Biological evaluation of indolactams for in vitro bryostatin 1-like activity

Small molecule activators of protein kinase C (PKC) have traditionally been classified as either tumor promoters or suppressors. Although bryostatin 1 has well established anti-cancer activity, most natural products that target the PKC regulator domain exhibit tumor promotion properties. In this study, we examine a focused library of indolactam analogues in cell-based assays to establish the structural features of the scaffold that enhance bryostatin 1-like activity. These systematic biological assessments identified specific indole substitution patterns that impart diminished tumor promotion behavior in vitro for indolactam analogues, while still maintaining nanomolar potency for PKC.

Differential intracellular management of fatty acids impacts on metabolic stress-stimulated glucose uptake in cardiomyocytes

Stimulation of glucose uptake in response to ischemic metabolic stress is important for cardiomyocyte function and survival. Chronic exposure of cardiomyocytes to fatty acids (FA) impairs the stimulation of glucose uptake, whereas induction of lipid droplets (LD) is associated with preserved glucose uptake. However, the mechanisms by which LD induction prevents glucose uptake impairment remain elusive. We induced LD with either tetradecanoyl phorbol acetate (TPA) or 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1-β-D-ribofuranoside (AICAR). Triacylglycerol biosynthesis enzymes were inhibited in cardiomyocytes exposed to FA ± LD inducers, either upstream (glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferases; GPAT) or downstream (diacylglycerol acyltransferases; DGAT) of the diacylglycerol step. Although both inhibitions reduced LD formation in cardiomyocytes treated with FA and LD inducers, only DGAT inhibition impaired metabolic stress-stimulated glucose uptake. DGAT inhibition in FA plus TPA-treated cardiomyocytes reduced triacylglycerol but not diacylglycerol content, thus increasing the diacylglycerol/triacylglycerol ratio. In cardiomyocytes exposed to FA alone, GPAT inhibition reduced diacylglycerol but not triacylglycerol, thus decreasing the diacylglycerol/triacylglycerol ratio, prevented PKCδ activation and improved metabolic stress-stimulated glucose uptake. Changes in AMP-activated Protein Kinase activity failed to explain variations in metabolic stress-stimulated glucose uptake. Thus, LD formation regulates metabolic stress-stimulated glucose uptake in a manner best reflected by the diacylglycerol/triacylglycerol ratio.

The environmental carcinogen benzo[a]pyrene regulates epigenetic reprogramming and metabolic rewiring in a two-stage mouse skin carcinogenesis model

Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is the most common cancer in the world. Environmental exposure to carcinogens is one of the major causes of NMSC initiation and progression. In the current study, we utilized a two-stage skin carcinogenesis mouse model generated by sequential exposure to cancer-initiating agent benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) and promoting agent 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), to study epigenetic, transcriptomic and metabolic changes at different stages during the development of NMSC. BaP/TPA caused significant alterations in DNA methylation and gene expression profiles in skin carcinogenesis, as evidenced by DNA-seq and RNA-seq analysis. Correlation analysis between differentially expressed genes and differentially methylated regions found that the mRNA expression of oncogenes leucine rich repeat LGI family member 2 (Lgi2), kallikrein-related peptidase 13 (Klk13) and SRY-Box transcription factor (Sox5) are correlated with the promoter CpG methylation status, indicating BaP/TPA regulates these oncogenes through regulating their promoter methylation at different stages of NMSC. Pathway analysis identified that the modulation of macrophage-stimulating protein-recepteur d'origine nantais and high-mobility group box 1 signaling pathways, superpathway of melatonin degradation, melatonin degradation 1, sirtuin signaling and actin cytoskeleton signaling pathways are associated with the development of NMSC. The metabolomic study showed BaP/TPA regulated cancer-associated metabolisms like pyrimidine and amino acid metabolisms/metabolites and epigenetic-associated metabolites, such as S-adenosylmethionine, methionine and 5-methylcytosine, indicating a critical role in carcinogen-mediated metabolic reprogramming and its consequences on cancer development. Altogether, this study provides novel insights integrating methylomic, transcriptomic and metabolic-signaling pathways that could benefit future skin cancer treatment and interception studies.

Commiphora myrrha stimulates insulin secretion from β-cells through activation of atypical protein kinase C and mitogen-activated protein kinase

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ayurvedic medicine has been used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus for centuries. In Arabia and some areas of Africa, Commiphora myrrha (CM) has been extensively used as a plant-based remedy. We have previously shown that an aqueous CM resin solution directly stimulates insulin secretion from MIN6 cells, a mouse β-cell line, and isolated mouse and human islets. However, the signaling pathways involved in CM-induced insulin secretion are completely unknown. Insulin secretion is normally triggered by elevations in intracellular Ca²⁺ ([Ca²⁺]_i) through voltage gated Ca²⁺ channels (VGCC) and activation of protein kinases. Protein and lipid kinases such as protein kinase A (PKA), Ca²⁺-calmodulin dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3Ks), protein kinase C (PKC) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), specifically extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK1/2), may be involved in receptor-operated insulin secretion. Therefore, we hypothesized that CM may induce insulin secretion by modulating the activity of VGCC and/or one or more of the above kinases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the possible molecular mechanism of action of CM-induced insulin secretion. The effects of aqueous CM resin extract on [Ca²⁺]_i and protein kinase activation from β-cells were examined.

METHODS

The effect of aqueous CM resin solution on [Ca²⁺]_i was assessed using Ca²⁺ microfluorimetry. The involvement of VGCC in CM-induced insulin secretion was investigated using static and perifusion insulin secretion experiments in the presence of either EGTA, a Ca²⁺ chelator, or nifedipine, a blocker of VGCC. The involvement of kinase activation in the stimulatory effect of CM on insulin secretion was examined by using static and perifusion insulin secretion experiments in the presence of known pharmacological inhibitors and/or downregulation of specific kinases. The effects of CM on phosphorylation of PKCζ and ERK1/2 were also assessed using the Wes™ capillary-based protein electrophoresis.

RESULTS

Ca²⁺ microfluorimetry measurements showed that exposing MIN6 cells to CM (0.5-2 mg/mL) was not associated with changes in [Ca²⁺]_i. Similarly, incubating MIN6 cells and mouse islets with EGTA and nifedipine, respectively, did not attenuate the insulin secretion induced by CM. However, incubating mouse and human islets with CM in the presence of staurosporine, a non-selective protein kinase inhibitor, completely blocked the effect of CM on insulin secretion. Exposing mouse islets to CM in the presence of H89, KN62 and LY294002, inhibitors of PKA, CaMKII and PI3K, respectively, did not reduce CM-induced insulin secretion. However, incubating mouse and human islets with CM in the presence of Ro 31-8220, a pan-PKC inhibitor, diminished insulin secretion stimulated by CM, whereas inhibiting the action of typical PKC (with Go6976) and PLCβ (with U73122) did not affect CM-stimulated insulin secretion. Similarly, downregulating typical and novel PKC by chronic exposure of mouse islets to phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) was also not associated with a decrease in the stimulatory effect of CM on insulin secretion. Interestingly, CM-induced insulin secretion from mouse islets was inhibited in the presence of the PKCζ inhibitor ZIP and a MAPK inhibitor PD 98059. In addition, Wes™ capillary-based protein electrophoresis indicated that expression of the phosphorylated forms of PKCζ and ERK1/2, a MAPK, was significantly increased following exposure of INS-1832/13 cells, a rat insulinoma cell line, to CM.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate that CM directly stimulates insulin secretion through activating known downstream effectors of insulin-stimulus secretion coupling. Indeed, the increase in insulin secretion seen with CM is independent of changes in [Ca²⁺]_i and does not involve activation of VGCC. Instead, the CM stimulatory effect on insulin secretion is completely dependent on protein kinase activation. Our findings indicate that CM could induce insulin exocytosis by stimulating the phosphorylation and activation of PKCζ, which in turn phosphorylates and activates ERK1/2.

Comparison of Rapid Cytokine Immunoassays for Functional Immune Phenotyping

Background

Cell-based functional immune-assays may allow for risk stratification of patients with complex, heterogeneous immune disorders such as sepsis. Given the heterogeneity of patient responses and the uncertain immune pathogenesis of sepsis, these assays must first be defined and calibrated in the healthy population.

Objective

Our objective was to compare the internal consistency and practicality of two immune assays that may provide data on surrogate markers of the innate and adaptive immune response. We hypothesized that a rapid turnaround, microfluidic-based immune assay (ELLA) would be comparable to a dual-color, enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISpot) assay in identifying tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interferon (IFN)γ production following ex vivo whole blood stimulation.

Design

This was a prospective, observational cohort analysis. Whole blood samples from ten healthy, immune-competent volunteers were stimulated for either 4 hours or 18 hours with lipopolysaccharide, anti-CD3/anti-CD28 antibodies, or phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate with ionomycin to interrogate innate and adaptive immune responses, respectively.

Measurements and Main Results

ELLA analysis produced more precise measurement of TNF and IFNγ concentrations as compared with ELISpot, as well as a four- to five-log₁₀ dynamic range for TNF and IFNγ concentrations, as compared with a two-log₁₀ dynamic range with ELISpot. Unsupervised clustering accurately predicted the ex vivo immune stimulant used for 90% of samples analyzed via ELLA, as compared with 72% of samples analyzed via ELISpot.

Conclusions

We describe, for the first time, a rapid and precise assay for functional interrogation of the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system in healthy volunteers. The advantages of the ELLA microfluidic platform may represent a step forward in generating a point-of-care test with clinical utility, for identifying deranged immune phenotypes in septic patients.

Interactions between the Nociceptin and Toll-like Receptor Systems

Nociceptin and the nociceptin receptor (NOP) have been described as targets for treatment of pain and inflammation, whereas toll-like receptors (TLRs) play key roles in inflammation and impact opioid receptors and endogenous opioids expression. In this study, interactions between the nociceptin and TLR systems were investigated. Human THP-1 cells were cultured with or without phorbol myristate acetate (PMA 5 ng/mL), agonists specific for TLR2 (lipoteichoic acid, LTA 10 µg/mL), TLR4 (lipopolysaccharide, LPS 100 ng/mL), TLR7 (imiquimod, IMQ 10 µg/mL), TLR9 (oligonucleotide (ODN) 2216 1 µM), PMA+TLR agonists, or nociceptin (0.01−100 nM). Prepronociceptin (ppNOC), NOP, and TLR mRNAs were quantified by RT-qPCR. Proteins were measured using flow cytometry. PMA upregulated ppNOC mRNA, intracellular nociceptin, and cell membrane NOP proteins (all p < 0.05). LTA and LPS prevented PMA’s upregulating effects on ppNOC mRNA and nociceptin protein (both p < 0.05). IMQ and ODN 2216 attenuated PMA’s effects on ppNOC mRNA. PMA, LPS, IMQ, and ODN 2216 increased NOP protein levels (all p < 0.05). PMA+TLR agonists had no effects on NOP compared to PMA controls. Nociceptin dose-dependently suppressed TLR2, TLR4, TLR7, and TLR9 proteins (all p < 0.01). Antagonistic effects observed between the nociceptin and TLR systems suggest that the nociceptin system plays an anti-inflammatory role in monocytes under inflammatory conditions.

Analysis of peripheral blood chemiluminescence in horses

The aim of this study was to analyze the chemiluminescence (CL) of peripheral blood in clinically healthy horses of different sexes and ages. The tests were carried out on 119 half- -breed horses, representing various forms of use (66 recreational horses and 53 sport horses). The test material was peripheral blood, which was collected under resting conditions, i.e. before physical activity related to the use of these animals. In the blood samples, spontaneous and stimulated CL with zymosan and phorbol myristate acetate were determined. It has been found that regular training effort increases the blood's pro-oxidative potential, which was demonstrated by significantly higher (p⟨0.05) CL values in sport horses compared to recreational animals. Analysis of the results did not show any statistically significant correlation between sex or age of the horses with chemiluminescence values in peripheral blood. The result of the research suggests the need to optimize the results of blood CL measurements, taking into account the number of neutrophils and the concentration of hemoglobin in the blood of tested animals. Analysis of non-optimized blood CL results may lead to premature conclusions.

Non-invasive and accurate readout of superoxide anion in biological systems by near-infrared light

Infectious and inflammatory diseases involve superoxide anion (O₂^•-) production. Real-time and non-invasive evaluation of O₂^•- in intact biological systems has been a significant challenge in biology and medicine. Here, I report that an advanced near-infrared chemiluminescent probe, MCLA-800, enables reliable non-invasive optical readout of O₂^•-ex vivo and in vivo. MCLA-800 allowed highly selective and sensitive monitoring of O₂^•- in undiluted human whole blood ex vivo. For the first time, the use of MCLA-800 revealed two reproducible types of O₂^•- production in response to stimulation by unopsonized zymosan particles of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, that is, slow response (S-type) and fast response (F-type), specific to each individual. O₂^•- production was synchronized with myeloperoxidase (MPO) activation in the former type but not in the latter. Moreover, as new findings, MCLA-800 chemiluminescence demonstrated that the chemiluminescence intensity-time properties of formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP)- or phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-induced O₂^•- production and MPO activity were independent of S- and F-type zymosan-induced MCLA-800 chemiluminescence whole blood and that PMA-induced MPO activation synchronized with PMA-induced O₂^•- production in S- and F-type zymosan-induced MCLA-800 chemiluminescence whole blood, but fMLP-induced MPO activation did not synchronize with fMLP-induced O₂^•- production in both of S- and F-type blood. Furthermore, MCLA-800 spatiotemporally allowed non-invasive and clear in vivo imaging of O₂^•- in animal models of acute dermatitis and focal arthritis. Therefore, MCLA-800 could be possibly applied in various advanced diagnostic techniques.

DOT1L modulates the senescence-associated secretory phenotype through epigenetic regulation of IL1A

Oncogene-induced senescence (OIS) is a stable cell cycle arrest that occurs in normal cells upon oncogene activation. Cells undergoing OIS express a wide variety of secreted factors that affect the senescent microenvironment termed the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), which is beneficial or detrimental in a context-dependent manner. OIS cells are also characterized by marked epigenetic changes. We globally assessed histone modifications of OIS cells and discovered an increase in the active histone marks H3K79me2/3. The H3K79 methyltransferase disruptor of telomeric silencing 1-like (DOT1L) was necessary and sufficient for increased H3K79me2/3 occupancy at the IL1A gene locus, but not other SASP genes, and was downstream of STING. Modulating DOT1L expression did not affect the cell cycle arrest. Together, our studies establish DOT1L as an epigenetic regulator of the SASP, whose expression is uncoupled from the senescence-associated cell cycle arrest, providing a potential strategy to inhibit the negative side effects of senescence while maintaining the beneficial inhibition of proliferation.

Protein kinase Cα regulates the nucleocytoplasmic shuttling of KRIT1

KRIT1 is a scaffolding protein that regulates multiple molecular mechanisms, including cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion, and redox homeostasis and signaling. However, rather little is known about how KRIT1 is itself regulated. KRIT1 is found in both the cytoplasm and the nucleus, yet the upstream signaling proteins and mechanisms that regulate KRIT1 nucleocytoplasmic shuttling are not well understood. Here, we identify a key role for protein kinase C (PKC) in this process. In particular, we found that PKC activation promotes the redox-dependent cytoplasmic localization of KRIT1, whereas inhibition of PKC or treatment with the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine leads to KRIT1 nuclear accumulation. Moreover, we demonstrated that the N-terminal region of KRIT1 is crucial for the ability of PKC to regulate KRIT1 nucleocytoplasmic shuttling, and may be a target for PKC-dependent regulatory phosphorylation events. Finally, we found that silencing of PKCα, but not PKCδ, inhibits phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-induced cytoplasmic enrichment of KRIT1, suggesting a major role for PKCα in regulating KRIT1 nucleocytoplasmic shuttling. Overall, our findings identify PKCα as a novel regulator of KRIT1 subcellular compartmentalization, thus shedding new light on the physiopathological functions of this protein.

PKCδ mediates mitochondrial ROS generation and oxidation of HSP60 to relieve RKIP inhibition on MAPK pathway for HCC progression

Both protein kinase C (PKC) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) are well-known signaling messengers cross-talking with each other to activate mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) for progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the underlying mechanisms are not well elucidated. Especially, whether mitochondrial ROS (mtROS) is involved and how it triggers MAPK signaling are intriguing. In this study, we found mtROS generation and phosphorylation of MAPKs were mediated by PKCδ in HCCs treated with the tumor promoter 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate (TPA). Heat shock protein 60 (HSP60), one of the chaperones in mitochondria was the major protein oxidized in TPA-treated HCCs. Moreover, depletion of HSP60 or expression of HSP60 cysteine mutant prevented TPA-induced phosphorylation of MAPKs. To delineate how HSP60 mediated MAPK activation, the role of Raf kinase inhibitor protein (RKIP), a negative regulator of MAPK, was investigated. TPA dissociated RKIP from HSP60 in both mitochondria and cytosol, concurrently with translocation of HSP60 and MAPK from mitochondria to cytosol, which was associated with robust phosphorylation of MAPKs in the cytosol. Moreover, TPA induced opposite phenotypical changes of HCCs, G1 cell cycle arrest, and cell migration, which were prevented by mtROS scavengers and depletion of PKCδ and HSP60. Consistently, TPA increased the migration-related genes, hydrogen peroxide inducible clone5, matrix metalloproteinase-1/3, lamininγ2, and suppressed the cell cycle regulator cyclin E1 (CCNE1) via PKCδ/mtROS/HSP60/MAPK-axis. Finally, c-jun and c-fos were required for TPA-induced expression of the migration-related genes and a novel microRNA, miR-6134, was responsible for TPA-induced suppression of CCNE1. In conclusion, PKCδ cross-talked with mtROS to trigger HSP60 oxidation for release of RKIP to activate MAPK, regulating gene expression for migration, and G1 cell cycle arrest in HCC. Targeted therapy aiming at key players like PKCδ, RKIP, and HSP60 is promising for preventing HCC progression.

Abnormal Pressure Stress Reduces Interleukin-1β-Induced Cyclooxygenase-2 Expression in Cultured Rat Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

Elevated mechanical stress on blood vessels associated with hypertension has a direct effect on the function of vascular endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). In the present study, we have identified the effect of pulsatile pressure stress on cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression induced by interleukin (IL)-1β in cultured rat VSMCs. VSMCs were isolated from aortic media of Wistar rats and cultured. Pulsatile pressure applied to VSMCs was repeatedly given between either 80 and 160 mmHg, which simulates systolic hypertension, or 80 and 120 mmHg, which simulates normal blood pressure, at a frequency of 4 cycles per min using our original apparatus. Pressure loading that simulates systolic hypertension reduced IL-1β-induced COX-2 expression. The pressure also inhibited the rapid and transient phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) induced by IL-1β. IL-1β-induced COX-2 expression was significantly inhibited by a specific conventional protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor. Pressure loading that simulates systolic hypertension also reduced phorbol myristate 13-acetate (PMA) (a PKC activator)-induced COX-2 expression and the rapid and transient phosphorylation of ERK. Pressure loading that simulates normal blood pressure had no effect on IL-1β- and PMA-induced COX-2 expression. The present study shows that pressure stress between 80 and 160 mmHg, which simulates systolic hypertension reduces IL-1β-induced COX-2 expression by affecting a mechanism involving PKC and ERK signaling pathways. Downregulation of COX-2 expression in VSMCs by abnormal pressure stress may further worsen local vascular injury associated with hypertension.

Dioscorea nipponica Makino suppresses TPA-induced migration and invasion through inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase-9 in human cervical cancer cells

Dioscorea nipponica Makino has been used for the treatment of chronic bronchitis, rheumatoid arthritis, cough, and asthma. Several studies have established the antitumor effect of D. nipponica Makino extract (DNE). However, no investigations have considered the antimetastatic potential of DNE in cervical cancer cells. The present study examined the effects of DNE on cervical cancer cells treated with 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate and characterized the possible molecular mechanisms. MTT assay results indicated that DNE exhibited very low cytotoxicity, and DNE significantly reduced the invasion and migration abilities of cervical cancer cells. Gelatin zymography analysis revealed that DNE significantly inhibited matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction assay results revealed that DNE treatment inhibited the MMP-9 mRNA levels of HeLa and SiHa cells. Western blot results revealed that DNE significantly diminished the ERK1/2 phosphorylation. In conclusion, we revealed that the antimetastatic effects of DNE on cervical cancer cells are due to its inhibition of MMP-9 expression through the ERK1/2 pathway.

Prenatal hypoxia attenuated contraction of offspring coronary artery associated with decreased PKCβ Ser660 phosphorylation and intracellular calcium

AIMS

Prenatal hypoxia (PH) could affect peripheral vascular tone of the offspring, thus increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases in adult. However, it's still unknown whether functions of coronary arteries (COA) in adult offspring would be influenced by PH. The present study aimed at effects of PH on vascular tone of COA and its related mechanisms.

METHODS

Coronary arteries of adult offspring exposed to hypoxic or normoxic circumstances during gestational day 5 to 21 were collected. Wire myograph system, whole-cell patch clamp technique, IonOptix MyoCam system, PCR, and western blot were used to detect vascular function of adult offspring COA.

KEY FINDINGS

PH significantly attenuated serotonin- and phorbol 12, 13-dibutyrate (PDBu)-induced constriction. Iberiotoxin potentiated PDBu-induced constriction and the effect was augmented by PH, however, no significant differences were found in whole-cell BK_Ca channel currents and its protein expression. Nifedipine inhibited PDBu-mediated constriction and the inhibitory effect was reduced in PH group, and whole-cell calcium channel current was decreased in offspring COA. Besides, PH reduced the capability of calcium release from the endoplasmic reticulum in COA. The phosphorylated PKCβ protein expression at Ser⁶⁶⁰ site, not Thr⁶⁴¹ site, was significantly decreased in PH offspring. Chronic hypoxia during pregnancy attenuated PDBu-mediated constriction in offspring COA, presumably through decreased phosphorylated PKCβ at serine⁶⁶⁰ sites and decreased intracellular calcium-related weaker PKC activation.

SIGNIFICANCE

The findings provided new information on the influence of prenatal hypoxia on COA, and suggested potential use of PKCβ-serine⁶⁶⁰ for early prevention of coronary heart diseases in developmental origins.

Phytochemical and Biological Screening of Oenothera Biennis L. Hydroalcoholic Extract

Oenothera biennis L. (OB), also commonly known as evening primrose, belongs to the Onagraceae family and has the best studied biological activity of all the members in the family. In therapy, the most frequently used type of extracts are from the aerial part, which are the fatty oils obtained from the seeds and have a wide range of medicinal properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical composition and biological activity of OB hydroalcoholic extract and to provide directions for the antimicrobial effect, antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic potential against A375 melanoma cell line, and anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory capacity. The main polyphenols and flavonoids identified were gallic acid, caffeic acid, epicatechin, coumaric acid, ferulic acid, rutin and rosmarinic acid. The total phenolic content was 631.496 µgGAE/mL of extract and the antioxidant activity was 7258.67 μmolTrolox/g of extract. The tested extract had a mild bacteriostatic effect on the tested bacterial strains. It was bactericidal only against Candida spp. and S. aureus. In the set of experimental conditions, the OB extract only manifested significant antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic activity against the A375 human melanoma cell line at the highest tested concentration, namely 60 μg/mL. The migration potential of A375 cells was hampered by the OB extract in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, at the highest tested concentration, the OB extract altered the mitochondrial function in vitro, while reducing the angiogenic reaction, hindering compact tumor formation in the chorioallantoic membrane assay. Moreover, the OB extract elicited an anti-inflammatory effect on the experimental animal model of ear inflammation.

Expanding the anti-inflammatory potential of Moringa oleifera: topical effect of seed oil on skin inflammation and hyperproliferation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Popularly used in India and sub-Hymalaian region, Moringa oleifera (Moringaceae) is associated with healing properties demonstrated in its use as treatment of acute and chronic skin diseases. Our study aimed at investigating the effects of M. oleifera seed oil (MOSO) in animal models for inflammatory and hyperproliferative skin conditions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MOSO was analyzed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The anti-inflammatory and anti-hyperproliferative effects of treatment with either MOSO or oleic acid (OA), its main constituent, was evaluated. Acute and chronic inflammation was induced by applying 12-O-Tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) and acute inflammation with either Arachidonic Acid (AA) or Phenol onto the ear of Swiss mice. Systemic activity and the influence of glucocorticoid receptors (GC) was also evaluated.

RESULTS

Topical application of MOSO and OA inhibited ear edema caused by TPA, and Phenol. Only MOSO inhibited ear edema induced by AA. Neutrophil migration was also inhibited by treatment with MOSO. Topical application of MOSO, but not OA, significantly reduced chronic skin inflammation and epidermal hypertrophy induced by multiple TPA applications. Pre-treatment with GC antagonist mifepristone reversed the anti-inflammatory effect of MOSO and OA on the TPA model. Repeated administration of MOSO show a similar effect to dexamethasone on thymus weight, though MOSO did not present any influence on skin thickness, as well as in the weight of the spleen, adrenal gland and lymph node.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that MOSO is effective as a treatment for skin diseases that rely on keratinocyte hyperproliferation. OA is also effective in acute inflammation. Both MOSO and OA depend on GC activation for anti-inflammatory effect but do not exhibit the same adverse effects seen in topical treatment with dexamethasone. We hereby evidence the use of MOSO as a topical anti-inflammatory agent in inflammatory skin diseases, thus, expanding its therapeutic potential.

Preclinical study of the topical anti-inflammatory activity of Cyperus rotundus L. extract (Cyperaceae) in models of skin inflammation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cyperus rotundus L. (Cyperaceae) is considered one of the most widely distributed plant species in the world, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. In addition, it is commonly used in India, China and Japan in traditional medicine to treat different diseases, including dermatitis and other skin disorders.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the topical anti-inflammatory activity of C. rotundus rhizome ethanolic extract in models of acute and chronic dermatitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Phytochemical analysis was carried out using High-performance liquid chromatography-ultraviolet detection (HPLC/UV) to determine the presence of quercetin and chlorogenic acid in C. rotundus extract. Topical anti-inflammmatory effects of C. rotundus extract were evaluated on arachidonic acid (AA) and 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced skin inflammation in mice. Skin biopsies were collected and submitted to histological and enzymatic analysis to evaluate the C. rotundus effect in leukocyte migration into inflamed tissue. Antiproliferative activity of C. rotundus was confirmed by PCNA immunostained cell analysis. Systemic and possible adverse effects of topical treatment with C. rotundus were evaluated by the skin atrophy and same organ weights. In addition, the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) antagonist mifepristone was used to investigate possible GR-mediated mechanisms of action.

RESULTS

The phytochemical analysis show that C. rotundus ethanol extract contains 45 μg/g of chlorogenic acid. Topical treatment with C. rotundus extract reduced ear edema and cellular infiltrate in acute and chronic skin inflammation models. Moreover, mice topically treated with C. rotundus exhibited decrease in TPA-induced keratinocyte hyperproliferation. Relevantly, topical treatment with C. rotundus did not caused skin atrophy or changes in lymphoid organ weight. The anti-inflammatory effect of C. rotundus was not influenced by the GR antagonist.

CONCLUSION

The results here demonstrate for the first time the topical anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative efficacy of C. rotundus extract, suggesting that the extract could be a potential new therapeutic tool for the treatment of inflammatory skin disorders.

Corticoid-like anti-inflammatory effect of Vochysia bifalcata Warm.: Preclinical evidence of efficacy and safety

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Vochysia bifalcata is a Brazilian native tree commonly used for economic purpose in the reforestation and in the manufacture of products. However, the potential usage of other parts of the plant is usually wasted. Besides, other species of Vochysia are well known for its anti-inflammatory action.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this study we evaluate the possible anti-inflammatory activity of the hydroethanolic extract from the leaves of V. bifalcata in models of mice skin inflammation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Effects of V. bifalcata were evaluated in croton oil-induced acute and chronic skin inflammation. The role of glucocorticoid receptors in the extract effect was assessed by using a glucocorticoid receptor antagonist and by a specific binding assay. Possible adverse effects were evaluated after multiple treatments with the extract in a skin atrophy model.

RESULTS

Topical application of V. bifalcata reduced ear edema formation, cell infiltration and interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels. In the chronic model, besides edema formation and cell infiltration, the extract inhibited epidermal hyperproliferation and Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen expression. V. bifalcata seems to act by biding to corticoid receptors, however it did not induce corticoid related undesirable effects.

CONCLUSION

Hydroethanolic extract from leaves of V. bifalcata could be an interesting tool in the search for new anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative agents for the treatment of skin disorders.

Methanol Extract of Dicranopteris linearis Leaves Attenuate Pain via the Modulation of Opioid/NO-Mediated Pathway

Dicranopteris linearis leaf has been reported to exert antinociceptive activity. The present study elucidates the possible mechanisms of antinociception modulated by the methanol extract of D. linearis leaves (MEDL) using various mouse models. The extract (25, 150, and 300 mg/kg) was administered orally to mice for 30 min priot to subjection to the acetic acid-induced writhing-, hot plate- or formalin-test to establish the antinociceptive profile of MEDL. The most effective dose was then used in the elucidation of possible mechanisms of action stage. The extract was also subjected to the phytochemical analyses. The results confirmed that MEDL exerted significant (p < 0.05) antinociceptive activity in those pain models as well as the capsaicin-, glutamate-, bradykinin- and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-induced paw licking model. Pretreatment with naloxone (a non-selective opioid antagonist) significantly (p < 0.05) reversed MEDL effect on thermal nociception. Only l-arginine (a nitric oxide (NO) donor) but not N(ω)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME; a NO inhibitor) or 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ; a specific soluble guanylyl cyclase inhibitor) significantly (p < 0.05) modified MEDL effect on the writhing test. Several polyphenolics and volatile antinociceptive compounds were detected in MEDL. In conclusion, MEDL exerted the opioid/NO-mediated antinociceptive activity, thus, justify D. linearis as a potential source for new analgesic agents development.

The transmembrane protein LRIG2 increases tumor progression in skin carcinogenesis

Over the last few decades, the number of cases of non‐melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) has risen to over 3 million cases every year worldwide. Members of the ERBB receptor family are important regulators of skin development and homeostasis and, when dysregulated, contribute to skin pathogenesis. In this study, we investigated leucine‐rich repeats and immunoglobulin‐like domains 2 (LRIG2), a transmembrane protein involved in feedback loop regulation of the ERBB receptor family during NMSC. LRIG2 was identified to be up‐regulated in various types of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), but little is known about LRIG2 in cutaneous SCC (cSCC). To investigate the function of LRIG2 in cSCC in vivo, we generated a skin‐specific LRIG2 overexpressing transgenic mouse line (LRIG2‐TG) using the Tet‐Off system. We employed the 7,12‐dimethylbenz(a)anthracene/12‐O‐tetra‐decanoylphorbol‐13‐acetate (DMBA/TPA) two‐stage chemical carcinogenesis model and analyzed the skin during homeostasis and tumorigenesis. LRIG2‐TG mice did not exhibit alterations in skin development or homeostasis but showed an interaction between LRIG2 and thrombospondin‐1, which is often involved in angiogenesis and tumorigenesis. However, during carcinogenesis, transgenic animals showed significantly increased tumor progression and a more rapid development of cSCC. This was accompanied by changes in the ERBB system. After a single TPA application, inflammation of the epidermis was enhanced during LRIG2 overexpression. In human skin samples, LRIG2 expression was identified in the basal layer of the epidermis and in hair follicles of normal skin, but also in cSCC samples. In conclusion, epidermal LRIG2 excess is associated with activated EGFR/ERBB4‐MAPK signaling and accelerated tumor progression in experimentally induced NMSC, suggesting LRIG2 as a potential oncoprotein in skin.

Evaluation of anti-inflammatory potential of the leaves of Wendlandia heynei (Schult.) Santapau & Merchant in Sprague Dawley rat

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The leaves of W. heynei (family: Rubiaceae) are used by the folklore in swelling, wounds and body aches. In this study anti-inflammatory potential of W. heynei leaves has been evaluated during in vitro studies and in rat.

METHODS

Methanol extract of the leaves of W. heynei (WHLM) and its fractions; n-hexane (WHLH), chloroform (WHLC), ethyl acetate (WHLE), n-butanol (WHLB) and residual soluble aqueous (WHLA) were screened for phytochemical analysis and several active constituents (alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, terpenoids, β-carotene and lycopene) were also quantified. Heat induced albumin denaturation assay and in vitro cell cultures was carried out for in vitro anti-inflammatory activity, while various in vivo assays like TPA induced ear edema, croton oil induced anus edema, formalin and carrageenan-induced hind paw edema was investigated in Sprague-Dawley rats. Alterations on levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6 and prostaglandins (PGE₂) induced with WHLE was studied in serum after carrageenan induced paw edema in rat. Meanwhile, the dose dependent WHLE inhibition of NFκB pathway via regulation of the phosphorylation of IKKs, IκBα, and p65 subunit was studied in LPS-induced rat peritoneal macrophages. On account of marked anti-inflammatory activity of WHLE its bioactive components were analyzed by HPLC-DAD analysis.

RESULTS

The phytochemical analysis yielded alkaloids, saponins, tannins, coumarins, glycosides, quinones and vitamin C in WHLM and in all fractions. Fraction (WHLE) was enriched with alkaloids (20.20 ± 2.5%), flavonoids (25.26 ± 2.11%) and tannins (307.2 ± 2.03 mg of GAE/g of extract), while terpenoids (21.60 ± 1.65%) were the major constituents of WHLH. Ethyl acetate fraction convincingly protected heat induced albumin denaturation. WHLE exhibited highest edema inhibition in models of TPA-induced ear edema (74.51 ± 2.05) and croton oil-induced anal edema (75.38 ± 2.83). The pretreatment with WHLE significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the paw edema with formalin (78.99 ± 2.26%) assessed after 6 h and in carrageenan (75.71 ± 4.46%) was detected after 4 h. Level of anti-inflammatory markers; IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and PGE₂ in carrageenan induced paw edema in serum of rat was significantly (p < 0.001) decreased with WHLE pretreatment to rat. WHLE significantly inhibited the NFκB by reducing the phosphorylation of IKKs, IκBα, and p65 subunit in LPS-induced inflammation in rat peritoneal macrophages. HPLC-DAD analysis of WHLE indicated the presence of rutin, gallic acid, catechin, caffeic acid and myricetin.

CONCLUSIONS

It is concluded that WHLM fractions have marked anti-inflammatory activity and this study endorsed the folklore use of W. heynei leaves for swelling related disorders.

Anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic activity of triterpenoids isolated from Bursera cuneata (Schldl.) Engl

AIM OF THE STUDY

To isolate compounds with anti-inflammatory activity from Bursera cuneata by a bioassay-guided fractionation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three extracts of different polarities were elaborated by maceration. These extracts were assayed for their inhibitory effects on phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) induced edema in mice. The dichloromethane extract was subjected to activity guided fractionation using successive chromatographic procedures. Additionally, the levels of histamine were determined in the ear samples obtained from the TPA assay, which were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Effect of moronic Acid on RAW 264.7 stimulated with LPS was evaluated for NO and TNF secretion.

RESULTS

The dichloromethane extract had the highest anti-inflammatory effect (89.1 ± 2.2% inhibition) over that of the hexane (53.3 ± 1.2%) and methanolic (77.4 ± 1.8%) extracts at a dose of 0.1 mg/ear. The FS-3 fraction, obtained from the dichloromethane extract, comprised triterpenes β-sitosterol (1), α-amyrin (2), moronic acid (3), and ursolic acid (4), and all the compounds showed significant activity in comparison with that of indomethacin (41.5 ± 0.6%) at 0.1 mg/mouse ear. However, moronic acid displayed the highest inhibitory effect (68.1 ± 1.3%). Additionally, levels of histamine were determined by HPLC in the treated tissues. moronic acid was the most active (73.3 ± 1.1%, indomethacin 33.8 ± 0.8%). The bio-guided isolation resulted in the identification of moronic acid as the principal anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic compound present in B. cuneata. To confirm a general anti-inflammatory effect, moronic acid was evaluated on the activation of RAW 264.7 cell stimulated with LPS. At 30 and 15 mg/mL a significant reduction of ON was observed (36% and 28% respectively) but had no significant effect on TNFα production.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that the organic extracts and isolated compounds from the aerial parts of B. cuneata had topical anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic activities in vivo, but in vitro only modified the production of ON in RAW cells. The results of this study validated the use of B. cuneata in folk medicine for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

The antagonistic effect of Se on the Pb-weakening formation of neutrophil extracellular traps in chicken neutrophils

Neutrophils represent an important part of the body's innate immunity and can resist the invasion of pathogenic microorganisms by releasing neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). In this study, we investigated the toxic effects of lead (Pb) on the release of NETs, the antagonism of selenium (Se) on Pb toxicity and the potential molecular mechanisms. Our model was an in vitro exposure model for the addition of Se, Pb or both in the culture medium and was based on the separation of neutrophils from the peripheral blood of healthy chickens. Phorbol-myristate-acetate (PMA) was used as a stimulant. The scanning electron microscopy and fluorescence microscopy results showed that Pb weakened the PMA-induced formation of NETs. Exposure to Pb reduced the expression of the extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK) pathway and the respiratory burst. Exposure to Pb also attenuated the release of Ca²⁺ in the endoplasmic reticulum mediated by the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R). These are two ways by which Pb decreases the formation of NETs. Pb also attenuates the expression levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and neutrophil elastase (NE), and attenuates histone removal by affecting the expression of different protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms. In contrast, Se can reduce the toxic damage caused by Pb. These results indicate that exposure to Pb decreases the formation of NETs, while Se can antagonize the toxicity of Pb to allow the formation of NETs.

Cell Type-Specific p38δ Targeting Reveals a Context-, Stage-, and Sex-Dependent Regulation of Skin Carcinogenesis

Activation and/or upregulated expression of p38δ are demonstrated in human skin malignancies including cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, suggesting a role for p38δ in skin carcinogenesis. We previously reported that mice with germline deletion of the p38δ gene are significantly protected from chemical skin carcinogenesis. Here, we investigated the effects of cell-selective targeted ablation of p38δ in keratinocytes and in immune (myeloid) cells on skin tumor development in a two-stage 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)/12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) chemical mouse skin carcinogenesis model. Conditional keratinocyte-specific p38δ ablation (p38δ-cKO^∆K) did not influence the latency, incidence, or multiplicity of chemically-induced skin tumors, but led to increased tumor volume in females during the TPA promotion stage, and reduced malignant progression in males and females relative to their wild-type counterparts. In contrast, conditional myeloid cell-specific p38δ deletion (p38δ-cKO^∆M) inhibited DMBA/TPA-induced skin tumorigenesis in male but not female mice. Thus, tumor onset was delayed, and tumor incidence, multiplicity, and volume were reduced in p38δ-cKO^∆M males compared with control wild-type males. Moreover, the percentage of male mice with malignant tumors was decreased in the p38δ-cKO^∆M group relative to their wild-type counterparts. Collectively, these results reveal that cell-specific p38δ targeting modifies susceptibility to chemical skin carcinogenesis in a context-, stage-, and sex-specific manner.

Orientin inhibits invasion by suppressing MMP-9 and IL-8 expression via the PKCα/ ERK/AP-1/STAT3-mediated signaling pathways in TPA-treated MCF-7 breast cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Orientin (luteolin 8-C-β-D-glucopyranoside), a glycosyl dietary flavonoid, has therapeutic effects such as anti-inflammation and antiadipogenesis. However, there is little known about the antimigratory and anti-invasive effects of orientin. Thus, we demonstrate the anti-invasive effects of orientin compared with well-known anticancer flavonoid, luteolin and luteolin 8-C-β-fucopyranoside (LU8C-FP).

PURPOSE

We investigated whether orientin would inhibit the migration and invasion of 12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol-13-acetate (TPA) induced MCF-7 breast cancer cells.

METHODS

We investigated the anti-invasive mechanism of orientin by using wound-healing assay, Matrigel invasion assay, gelatin zymography, qRT-PCR, ELISA, western blotting, nuclear, membrane and cytosolic fractionations, and immunofluorescence staining in MCF-7 cell line.

RESULTS

We demonstrated the antimigratory and anti-invasive effects of orientin in TPA-treated MCF-7 cells. TPA-induced membrane translocation of protein kinase C alpha (PKCα), phosphorylation of extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK), and nuclear translocations of activator protein-1 (AP-1) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) were downregulated by orientin. In addition, orientin also inhibited matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) expression.

CONCLUSION

Orientin inhibits migratory and invasive responses by suppressing MMP-9 and IL-8 expression through mitigation of TPA-induced PKCα and ERK activation, as well as the nuclear translocation of AP-1 and STAT3. Therefore, orientin prevents tumor invasion and could be applied as a possible therapeutic agent for the treatment of cancer metastasis.

Comparison of the anti-inflammatory effects of Sinapis alba and Brassica juncea in mouse models of inflammation

BACKGROUND

Sinapis Semen is derived from the dried mature seeds of Sinapis alba L. or Brassica juncea (L.) Czern. et Coss. Traditionally, the seeds from S. alba are called "White Sinapis Semen" while those from B. juncea are called "Yellow Sinapis Semen".

PURPOSE

The present study aimed to compare the chemical composition and the anti-inflammatory effects of 50% aqueous ethanol extracts of the White Sinapis Semen (EWSS) and Yellow Sinapis Semen (EYSS) using both acute (12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-acetate (TPA)- and arachidonic acid (AA)-induced mouse ear edema) and chronic (multiple applications of croton oil (CO)) inflammatory models.

METHODS

The anti-inflammatory effects of EWSS and EYSS were determined by measuring the ear thickness and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. The anti-inflammatory mechanism was explored by measuring the protein and mRNA levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 in the ear of the TPA-treated mice.

RESULTS

The results showed that both EWSS and EYSS significantly decreased the ear thickness in both the TPA- and AA-induced acute models, as well as in the CO-induced chronic model. In addition, EWSS and EYSS could markedly inhibit the MPO activity in the ears of TPA-, AA- or CO-treated mice. Moreover, EWSS and EYSS also remarkably inhibited the protein and mRNA levels of TNF-α and IL-6 in the ears of TPA-treated mice. Comparatively, EWSS exerted more potent anti-inflammatory effect than that of EYSS.

CONCLUSION

Our results revealed that both EWSS and EYSS are effective anti-inflammatory agents against acute and chronic inflammatory processes, and EWSS possess more potent anti-inflammatory effect than EYSS. The anti-inflammatory effect of the two herbs may be mediated, at least in part, by suppressing the mRNA expression of a panel of inflammatory mediators including TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β.

Sessein and isosessein with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant activity isolated from Salvia sessei Benth

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Salvia sessei Benth, popularly known as "pipilolxochitl" or "sabanito", is a plant utilized in Mexico in traditional medicine for the treatment of erysipela. To date, only one report, to our knowledge, has been found in which a royleanone-type diterpene of the aerial parts of the species was isolated but, again to our knowledge, studies have not been conducted on the pharmacological activity of extracts and compounds isolated from this plant.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The objective of the study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant activity of the organic extracts of the aerial parts of Salvia sessei Benth and sessein and isosessein isomers isolated from this.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated in a model of edema in mouse ear at 1 mg/ear of the isolated extracts and compounds (1 and 2), a dose-response curve was performed on these latter and one-half of the effective dose (ED₅₀) was determined; antibacterial activity was determined through minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) by microdilution at 100, 50, 25, and 12.5 µg/mL, and antioxidant capacity, by means of DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays where, for the first two assays noted, the inhibitory concentration 50% (IC₅₀) was calculated for the extracts as well as for the compounds isolated.

RESULTS

The hexanic extracts (40.55 ± 0.5%), dichloromethanic (56.01 ± 1.1%) and methanolic (66.05 ± 0.3%), as well as isolated compounds 1 (79.85 ± 3.5%) and 2 (54.36 ± 1.7%), demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity; the methanolic extract presented the greatest percentage of inhibition, while isolated compounds 1 and 2 did not present a difference in their ED₅₀; additionally, compound 1 exerted a similar effect to that of the drug-of-reference at the same dose (75.24 ± 2.4%). The antibacterial activity of the extracts and compounds was principally against Gram-positive bacteria: the hexanic extract presented activity against Staphylococcus hominis and the methanolic and dichloromethanic extracts, and compound 1 exhibited activity against Staphylococcus haemolyticus, S. hominis, E. faecalis, in addition to that Escherichia coli was sensitive to compound 1, while isomer 2 showed activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus haemolyticus, Staphylococcus epidermis and Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria related to erysipela. In the three assays, the extract demonstrating greatest antioxidant capacity was the methanolic extract, while that of the isolated compounds was compound 1.

CONCLUSIONS

The results show that the three extracts evaluated in the three models presented activity and the chromatographic separation of the dichloromethanic extract permitted the isolation of compounds 1 and 2 royleanone-type isomers, which also presented significant activities such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant, thus validate the use of this species in traditional medicine.

A Mixture of Five Bacterial Strains Attenuates Skin Inflammation in Mice

BACKGROUND

There is a growing interest in the effects of probiotics for the prevention and treatment of skin diseases due to their immunomodulatory and antiinflammatory properties.

OBJECTIVE

To assess a mixture of five bacterial strains in the prevention of chronic skin inflammation in mice.

METHODS

Hairless SKH-1 mice received daily oral treatment with the probiotic mixture at the dose of 1x109 Colony-Forming Unit (CFU)/day (or vehicle) for three weeks. Chronic skin inflammation was induced by repeated applications of 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13- acetate (TPA; control mice received acetone). Macroscopic and microscopic evaluations of skin lesions were performed and serum levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-17, IL-22, IL-10 and IL-4 measured at the end of the study.

RESULTS

Treatment with the probiotic mixture significantly limited the induced chronic skin inflammation at both the macroscopic and microscopic levels. This limitation was consistent with downregulated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IL- 17 and IL-22) and up-regulated levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokines, IL-10 and IL-4.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that the probiotic mixture tested could help in preserving skin integrity and homeostasis and that its use could be beneficial in dermatological conditions such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.

Topical Application of Glycolipids from Isochrysis galbana Prevents Epidermal Hyperplasia in Mice

Chronic inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis have a significant impact on society. Currently, the major topical treatments have many side effects, making their continued use in patients difficult. Microalgae have emerged as a source of bio-active molecules such as glycolipids with potent anti-inflammatory properties. We aimed to investigate the effects of a glycolipid (MGMG-A) and a glycolipid fraction (MGDG) obtained from the microalga Isochrysis galbana on a TPA-induced epidermal hyperplasia murine model. In a first set of experiments, we examined the preventive effects of MGMG-A and MGDG dissolved in acetone on TPA-induced hyperplasia model in mice. In a second step, we performed an in vivo permeability study by using rhodamine-containing cream, ointment, or gel to determinate the formulation that preserves the skin architecture and reaches deeper. The selected formulation was assayed to ensure the stability and enhanced permeation properties of the samples in an ex vivo experiment. Finally, MGDG-containing cream was assessed in the hyperplasia murine model. The results showed that pre-treatment with acetone-dissolved glycolipids reduced skin edema, epidermal thickness, and pro-inflammatory cytokine production (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17) in epidermal tissue. The in vivo and ex vivo permeation studies showed that the cream formulation had the best permeability profile. In the same way, MGDG-cream formulation showed better permeation than acetone-dissolved preparation. MGDG-cream application attenuated TPA-induced skin edema, improved histopathological features, and showed a reduction of the inflammatory cell infiltrate. In addition, this formulation inhibited epidermal expression of COX-2 in a similar way to dexamethasone. Our results suggest that an MGDG-containing cream could be an emerging therapeutic strategy for the treatment of inflammatory skin pathologies such as psoriasis.

Anti-inflammatory activity of standardized dichloromethane extract of Salvia connivens on macrophages stimulated by LPS

CONTEXT

A previous study demonstrated that the chloroform extract of Salvia connivens Epling (Lamiaceae) has anti-inflammatory activity.

OBJECTIVE

Identification of the active components in the dicholorometane extract (DESC), and, standardization of the extract based in ursolic acid.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

DESC was prepared by percolation with dichlromethane and after washed with hot hexane, its composition was determined by CG-MS and NMR, and standardized by HPLC. The anti-inflammatory activity was tested on acute TPA-induced mouse ear oedema at doses of 2.0 mg/ear. The cell viability of macrophages was evaluated by MTT method, and pro- and anti-inflammatory interleukin levels were measured using an ELISA kit.

RESULTS

Ursolic acid, oleanolic acid, dihydroursolic acid and eupatorin were identified in DESC, which was standardized based on the ursolic acid concentration (126 mg/g). The anti-inflammatory activities of DESC, the acid mixture, and eupatorin (2 mg/ear) were 60.55, 57.20 and 56.40% inhibition, respectively, on TPA-induced ear oedema. The IC50 of DESC on macrophages was 149.4 μg/mL. DESC (25 μg/mL) significantly reduced TNF-α (2.0-fold), IL-1β (2.2-fold) and IL-6 (2.0-fold) in macrophages stimulated with LPS and increased the production of IL-10 (1.9-fold).

DISCUSSION

Inflammation is a basic response to injuries, and macrophages are involved in triggering inflammation. Macrophage cells exhibit a response to LPS, inducing inflammatory mediators, and DESC inhibits the biosynthesis of the pro-inflammatory and promote anti-inflammatory cytokines.

CONCLUSION

DESC has an anti-inflammatory effect; reduced the levels of IL-1β, Il-6 and TNF-α; and increases IL-10 in macrophages stimulated with LPS. Ursolic acid is a good phytochemical marker.

Essential oil of Artemisia argyi suppresses inflammatory responses by inhibiting JAK/STATs activation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Artemisia argyi is a herbal medicine traditionally used in Asia for the treatment of bronchitis, dermatitis and arthritis. Recent studies revealed the anti-inflammatory effect of essential oil in this plant. However, the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic potential have not been well elucidated. The present study is aimed to verify its anti-inflammatory effect and investigate the probable mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The essential oil from Artemisia argyi (AAEO) was initially tested against LPS-induced production of inflammatory mediators and cytokines in RAW264.7 macrophages. Protein and mRNA expressions of iNOS and COX-2 were determined by Western blotting and RT-PCR analysis, respectively. The effects on the activation of MAPK/NF-κB/AP-1 and JAK/STATs pathway were also investigated by western blot. Meanwhile, in vivo anti-inflammatory effect was examined by histologic and immunohistochemical analysis in TPA-induced mouse ear edema model.

RESULTS

The results of in vitro experiments showed that AAEO dose-dependently suppressed the release of pro-inflammatory mediators (NO, PGE₂ and ROS) and cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IFN-β and MCP-1) in LPS-induced RAW264.7 macrophages. It down-regulated iNOS and COX-2 protein and mRNA expression but did not affect the activity of these two enzymes. AAEO significantly inhibited the phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT1/3, but not the activation of MAPK and NF-κB cascades. In animal model, oral administration of AAEO significantly attenuated TPA-induced mouse ear edema and decreased the protein level of COX-2.

CONCLUSION

AAEO suppresses inflammatory responses via down-regulation of the JAK/STATs signaling and ROS scavenging, which could contribute, at least in part, to the anti-inflammatory effect of AAEO.

Anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory effects of 3β,6β,16β-Trihydroxylup-20(29)-ene on cutaneous inflammation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

3β,6β,16β-Trihydroxylup-20(29)-ene (TTHL) is a triterpene isolated from the flowers of Combretum leprosum, a plant used in folk medicine in the north of Brazil for the treatment of skin disorders.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In the present study, TTHL was evaluated as a potential topical anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative agent through in vivo and in vitro models.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Anti-inflammmatory and anti-proliferative effects of TTHL were assessed using Swiss mice in acute and chronic models of skin inflammation induced by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-acetate (TPA) application. Anti-proliferative activity was proved through in vitro experiments with the HaCaT human keratinocyte cell line.

RESULTS

Treatment with TTHL inhibited inflammatory parameters such as oedema formation and cellular infiltration in acute and chronic models. In the chronic model, TTHL also inhibited epidermal hyperproliferation, as evidenced by reduction of epidermis thickness and proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression. The anti-proliferative effect was confirmed by the capability of TTHL in reducing the proliferation and inducing cell apoptosis of HaCaT cells. Suggesting a mechanism of action, TTHL showed activation of corticosteroid receptors, but without the induction of corticosteroid-related cutaneous side effects.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrate consistent anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative activity and assign TTHL as a valuable tool in the development of a new treatment for skin inflammatory and proliferative diseases, such as psoriasis.

Phytochemical and biological studies on Alnus glutinosa subsp. glutinosa, A. orientalis var. orientalis and A. orientalis var. pubescens leaves

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Alnus species have been used for the treatment of rheumatism, hemorrhoids and for wound healing in folk medicine.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Aqueous and methanol extracts of A. glutinosa (L.) Gaertner subsp. glutinosa, A. orientalis Decne. var. orientalis and A. orientalis var. pubescens Dippel leaves were evaluated for their wound healing, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. In vivo wound models of linear incision and circular excision were performed. "Inhibition of acetic acid-induced capillary permeability", "carrageenan-induced hind paw edema" and T"PA-induced ear edema" assays were applied to determine the anti-inflammatory effects. For the antioxidant activity assessment, DPPH and ABTS radicals scavenging effect, reducing power and denaturation of nonspecific hydroxyl radical-targeted 2-deoxyribose were used. In vitro inhibitory effects on enzymes hyaluronidase, collagenase and elastase were evaluated. The methanol extract of the leaves of A. glutinosa subsp. glutinosa (MB), the most potent extract, was fractionated by bioassay-guided fractionation technique. The structure of the isolated compound was determined as shikimic acid by using NMR and IR analyses.

RESULTS

MB increased the wound tension by 42.79% value and provided a contraction by 51.58%. Wound tension, contraction capacity and tissue hydroxyproline levels were increased with the application of the fraction EtOAc: MeOH (Fr. D), subfraction D_27-38 and shikimic acid. In the "inhibition of acetic acid-induced capillary permeability" assay, MB, Fr. D, subfraction D_27-38 and shikimic acid inhibited the permeability with significant inhibition values of 30.22%, 32.46%, 38.24% and 27.19%, respectively. In carrageenan-induced hind paw edema model, MB displayed 29.1% inhibition. Likewise, Fr. D, subfraction D_27-38, and shikimic acid were found to exhibit remarkable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Shikimic acid exhibited significant inhibitory effect (38.24%) on the hyaluronidase enzyme.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first and unique study that investigates wound healing, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of some Alnus taxons growing in Turkey. According to the results, shikimic acid was found to be the major compound responsible from the activity.

Anti-inflammatory, free radical scavenging and alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activities of Hamelia patens and its chemical constituents

Context Hamelia patens Jacq. (Rubiaceae) is traditionally used to treat wounds, inflammation and diabetes. However, there is still a lack of scientific evidence to support these applications. Objective The objective of this study is to evaluate the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of Hamelia patens, and identify its bioactive compounds. Materials and methods Four extracts were obtained by maceration and liquid-liquid extraction: HEX, DCM-EtOAc, MeOH-EtOAc and MeOH-Aq. The anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated orally on rat paw carrageenan-induced oedema over 6 h (50, 200 and 500 mg/kg), and topically in mouse ear oedema induced by 12-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) after 4 h (0.5 and 1 mg/ear). We also evaluated myeloperoxidase levels in ear tissue, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging ability, and in vitro α-glucosidase inhibition. The chemical compounds were separated by column chromatography and identified by spectroscopic analysis. Results We found that the oral administration of the HEX extract at 500 and 200 mg/kg significantly decreased the carrageenan-induced inflammation after 1 and 3 h, respectively. The MeOH-EtOAc extract significantly inhibited myeloperoxidase activity (83.5%), followed by the DCM-EtOAc extract (76%), β-sitosterol/stigmasterol (72.7%) and the HEX extract (55%), which significantly decreased oedema induced by TPA at both doses, giving a similar effect to indomethacin. We also found that the MeOH-EtOAc, MeOH-Aq and DCM-EtOAc extracts showed good DPPH scavenging activity (IC50 values of 18.6, 93.9 and 158.2 μg/mL, respectively). The HEX extract showed the lowest α-glucosidase inhibition (an IC50 value of 26.07 μg/mL), followed by the MeOH-EtOAc extract (an IC50 value of 30.18 μg/mL), β-sitosterol/stigmasterol (IC50 34.6 μg/mL) and compound A ((6E,10E,14E,18E)-2,6,10,14,18,23-hexamethyl-2,6,10,14,18,22-tetracosahexaene, an IC50 value of 114.6 μg/mL), which were isolated for the first time from Hamelia patens. Discussion and conclusion Hamelia patens possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities, which support its traditional use. These effects can be attributed to the identified compounds.

Pre-administration of PepFect6-microRNA-146a nanocomplexes inhibits inflammatory responses in keratinocytes and in a mouse model of irritant contact dermatitis

The skin is a difficult to access tissue for efficient delivery of large and/or charged macromolecules, including therapeutic DNA and RNA oligonucleotides. Cell-penetrating peptide PepFect6 (PF6) has been shown to be suitable transport vehicle for siRNAs in cell culture and systemically in vivo in mice. MiR-146a is known as anti-inflammatory miRNA that inhibits multiple factors from the nuclear factor (NF)-κB pathway in various cell types, including keratinocytes. In this study, PF6 was shown to form unimodal nanocomplexes with miR-146a mimic that entered into human primary keratinocytes, where miR-146a inhibited the expression of its direct targets from the NF-κB pathway and the genes known to be activated by NF-κB, C-C motif ligand (CCL)5 and interleukin (IL)-8. The transfection of miR-146a mimic with PF6 was more efficient in sub-confluent keratinocyte cultures, affected keratinocyte proliferation less and had similar effect on cell viability when compared with a lipid based agent. Subcutaneous pre-administration of PF6-miR-146a nanocomplexes attenuated ear-swelling and reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines IL-6, CCL11, CCL24 and C-X-C motif ligand 1 (CXCL1) in a mouse model of irritant contact dermatitis. Our data demonstrates that PF6-miR-146a nanoparticles might have potential in the development of therapeutics to target inflammatory skin diseases.

Cyclooxygenase-2 Expression in Normal and Neoplastic Canine Mammary Cell Lines

Mammary cancer is the most common cancer in female dogs. Induction of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), a key enzyme in prostaglandins (PGs) biosynthesis, has been demonstrated in various cancers in humans and dogs, including mammary cancer. The objective of this study was to investigate the expression and regulation of COX-2 in canine mammary epithelial cells. Cell lines derived from normal and neoplastic canine mammary glands were cultured in the absence or presence of phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), and immunoblots, immunocytochemistry, radioimmunoassays, and a cell proliferation assay were used to study COX-2 expression and PGs production. Results showed that the neoplastic cell line CMT12 constitutively overexpressed COX-2 protein whereas other mammary cell lines expressed low to undetectable basal levels of COX-2 protein. Basal PGE2 production was significantly higher ( P < .05) in CMT12 compared to other cell lines. Levels of COX-2 protein in CMT12 decreased in a time-dependent manner with serum starvation, and PMA stimulation induced a strong time-dependent increase in COX-2 protein. Treatment of CMT12 cells with NS-398 (a specific COX-2 inhibitor) significantly blocked PGE2 synthesis and reduced cell proliferation ( P < .05). These results indicate that some neoplastic canine mammary cell lines constitutively overexpress COX-2, and that COX-2 inhibition decreases PGE2 production and cell proliferation, supporting a role for COX-2 and PGs in canine mammary oncogenesis.

Opuntia dillenii cladode: Opuntiol and opuntioside attenuated cytokines and eicosanoids mediated inflammation

ETHANOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Opuntia dillenii Haw (Nagphana) traditionally used against inflammation. The present study addressed the anti-inflammatory activity of O. dillenii derived methanol extract, fractions and pure compounds and their underlying mechanism of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

O. dillenii cladode methanol extract was subjected to vacuum liquid chromatography (VLC) furnishing two main fractions viz (T-1 and -2) leading to isolation of opuntiol (aglycone) and opuntioside (O-glucoside), respectively. Anti-inflammatory activity of extract, fractions, pure compounds and reference drugs were evaluated using: (1) arachidonic acid (AA) and 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced ear edema accompanied by histological studies of mice ear sections and phospholipase A2 (PLA2)-induced mice paw edema. (2) Carrageenan and glycogen-induced peritonitis in rodents. In parallel levels of leukotriene B4 (LTB4) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were also determined via HPLC and fluoroemetrically using 2', 7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) dye, respectively. Additionally, levels of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukins IL-1β and -6 were measured by ELISA assay.

RESULTS

O. dillenii methanol extract, fractions and pure compounds reduced AA and TPA-induced ear punch weight in a dose dependent fashion. The corresponding IC50 values obtained also suppressed inflammatory features observed histologically. Furthermore, paw edema and peritonitis were also attenuated. Similar to indomethacin and diclofenac sodium, opuntioside reduced PGE2 levels of inflamed ear which was comparatively 1.3× better than opuntiol. However, opuntiol was more potent in reducing LTB4 levels in rat neutrophils with an IC50 value of 19±3.3μΜ, while opuntioside was ineffective. Opuntiol also effectively suppressed ROS (37%) and cytokine levels (TNF-α, IL-1β and -6) by ~50% and comparable to dexamethasone.

CONCLUSIONS

O. dillenii cladodes possess anti-inflammatory properties via inhibition of arachidonic acid metabolites and cytokines. Opuntiol (aglycone) emerged as a dual inhibitor of cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipooxygenase (LOX) pathways. It also suppressed ROS and cytokine levels. However, opuntioside manifested its selectivity towards COX (PGE2) pathway without affecting LTB4 levels. The present report describing the anti-inflammatory activity of opuntiol and opuntioside for the first time thereby, supporting and justifying the traditional use of O. dillenii against inflammation and may serve as lead compound in designing of new anti-inflammatory agents.

Inhibitory effects of three diketopiperazines from marine-derived bacteria on endothelial protein C receptor shedding in human endothelial cells and mice

Diketopiperazine is a natural products found from bacteria, fungi, marine sponges, gorgonian and red algae. They are cyclic dipeptides possessing relatively simple and rigid structures with chiral nature and various side chains. The compounds in this structure class have been known to possess diverse bioactivities including antibiotic activity, anti-cancer activity, neuroprotective activity, and anti-inflammatory activity. The endothelial cell protein C receptor (EPCR) plays an important role in the cytoprotective pathway and in the activation of protein C. Endothelial cell protein C receptor (EPCR) can be shed from the cell surface, which is mediated by tumor necrosis factor-α converting enzyme (TACE). However, little is known about the effects of diketopiperazine on EPCR shedding. We investigated this issue by monitoring the effects of diketopiperazine on phorbol-12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and interleukin (IL)-1β-induced EPCR shedding in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-mediated EPCR shedding in mice and underlying mechanism. Here, three (1-3) of diketopiperazines were isolated from two strains of marine-derived bacteria and 1-3 induced potent inhibition of PMA-, TNF-α-, IL-1β (in HUVECs), and CLP-induced EPCR shedding (in mice) via inhibition of phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) such as p38, janus kinase (JNK), and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2. 1-3 also inhibited the expression and activity of PMA-induced TACE in HUVECs suggesting that p38, ERK1/2, and JNK could be molecular targets of 1-3. These results demonstrate the potential of 1-3 as an anti-EPCR shedding reagent against PMA-mediated and CLP-mediated EPCR shedding.

Inhibitory Effects of 4'-Demethylnobiletin, a Metabolite of Nobiletin, on 12-O-Tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-Induced Inflammation in Mouse Ears

Nobiletin (NOB) is major citrus flavonoid with many health-promoting benefits. We reported previously that 4'-demethylnobiletin (4DN), a major metabolite of NOB, significantly inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated inflammation in RAW 264.7 macrophages. In this study, we further studied the anti-inflammatory effects of 4DN in TPA-induced skin inflammation in mice. We demonstrated that topical application of 4DN decreased TPA-induced ear edema by >88 ± 4.77% in mice. This inhibitory effect was associated with inhibition on TPA-induced up-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Immunoblotting results showed that 4DN resulted in profound effects on multiple proteins related with inflammation and carcinogenesis. 4DN significantly decreased the expression levels of iNOS, COX-2, and MMP-9, suppressed phosphorylation of PI3K/Akt and ERK, and increased the levels of HO-1 and NQO1 in TPA-treated mice. Overall, the results demonstrated that 4DN had strong anti-inflammatory effects in vivo, which provided a scientific basis for using NOB to inhibit inflammation-driven diseases.

Potent inhibitory effect of silibinin from milk thistle on skin inflammation stimuli by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate

Silibinin, a major polyphenol in milk thistle, has been reported to have multiple pharmacological activities; therefore, there is an urgent need to well understand how silibinin works on inflammation-associated skin diseases. We herein designed silibinin on 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-stimulated skin inflammation to test its inhibitory effects. It was demonstrated that silibinin, applied topically onto mouse ears following TPA stimulation, effectively down-regulated the expressions of TPA-induced interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in a dose-dependent manner. Further mechanistic investigations indicated that silibinin suppressed the expression of IκB kinase (IKK) by inhibiting the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) signaling pathway, and thereby suppressing TPA-stimulated nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation. Promisingly, silibinin, used for transdermal application, may be a potent naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent for the prevention of inflammation-associated skin diseases.

Anti-inflammatory activity and phenolic profile of propolis from two locations in Región Metropolitana de Santiago, Chile

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Propolis has long been used as a popular folk medicine due to its wide spectrum of alleged biological and pharmaceutical properties. In Chile, propolis is widely used by folklore medicine as an anti-inflammatory agent; however, this property has not been demonstrated by scientific methods.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The objective of this study was to determine the anti-inflammatory activity in vivo and in vitro and to establish the phenolic profile of propolis collected in two localities in Región Metropolitana de Santiago (RM), Chile.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Propolis was collected in the areas of Caleu and Buin, RM Chile. Following that, the samples were unwaxed to obtain the global ethanolic extracts of propolis (EEPs) and, from these, the serial extracts of dichloromethane (EEP-DCMs) and ethanol (EEP-EtOHs). The topic anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated through mice ear edema induced by arachidonic acid (AA) and 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) at a dose of 3 mg/ear. Nitric oxide (NO) measurements were determined spectrophotometrically (Greiss reagent) by the accumulation of nitrite in the medium of macrophages RAW 264.7 stimulated with the lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 1 μg/mL) for 20 h at different concentrations of the EEPs, EEP-DCMs and EEP-EtOHs (6.25-50.00 μg/mL). The content of total phenols and flavonoids were determined through the methods of Folin-Ciocalteau and AlCl3, respectively. The profile of phenolic compounds was determined by HPLC-UV-ESI-MS/MS.

RESULTS

The EEP-EtOH (64%) and EEP (59%) of Buin were the most active in the inflammation induced by TPA and AA respectively, being the anti-inflammatory effect stronger than the same Caleu extracts. Regarding the release of NO, all the extracts from the Buin propolis inhibited significantly its release in a concentration-dependent manner, this inhibition was stronger than the extracts from Caleu propolis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our research shows for the first time a comparative study of the topical in vivo activity of two Chilean propolis. Both propolis showed in vivo topical anti-inflammatory activity against AA and TPA, the most active was Buin propolis and this difference is due in part to the variations in total phenols and flavonoids content and the phenolic profile. The phenols and flavonoids content of Buin propolis was higher than Caleu propolis. The extracts from Buin propolis result in a lower release of NO.

Dioscin and methylprotodioscin isolated from the root of Asparagus cochinchinensis suppressed the gene expression and production of airway MUC5AC mucin induced by phorbol ester and growth factor

BACKGROUND

The root of Asparagus cochinchinensis (Lour.) Merr. has been utilized as mucoregulators and expectorants for controlling the airway inflammatory diseases in folk medicine.

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

We investigated whether dioscin and methylprotodioscin isolated from the root of Asparagus cochinchinensis (Lour.) Merr. suppress the gene expression and production of airway MUC5AC mucin induced by phorbol ester and growth factor.

STUDY DESIGN

Confluent NCI-H292 cells were pretreated with dioscin or methylprotodioscin for 30 min and then stimulated with EGF or PMA for 24 h. The MUC5AC mucin gene expression was measured by RT-PCR. Production of MUC5AC mucin protein was measured by ELISA.

RESULTS

(1) Dioscin and methylprotodioscin suppressed the expression of MUC5AC mucin gene induced by EGF or PMA; (2) dioscin suppressed the production of MUC5AC mucin induced by either EGF at 10(-5) M (p < 0.05) and 10(-6) M (p < 0.05) or PMA at 10(-4) M (p < 0.05), 10(-5) M (p < 0.05) and 10(-6) M (p < 0.05); (3) methylprotodioscin also suppressed the production of MUC5AC mucin induced by either EGF at 10(-4) M (p < 0.05) or PMA at 10(-4) M (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that dioscin and methylprotodioscin isolated from the root of Asparagus cochinchinensis suppress the gene expression and production of MUC5AC mucin, by directly acting on airway epithelial cells, and the results are consistent with the traditional use of Asparagus cochinchinensis as remedy for diverse inflammatory pulmonary diseases.

High-throughput protease activity cytometry reveals dose-dependent heterogeneity in PMA-mediated ADAM17 activation

As key components of autocrine signaling, pericellular proteases, a disintegrin and metalloproteinases (ADAMs) in particular, are known to impact the microenvironment of individual cells and have significant implications in various pathological situations including cancer, inflammatory and vascular diseases. There is great incentive to develop a high-throughput platform for single-cell measurement of pericellular protease activity, as it is essential for studying the heterogeneity of protease response and the corresponding cell behavioral consequences. In this work, we developed a microfluidic platform to simultaneously monitor protease activity of many single cells in a time-dependent manner. This platform isolates individual microwells rapidly on demand and thus allows single-cell activity measurement of both cell-surface and secreted proteases by confining individual cells with diffusive FRET-based substrates. With this platform, we observed dose-dependent heterogeneous protease activation of HepG2 cells treated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA). To study the temporal behavior of PMA-induced protease response, we monitored the pericellular protease activity of the same single cells during three different time periods and revealed the diversity in the dynamic patterns of single-cell protease activity profile upon PMA stimulation. The unique temporal information of single-cell protease response can help unveil the complicated functional role of pericellular proteases.

Modification of multistage skin carcinogenesis in mice

The multistage model of mouse skin tumorigenesis has been extremely useful for studying various factors that modify the carcinogenic process. Using this model system one can specifically study the effects of potential modifiers on both the initiation and the promotion stages independently. Studies have been performed on many exogenous compounds that have the capacity to inhibit (and in some cases enhance) the initiation phase by either: (i) alteration of the metabolism of the carcinogen (decreased activation and/or increased detoxification); (ii) scavenging of active molecular species of carcinogens to prevent their reaching critical target sites in the cells; (iii) competitive inhibition; or (iv) modulation of epidermal DNA synthesis. In addition, there have been a number of studies on compounds that either inhibit (or again in some cases enhance) promotion of skin carcinogenesis by (i) altering the state of differentiation; (ii) inhibiting the promoter-induced cellular proliferation; (iii) preventing gene activation by promoters; or (iv) scavenging free radicals and reactive oxygen species. Recent studies have also begun to unravel the nature of the tumor progression process of skin carcinogenesis. Many factors can modulate tumor progression including: (i) subsequent exposure to genotoxic agents; (ii) dose, duration and frequency of promoter treatment, (iii) chemical nature of the promoting agent. The multistage model of skin tumorigenesis has also begun to provide insight into the role of specific dietary, immunologic, and genetic factors involved in chemical carcinogenesis. It is believed that further study of all of these factors will greatly enhance our understanding of the process of chemical carcinogenesis in epithelial tissues in general as well as the process of skin carcinogenesis specifically. Finally, a greater understanding of those factors modifying skin tumorigenesis in mice will provide valuable information on the further development of early detection and prevention strategies for chemical carcinogenesis in humans.

Riboflavin as adjuvant with cisplatin: study in mouse skin cancer model

Cisplatin used in treatment of solid tumor induces oxidative stress which leads to hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. New strategies are therefore needed to combat toxicity and optimize its therapeutic potential. Riboflavin (VitaminB2) under photoillumination works as an anti proliferative agent and induces apoptosis. These properties of riboflavin have been exploited to mitigate cisplatin induced toxicities. 9,10-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene /12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate  were used to induce skin tumor in Swiss albino mice. The tumor induced mice were treated with cisplatin, riboflavin as well as their combination under photo illumination. In comparison to tumor control group the cisplatin and riboflavin treated groups showed a compromised level of antioxidant enzymes, functional markers and a higher degree of lipid peroxidation. However these parameters tended towards normal in the combination treated group. The results from histopathology indicate that apoptosis was favored mode of cell death and that necrosis was reduced in combination treated groups. Our findings indicate that combination of cisplatin with riboflavin under photo illumination synergizes its anti cancer activity towards cancer cells and attenuates the cisplatin induced toxicities.

Oral and Topical Administration of ROQUETTE Schizochytrium sp. Alleviate Skin Inflammation and Improve Wound Healing in Mice

The human body is constantly exposed to the risk of traumatic lesions. ROQUETTE Schizochytrium sp. (SCs) is a marine microalgae containing large amounts of health-valuable nutrients, more particularly polyunsaturated fatty acids such as docosahexaenoic acid. SCs was investigated by oral administration (125, 250 and 500 mg/kg) and cutaneous application (2.5, 5.0 and 10.0%) to evaluate its impact in two dermatological disorder models in mice: skin inflammation and wound healing. For skin inflammation, it was administered during 14 days starting one week before the induction of chronic skin inflammation by repeated cutaneous application of 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA). For wound healing the microalgae was administered after incisional wound healing of the skin until complete wound healing. Results indicated that oral and topical administrations of the two higher doses of SCs had significant effects on macroscopic score of skin inflammation. It had also efficient effect on healing process and duration of wound healing with a dose-response by oral administration and a maximal effect observed from the lowest to the highest dose by topical application. These findings suggest that administration of SCs by both oral and topical routes appeared to have beneficial effects on skin lesions.

The Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor p21CIP1/WAF1 Blocks Paclitaxel-Induced G2M Arrest and Attenuates Mitochondrial Injury and Apoptosis in p53-Null Human Leukemia Cells

The functional significance of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor (CDKI) p21(Cip1/WAF1) in paclitaxel-mediated lethality was examined in p53-null human leukemia cells (U937 and Jurkat). In these cells, paclitaxel exposure failed to induce p21(Cip1/Waf1) expression. Nevertheless, stable expression of U937 cells with a p21(Cip1/WAF1) antisense construct blocked paclitaxel-induced G(2)M arrest and increased mitochondrial injury, caspase activation, apoptosis, and loss of clonogenic potential. Consistent with these results, enforced expression of p21(Cip1/WAF1) in Jurkat cells increased the percentage of cells arrested in G2M and attenuated paclitaxel-mediated mitochondrial injury and apoptosis. Unexpectedly, enforced expression of p21(Cip1/WAF1) diminished paclitaxel-mediated inactivation of ERK, and reduced paclitaxel-induced activation of JNK as well as Bcl-2 phosphorylation. Together, these findings suggest that p21(Cip1/WAF1) partially protects p53-null human leukemia cells from paclitaxel-mediated lethality, and raise the possibility that p21(Cip1/WAF1)-associated perturbations in signal transduction pathways as well as Bcl-2 phosphorylation status may play a role in this phenomenon.