6 h, in the "sheet flow root level" (SHEFROL^®) bioreactor developed earlier by us and of which a patent claim has been registered. The findings indicate that A. sessilis has the potential to affect primary, secondary, and tertiary treatment of domestic sewage along with significant pathogen removal in a single process step when used in SHEFROL^® bioreactors.

Development of Pranoprofen Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers to Improve Its Release and Therapeutic Efficacy in Skin Inflammatory Disorders

Pranoprofen (PF)-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), prepared using a high-pressure homogenization method, have been optimized and characterized to improve the biopharmaceutical profile of the drug. The optimized PF-NLCs exhibited physicochemical characteristics and morphological properties that were suitable for dermal application. Stability assays revealed good physical stability, and the release behavior of PF from these NLCs showed a sustained release pattern. Cell viability results revealed no toxicity. Ex vivo human skin permeation studies in Franz diffusion cells were performed to determine the influence of different skin penetration enhancers (pyrrolidone, decanol, octanoic acid, nonane, menthone, squalene, linoleic acid, and cineol) on skin penetration and retention of PF, being the highest dermal retention in the presence of linoleic acid. The selected formulations of NLCs exhibited a high retained amount of PF in the skin and no systemic effects. In vivo mice anti-inflammatory efficacy studies showed a significant reduction in dermal oedema. NLCs containing linoleic acid presented better anti-inflammatory efficacy by decreasing the production of interleukins in keratinocytes and monocytes. The biomechanical properties of skin revealed an occlusive effect and no hydration power. No signs of skin irritancy in vivo were detected. According to these results, dermal PF-NLCs could be an effective system for the delivery and controlled release of PF, improving its dermal retention, with reduced dermal oedema as a possible effect of this drug.

Inhibitory effects of Euphorbia supina on Propionibacterium acnes-induced skin inflammation in vitro and in vivo

Background

Euphorbia supina (ES) plant has been used as treatment for inflammatory conditions. The antibacterial effect and the anti-inflammatory mechanism of ES for Propionibacterium (P.) acnes-induced inflammation in THP-1 cells and acne animal model remain unclear. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to determine the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities of ES against P. acnes, the etiologic agent of skin inflammation.

Method

The antibacterial activities of ES were tested with disc diffusion and broth dilution methods. Cytotoxicity of ES at different doses was evaluated by the MTT assay. THP-1 cells were stimulated by heat-killed P. acnes in the presence of ES. The pro-inflammatory cytokines and mRNA levels were measured by ELISA and real-time-PCR. MAPK expression was analyzed by Western blot. The living P. acnes was intradermally injected into the ear of BLBC/c mice. Subsequently, chemical composition of ES was analyzed by liquids chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS).

Result

ES had stronger antibacterial activity against P. acnes and inhibitory activity on lipase. ES had no significant cytotoxicity on THP-1 cells. ES suppressed the mRNA levels and production of IL-8, TNF-a, IL-1β in vitro. ES inhibited the expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the MAPK signaling pathway. Ear thickness and inflammatory cells were markedly reduced by ES treatment. Protocatechuic acid, gallic acid, quercetin, and kaempferol were detected by LC-MS analysis in ES.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities of ES extract against P. acnes. It is suggested that ES extract might be used to treatment anti-inflammatory skin disease.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12906-018-2320-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Ecklonia cava Extract and Dieckol Attenuate Cellular Lipid Peroxidation in Keratinocytes Exposed to PM10

Airborne particulate matter can cause oxidative stress, inflammation, and premature skin aging. Marine plants such as Ecklonia cava Kjellman contain high amounts of polyphenolic antioxidants. The purpose of this study was to examine the antioxidative effects of E. cava extract in cultured keratinocytes exposed to airborne particulate matter with a diameter of <10 μm (PM10). After the exposure of cultured HaCaT keratinocytes to PM10 in the absence and presence of E. cava extract and its constituents, cell viability and cellular lipid peroxidation were assessed. The effects of eckol and dieckol on cellular lipid peroxidation and cytokine expression were examined in human epidermal keratinocytes exposed to PM10. The total phenolic content of E. cava extract was the highest among the 50 marine plant extracts examined. The exposure of HaCaT cells to PM10 decreased cell viability and increased lipid peroxidation. The PM10-induced cellular lipid peroxidation was attenuated by E. cava extract and its ethyl acetate fraction. Dieckol more effectively attenuated cellular lipid peroxidation than eckol in both HaCaT cells and human epidermal keratinocytes. Dieckol and eckol attenuated the expression of inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-) α, interleukin- (IL-) 1β, IL-6, and IL-8 in human epidermal keratinocytes stimulated with PM10. This study suggested that the polyphenolic constituents of E. cava, such as dieckol, attenuated the oxidative and inflammatory reactions in skin cells exposed to airborne particulate matter.

Artocarpin, an isoprenyl flavonoid, induces p53-dependent or independent apoptosis via ROS-mediated MAPKs and Akt activation in non-small cell lung cancer cells

Artocarpin has been shown to exhibit cytotoxic effects on different cancer cells, including non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC, A549). However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we explore both p53-dependent and independent apoptosis pathways in artocarpin-treated NSCLC cells. Our results showed that artocarpin rapidly induced activation of cellular protein kinases including Erk1/2, p38 and AktS473. Inhibition of these protein kinases prevented artocarpin-induced cell death. Moreover, artocarpin-induced phosphorylation of these protein kinases and apoptosis were mediated by induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), as pretreatment with NAC (a ROS scavenger) and Apocynin (a Nox-2 inhibitor) blocked these events. Similarly, transient transfection of p47Phox or p91Phox siRNA attenuated artocarpin-induced NADPH oxidase activity and cell death. In addition, p53 dependent apoptotic proteins including PUMA, cytochrome c, Apaf-1 and caspase 3 were activated by artocarpin, and these effects can be abolished by antioxidants, MAPK inhibitors (U0126 and SB202190), but not by PI3K inhibitor (LY294002). Furthermore, we found that artocarpin-induced Akt phosphorylation led to increased NF-κB activity, which may act as an upstream regulator in the c-Myc and Noxa pathway. Therefore, we propose that enhancement of both ERK/ p38/ p53-dependent or independent AktS473/NF-κB/c-Myc/Noxa cascade by Nox-derived ROS generation plays an important role in artocarpin-induced apoptosis in NSCLC cells.

Nepetin inhibits IL-1β induced inflammation via NF-κB and MAPKs signaling pathways in ARPE-19 cells

BACKGROUNDS

Chronic inflammation in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells is related to the pathogenesis of retinal inflammatory blind causing diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR). Nepetin, a natural flavonoid compound, has shown potent anti-inflammatory activities but has not been studied on ocular resident cells yet. Here, we assess the ability of Nepetin to alleviate the inflammatory responses of ARPE-19 cells induced by interleukin (IL)-1β.

METHODS

The secretion and mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-8 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) induced by IL-1β are measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) respectively. To clarify the underlying action mechanism, we examine the effect of Nepetin on activation of nuclear factor of kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways using Western blot.

RESULTS

Nepetin can significantly decrease the three inflammatory mediators at both protein and mRNA level in a dose-dependent manner. Western blot results show that Nepetin can decrease the nuclear translocation of p65 through suppressing phosphorylation of inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa B (IκB) and IκB kinase (IKK). Also, Nepetin can decrease the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK) 1/2, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 MAPK.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, Nepetin abolishes IL-1β-induced IL-6, IL-8 and MCP-1 secretion and mRNA expression by repressing the activation of NF-κB and MAPKs. These results indicate that Nepetin shows potential to be used for prevention and treatment of inflammatory retinal diseases or as a lead compound.

Protective role of vitamin E preconditioning of human dermal fibroblasts against thermal stress in vitro

AIMS

Oxidative microenvironment of burnt skin restricts the outcome of cell based therapies of thermal skin injuries. The aim of this study was to precondition human dermal fibroblasts with an antioxidant such as vitamin E to improve their survival and therapeutic abilities in heat induced oxidative in vitro environment.

MAIN METHODS

Fibroblasts were treated with 100μM vitamin E for 24h at 37°C followed by heat shock for 10min at 51°C in fresh serum free medium.

KEY FINDINGS

Preconditioning with vitamin E reduced cell injury as demonstrated by decreased expression of annexin-V, cytochrome p450 (CYP450) mediated oxidative reactions, senescence and release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) accomplished by down-regulated expression of pro-apoptotic BAX gene. Vitamin E preconditioned cells exhibited remarkable improvement in cell viability, release of paracrine factors such as epidermal growth factor (EGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), stromal derived factor-1alpha (SDF-1α) and also showed significantly up-regulated levels of PCNA, VEGF, BCL-XL, FGF7, FGF23, FLNβ and Col7α genes presumably through activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-K)/Akt pathway.

SIGNIFICANCE

The results suggest that pretreatment of fibroblasts with vitamin E prior to transplantation in burnt skin speeds up the wound healing process by improving the antioxidant scavenging responses in oxidative environment of transplanted burn wounds.

Effects of Ambient Fine Particles PM2.5 on Human HaCaT Cells

The current study was conducted to observe the effects of fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) on human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT) cells. The potential mechanism linking PM_2.5 and skin was explored. HaCaT cells were cultured and then accessed in plate with PM_2.5. Cell viability was tested by Cell Counting Kit-8. The mRNA and protein expression of Filaggrin, Loricrin, Involucrin, and Repetin were analyzed. The levels of Granulocyte-macrophage Colony Stimulating Factor, Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin, Tumor Necrosis Factor-α, Interleukin-1α, and Interleukin-8 were detected in the supernatant of the HaCaT cell with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Cell viability decreased with the increase in PM_2.5. Compared with the control group, the protein expression of Filaggrin, Repetin, Involucrin, and Loricrin showed different expression patterns in PM_2.5 treatment groups. The level of Tumor Necrosis Factor-α, Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin, Interleukin-1α, and Interleukin-8 significantly increased in the cells treated with PM_2.5. Ambient PM_2.5 may increase the risk of eczema and other skin diseases. The relative mechanism may be associated with the impairment of the skin barrier and the elevation of inflammatory responses.