Withaferin A Inhibits Helicobacter pylori-induced Production of IL-1β in Dendritic Cells by Regulating NF-κB and NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation

Notch Signaling Aggravates Helicobacter pylori-Induced Inflammation by Promoting Macrophage Activation and Proinflammatory Th1/Th17 Responses

The role of Notch signaling in regulating the immune response in infectious and inflammatory diseases has been extensively reported. However, its specific involvement in Helicobacter pylori infection is yet to be fully understood. In this study, in vitro analysis utilizing real-time quantitative PCR and Western blot revealed that H. pylori triggers the activation of Notch signaling in murine bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) and co-cultured CD4+ T cells, a process mediated by the Notch ligand protein jagged-1 (Jag1). There was a reciprocal enhancement between Jag1-Notch signaling and NF-κB pathway in H. pylori-infected macrophages. Pretreatment with a Notch signaling inhibitor, DAPT, reduced the expression of inflammatory mediators in macrophages, modulated their phenotype, and inhibited Th1 differentiation. In vivo, after treatment with DAPT in H. pylori-infected mice, the differentiation of Th1 and Th17 was decreased on flow cytometry analysis. Hematoxylin and eosin staining revealed reduced gastric mucosa inflammation, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay results demonstrated decreased levels of serum inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end labeling (TUNEL) results showed that DAPT treatment improved the apoptosis of gastric mucosal cells. Collectively, the findings indicate that Notch signaling is implicated in exacerbating H. pylori-induced inflammation by promoting macrophage activation and Th1/Th17 responses, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for alleviating the progression of H. pylori-related diseases.

Yiqi Jiedu Huayu decoction inhibits precancerous lesions of chronic atrophic gastritis by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis

BACKGROUND

Chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) is a prevalent chronic gastritis usually accompanied by precancerous lesions such as intestinal metaplasia and dysplasia. The increasing application of traditional Chinese medicine in CAG treatment has shown promising results with low side effects and significant efficacy.

AIM

To investigate the pharmacological effects of Yiqi Jiedu Huayu decoction (YJHD) on precancerous lesions of CAG.

METHODS

A CAG rat model was established by Helicobacter pylori bacteria solution combined with N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine. Histopathological measurements were conducted by hematoxylin-eosin and alcian blue and periodic acid-Schiff staining. Serum levels of inflammatory factors and gastric mucosal-related factors were examined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Protein and mRNA levels were quantified via western blot and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis, respectively. Molecular interaction was verified by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay.

RESULTS

YJHD greatly attenuated pathological changes in the gastric mucosa and precancerous lesions in CAG rats. Meanwhile, YJHD treatment reduced serum levels of inflammatory factors [interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor-α and C-reactive protein] and increased serum levels of gastric mucosal-related factors (gastrin, pepsin, somatostatin and prostaglandin E2) in CAG rats. In addition, YJHD administration suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated cell pyroptosis, as well as the activation of TLR4/NF-κB and IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathways. Mechanically, ChIP experiments confirmed that NLRP3 transcription was regulated by TLR4/NF-κB and IL-6/STAT3 signaling.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, YJHD alleviated NLRP3 inflammasome formation and pyroptosis of epithelial cells in CAG, potentially through the inactivation of TLR4/NF-κB and IL-6/STAT3 pathways.

Unmasking the NLRP3 inflammasome in dendritic cells as a potential therapeutic target for autoimmunity, cancer, and infectious conditions

Proper and functional immune response requires a complex interaction between innate and adaptive immune cells, which dendritic cells (DCs) are the primary actors in this coordination as professional antigen-presenting cells. DCs are armed with numerous pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) such as nucleotide-binding and oligomerization domain-like receptors (NLRs) like NLRP3, which influence the development of their activation state upon sensation of ligands. NLRP3 is a crucial component of the immune system for protection against tumors and infectious agents, because its activation leads to the assembly of inflammasomes that cause the formation of active caspase-1 and stimulate the maturation and release of proinflammatory cytokines. But, when NLRP3 becomes overactivated, it plays a pathogenic role in the progression of several autoimmune disorders. So, NLRP3 activation is strictly regulated by diverse signaling pathways that are mentioned in detail in this review. Furthermore, the role of NLRP3 in all of the diverse immune cells' subsets is briefly mentioned in this study because NLRP3 plays a pivotal role in modulating other immune cells which are accompanied by DCs' responses and subsequently influence differentiation of T cells to diverse T helper subsets and even impact on cytotoxic CD8+ T cells' responses. This review sheds light on the functional and therapeutic role of NLRP3 in DCs and its contribution to the occurrence and progression of autoimmune disorders, prevention of diverse tumors' development, and recognition and annihilation of various infectious agents. Furthermore, we highlight NLRP3 targeting potential for improving DC-based immunotherapeutic approaches, to be used for the benefit of patients suffering from these disorders.

Revisiting the Multifaceted Therapeutic Potential of Withaferin A (WA), a Novel Steroidal Lactone, W-ferinAmax Ashwagandha, from Withania Somnifera (L) Dunal

Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, abundant in the Indian subcontinent as Ashwagandha or winter cherry, is a herb of unprecedented therapeutic value. The number of ailments for which crude Ashwagandha extract can be used as a preventive or curative is practically limitless; and this explains why its use has been in vogue in ancient Ayurveda since at-least about four thousand years. The therapeutic potential of Ashwagandha mainly owes from its reservoir of alkaloids (isopelletierine, anaferine), steroidal lactones (withanolides) and saponins with an extra acyl group (sitoindoside VII and VIII). Withaferin A is an exceptionally potent withanolide which is found in high concentrations in W. somnifera plant extracts. The high reactivity of Withaferin A owes to the presence of a C-28 ergostane network with multiple sites of unsaturation and differential oxygenation. It interacts with the effectors of multiple signaling pathways involved in inflammatory response, oxidative stress response, cell cycle regulation and synaptic transmission and has been found to be significantly effective in inducing programmed cell death in cancer cells, restoring cognitive health, managing diabetes, alleviating metabolic disorders, and rejuvenating the overall body homeostasis. Additionally, recent studies suggest that Withaferin A (WA) has the potential to prevent viral endocytosis by sequestering TMPRSS2, the host transmembrane protease, without altering ACE-2 expression. The scope of performing subtle structural modifications in this multi-ring compound is believed to further expand its pharmacotherapeutic horizon. Very recently, a novel, heavy metal and pesticide free formulation of Ashwagandha whole herb extract, with a significant amount of WA, termed W-ferinAmax Ashwagandha, has been developed. The present review attempts to fathom the present and future of this wonder molecule with comprehensive discussion on its therapeutic potential, safety and toxicity.Key teaching pointsWithania somnifera (L.) Dunal is a medicinal plant with versatile therapeutic values.The therapeutic potential of the plant owes to the presence of withanolides such as Withaferin A.Withaferin A is a C-28 ergostane based triterpenoid with multiple reactive sites of therapeutic potential.It is effective against a broad spectrum of ailments including neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, inflammatory and oxidative stress disorders and it also promotes cardiovascular and sexual health.W-ferinAmax Ashwagandha, is a heavy metal and pesticide free Ashwagandha whole herb extract based formulation with significant amount of Withaferin A.

Mechanisms and effects of NLRP3 in digestive cancers

Inflammasomes are thought to be important mediators of host defense against microbial pathogens and maintenance of gastrointestinal tract homeostasis. They can modulate caspase-1 to promote IL-18 and IL-1β secretion and promote phagocytosis induced by bacterial pathogens. NLRP3 is an inflammasome comprising a multiprotein complex assembled by pattern recognition receptors in the cell cytoplasm. It is a crucial component of the innate immune system. Dysregulation of NLRP3 may contribute to inflammatory diseases and intestinal cancers. Recent research suggests that NLRP3 plays an essential role in tumor development; therefore, intensive study of its mechanism is warranted as it could play a key role in the treatment of digestive system tumors. In this review, we discuss the mechanism and role of NLRP3 in tumors of the digestive system and response strategies to modulate NLRP3 for potential use in tumor treatment.

The Therapeutic Effects of Withaferin A against Cancer: Overview and Updates

Cancer is a rapidly rising health problem among the global population, and this burden causes a significant challenge for public health. Current chemotherapeutic agents have different limitations, including drug resistance and severe side effects, and it demands a robust approach to accessing promising anti-cancer therapeutics. The natural compounds have been extensively studied to identify improved therapeutic agents for cancer therapy. Withaferin A (WA) is a steroidal lactone found in Withania somnifera and possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-angiogenesis, and anticancer properties. Multiple studies have shown that WA treatment attenuated various cancer hallmarks by inducing apoptosis and reducing angiogenesis and metastasis with reduced side effects. WA is a promising agent for the treatment of various cancer, and it targets various signaling pathways. With recent updates, the current review highlights the therapeutic implications of WA and its molecular targets in different cancer.

Phytotherapeuthics Affecting the IL-1/IL-17/G-CSF Axis: A Complementary Treatment Option for Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS; also designated as acne inversa) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by painful skin lesions that occur in the axillary, inguinal, gluteal and perianal areas of the body. These lesions contain recurring deep-seated, inflamed nodules and pus-discharging abscesses and fistulas. Affecting about 1% of the population, this common disease has gained appropriate clinical attention in the last years. Associated with numerous comorbidities including metabolic syndrome, HS is considered a systemic disease that severely impairs the quality of life and shortens life expectancy. Therapeutic options for HS are limited, comprising long-term antibiotic treatment, the surgical removal of affected skin areas, and neutralization of TNF-α, the only approved systemic treatment. Novel treatment options are needed to close the therapeutic gap. HS pathogenesis is increasingly better understood. In fact, neutrophilic granulocytes (neutrophils) seem to be decisive for the development of the purulent destructive skin inflammation in HS. Recent findings suggest a key role of the immune mediators IL-1β, IL-17A and G-CSF in the migration into and activation of neutrophils in the skin. Although phytomedical drugs display potent immunoregulatory properties and have been suggested as complementary therapy in several chronic disorders, their application in HS has not been considered so far. In this review, we describe the IL-1/IL-17/G-CSF axis and evaluate it as potential target for an integrated phytomedical treatment of HS.

Withaferin A in the Treatment of Liver Diseases: Progress and Pharmacokinetic Insights

Withaferin A (WA) is a natural steroidal compound used in Ayurvedic medicine in India and elsewhere. Although WA was used as an anticancer reagent for decades, its role in the treatment of liver diseases has only recently been experimentally explored. Here, the effects of WA in the treatment of liver injury, systematic inflammation, and liver cancer are reviewed, and the toxicity and metabolism of WA as well as pharmacological potentials of other extracts from Withania somnifera (W. somnifera) discussed. The pharmacokinetic behaviors of WA are summarized and pharmacokinetic insights into current progress and future opportunities are highlighted. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This review outlines the current experimental progress of Withaferin A (WA) hepatoprotective activities and highlights gaps in the field. This work also discusses the pharmacokinetics of WA that can be used to guide future studies for the possible treatment of liver diseases with this compound.

Withaferin A alleviates ethanol-induced liver injury by inhibiting hepatic lipogenesis

Withaferin A (WA) is a natural steroidal compound with reported hepatoprotective activities against various liver diseases. Whether WA has therapeutic effects on alcoholic liver disease has not been explored. A binge alcoholic liver injury model was employed by feeding C57BL/6J mice an ethanol (EtOH) diet for 10 days followed by an acute dose of EtOH to mimic clinical acute-upon-chronic liver injury. In this binge model, WA significantly reduced the binge EtOH-induced increase of serum aminotransaminase levels and decreased hepatic lipid accumulation. Mechanistically, WA decreased levels of hepatic lipogenesis gene mRNAs in vivo, including Srebp1c, Fasn, Acc1 and Fabp1. In EtOH-treated primary hepatocytes in vitro, WA decreased lipid accumulation by lowering the expression of the lipogenesis gene mRNAs Fasn and Acc1 as well as decreasing hepatocyte death. In the established binge alcoholic liver injury model, WA therapeutically reduced the EtOH-induced increase of serum aminotransaminase levels as well as hepatic lipid accumulation. These results demonstrate that WA reduces EtOH-induced liver injury by inhibiting hepatic lipogenesis, suggesting a potential therapeutic option for treating alcoholic liver injury.

A Perspective on Withania somnifera Modulating Antitumor Immunity in Targeting Prostate Cancer

Medicinal plants serve as a lead source of bioactive compounds and have been an integral part of day-to-day life in treating various disease conditions since ancient times. Withaferin A (WFA), a bioactive ingredient of Withania somnifera, has been used for health and medicinal purposes for its adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties long before the published literature came into existence. Nearly 25% of pharmaceutical drugs are derived from medicinal plants, classified as dietary supplements. The bioactive compounds in these supplements may serve as chemotherapeutic substances competent to inhibit or reverse the process of carcinogenesis. The role of WFA is appreciated to polarize tumor-suppressive Th1-type immune response inducing natural killer cell activity and may provide an opportunity to manipulate the tumor microenvironment at an early stage to inhibit tumor progression. This article signifies the cumulative information about the role of WFA in modulating antitumor immunity and its potential in targeting prostate cancer.

Role of Withaferin A and Its Derivatives in the Management of Alzheimer's Disease: Recent Trends and Future Perspectives

Globally, Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most prevalent age-related neurodegenerative disorders associated with cognitive decline and memory deficits due to beta-amyloid deposition (Aβ) and tau protein hyperphosphorylation. To date, approximately 47 million people worldwide have AD. This figure will rise to an estimated 75.6 million by 2030 and 135.5 million by 2050. According to the literature, the efficacy of conventional medications for AD is statistically substantial, but clinical relevance is restricted to disease slowing rather than reversal. Withaferin A (WA) is a steroidal lactone glycowithanolides, a secondary metabolite with comprehensive biological effects. Biosynthetically, it is derived from Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) and Acnistus breviflorus (Gallinero) through the mevalonate and non-mevalonate pathways. Mounting evidence shows that WA possesses inhibitory activities against developing a pathological marker of Alzheimer's diseases. Several cellular and animal models' particulates to AD have been conducted to assess the underlying protective effect of WA. In AD, the neuroprotective potential of WA is mediated by reduction of beta-amyloid plaque aggregation, tau protein accumulation, regulation of heat shock proteins, and inhibition of oxidative and inflammatory constituents. Despite the various preclinical studies on WA's therapeutic potentiality, less is known regarding its definite efficacy in humans for AD. Accordingly, the present study focuses on the biosynthesis of WA, the epidemiology and pathophysiology of AD, and finally the therapeutic potential of WA for the treatment and prevention of AD, highlighting the research and augmentation of new therapeutic approaches. Further clinical trials are necessary for evaluating the safety profile and confirming WA's neuroprotective potency against AD.

Withaferin A inhibits lymphocyte proliferation, dendritic cell maturation in vitro and prolongs islet allograft survival

The immunosuppressive regimen for clinical allogeneic islet transplantation uses beta cell–toxic compounds such as tacrolimus that cause islet graft loss. Previously we reported that the plant-derived steroidal lactone Withaferin A (WA) can protect islet grafts by inhibiting nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). Since the NF-κB signaling pathway is essential for T-cell activation, we hypothesized that long-term WA administration may also provide an immunosuppressive effect. Treatment of BALB/c donor islets and C57BL/6N recipients with WA alone resulted in 80% islet graft long-term survival vs. 40% in low-dose FK506-treated mice. In vitro, WA significantly blocked mouse and human T-cell proliferation by CD3/CD28 bead stimulation and in mixed lymphocyte reaction assay. Treatment of immature dendritic cells with WA prevented their maturation in response to inflammatory stimuli, as seen by decreased expression of CD83 and human leukocyte antigen–DR isotype. Exosomes released by islets treated with WA contained significantly fewer proinflammatory molecules interleukin-6, interleukin-8, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, interferon-gamma-induced protein-10, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and cyclooxygenase-2. In conclusion, WA treatment not only reduced inflammation but also prolonged allograft survival, possibly through suppression of dendritic cell maturation and T-cell proliferation. WA has the potential to inhibit both the innate and adaptive immune response to prolong allograft survival.

Immune Landscape of Gastric Carcinoma Tumor Microenvironment Identifies a Peritoneal Relapse Relevant Immune Signature

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) still represents the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Peritoneal relapse (PR) is the most frequent metastasis occurring among patients with advanced gastric cancer. Increasingly more evidence have clarified the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) may predict survival and have clinical significance in GC. However, tumor-transcriptomics based immune signatures derived from immune profiling have not been established for predicting the peritoneal recurrence of the advanced GC.

Methods

In this study, we depict the immune landscape of GC by using transcriptome profiling and clinical characteristics retrieved from GSE62254 of Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Immune cell infiltration score was evaluated via single-sample gene set enrichment (ssGSEA) analysis algorithm. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression algorithm was used to select the valuable immune cells and construct the final model for the prediction of PR. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and the Kaplan-Meier curve were used to check the accuracy of PRIs. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis were performed to explore the molecular pathways associated with PRIs.

Results

A peritoneal recurrence related immune score (PRIs) with 10 immune cells was constructed. Compared to the low-PRIs group, the high-PRIs group had a greater risk. The upregulation of the focal adhesion signaling was observed in the high-PRIs subtype by GSEA and KEGG. Multivariate analysis found that both in the internal training cohort and the internal validation cohort, PRIs was a stable and independent predictor for PR. A nomogram that integrated clinicopathological features and PRIs to predict peritoneal relapse was constructed. Subgroup analysis indicated that the PRIs could obviously distinguish peritoneal recurrence in different molecular subtypes, pathological stages and Lauren subtypes, in which PRIs of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transitions (EMT) subtype, III-IV stage and diffuse subtype are higher respectively.

Conclusion

Overall, we performed a comprehensive evaluation of the immune landscape of GC and constructed a predictive PR model based on the immune cell infiltration. The PRIs represents novel promising feature of predicting peritoneal recurrence of GC and sheds light on the improvement of the personalized management of GC patients after surgery.

Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal: Opportunity for Clinical Repurposing in COVID-19 Management

As the COVID-19 pandemic is progressing, the therapeutic gaps in conventional management have highlighted the need for the integration of traditional knowledge systems with modern medicine. Ayurvedic medicines, especially Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, WS), may be beneficial in the management of COVID-19. WS is a widely prescribed Ayurvedic botanical known as an immunomodulatory, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic agent. The chemical profile and pharmacological activities of WS have been extensively reported. Several clinical studies have reported its safety for use in humans. This review presents a research synthesis of in silico, in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies on Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (WS) and discusses its potential for prophylaxis and management of COVID-19. We have collated the data from studies on WS that focused on viral infections (HIV, HSV, H1N1 influenza, etc.) and noncommunicable diseases (hypertension, diabetes, cancer, etc.). The experimental literature indicates that WS has the potential for 1) maintaining immune homeostasis, 2) regulating inflammation, 3) suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines, 4) organ protection (nervous system, heart, lung, liver, and kidney), and 5) anti-stress, antihypertensive, and antidiabetic activities. Using these trends, the review presents a triangulation of Ayurveda wisdom, pharmacological properties, and COVID-19 pathophysiology ranging from viral entry to end-stage acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The review proposes WS as a potential therapeutic adjuvant for various stages of COVID-19 management. WS may also have beneficial effects on comorbidities associated with the COVID-19. However, systematic studies are needed to realize the potential of WS for improving clinical outcome of patients with COVID-19.

Withaferin A alleviates fulminant hepatitis by targeting macrophage and NLRP3

Fulminant hepatitis (FH) is an incurable clinical syndrome where novel therapeutics are warranted. Withaferin A (WA), isolated from herb Withania Somnifera, is a hepatoprotective agent. Whether and how WA improves D-galactosamine (GalN)/lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced FH is unknown. This study was to evaluate the hepatoprotective role and mechanism of WA in GalN/LPS-induced FH. To determine the preventive and therapeutic effects of WA, wild-type mice were dosed with WA 0.5 h before or 2 h after GalN treatment, followed by LPS 30 min later, and then killed 6 h after LPS treatment. To explore the mechanism of the protective effect, the macrophage scavenger clodronate, autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine, or gene knockout mouse lines NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (Nlrp3)-null, nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-null, liver-specific AMP-activated protein kinase (Ampk)a1 knockout (Ampka1ΔHep) and liver-specific inhibitor of KB kinase β (Ikkb) knockout (IkkbΔHep) mice were subjected to GalN/LPS-induced FH. In wild-type mice, WA potently prevented GalN/LPS-induced FH and inhibited hepatic NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and upregulated NRF2 and autophagy signaling. Studies with Nrf2-null, Ampka1ΔHep, and IkkbΔHep mice demonstrated that the hepatoprotective effect was independent of NRF2, hepatic AMPKα1, and IκκB. Similarly, 3-methyladenine cotreatment failed to abolish the hepatoprotective effect of WA. The hepatoprotective effect of WA against GalN/LPS-induced FH was abolished after macrophage depletion, and partially reduced in Nlrp3-null mice. Consistently, WA alleviated LPS-induced inflammation partially dependent on the presence of NLRP3 in primary macrophage in vitro. Notably, WA potently and therapeutically attenuated GalN/LPS-induced hepatotoxicity. In conclusion, WA improves GalN/LPS-induced hepatotoxicity by targeting macrophage partially dependent on NLRP3 antagonism, while largely independent of NRF2 signaling, autophagy induction, and hepatic AMPKα1 and IκκB. These results support the concept of treating FH by pharmacologically targeting macrophage and suggest that WA has the potential to be repurposed for clinically treating FH as an immunoregulator.

TLR2 and the NLRP3 inflammasome mediate IL-1β production in Prevotella nigrescens-infected dendritic cells

Prevotella nigrescens is an oral pathogen that is frequently observed in the subgingival plaque of periodontitis patients. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) is known to be involved in the immunopathology of periodontal diseases and has been implicated in the destruction of bone. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of IL-1β production by P. nigrescens in murine bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs). Our results showed that a host receptor, Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), but not TLR4 is required for pro-IL-1β induction and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain like receptor pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) priming in BMDCs in response to P. nigrescens and activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome is necessary for processing of pro-IL-1β into mature IL-1β. In addition, an inhibitor assay revealed that production of reactive oxygen species, P2X₇R activity, and release of cathepsin B are involved in IL-1β production in BMDCs in response to P. nigrescens.

Tackling Chronic Inflammation with Withanolide Phytochemicals-A Withaferin a Perspective

Chronic inflammatory diseases are considered to be one of the biggest threats to human health. Most prescribed pharmaceutical drugs aiming to treat these diseases are characterized by side-effects and negatively affect therapy adherence. Finding alternative treatment strategies to tackle chronic inflammation has therefore been gaining interest over the last few decades. In this context, Withaferin A (WA), a natural bioactive compound isolated from Withania somnifera, has been identified as a promising anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory compound. Although the majority of studies focus on the molecular mechanisms of WA in cancer models, recent evidence demonstrates that WA also holds promise as a new phytotherapeutic agent against chronic inflammatory diseases. By targeting crucial inflammatory pathways, including nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling, WA suppresses the inflammatory disease state in several in vitro and preclinical in vivo models of diabetes, obesity, neurodegenerative disorders, cystic fibrosis and osteoarthritis. This review provides a concise overview of the molecular mechanisms by which WA orchestrates its anti-inflammatory effects to restore immune homeostasis.

Caspase-4: A Therapeutic Target for Peptic Ulcer Disease

Peptic ulcers are caused by the interaction between bacterial and host factors. This study demonstrates enhanced expression of caspase-4 in peptic ulcer patient biopsies, indicating that pyroptosis and noncanonical inflammasome activity may be processes involved in peptic ulcer disease. We show that primary murine macrophages infected with Helicobacter pylori upregulate caspase-11 (the ortholog of human caspase-4), activate caspase-1, and secrete IL-1β. We demonstrate that misoprostol (a stable PGE1 analogue) decreased IL-1β secretion and delayed lethality in vivo in a murine peritonitis model. PGE2 was shown to inhibit caspase-11-driven pyroptosis and IL-1β secretion in macrophages. Overall, we provide evidence for a pathological role of caspase-4/11 in peptic ulcer disease and propose that targeting caspase-4 or inhibiting pyroptosis may have therapeutic potential in the management of peptic ulcers.

Withaferin A Improves Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis in Mice

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is the progressive stage of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease that highly increases the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer, and there are few therapeutic options available in the clinic. Withaferin A (WA), extracted from the ayurvedic medicine Withania somnifera, has a wide range of pharmacological activities; however, little is known about its effects on NASH. To explore the role of WA in treating NASH, two well defined NASH models were used, the methionine-choline-deficient diet and the 40 kcal% high-fat diet (HFD). In both NASH models, WA treatment or control vehicle was administered to evaluate its hepatoprotective effects. As assessed by biochemical and histologic analyses, WA prevented and therapeutically improved liver injury in both models, as revealed by lower serum aminotransaminases, hepatic steatosis, liver inflammation, and fibrosis. In the HFD-induced NASH model, both elevated serum ceramides and increased hepatic oxidative stress were decreased in the WA-treated group compared with the control vehicle-treated group. To further explore whether WA has an anti-NASH effect independent of its known action in leptin signaling associated with obesity, leptin signaling-deficient ob/ob mice maintained on an HFD were used to induce NASH. WA therapeutically reduced NASH in HFD-treated leptin-deficient ob/ob mice, thus demonstrating a leptin-independent hepatoprotective effect. This study revealed that WA treatment could be an option for NASH treatment.

Mycetia cauliflora methanol extract exerts anti-inflammatory activity by directly targeting PDK1 in the NF-κB pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Mycetia cauliflora Reinw. (Rubiaceae) has been used as a traditional remedy to ameliorate clinical signs of inflammatory diseases, including pain, inflammation, ulcers, and wounds. Among the Mycetia subfamilies, the molecular and cellular mechanisms of Mycetia longifolia (Rubiaceae) have been studied. However, those of Mycetia cauliflora are not clearly understood. Comprehensive investigation of this plant is necessary to evaluate its potential for ethnopharmacological use.

MATERIALS

and methods: The activities of Mycetia cauliflora methanol extract (Mc-ME) on the secretion of inflammatory mediators, the mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines, and identification of its molecular targets were elucidated using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced macrophage-like cells. Moreover, the suppressive actions of Mc-ME were examined in an LPS-induced peritonitis mouse model.

RESULTS

At nontoxic concentrations, Mc-ME downregulated the release of nitric oxide (NO), the mRNA expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and the mRNA expression of interleukin (IL)-1β from LPS-activated RAW264.7 cells. This extract also inhibited the nuclear translocation of p65 and p50 and the phosphorylation of IκBα, IKK, and AKT. Western blot analysis and in vitro kinase assays confirmed that phosphoinositide-dependent kinase-1 (PDK1) is the direct immunopharmacological target of Mc-ME effect. In addition, Mc-ME significantly reduced inflammatory signs in an animal model of acute peritonitis. These effects were associated with decreased NO production and decreased AKT phosphorylation.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that Mc-ME displays anti-inflammatory actions in LPS-treated macrophage-like cells and in an animal model of acute inflammatory disease. These actions are preferentially managed by targeting PDK1 in the nuclear factor (NF)-κB signaling pathway.

Differential role of the NLRP3 inflammasome in infection and tumorigenesis

Dysregulated inflammation is one of the hallmarks of cancer initiation and progression. Emerging evidence indicates that inflammasomes play a central role in regulating immune cell functions in various infections and cancer. Inflammasomes are multimeric complexes consisting of nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD) -like receptors (NLRs). Among the NLRs, NOD1, NOD2 and NLRP3 respond to a variety of endogenous (i.e. damage-associated molecular patterns) and exogenous (i.e. pathogen-associated molecular patterns) stimuli. The NLRP3 inflammasome is associated with the onset and progression of autoinflammatory and autoimmune diseases, including metabolic disorders, multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, and cryopyrin-associated periodic fever syndrome. NLRP3 is also associated with a wide variety of infections and tumorigenesis that are closely correlated with chemotherapy response and prognosis. In this review, we explore the rapidly expanding body of research on the expression and functions of NLRP3 in infections and cancers and outline novel inhibitors targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome that could be developed as therapeutic alternatives to current anticancer treatment.

Inflammasome activation and regulation during Helicobacter pylori pathogenesis

Helicobacter pylori is a leading cause of gastric cancer worldwide, its type four secretary toxin CagA is cited to be primarily responsible for it. Other virulence factors such as urease, VacA, HopQ, BabA and SabA are responsible for bacterial survival in acidic environment, adherence and cellular damage but its molecular mechanism is not completely understood. A number of pathogens including bacteria, fungi and virus are involved in the regulation of cellular machinery of inflammasome. Inflammasomes are multimeric protein complexes formed after external stimuli such as PAMPs/DAMPs or salt crystals and activates cellular caspases causes inflammation via pro-inflammatory cytokines. Virulence factors associated with microbial pathogens causes' cellular damage through damaging mitochondria, rupturing lysosome, producing endoplasmic stress and dysregulation of cellular ions balance. These cellular dysfunctioning leads to oxidative stress, cathepsin B production, nuclear and mitochondrial DNA damage which activates inflammasome machinery, pro-inflammatory cytokine release and cellular death known as pyroptosis. The mechanism of inflammasome induction by H. pylori is not studied extensively and very few virulence factors such as UreB, CagA, FlaA and VacA and their role in inflammasomes is established. This review elaborates the mechanism of inflammasomes regulation and elucidates the pathways through which H. pylori regulates inflammasome activation.

Cereal Fiber Ameliorates High-Fat/Cholesterol-Diet-Induced Atherosclerosis by Modulating the NLRP3 Inflammasome Pathway in ApoE-/- Mice

Cereal fiber is associated with decreasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, whether cereal fiber modulates inflammatory response and improves atherosclerosis remains unclear. This study evaluated the anti-atherosclerotic effect of cereal fibers from oat or wheat bran and explored the potential anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Male ApoE^-/- mice were given a high-fat/cholesterol (HFC) diet or a HFC diet supplemented with 0.8% oat fiber or wheat bran fiber. After 18 weeks of the feeding period, serum lipids and inflammatory cytokines were measured. The relative protein levels of the nod-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome pathway and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) were determined by the western blot method in aorta tissues. Pathologically, oat fiber and wheat fiber significantly reduced atherosclerotic plaques by 43.3 and 27.1%, respectively. Biochemically, cereal fiber markedly decreased the protein levels of myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in aortic tissues. The expression of NF-κB was similarly inhibited by both cereal fibers. In comparison to wheat bran fiber, oat fiber had greater effects in reducing the plague size and inhibiting TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathways. Such differences might come from modulation of the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway because the expressions of the cleavage of caspase-1 and interleukin (IL)-1β were inhibited only by oat fiber. The present study demonstrates that cereal fibers can attenuate inflammatory response and atherosclerosis in ApoE^-/- mice. Such effects are pronounced with oat fiber and likely mediated by specific inhibition of oat fiber on the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway.

The contrasting roles of inflammasomes in cancer

Chronic inflammation plays a decisive role at different stages of cancer development. Inflammasomes are oligomeric protein complexes activated in response to pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). PAMPs and DAMPs are released from infected cells, tumors and damaged tissues. Inflammasomes activate and release inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and IL-18. The various inflammasomes and inflammatory cytokines and chemokines play contrasting roles in cancer development and progression. In this review, we describe the roles of different inflammasomes in lung, breast, gastric, liver, colon, and prostate cancers and in glioblastomas.

Interactome analysis of transforming growth factor-β-activated kinase 1 in Helicobacter pylori-infected cells revealed novel regulators tripartite motif 28 and CDC37

Transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ)-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) plays a central role in controlling the cellular pro-inflammatory response via the activation of the nuclear factor κB (NF-κB)- and mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases-dependent transcriptional programs. Here, we show that depletion of TAK1 and the TAK1-binding proteins TAB1 and TAB2 affects NF-κB, JNK and p38 phosphorylation and suppresses NF-κB activity in AGS cells infected with Helicobacter pylori or stimulated with the cytokines TNF and IL-1β. To increase our understanding of TAK1 regulation and function, we performed mass spectrometry (MS)-based TAK1 interactomics. In addition to the identification of known and novel TAK1 interacting proteins, including TRIM28, CDC37 and STOML2, analysis of the MS data revealed various post-translational modifications within the TAK1/TAB complex. By applying siRNAs, TRIM28 and CDC37 were found to regulate phosphorylations of TAK1, IκB kinases IKKα/IKKβ and MAP kinases, NF-κB transactivation activity and IL-8 expression in the infected epithelial cells.

Role of Inflammasomes in the Development of Gastrointestinal Diseases

Many diseases of the gastrointestinal tract have been attributed to chronic inflammation, and a few have identified the role of inflammasomes in their pathogenesis. Inflammasomes are a group of protein complexes comprising of several intracellular proteins that link the sensing of microbial products and metabolic stress to the proteolytic activation of the proinflammatory cytokines. Recent studies have implicated activation of several families of NOD-like receptors (NLRs) which are major components of inflammasomes in the development and exacerbation of many diseases of human systems. In this chapter, we discuss the role of inflammasomes in some of the most prevalent diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and highlight potential targets for treatment.

Withaferin A inhibits the proliferation of gastric cancer cells by inducing G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis

Human gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS) is one of the most common types of malignant tumor and the third-leading cause of tumor-associated mortality worldwide. Withaferin A (WA), a steroidal lactone derived from Withania somnifera, exhibits antitumor activity in a variety of cancer models. However, to the best of our knowledge, the direct effect of WA on AGS cells has not previously been determined. The present study investigated the effects of WA on the proliferation and metastatic activity of AGS cells. WA exerted a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect on AGS cells. The effect was associated with cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase and the expression of apoptotic proteins. Additionally, WA treatment resulted in a decrease in the migration and invasion ability of the AGS cells, as demonstrated using a wound healing assay and a Boyden chamber assay. These results indicate that WA directly inhibits the proliferation and metastatic activity of gastric cancer cells, and suggest that WA may be developed as a drug for the treatment of gastric cancer.

AKT-targeted anti-inflammatory activity of the methanol extract of Chrysanthemum indicum var. albescens

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Wild chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum indicum) is one of well-known medicinal plants traditionally used in Korea and China. As a variant of wild chrysanthemum, white wild chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum indicum var. albescens) is also ethnopharmacologically applied to treat various symptoms such as inflammatory diseases.

AIM OF STUDY

Although the anti-inflammatory activity of Chrysanthemum indicum has been reported, the anti-inflammatory activity and underlying molecular mechanism of white wild chrysanthemum are poorly understood.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effects of Chrysanthemum indicum var. albescens methanol extract (Civ-ME) on the production of inflammatory mediators, expression of pro-inflammatory genes, cell viability, and the activities of intracellular signaling molecules and transcription factors were investigated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells.

RESULTS

Civ-ME suppressed the production of both nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) without cytotoxicity in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Civ-ME was found to reduce the mRNA levels of inflammatory genes such as inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and reduced NF-κB-mediated transcriptional activation. Civ-ME inhibited the nuclear translocation of NF-κB (p65 and p50), and its upstream signaling composed of IκBα and IKKα/β. An NF-κB luciferase reporter gene assay and an in vitro kinase assay confirmed that AKT1 and AKT2 might be direct pharmacological targets of Civ-ME. In addition, luteolin was identified by HPLC analysis as the main active pharmacological components of Civ-ME.

CONCLUSION

Civ-ME exerts an anti-inflammatory effect by targeting AKT1 and AKT2 in the NF-κB signaling pathway in macrophage-mediated inflammatory responses.

Negative regulators and their mechanisms in NLRP3 inflammasome activation and signaling

Inflammasomes are cytosolic multiprotein complexes that cause the release of biologically active interleukin-1β. The best-characterized inflammasome is the NLRP3 (nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich-containing family, pyrin domain-containing-3 or Nod-like receptor protein 3) inflammasome. The NLRP3 inflammasome forms an assembly consisting of the ASC (apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a C-terminal caspase recruitment domain) adaptor protein and the effector, caspase-1 (cysteine-dependent aspartate-directed protease-1). Numerous agents and ligands derived from pathogens, modified self-cells and the environment induce NLRP3 inflammasome complex formation. NLRP3 inflammasome activation is tightly controlled at the transcriptional and post-translational levels to prevent unwanted excessive inflammation. Recent studies have highlighted the roles and mechanisms of several negative regulators that inhibit the assembly of NLRP3 inflammasome complexes and suppress inflammatory responses. The identification and characterization of new players in the regulation of NLRP3 inflammasome may lead to the development of inflammasome-targeting therapeutics against various inflammatory diseases related to NLRP3 inflammasome-associated pathogenesis.

Modeling the Role of Lanthionine Synthetase C-Like 2 (LANCL2) in the Modulation of Immune Responses to Helicobacter pylori Infection

Immune responses to Helicobacter pylori are orchestrated through complex balances of host-bacterial interactions, including inflammatory and regulatory immune responses across scales that can lead to the development of the gastric disease or the promotion of beneficial systemic effects. While inflammation in response to the bacterium has been reasonably characterized, the regulatory pathways that contribute to preventing inflammatory events during H. pylori infection are incompletely understood. To aid in this effort, we have generated a computational model incorporating recent developments in the understanding of H. pylori-host interactions. Sensitivity analysis of this model reveals that a regulatory macrophage population is critical in maintaining high H. pylori colonization without the generation of an inflammatory response. To address how this myeloid cell subset arises, we developed a second model describing an intracellular signaling network for the differentiation of macrophages. Modeling studies predicted that LANCL2 is a central regulator of inflammatory and effector pathways and its activation promotes regulatory responses characterized by IL-10 production while suppressing effector responses. The predicted impairment of regulatory macrophage differentiation by the loss of LANCL2 was simulated based on multiscale linkages between the tissue-level gastric mucosa and the intracellular models. The simulated deletion of LANCL2 resulted in a greater clearance of H. pylori, but also greater IFNγ responses and damage to the epithelium. The model predictions were validated within a mouse model of H. pylori colonization in wild-type (WT), LANCL2 whole body KO and myeloid-specific LANCL2-/- (LANCL2^Myeloid) mice, which displayed similar decreases in H. pylori burden, CX3CR1+ IL-10-producing macrophages, and type 1 regulatory (Tr1) T cells. This study shows the importance of LANCL2 in the induction of regulatory responses in macrophages and T cells during H. pylori infection.

Cerbera manghas methanol extract exerts anti-inflammatory activity by targeting c-Jun N-terminal kinase in the AP-1 pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cerbera manghas L. (Apocynaceae) is a medicinal plant traditionally used to ameliorate the clinical signs of inflammatory diseases and hypertension.

AIM OF STUDY

Although C. manghas L. has long been used as a traditional remedy for various diseases, the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms are poorly understood. A detailed investigation of these mechanisms is necessary to demonstrate the ethnopharmaceutical utility of this plant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effects of C. manghas methanol extract (Cm-ME) on the production of inflammatory mediators and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and identification of molecular targets were investigated using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated macrophages in vitro. In addition, the inhibitory effects of Cm-ME orally administered were tested by LPS/D-galactosamine (D-GalN)-induced hepatitis and LPS-induced peritonitis mouse models in vivo.

RESULTS

Cm-ME downregulated the production of prostaglandin (PG)E₂ and the mRNA expression of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and interleukin (IL)-1β in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells under non-toxic concentration of Cm-ME. This extract inhibited the nuclear translocation of c-Jun and p-ATF2, the phosphorylation of JNK and p38, and AP-1 activity. Western blot analysis and in vitro kinase assay confirmed that JNK is a direct pharmacological target of Cm-ME action. In addition, Cm-ME significantly ameliorated the clinical signs of LPS/D-GalN-induced hepatitis and lowered the production of nitric oxide (NO) and the phosphorylation of JNK in LPS-induced peritonitis conditions.

CONCLUSION

Cm-ME exerts anti-inflammatory actions on LPS-stimulated macrophages and in mouse models of acute inflammatory disease. These actions are predominantly mediated by targeting JNK in the AP-1 signaling pathway.

Inflammatory microenvironment contributes to epithelial-mesenchymal transition in gastric cancer

Gastric cancer (GC) is the fifth most common malignancy in the world. The major cause of GC is chronic infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Infection with H. pylori leads to an active inflammatory microenvironment that is maintained by immune cells such as T cells, macrophages, natural killer cells, among other cells. Immune cell dysfunction allows the initiation and accumulation of mutations in GC cells, inducing aberrant proliferation and protection from apoptosis. Meanwhile, immune cells can secrete certain signals, including cytokines, and chemokines, to alter intracellular signaling pathways in GC cells. Thus, GC cells obtain the ability to metastasize to lymph nodes by undergoing the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), whereby epithelial cells lose their epithelial attributes and acquire a mesenchymal cell phenotype. Metastasis is a leading cause of death for GC patients, and the involved mechanisms are still under investigation. In this review, we summarize the current research on how the inflammatory environment affects GC initiation and metastasis via EMT.