Molecular signaling and mechanisms of low-level laser-induced gene expression in cells involved in orthodontic tooth movement

BACKGROUND

The study aimed to observe molecular signaling, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), to evaluate the alteration of gene expression by low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and the correlation between its mechanisms and the NF-kB pathway in cells involved in orthodontic tooth movement.

METHODS

Osteoblast-like cells (MG63), immortalized periodontal ligament cells (iPDL), and M1 macrophage-like cells were irradiated by 980-nm LLLT with energy densities of 1 and 10 J/cm2 ΔΨm and intracellular ROS were monitored using fluorescent probes. The changes of mRNA expression were assessed using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). NF-kB inhibitor, ROS scavenger, and ΔΨm suppressor were used to analyze signals associated with the regulation of gene expression. Finally, Western blot analysis was performed to confirm NF-kB signaling after LLLT.

RESULTS

We found the increases of ΔΨm and ROS in all three cell types after LLLT, but no significant difference was observed between 1 and 10 J/cm2 LLLT. Regarding gene expression, some target genes were upregulated in MG63 6 h, 12 h, and 1 day after LLLT and in iPDL cells 12 h and 1 day after LLLT. However, no changes occurred in M1 cells. The inhibitor that significantly reduced most changes in gene expression was NF-kB inhibitor. Western blot analysis showed the increase in p-IkBα level after LLLT in iPDL and MG63, but not in M1.

CONCLUSION

The 980-nm LLLT increased ΔΨm and ROS production in all three cell types. However, changes in gene regulation were found only in MG63 and iPDL cells, which related to the NF-kB pathway.

Melittin Treats Periprosthetic Osteolysis in a Rat Model by Inhibiting the NF-kB Pathway and Regulating the Ratio of Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor Kappa B Ligand/Osteoprotegerin

BACKGROUND

Aseptic loosening around the prosthesis is a common cause of failure in total joint arthroplasty. Polyethylene wear particles trigger the release of inflammatory factors by macrophages. Key mediators involved in osteoclastogenesis include interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B (RANK), RANK ligand (RANKL), and bone protection hormone (Osteoprotegerin [OPG]). The purpose of our experiment was to see whether melittin can slow down the release of inflammatory mediators through the NF-kB pathway, regulate the RANKL/OPG ratio, reduce osteoclast formation, and delay the onset of arthritis in rats.

METHODS

A total of 20 male Sprague-Dawley rats (10 months, Specific Pathogen Free, 350 g ± 20 g) were randomly divided into 5 groups: sham group, model group, melittin concentration 1 group (0.2 mg/kg), concentration 2 group (0.4 mg/kg), and concentration 3 group (0.6 mg/kg). All rats were implanted with TA2 high-purity titanium rods. A drill was used to create a bone canal along the long axis of the femur in the intercondylar notch. The model group and experimental groups were exposed to polyethylene particles, while the sham group did not receive any particles.

RESULTS

The melittin group exhibited significantly increased serum levels of serum P, calcium-phosphorus product, OPG, PINP, PINP/CTX-I, and OPG/RANKKL (P < .05). In the experimental group, micro computed tomography scanning results revealed a decrease in the amount of bone defect around the prosthesis. Immunofluorescence analysis demonstrated a decrease in the expression of IKKα and P65, while the expression of OPG showed an upward trend. Both Hematoxylin-Eosin and Tartrate-Resistant Acid Phosphatase staining revealed less osteoclast and inflammatory cell infiltration in bone resorption pits.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates that melittin has the ability to inhibit the NF-kB pathway in a rat model, and reduce the impact of RANKL/OPG, thereby delaying osteoclast activity and alleviating periprosthetic osteolysis.

Natural Products as Dietary Agents for the Prevention and Mitigation of Oxidative Damage and Inflammation in the Intestinal Barrier

Food intake is a basic need to sustain life, but foodborne pathogens and food-related xenobiotics are also the main health concerns regarding intestinal barrier homeostasis. With a predominant role in the well-being of the entire human body, intestinal barrier homeostasis is strictly regulated by epithelial and immune cells. These cells are also the main intervenients in oxidative stress and inflammation-related diseases in the intestinal tract, triggered, for example, by genetic/epigenetic factors, food additives, pesticides, drugs, pathogens, and their metabolites. Nevertheless, the human diet can also be seen as a solution for the problem, mainly via the inclusion of functional foods or nutraceuticals that may act as antioxidant/anti-inflammatory agents to prevent and mitigate acute and chronic oxidative damage and inflammation. A literature analysis of recent advances in this topic highlights the significant role of Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) and NF-kB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells) pathways in these biological processes, with many natural products and phytochemicals targeting endogenous antioxidant systems and cytokine production and balance. In this review, we summarized and discussed studies using in vitro and in vivo models of the intestinal tract used to reproduce oxidative damage and inflammatory events, as well as the role of natural products as modulators of Nrf2 and NK-kB pathways.

Ethanol extract of Paridis rhizoma attenuates carrageenan-induced paw swelling in rats by inhibiting the production of inflammatory factors

CONTEXT

Inflammation has been identified as a key factor contributing to the development of numerous diseases. Several anti-inflammatory drugs have been developed to treat inflammation-related diseases. However, some of such drugs are associated with varying degrees of side effects. Therefore, it is imperative to develop new anti-inflammatory drugs with reducing side effects for the treatment of inflammation-related diseases. Natural anti-inflammatory drugs have emerged as an important area of research in recent years. The study was to determine the anti-inflammatory mechanism of Paridis rhizoma extract (PRE) in rat models of acute inflammation induced by carrageenan and RAW264.7 cells models induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PRE was investigated using the carrageenan-induced paw oedema model on rats in vivo. Histopathology examined the extent of inflammatory infiltration and tissue damage. The effect of PRE on the levels of specific cytokines was determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The Cell Counting Kit (CCK)-8 assay evaluated the cytotoxic effects of PRE on Raw264.7 cells. The mRNA expression levels of cytokines were quantified using quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Western blot measured TNF-α, IL6, TLR4, p-P65, p-IKB, HO1, SOD1 and SOD2. Fluorescence measured the cellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

RESULTS

PRE treatment reduced interstitial edema and structural damage in a dose-dependent manner in vivo. PRE inhibited inflammatory responses in vivo and in vitro, as evidenced by the decreased expression of inflammatory factors, production of ROS, and increased expression of SOD1, SOD2, and HO1. Moreover, PRE inhibited the activity of the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) pathway.

CONCLUSION

The anti-inflammatory activity and potential mechanism of PRE were demonstrated according to the results. PRE reduced LPS-induced inflammation in RAW264.7 cells by inhibiting the NF-KB signaling pathway and ROS production in vitro. PRE alleviated interstitial edema and structural damage in the carrageenan-induced paw edema model on rats in vivo. This study provided an idea for future development of PR-based anti-inflammatory drugs.

The Role of the NF-kB Pathway in Intracranial Aneurysms

The pathophysiology of intracranial aneurysms (IA) has been proven to be closely linked to hemodynamic stress and inflammatory pathways, most notably the NF-kB pathway. Therefore, it is a potential target for therapeutic intervention. In the present review, we investigated alterations in the vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), extracellular matrix, and endothelial cells by the mediators implicated in the NF-kB pathway that lead to the formation, growth, and rupture of IAs. We also present an overview of the NF-kB pathway, focusing on stimuli and transcriptional targets specific to IAs, as well as a summary of the current strategies for inhibiting NF-kB activation in IAs. Our report adds to previously reported data and future research directions for treating IAs using compounds that can suppress inflammation in the vascular wall.

Kaempferol and Biomodified Kaempferol from Sophora japonica Extract as Potential Sources of Anti-Cancer Polyphenolics against High Grade Glioma Cell Lines

The enzymatic hydrolysis of the extract of Sophora japonica by two glycosyl hydrolases (hesperidinase and galactosidase) was performed in order to obtain kaempferol (KPF)-enriched extract with an enhanced anticancer activity. The current study examined the effectiveness of both Sophora japonica extracts (before (KPF-BBR) and after (KPF-ABR) bioconversion reactions) in reducing cell viability and inducing apoptosis in human high-degree gliomas in vitro. Cytotoxicity was determined using an MTT assay. The effects of both compounds on the proliferation of glioma cell lines were measured using trypan blue exclusion, flow cytometry for cell cycle, wound healing (WH), and neurosphere formation assays. Cellular apoptosis was detected by DNA fragmentation and phosphatidylserine exposure. qPCR and luciferase assays evaluated NF-kB pathway inhibition. The survival rate of NG-97 and U-251 cells significantly decreased in a time- and dose-dependent manner after the addition of KPF-BBR or KPF-ABR. Thus, a 50% reduction was observed in NG-97 cells at 800 µM (KPF-BBR) and 600 µM (KPF-ABR) after 72 h. Both compounds presented an IC50 of 1800 µM for U251 after 72 h. The above IC50 values were used in all of the following analyses. Neither of the KPF presented significant inhibitory effects on the non-tumoral cells (HDFa). However, after 24 h, both extracts (KPF-BBR and KPF-ABR) significantly inhibited the migration and proliferation of NG-97 and U-251 cells. In addition, MMP-9 was downregulated in glioma cells stimulated by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) plus KPF-BBR and TPA+KPF-ABR compared with the TPA-treated cells. Both KPF-BBR and KPF-ABR significantly inhibited the proliferation of glioma stem cells (neurospheres) after 24 h. DNA fragmentation assays demonstrated that the apoptotic ratio of KPF-ABR-treated cell lines was significantly higher than in the control groups, especially NG-97, which is not TMZ resistant. In fact, the flow cytometric analysis indicated that KPF-BBR and KPF-ABR induced significant apoptosis in both glioma cells. In addition, both KPF induced S and G2/M cell cycle arrest in the U251 cells. The qPCR and luciferase assays showed that both KPFs downregulated TRAF6, IRAK2, IL-1β, and TNF-α, indicating an inhibitory effect on the NF-kB pathway. Our findings suggest that both KPF-BBR and KPF-ABR can confer anti-tumoral effects on human cell glioma cells by inhibiting proliferation and inducing apoptosis, which is related to the NF-κB-mediated pathway. The KPF-enriched extract (KPF-ABR) showed an increased inhibitory effect on the cell migration and invasion, characterizing it as the best antitumor candidate.

The paracaspase MALT1 is a downstream target of Smad3 and potentiates the crosstalk between TGF-β and NF-kB signaling pathways in cancer cells

TGF-β signaling mediates its biological effects by engaging canonical Smad proteins and crosstalking extensively with other signaling networks, including the NF-kB pathway. The paracaspase MALT1 is an intracellular signaling molecule essential for NF-kB activation downstream of several key cell surface receptors. Despite intensive research on TGF-β and NF-kB interactions, the significance of MALT1 in this context remains undecoded. Here we provide experimental evidence supporting that MALT1 functions to converge these pathways. Using A549 and Huh7 cancer cell line models, we report that TGF-β stimulation enhances MALT1 protein and transcript levels in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Systematic and selective perturbation of TGF-β signaling components identifies MALT1 as a downstream target of Smad3. Rescue experiments in SMAD3 knockout cells confirm that C-terminal phosphorylation of Smad3 is central to MALT1 induction. Corroborating these data, we document that the expression of SMAD3 and MALT1 genes are positively correlated in TCGA cohorts, and we trace the molecular basis of MALT1 elevation to promoter activation. Functional studies in parental as well as NF-kB p65 signaling reporter engineered cells conclusively reveal that MALT1 is paramount for TGF-β-stimulated nuclear translocation and transcriptional activation of NF-kB p65. Furthermore, we find that BCL10 is also implicated in TGF-β activation of NF-kB target genes, potentially coupling the TGF-β-MALT1-NF-kB signaling axis to the CARMA-BCL10-MALT1 (CBM) signalosome. The novel findings of this study indicate that MALT1 is a downstream target of the canonical TGF-β/Smad3 pathway and plays a critical role in modulating TGF-β and NF-kB crosstalk in cancer.

Long noncoding RNA HULC regulates the NF-κB pathway and represents a promising prognostic biomarker in liver cancer

BACKGROUND

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in a diverse array of biological processes. While lncRNAs are commonly upregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the specific regulatory roles they play in this oncogenic context require further study and clarification. Although HULC (lncRNA highly upregulated in liver cancer) is involved in disease pathogenesis, its precise role in this context remains unclear.

METHODS

Here, we have explored the mechanistic relevance of HULC expression by assessing its expression in patient samples. The importance of this lncRNA in the onset and progression of HCC was investigated through in vitro approaches including Western blotting, quantitative PCR, Transwell assays, electron microscopy, wound healing assays, and real-time cell analysis (RTCA). Additionally, the in vivo functions of this lncRNA were assessed using an orthotopic HCC xenograft in nude mouse model system.

RESULTS

HULC was identified as a lncRNA that is highly upregulated in human liver tumors. In vitro, HULC was able to promote HCC malignancy, although its excess overexpression also led robust autophagic induction, promoting the increased expression of autophagy-associated genes including LC3 and Beclin-1. At a mechanistic level, HULC was able to promote the phosphorylation of p65 and IkBkB thus enhancing autophagy by increasing LC3II levels in a manner dependent upon the NF-κB pathway. HULC downregulation was also linked to impaired orthotopic HCC tumor growth in vivo. The link between HULC and autophagy may play a role in disease progression.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that HULC is an oncogenic lncRNA, and may thus offer value as a prognostic biomarker and promoter of HCC development, in addition to being a potential therapeutic target in this cancer type.

Sauchinone alleviates dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis via NAD(P)H dehydrogenase [quinone] 1/NF-kB pathway and gut microbiota

Objective

This study evaluated the effects of sauchinone on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) mice model and investigated the underlying mechanisms of the downstream pathway and gut microbiota.

Methods

The UC mice model was induced by DSS. The disease phenotypes were determined through pathological symptoms (body weight and disease activity index score), inflammation markers (histological and inflammatory factor detections), and colonic mucosal barrier damage (detection of tight junction proteins). The level of the NF-κB pathway was detected through marker proteins. Database and bioinformatics analyses were used to predict sauchinone-mediated downstream molecules that were previously identified by expression analysis. Mouse feces were collected to detect the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene.

Results

In DSS-induced UC mice, sauchinone alleviated pathological symptoms, inhibited inflammation, and prevented mucosal barrier damage. Sauchinone further inhibited the NF-κB pathway by upregulating NAD (P) H dehydrogenase [quinone] 1 (NQO1) in DSS-induced UC mice. Moreover, sauchinone regulated the diversity and composition of the gut microbiota in mice, stimulating the growth of Firmicutes and inhibiting the growth of Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes.

Conclusion

Therefore, sauchinone exerted therapeutic effects on UC in mice by regulating the NQO1/NF-κB pathway and altering the gut microbiota. This provides a theoretical basis for developing sauchinone as a therapeutic agent and extends our understanding of its bioactivity.

Biological relevance of ZNF224 expression in chronic lymphocytic leukemia and its implication IN NF-kB pathway regulation

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a heterogeneous disease, whose presentation and clinical course are highly variable. Identification of novel prognostic factors may contribute to improving the CLL classification and providing indications for treatment options. The zinc finger protein ZNF224 plays a key role in cell transformation, through the control of apoptotic and survival pathways. In this study, we evaluated the potential application of ZNF224 as a novel marker of CLL progression and therapy responsiveness. To this aim, we analyzed ZNF224 expression levels in B lymphocytes from CLL patients at different stages of the disease and in patients showing different treatment outcomes. The expression of ZNF224 was significantly increased in disease progression and dramatically decreased in patients in complete remission after chemotherapy. Gene expression correlation analysis performed on datasets of CLL patients revealed that ZNF224 expression was well correlated with that of some prognostic and predictive markers. Moreover, bioinformatic analysis coupled ZNF224 to NF-κB pathway, and experimental data demonstrated that RNA interference of ZNF224 reduced the activity of the NF-κB survival pathway in CLL cells. Consistently with a pro-survival role, ZNF224 knockdown raised spontaneous and drug-induced apoptosis and inhibited the proliferation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from CLL patients. Our findings provide evidence for the involvement of ZNF224 in the survival of CLL cells via NF-κB pathway modulation, and also suggest ZNF224 as a prognostic and predictive molecular marker of CLL disease.

MicroRNA-155-5p modulates the progression of acute respiratory distress syndrome by targeting interleukin receptors

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a multifactorial inflammatory lung failure with a high incidence and a high cost burden. However, the underlying pathogenesis of ARDS is still unclear. Recently, microRNA has been shown to have critical function in regulating the pathogenesis of ARDS development and inflammation. To identify the important microRNA in the serum from patients with ARDS that may be potential biomarkers for the disease and explore the underlying disease mechanism. We found significant upregulation of miR-155-5p expression in serum samples from patients with ARDS compared with the control group (p < 0.01). The levels of interleukin receptors and inflammatory cytokines were significantly increased in blood samples from patients with ARDS (p < 0.05). In the cell model, miR-155-5p had a binding site in the 3’-UTR of the three interleukin receptors. In LPS-simulated BEAS-2B cells, transfection of miR-155-5p mimic inhibited the expression levels of these interleukin receptors, and was found to directly target the inflammatory response of leukocyte nodulin receptor through NF-kB signaling. In conclusion, miR-155-5p can alleviate LPS-simulated injury that induces the expression of IL17RB, IL18R1, and IL22RA2 by affecting the NF-kB pathway; however, it cannot change the occurrence of inflammatory storms. Collectively, this suggests that the progression of ARDS is the result of effects of the multiple regulatory pathways, providing novel evidence for the therapy of ARDS.

LMO1 Plays an Oncogenic Role in Human Glioma Associated With NF-kB Pathway

Background

LIM domain only protein1(LMO1), a nuclear transcription coregulator, is implicated in the pathogenesis of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and neuroblastoma. However, the clinical significance and potential mechanism of LMO1 in human gliomas remain to be determined.

Methods

In this study, expression level data and clinical information were obtained via three databases. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to predict outcomes for glioma patients. In vitro and in vivo assays were used to explore the function of LMO1 in human glioma. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), RNA-seq and western blot were used to explore the potential molecular mechanisms. A prognostic model was built for predicting the overall survival(OS) of human glioma patients.

Results

High LMO1 expression was associated with a high tumor grade and a poor prognosis in patients. High levels of LMO1 mRNA were correlated with poor prognosis in patients with isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)-wild-type (wt) and 1p/19q non-codeletion gliomas. Gene silencing of LMO1 significantly inhibited tumor growth, invasion and migration in vitro. In contrast, LMO1 over-expression promoted tumor growth, invasion and migration. Mechanically, LMO1 may positively regulate the level of NGFR mRNA and protein. NGFR mediated the regulation between LMO1 and NF-kB activation. Consistently, the nude mice study further confirmed that knockdown of LMO1 blocked tumor growth via NGFR-NF-kB axis. Finally, The nomogram based on the LMO1 signature for overall survival (OS) prediction in human glioma patients exhibited good performance in the individual mortality risk.

Conclusion

This study provides new insights and evidences that high level expression of LMO1 is significantly correlated with progression and prognosis in human gliomas. LMO1 played a critical role in tumorigenesis and progression. The present study first investigated the LMO1–NGFR–NF-kB axis regulate cell growth and invasion in human glioma cells, whereby targeting this pathway may be a therapeutic target for glioma.

hZIP1 Inhibits Progression of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma by Suppressing NF-kB/HIF-1α Pathway

Purpose

Accumulating literature has suggested that hZIP1 and HIF-1α play vital roles in the tumor process of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). However, the functional roles of hZIP1 and HIF-1α in ccRCC remain largely unknown.

Methods

HIF-1α protein level was evaluated by a western blot in ccRCC tissues and cell lines. ccRCC cell lines were transfected with HIF-1α-siRNA to downregulate the expression level of HIF-1α. Then the proliferative, migratory and invasive abilities of ccRCC cells in vitro were detected by real-time cell analysis (RTCA) assay, wound healing assay and transwell assay, respectively. The role of HIF-1α in vivo was explored by tumor implantation in nude mice. Then the effect on glycolysis‐related proteins was performed by western blot after hZIP1 knockdown (overexpression) or HIF-1α knockdown. The effect on NF‐kB pathway was detected after hZIP1 overexpression.

Results

HIF-1α was markedly downregulated in ccRCC tissues compared with normal areas. But HIF-1α presented almost no expression in HK-2 and ACHN cells. Immunofluorescence indicated HIF-1α and PDK1 expression in both the cytoplasm and nucleus in ccRCC cells. Downregulation of HIF-1α suppressed ccRCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and resulted in smaller implanted tumors in nude mice. Furthermore, hZIP1 knockdown elevated HIF-1α protein levels and PDK1 protein levels in ccRCC cells. Interestingly, a sharp downregulated expression of HIF-1α was observed after hZIP1 overexpression in OSRC-2 and 786-O cells, which resulted from a downtrend of NF-kB1 moving into the cell nucleus.

Conclusion

Our work has vital implications that hZIP1 suppresses ccRCC progression by inhibiting NF-kB/HIF-1α pathway.

Evaluation of the anti-inflammatory effects of surface-reaction-type pre-reacted glass-ionomer filler containing root canal sealer in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages

A prototype surface-reaction-type pre-reacted glass-ionomer (S-PRG) filler containing root canal sealer (S-PRG sealer) exhibits bioactive potential by releasing multiple ions. This study explored the suppressive effects and modes of action of S-PRG sealer extracts on proinflammatory cytokine expression in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Expression of proinflammatory cytokines was evaluated by RT-qPCR and ELISA. Expression of phosphorylated nuclear factor-kappa B (p-NF-kB) p65 was evaluated by western blotting. S-PRG sealer extracts significantly downregulated mRNA expression levels of interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-6, and TNF-α in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells; the extracts also reduced the levels of IL-6 protein and p-NF-kB. In order to verify that Zn²⁺ was responsible for downregulation of proinflammatory cytokine expression, N,N,N',N'-tetrakis(2-pyridylmethyl) ethylenediamine (TPEN) was used as a heavy metal chelator with strong affinity for Zn²⁺. These effects were mitigated by TPEN. The application of ZnCl₂ reproduced the actions of S-PRG sealer extracts. These data suggest that S-PRG sealer has anti-inflammatory potential involving heavy metal ions such as Zn²⁺.

The ACE2-Ang-(1‑7)-Mas Axis Modulates M1/M2 Macrophage Polarization to Relieve CLP-Induced Inflammation via TLR4-Mediated NF-кb and MAPK Pathways

Purpose

Angiotensin 1–7 [Ang-(1-7)] has been identified as an important anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic factor. This study determined how the ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-Mas axis affected M1/M2 macrophage polarization and thus contributed to anti-inflammatory processes in the cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced inflammation model.

Materials and Methods

ELISA, western blotting, and qRT-PCR were used to verify that Ang-(1-7) decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased anti-inflammatory cytokines. The differentiation of M1/M2 macrophages was assessed by flow cytometry for assessing the cell-surface markers, CD86 and CD206. The related key receptors and pathways were analyzed by Western blotting, qRT-PCR, and immunofluorescence. CLP-induced inflammatory mice models were used for in vivo studies. Hematoxylin and eosin and immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining protocols were used to analyze histological changes in the spleen, and the related key pathway proteins were analyzed by western blotting.

Results

Ang-(1-7) decreased the expressions of the TNF-α and IL-6 pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased the expressions of the IL-4 and IL-10 anti-inflammatory cytokines. INOS and TNF-α, which represented M1 macrophage polarization, were decreased by Ang-(1-7). ARG1 and CD163, which represented M2 macrophage polarization, were increased by Ang-(1-7). Both Mas receptor and ACE2 are expressed on macrophages. Furthermore, the ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-MAS axis modulated macrophage polarization by ameliorating TLR4 expression and regulating the NF-кB and MAPK pathways. In addition, splenomegaly and macrophage infiltration were observed in the spleen of the CLP-induced mouse models and macrophages in the spleen suspension of CLP models were shifted to M1 phenotype and were effectively inhibited by Ang-(1-7) via the TLR4-mediated NF-кB and MAPK pathways, which could be partially rescued by A-779.

Conclusion

Ang-(1-7) inhibited inflammatory responses in vivo and in vitro, and repressed macrophage polarization toward the M1 phenotype and promoted it toward the M2 phenotype, which provided new evidence for the anti-inflammation activity of the ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-MAS axis.

Ginsenoside Rb1 Alleviates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Injury by Downregulating miR-222 in WI-38 Cells

Pneumonia is a serious respiratory tract infection disease in children, which threatens to the health or life of children patients. Ginsenoside Rb1 (Rb1) is a principle active ingredient extracted from the root of Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F.H. Chen with anti-inflammatory effect. Our study aimed to determine the effects and molecular mechanisms of Rb1 on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory injury of lung fibroblasts WI-38 cells. Cell viability and apoptosis were evaluated by CCK-8 and flow cytometry, respectively. The production of inflammatory cytokines were measured by ELISA and RT-qPCR. miR-222 expression was examined by RT-qPCR. The expression levels of the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) p65 and phosphorylated p65 were detected by western blot. We found that LPS stimulation induced WI-38 cell inflammatory injury by inhibiting cell viability, and inducing apoptosis and inflammatory cytokine production, while treatment with Rb1 significantly attenuated LPS-induced inflammatory injury in WI-38 cells. Additionally, Rb1 decreased LPS-induced upregulation of miR-222 and activation of the NF-κB pathway in WI-38 cells. Overexpression of miR-222 abolished the inhibitory effects of Rb1 on LPS-induced viability reduction, apoptosis, inflammatory cytokine production and activation of the NF-κB pathway. In conclusion, Rb1 alleviated LPS-induced inflammatory injury in WI-38 cells via downregulating miR-222 and inactivation of the NF-kB pathway.

Disclosing the potential of eleganolone for Parkinson's disease therapeutics: Neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory activities

The treatment of Parkinson´s disease (PD) has benefited from significant advances resulting from the increasing research efforts focused on new therapeutics. However, the current treatments for PD are mostly symptomatic, alleviating disease symptoms without reversing or retarding disease progression. Thus, it is critical to find new molecules that can result in more effective treatments. Within this framework, this study aims to evaluate the neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of three compounds (eleganolone, eleganonal and fucosterol) isolated from the brown seaweed Bifurcaria bifurcata. In vitro neuroprotective effects were evaluated on a PD cellular model induced by the neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) on SH-SY5Y human cells, while lipopolysaccharide (LPS) - stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages were used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory potential. Additionally, the underlying mechanisms of action were also investigated. Compounds were isolated by preparative chromatographic methods and their structural elucidation attained by NMR spectroscopy. Among the tested compounds, eleganolone (0.1-1 µM; 24 h) reverted the neurotoxicity induced by 6-OHDA in about 20%. The neuroprotective effects were mediated by mitochondrial protection, reduction of oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis, and inhibition of NF-kB pathway. The results suggest that eleganolone may provide advantages in the treatment of neurodegenerative conditions and, therefore, should be considered for future preclinical studies.

Loliolide, a New Therapeutic Option for Neurological Diseases? In Vitro Neuroprotective and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of a Monoterpenoid Lactone Isolated from Codium tomentosum

Parkinsons Disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease worldwide, and is characterized by a progressive degeneration of dopaminergic neurons. Without an effective treatment, it is crucial to find new therapeutic options to fight the neurodegenerative process, which may arise from marine resources. Accordingly, the goal of the present work was to evaluate the ability of the monoterpenoid lactone Loliolide, isolated from the green seaweed Codium tomentosum, to prevent neurological cell death mediated by the neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) on SH-SY5Y cells and their anti-inflammatory effects in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Loliolide was obtained from the diethyl ether extract, purified through column chromatography and identified by NMR spectroscopy. The neuroprotective effects were evaluated by the MTT method. Cells' exposure to 6-OHDA in the presence of Loliolide led to an increase of cells' viability in 40%, and this effect was mediated by mitochondrial protection, reduction of oxidative stress condition and apoptosis, and inhibition of the NF-kB pathway. Additionally, Loliolide also suppressed nitric oxide production and inhibited the production of TNF-α and IL-6 pro-inflammatory cytokines. The results suggest that Loliolide can inspire the development of new neuroprotective therapeutic agents and thus, more detailed studies should be considered to validate its pharmacological potential.

MiR-590-3p regulates cardiomyocyte P19CL6 proliferation, apoptosis and differentiation in vitro by targeting PTPN1 via JNK/STAT/NF-kB pathway

Cardiomyocyte differentiation is a multi-step process which involves a number of signalling pathways. microRNAs exhibit regulatory functions in various diseases and are involved in the signalling pathways in multiple physiological processes, but the specific functions of particular mRNAs is often not fully understood. of an example of this is that the role of miR-590-3p in the differentiation of cardiomyocytes remains unclear. In the current study, RT-qPCR was used to determine the expression of miR-590-3p in cardiomyocytes differentiated from the embryonic carcinoma cell line P19CL6. MTT, EdU, caspase-3 activity and flow cytometry assays were performed to examine the influence of miR-590-3p on cell behaviour. A luciferase assay was used to confirm binding between miR-590-3p and PTPN1. Western blotting was used to determine the relationship between the JNK/STAT/NF-kB pathway and PTPN1. The results inferred that miR-590-3p became heavily expressed in differentiated P19CL6. Knockdown miR-590-3p suppressed the cell proliferation while at the same time, accelerated apoptosis. Moreover, PTPN1 was identified as the target of miR-590-3p. More importantly, PTPN1 overexpression activated the JNK/STAT/NF-kB pathway and limited the differentiation of P19CL6. Thus the conclusions from this study are that miR-590-3p has the potential to regulate the proliferation, apoptosis and differentiation of cardiomyocyte P19CL6 in vitro by targeting PTPN1 via the JNK/STAT/NF-kB pathway.

Temporal changes of NF-κB signaling pathway genes in bacterial stimulated whole blood- a host mechanism associated with sepsis

Bacterial sepsis affects both neonates and adults worldwide. There is no specific anti-sepsis treatment. Disease management mainly depends on early diagnosis. The gold standard blood culturing method is routinely practiced; it requires 24-48 h for confirmation. Understanding the disease mechanism may help in the early detection of sepsis. We studied the temporal change in NF-kB pathway genes in adult whole blood upon bacterial stimulations across time intervals (2-6 h). Four experimental conditions were investigated (1: Gram-positive, 2: Gram-negative, 3: Gram-positive + Gram-negative stimulated and compared with 4: un-stimulated group) to show host selection of canonical or non-canonical pathway against invading pathogens. Gene expression analysis showed significant variations (p < 0.5) in TLR2, TLR4, TRAF6, NIK, RelA, and RelB upon bacterial stimulants. Further, the correlation analysis showed the coherent behaviour of genes in selecting the canonical or non-canonical pathway. TLR2 sensed by gram-positive bacteria that immediately activates the canonical pathway through RelA, whereas other bacterial stimulants activate the non-canonical pathway via TLR4, NIK, and RelB. In addition, the inflammatory markers showed a significant increase in response to bacterial stimulants, suggesting the immediate activation of innate immunity. Overall, our results show the bacterial specific and time-dependent activation of the NF-kB pathway, which through a light towards the early detection of bacterial sepsis.

Management of Drug Resistance in Mantle Cell Lymphoma

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare but aggressive B-cell hemopathy characterized by the translocation t(11;14)(q13;q32) that leads to the overexpression of the cell cycle regulatory protein cyclin D1. This translocation is the initial event of the lymphomagenesis, but tumor cells can acquire additional alterations allowing the progression of the disease with a more aggressive phenotype and a tight dependency on microenvironment signaling. To date, the chemotherapeutic-based standard care is largely inefficient and despite the recent advent of different targeted therapies including proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory drugs, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, relapses are frequent and are generally related to a dismal prognosis. As a result, MCL remains an incurable disease. In this review, we will present the molecular mechanisms of drug resistance learned from both preclinical and clinical experiences in MCL, detailing the main tumor intrinsic processes and signaling pathways associated to therapeutic drug escape. We will also discuss the possibility to counteract the acquisition of drug refractoriness through the design of more efficient strategies, with an emphasis on the most recent combination approaches.

R321C), associated to Paget's disease of bone, causes a blockade of autophagy and an activation of NF-kB pathway

Paget's disease of bone (PDB) is a bone disorder characterized by an increase in bone turnover in a disorganized way with a large increase in bone resorption followed by bone formation. The most important known genetic factor predisposing to PDB is mutation in Sequestosome1 (SQSTM1) gene. We have studied the prevalence of SQSTM1 mutations and examined genotype-phenotype correlations in a Spanish cohort of PDB patients. Also, we have characterized three PDB patients that carry the c.961C>T SQSTM1 gene mutation that it is localized in exon 6 of SQSTM1 gene and it causes the p. R321C mutation. This mutation has been reported in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia but in our knowledge this is the first time that p62 p. R321C mutation is associated to PDB. We show that p62 p.R321C mutation could induce blockage of autophagy and cell proliferation through NF-kB pathway. These results reinforce the hypothesis of autophagy involvement in Paget's disease of bone.

Phytochemical, in-vitro biological and chemo-preventive profiling of Arisaema jacquemontii Blume tuber extracts

Background

Arisaema jacquemontii is traditionally used in treatment of different diseases. In this study, phytochemical, in vitro biological and chemo-preventive screening of A. jacquemontii was carried out to explore its pharmacological potential.

Methods

The dried tuber of A. jacquemontii was extracted in 11 organic solvent mixture of different polarity. The extracts were screened for phytochemical assays (phenolics and flavonoids), antioxidants potential (free radical scavenging activity, total antioxidant activity, reducing power), biological activities (antibacterial, antifungal, cytotoxic, antileishmanial, protein kinase inhibition), and chemopreventive activities using different cell lines through standard protocols.

Results

Significant amount phenolic contents were determined in EtOH and MeOH extracts (210.3 ± 3.05 and 193.2 ± 3.15 μg GAE/mg, respectively). Maximum flavonoid content was determined in MeOH extract (22.4 ± 4.04 μg QE/mg). Noteworthy, DPPH scavenging activity was also recorded for MeOH extract (87.66%) followed by MeOH+EtOAc extract (85.11%). Considerable antioxidant capacity (7.8 ± 0.12 μg AAE/mg) and reducing power (3.1 ± 0.15 μg AAE/mg) was observed in extract of MeOH. The LC₅₀ against brine shrimp and leishmanial parasite was found 9.01 and 12.87 μg/mL for n-Hex and CHCl₃ extracts, respectively. The highest zone of inhibition against Streptomyces hyphae formation (12.5 ± 1.77 mm) by n-Hex extract. Growth zone of inhibition 13.8 ± 1.08 mm was recorded for EtOAc and MeOH extracts, respectively against Micrococcus luteus while 10.0 ± 0.11 mm for MeOH extract against Aspergillus flavus. In-vitro cytotoxic assay showed that n-Hex extract had higher cytotoxicity against DU-145 prostate cancer and HL-60 cancer cell lines. NF-kB and MTP potential showed 34.01 and 44.87 μg/mL for n-Hex and CHCl₃ extracts, respectively in chemo-preventive potential.

Conclusion

The study concludes that Arisaema jacquemontii bears significant phytochemical activity and pharmacological activities, this plant can be further explored for isolation of active component against a number of aliments.

Stroke and Amyloid-β Downregulate TREM-2 and Uch-L1 Expression that Synergistically Promote the Inflammatory Response

Neuroinflammation is involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease, and the transcription factor NF-κB is a player in this event. We found here that the ischemic damage alone or in association with Aβ1-42 activates the NF-κB pathway, induces an increase of BACE1 and a parallel inhibition of Uch-L1 and TREM2, both in vitro and in vivo, in Tg 5XFAD and in human brains of sporadic AD. This mechanism creates a synergistic loop that fosters inflammation. We also demonstrated a significant protection exerted by the restoration of Uch-L1 activity. The rescue of the enzyme is able to abolish the decrease of TREM2 and the parameters of neuroinflammation.

Vitamin D deficiency enhances insulin resistance by promoting inflammation in type 2 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

This study was aimed to analyze the level of serum 25(OH)D in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and explore the relationship between serum 25(OH)D and insulin resistance.

METHODS

60 health people and 106 patients with T2DM were measured the level of serum 25(OH)D, fasting blood glucose, insulin, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-1β, etc. We established a rat model of T2DM and vitamin D (VD) deficiency, and studied the effects of VD deficiency on homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and pancreatic inflammation.

RESULTS

The level of serum 25(OH)D in patients with T2DM was significantly lower than that in health people, and HOMA-IR decreased with the increasing of the serum 25(OH)D level. Pearson correlation analysis showed that the serum 25(OH)D level in patients with T2DM had a negative correlation with HOMA-IR (r=-0.750, P<0.001), TNF-α (r=-0.705, P<0.001), IL-1β (r=-0.661, P<0.001), IL-8 (r=-0.645, P<0.001), and IL-6 (r=-0.609, P<0.001). In animal experiment, Vitamin D deficiency enhanced HOMA-IR in rats with T2DM and reversed it by supplementing VD. Vitamin D deficiency could increase the inflammatory response by up-regulating p-p65/RelB in the pancreas tissue.

CONCLUSION

Serum 25(OH)D was elevated and Vitamin D deficiency enhanced insulin resistance by promoting inflammation via NF-kB pathway in patients with T2DM.

Blocking α2δ-1 Subunit Reduces Bladder Hypersensitivity and Inflammation in a Cystitis Mouse Model by Decreasing NF-kB Pathway Activation

Bladder pain is frequently associated with bladder inflammation, as in conditions like interstitial cystitis (IC), for which current analgesic therapies have limited efficacy. The antinociceptive effect of alpha-2-delta (α₂δ) ligands on inflammation-associated visceral pain like that experienced in cystitis has been poorly investigated. To investigate the effect of pregabalin (PGB), an α₂δ ligand, we evaluated its impact on mechanical hyperalgesia in a mouse model of cystitis induced by cyclophosphamide (CYP). We further studied its effect on inflammation and NF-kB pathway activation. Acute cystitis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of 150 mg kg^-1 of CYP in C57Bl/6J male mice. PGB was subcutaneously injected (30 mg kg^-1) 3 h after CYP injection. The effect of PGB on CYP-induced mechanical referred hyperalgesia (abdominal Von Frey test), inflammation (organ weight, cytokine production, α₂δ subunit level, NF-kB pathway activation) were assessed 1 h after its injection. In parallel, its effect on cytokine production, α₂δ subunit level and NF-kB pathway activation was assessed in vitro on peritoneal exudate cells (PECs) stimulated with LPS. PGB treatment decreased mechanical referred hyperalgesia. Interestingly, it had an anti-inflammatory effect in the cystitis model by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine production. PGB also inhibited NF-kB pathway activation in the cystitis model and in macrophages stimulated with LPS, in which it blocked the increase in intracellular calcium. This study shows the efficacy of PGB in hypersensitivity and inflammation associated with cystitis. It is therefore of great interest in assessing the benefit of α₂δ ligands in patients suffering from cystitis.

Class-Switch Recombination (CSR)/Hyper-IgM (HIGM) Syndromes and Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase (PI3K) Defects

Antibody production and function represent an essential part of the immune response, particularly in fighting bacterial and viral infections. Multiple immunological phenotypes can result in dysregulation of the immune system humoral compartment, including class-switch recombination (CSR) defects associated with hyper-IgM (HIGM) syndromes. The CSR/HIGM syndromes are defined by the presence of normal or elevated plasma IgM levels in the context of low levels of switched IgG, IgA, and IgE isotypes. Recently described autosomal dominant gain-of-function (GOF) mutations in PIK3CD and PIK3R1 cause combined immunodeficiencies that can also present as CSR/HIGM defects. These defects, their pathophysiology and derived clinical manifestations are described in depth. Previously reported forms of CSR/HIGM syndromes are briefly reviewed and compared to the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway defects. Diseases involving the PI3K pathway represent a distinctive subset of CSR/HIGM syndromes, presenting with their own characteristic clinical and laboratory attributes as well as individual therapeutic approaches.

Novel angiotensin receptor blocker, azilsartan induces oxidative stress and NFkB-mediated apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HepG2

Overexpression of renin angiotensin system (RAS) components and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) has a key role in various cancers. Blockade of RAS and NF-kB pathway has been suggested to reduce cancer cell proliferation. This study aimed to investigate the role of angiotensin II and NF-kB pathway in liver hepatocellular carcinoma cell line (HepG2) proliferation by using azilsartan (as a novel Ag II antagonist) and Bay 11-7082 (as NF-kB inhibitor). HepG2 cells were treated with different concentrations of azilsartan and Bay 11-7082. Cytotoxicity was determined after 24, 48, and 72?h by MTT assay. Reactive oxygen spices (ROS) generation and cytochrome c release were measured following azilsartan and Bay11- 7082 treatment. Apoptosis was analyzed qualitatively by DAPI staining and quantitatively through flow cytometry methodologies and Bax and Bcl-2 mRNA and protein levels were assessed by real time PCR and ELISA methods, respectively. The cytotoxic effects of different concentration of azilsartan and Bay11- 7082 on HepG2 cells were observed as a reduction in cell viability, increased ROS formation, cytochrome c release and apoptosis induction. These effects were found to correlate with a shift in Bax level and a downward trend in the expression of Bcl-2. These findings suggest that azilsartan and Bay11- 7082 in combination or alone have strong potential as an agent for prevention or treatment of liver cancer after further studies.

miRNA-20a upregulates TAK1 and increases proliferation in osteosarcoma cells

AIM

The aim of this study is to explore the function of miR-20a in osteosarcoma.

MATERIALS & METHODS

miR-20a expression was measured by real-time PCR. miR-20a mimics, inhibitor and scramble siRNA were transfected into osteosarcoma cells to observe effects on colony formation and tumor growth. Moreover, relationships of miR-20a with TAK1 were investigated by western blot and luciferase activity.

RESULTS

We found that miR-20a was downregulated in osteosarcoma, and overexpression of miR-20a reduced colony formation and tumor growth. Furthermore, the data revealed that the function of miR-20a was probably exerted via targeting the TAK1 expression. Overexpression of miR-20a sensitizes the osteosarcoma cells to chemotherapeutic drugs.

CONCLUSION

Our data identify the role of miR-20a in osteosarcoma growth, indicating its potential application in chemotherapy.

Systematic morphological profiling of human gene and allele function via Cell Painting

We hypothesized that human genes and disease-associated alleles might be systematically functionally annotated using morphological profiling of cDNA constructs, via a microscopy-based Cell Painting assay. Indeed, 50% of the 220 tested genes yielded detectable morphological profiles, which grouped into biologically meaningful gene clusters consistent with known functional annotation (e.g., the RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK cascade). We used novel subpopulation-based visualization methods to interpret the morphological changes for specific clusters. This unbiased morphologic map of gene function revealed TRAF2/c-REL negative regulation of YAP1/WWTR1-responsive pathways. We confirmed this discovery of functional connectivity between the NF-κB pathway and Hippo pathway effectors at the transcriptional level, thereby expanding knowledge of these two signaling pathways that critically regulate tumor initiation and progression. We make the images and raw data publicly available, providing an initial morphological map of major biological pathways for future study.

DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.24060.001

Many human diseases are caused by particular changes, called mutations, in patients’ DNA. A genome is the complete DNA set of an organism, which contains all the information to build the body and keep it working. This information is stored as a code made up of four chemicals called bases. Humans have about 30,000 genes built from DNA, which contain specific sequences of bases. Genome sequencing can determine the exact order of these bases, and has revealed a long list of mutations in genes that could cause particular diseases. However, over 30% of genes in the human body do not have a known role. Genes can serve multiple roles, some of which are not yet discovered, and even when a gene’s purpose is known, the impact of each particular mutation in a given gene is largely uncatalogued. Therefore, new methods need to be developed to identify the biological roles of both normal and abnormal gene sequences.

For hundreds of years, biologists have used microscopy to study how living cells work. Rohban et al. have now asked whether modern software that extracts data from microscopy images could create a fingerprint-like profile of a cell that would reflect how its genes affect its role and appearance. While some genes do not necessarily carry a code with instructions of what a cell should look like, they can indirectly modify the structure of the cell. The resulting changes in the shape of the cell can then be captured in images. The idea was that two cells with matching profiles would indicate that their combinations of genes had matching biological roles too.

Rohban et al. tested their approach with human cells grown in the laboratory. In each sample of cells, they ‘turned on’ one of a few hundred relatively well-known human genes, some of which were known to have similar roles. The cells were then stained via a technique called ‘Cell Painting’ to reveal eight specific components of each cell, including its DNA and its surface membrane. The stained cells were imaged under a microscope and the resulting microscopy images analyzed to create a profile of each type of cell. Rohban et al. confirmed that turning on genes known to perform similar biological roles lead to similar-looking cells. The analysis also revealed a previously unknown interaction between two major pathways in the cell that control how cancer starts and develops.

In the future, this approach could predict the biological roles of less-understood genes by looking for profiles that match those of well-known genes. Applying this strategy to every human gene, and mutations in genes that are linked to diseases, could help to answer many mysteries about how genes build the human body and keep it working.

DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.24060.002

Heat Shock Proteins: Therapeutic Perspectives in Inflammatory Disorders

BACKGROUND

Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are highly conserved proteins present in all kingdoms of organisms. These are expressed under stress conditions in order to protect the cells from injuries. The stress induced protein denaturation is rectified by refolding and remodelling. These are intracellular proteins but can be present in extracellular fluid like serum of the patients suffering from trauma, autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. Virtually in most inflammatory diseases, immune response towards HSPs is developed.

OBJECTIVE

The present review expedites the role of HSPs in inflammatory process and associated disorders, mainly in context to HSP70 and HSP90.

METHOD

Commencing a thorough survey of the literature and patents available on HSPs and their role in the process of inflammation, from the authentic published resources available on Medline, Pubmed, Pubmed Central, Science Direct and other scientific databases; the information retrieved has been compiled and analyzed.

RESULTS

HSPs modulate the process of inflammation by producing anti-inflammatory cytokines in chronic inflammatory disease. HSPs mediated expression of IL10 contributes in anti-inflammatory role via TLR2 and TLR4-dependent mechanisms. Necroptosis, a caspase independent programmed apoptosis plays an important role in progression of several inflammatory disorders and its major components MLKL and RIPK-1 are the clients of HSP. Necroptosis is also involved in exposure of several damageassociated molecular patterns (DAMPs) including HSPs in extracellular environment leading to inflammation. Endocytosed or intracellular HSP70, is presented by MHC-II molecules and in absence of proper co stimulation, it lead to expansion of tolerogenic or regulatory T cells (Tregs) responses, which have inflammation suppressive activity by virtue of production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, suppression or killing of effector T cells or bringing the APC into tolerogenic state. HSP induced Tregs play an important role in combating autoimmunity and inflammation.

CONCLUSION

Present review gives an insight towards the cause of inflammation and an account of different HSPs contributing various inflammatory disorders viz. inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), intestinal inflammation, atherosclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), multiple sclerosis etc. The importance of HSPs in handling inflammatory disorders has been depicted in recent patents also.

An intracellular adrenomedullin system reduces IL-6 release via a NF-kB-mediated, cAMP-independent transcriptional mechanism in rat thymic epithelial cells

Thymic epithelial cells (TECs) play a key role in the regulation of central immune tolerance by expressing autoantigens and eliminating self-reactive T cells. In a previous paper we reported that adrenomedullin (ADM) and its co-receptor protein RAMP2 are located intracellularly in newborn human thymic epithelial cells (TECs). This work has two main aims: (1) to examine the cellular localization of ADM and its receptor in TECs of adult Wistar rats to validate this animal model for the study of the ADM system and its function(s) in thymus; (2) to investigate the potential modulating effect of ADM on the NF-kB pathway, which is involved through the production of cytokines such as IL-6, in the maturation of T-lymphocytes and immunological tolerance. Our results show that, similarly to human newborn TECs, ADM is localized to the cytoplasm of adult rat TECs, and RAMP2 is expressed in the nucleus but not in the plasma membrane. Pretreatment of TECs for 4h with ADM significantly reduced lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced release of IL-6 (P<0.001) and expression of the p65 subunit of NF-kB, while doubled the expression of IkBα (P<0.001), the physiological inhibitor of NF-kB nuclear translocation. These effects were not mediated by activation of the cAMP pathway, a signalling cascade that is rapidly activated by ADM in cells that express plasma membrane RAMP2, but were the consequence of a reduction in the transcription of p65 (P<0.001) and an increase in the transcription of IkBα (P<0.05). On the basis of these findings we propose that in rat TECs ADM reduces IL-6 secretion by modulating NF-kB genes transcription through an interaction with a receptor localized to the nucleus. This may partly explain the protective effects of ADM in autoimmune diseases and points to the ADM system of TECs as a novel potential target for immunomodulating drugs.

Pycnogenol, a compound isolated from the bark of pinus maritime mill, attenuates ventilator-induced lung injury through inhibiting NF-κB-mediated inflammatory response

BACKGROUND

During mechanical ventilation, high end-inspiratory lung volume results in a permeability type pulmonary oedema, called ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI). The pathophysiology of ventilator-induced lung injury involves multiple mechanisms, such as excessive inflammation. And pycnogenol is a mixture of flavonoid compounds extracted from pine tree bark that have anti-inflammatory activity.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the effects of pyncogenol on ventilator-induced lung injury in rats.

METHODS

Rats were orally administrated with pycnogenol once (30 mg/kg) 2 days before lung injury induction with mechanical ventilation, then the rats were divided into three groups: lung-protective ventilation (LV group, n = 20), injurious ventilation (HV group, n = 20), HV + pycnogenol group (HV + Pyc group, n = 20). Lung specimens and the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were isolated for histopathological examinations and biochemical analyses.

RESULTS

Pretreatment with pycnogenol could markedly decrease lung wet/dry ratio, lower myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and total protein concentration and reduce the production of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β and MIP-2 in the BALF in ventilator-induced lung injury rats. Additionally, pycnogenol improved the histology of the lung and significantly inhibited the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 and the degradation of IκB-α.

CONCLUSION

Pycnogenol treatment could attenuate ventilator-induced lung injury in rats, at least in part, through its ability to reduce the production of inflammatory cytokines via inhibiting the activation of NF-κB, indicating it as a potential therapeutic candidate for ventilator-induced lung injury.