Urotensin II induces interleukin 8 expression in human umbilical vein endothelial cells

BACKGROUND

Urotensin II (U-II), an 11-amino acid peptide, exerts a wide range of actions in cardiovascular systems. Interleukin-8 (IL-8) is secreted by endothelial cells, thereby enhancing endothelial cell survival, proliferation, and angiogenesis. However, the interrelationship between U-II and IL-8 as well as the detailed intracellular mechanism of U-II in vascular endothelial cells remain unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of U-II on IL-8 expression and to explore its intracellular mechanism in human umbilical vein endothelial cells.

METHODS/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells were used. Expression of IL-8 was determined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and luciferase reporter assay. Western blot analyses and experiments with specific inhibitors were performed to reveal the downstream signaling pathways as concerned. U-II increased the mRNA/protein levels of IL-8 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. The U-II effects were significantly inhibited by its receptor antagonist [Orn(5)]-URP. Western blot analyses and experiments with specific inhibitors indicated the involvement of phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and extracellular signal-regulated kinase in U-II-induced IL-8 expression. Luciferase reporter assay further revealed that U-II induces the transcriptional activity of IL-8. The site-directed mutagenesis indicated that the mutation of AP-1 and NF-kB binding sites reduced U-II-increased IL-8 promoter activities. Proliferation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells induced by U-II could be inhibited significantly by IL-8 RNA interference.

CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE

The results show that U-II induces IL-8 expression in human umbilical vein endothelial cells via p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling pathways and IL-8 is involved in the U-II-induced proliferation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells.

Cafestol Inhibits Cyclic-Strain-Induced Interleukin-8, Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1, and Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 Production in Vascular Endothelial Cells

Moderate coffee consumption is inversely associated with cardiovascular disease mortality; however, mechanisms underlying this causal effect remain unclear. Cafestol, a diterpene found in coffee, has various properties, including an anti-inflammatory property. This study investigated the effect of cafestol on cyclic-strain-induced inflammatory molecule secretion in vascular endothelial cells. Cells were cultured under static or cyclic strain conditions, and the secretion of inflammatory molecules was determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The effects of cafestol on mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and sirtuin 1 (Sirt1) signaling pathways were examined using Western blotting and specific inhibitors. Cafestol attenuated cyclic-strain-stimulated intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), monocyte chemoattractant protein- (MCP-) 1, and interleukin- (IL-) 8 secretion. Cafestol inhibited the cyclic-strain-induced phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase and p38 MAPK. By contrast, cafestol upregulated cyclic-strain-induced HO-1 and Sirt1 expression. The addition of zinc protoporphyrin IX, sirtinol, or Sirt1 silencing (transfected with Sirt1 siRNA) significantly attenuated cafestol-mediated modulatory effects on cyclic-strain-stimulated ICAM-1, MCP-1, and IL-8 secretion. This is the first study to report that cafestol inhibited cyclic-strain-induced inflammatory molecule secretion, possibly through the activation of HO-1 and Sirt1 in endothelial cells. The results provide valuable insights into molecular pathways that may contribute to the effects of cafestol.

Lycopene Inhibits Urotensin-II-Induced Cardiomyocyte Hypertrophy in Neonatal Rat Cardiomyocytes

This study investigated how lycopene affected urotensin-II- (U-II-) induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and the possible implicated mechanisms. Neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were exposed to U-II (1 nM) either exclusively or following 6 h of lycopene pretreatment (1-10  μ M). The lycopene (3-10  μ M) pretreatment significantly inhibited the U-II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, decreased the production of U-II-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS), and reduced the level of NAD(P)H oxidase-4 expression. Lycopene further inhibited the U-II-induced phosphorylation of the redox-sensitive extracellular signal-regulated kinases. Moreover, lycopene treatment prevented the increase in the phosphorylation of serine-threonine kinase Akt and glycogen synthase kinase-3beta (GSK-3 β ) caused by U-II without affecting the protein levels of the phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN). However, lycopene increased the PTEN activity level, suggesting that lycopene prevents ROS-induced PTEN inactivation. These findings imply that lycopene yields antihypertrophic effects that can prevent the activation of the Akt/GSK-3 β hypertrophic pathway by modulating PTEN inactivation through U-II treatment. Thus, the data indicate that lycopene prevented U-II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy through a mechanism involving the inhibition of redox signaling. These findings provide novel data regarding the molecular mechanisms by which lycopene regulates cardiomyocyte hypertrophy.

Corrigendum to "Cafestol Inhibits Cyclic-Strain-Induced Interleukin-8, Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1, and Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 Production in Vascular Endothelial Cells"

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1155/2018/7861518.].

Selenoprotein P1 as a biomarker of insulin resistance in pediatric obesity: Insights and implications

This editorial discusses the findings of Elbarky et al on the role of selenoprotein P1 (SEPP1) in pediatric obesity and insulin resistance. Their study uncovered significantly lower SEPP1 Levels in children who were obese compared with healthy peers, demonstrating a negative correlation between SEPP1 levels and measures of adiposity and insulin resistance. These findings suggest that SEPP1 is a biomarker useful in the early identification of insulin resistance in pediatric populations. This editorial emphasizes the clinical implications of the study and calls for further research to validate and explore the role of SEPP1 in metabolic health.

Elafibranor: A promising therapeutic approach for liver fibrosis and gut barrier dysfunction in alcohol-associated liver disease

This article discusses the recent study written by Koizumi et al. Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is a major cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality, which is driven by complex mechanisms, including lipid accumulation, apoptosis, and inflammatory responses exacerbated by gut barrier dysfunction. The study explored the therapeutic potential of elafibranor, a dual peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha/delta agonist. In clinical trials, elafibranor has shown promise for the treatment of other liver conditions; however, its effects on ALD remain unclear. The authors' findings indicate that elafibranor significantly reduced liver fibrosis and enhanced gut barrier integrity in patients with ALD. These positive effects of elafibranor are mediated through multiple pathways. Elafibranor promotes lipid metabolism, reduces oxidative stress, and inhibits inflammatory responses by restoring gut barrier function. Specifically, it improves hepatocyte function by enhancing autophagic and antioxidant capacity, and it mitigates inflammation by suppressing the lipopolysaccharide/toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathway. These findings indicate that elafibranor has promising clinical applications. In addition, the study highlights elafibranor's potential as a therapeutic agent for liver diseases, particularly ALD. This article underscores the importance of understanding the mechanistic pathways underlying ALD and suggests directions for future research aimed at elucidating the benefits and limitations of elafibranor.

Fucoidan Attenuates Cardiac Remodeling by Inhibiting Galectin-3 Secretion, Fibrosis, and Inflammation in a Mouse Model of Pressure Overload

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Fucoidan, a sulfated polysaccharide derived from marine algae, is known for its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. Galectin-3 (Gal-3), a protein associated with cardiovascular fibrosis, has been identified as a potential therapeutic target in cardiac remodeling. This study aimed to evaluate whether fucoidan could inhibit Gal-3 activity and mitigate cardiac remodeling in a mouse model of pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy.

METHODS

To test this hypothesis, we used transverse aortic constriction (TAC) surgery to induce pressure overload in normotensive mice, replicating the pathological features of cardiac hypertrophy. Mice were treated with fucoidan at a dose of 1.5 or 7.5 mg/kg/day. In vivo assessments of cardiac function, fibrosis, inflammation, and Gal-3 expression were performed.

RESULTS

Pressure overload led to significant upregulation of serum Gal-3 levels, increased cardiac collagen deposition, and elevated markers of fibrosis and inflammation. In mice treated with fucoidan, these effects were significantly attenuated. Fucoidan treatment prevented the upregulation of Gal-3, reduced collagen deposition, and decreased inflammatory cell infiltration, suggesting an inhibition of both fibrosis and inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS

Fucoidan effectively mitigated the adverse effects of pressure overload in this mouse model, including reduced Gal-3 expression, fibrosis, and inflammation. These findings suggest that fucoidan holds promise as a therapeutic agent for preventing or delaying cardiac remodeling and associated complications, such as fibrosis and inflammation, in pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy. Further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms and clinical applicability of fucoidan in cardiac disease.

Investigating clubfoot in Saudi Arabia: Prevalence, factors, and future directions

This editorial discusses the significant findings and implications of the study conducted by Alomran et al. This retrospective study, soon to be published, provides valuable insights into the epidemiology of and risk factors associated with clubfoot in a specific Saudi population. By highlighting the study's key outcomes and discussing its broader implications for public health and clinical practices, this editorial aims to underscore the importance of continued research and targeted interventions in addressing congenital deformities such as clubfoot.

The Association between Cafestol and Cardiovascular Diseases: A Comprehensive Review

Cafestol, a bioactive compound found in coffee, has attracted considerable attention due to its potential impact on cardiovascular health. This review aims to comprehensively explore the association between cafestol and cardiovascular diseases. We delve into the mechanisms through which cafestol influences lipid metabolism, inflammation, and endothelial function, all of which are pivotal in cardiovascular pathophysiology. Moreover, we meticulously analyze epidemiological studies and clinical trials to elucidate the relationship between cafestol and cardiovascular outcomes. Through a critical examination of existing literature, we aim to provide insights into the potential benefits and risks associated with cafestol concerning cardiovascular health.

Harnessing aryl hydrocarbon receptor dynamics: Unveiling therapeutic pathways in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

This editorial discusses the insightful minireview by Rahmati et al. The minireview delves into the role of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor in the development and progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, highlighting its potential as a promising therapeutic target. The authors concisely summarize the current understanding of how aryl hydrocarbon receptor modulation influences immune responses and the tumor microenvironment, offering fresh perspectives on therapeutic strategies. This editorial aimed to emphasize the significance of these findings and their potential impact on future research and clinical practices for the management of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

Understanding Galectin-3's Role in Diastolic Dysfunction: A Contemporary Perspective

Diastolic dysfunction, a prevalent condition characterized by impaired relaxation and filling of the left ventricle, significantly contributes to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Galectin-3, a β-galactoside-binding lectin, has garnered attention as a potential biomarker and mediator of fibrosis and inflammation in cardiovascular diseases. This comprehensive review investigates the impact of galectin-3 on diastolic dysfunction. We explore its molecular mechanisms, including its involvement in cellular signaling pathways and interaction with components of the extracellular matrix. Evidence from both animal models and clinical studies elucidates galectin-3's role in cardiac remodeling, inflammation, and fibrosis, shedding light on the underlying pathophysiology of diastolic dysfunction. Additionally, we examine the diagnostic and therapeutic implications of galectin-3 in diastolic dysfunction, emphasizing its potential as both a biomarker and a therapeutic target. This review underscores the significance of comprehending galectin-3's role in diastolic dysfunction and its promise in enhancing diagnosis and treatment approaches for HFpEF patients.

Fanlian Huazhuo formula: A promising therapeutic approach for metabolic associated steatotic liver disease

This article reviews the study, "Fanlian huazhuo formula alleviates high-fat-diet-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by modulating autophagy and lipid synthesis signaling pathway" published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology. The study explores the therapeutic potential of Fanlian Huazhuo formula (FLHZF) in treating metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), demonstrating that FLHZF reduces lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, and liver injury in MASLD models by modulating key signaling pathways involved in lipid metabolism and autophagy. This editorial emphasizes the potential of FLHZF as a treatment for MASLD and calls for further research to verify its clinical efficacy.

Esophageal cancer: A global challenge requiring tailored strategies

In this editorial we comment on the article published in a recent issue of the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology. Characterized by high mortality rates and geographical variations in its incidence, esophageal cancer poses a major global health challenge. This editorial article synthesizes insights from the review of esophageal cancer conducted by Qu et al, which highlights the importance of tailored screening and treatment strategies. Key themes include the effect of regional disparities on screening protocols, advancements in early detection methodologies, and therapeutic management disparities between different regions. By embracing personalized approaches grounded in regional nuances and technological innovation, the article advocates for comprehensive and collaborative efforts to improve patient outcomes in esophageal cancer care.

Exploring Xiaojianzhong decoction's potential in gastric cancer treatment: Integrative insights and experimental validation

Gastric cancer (GC) remains a formidable global health concern with significant morbidity and mortality rates, despite the fact that numerous advances have been made to improve conventional therapies. Xiaojianzhong decoction (XJZ), a traditional Chinese medicine, has garnered academic attention as a multicomponent, multitarget approach to managing GC. The present editorial explores the potential of XJZ in the treatment of GC through a comprehensive analysis of network pharmacology and experimental validation. Network pharmacology was used to identify key molecular targets of XJZ, including interleukin 6, prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2, and matrix metalloproteinase 9, and in vitro experiments were used to confirm the efficacy of XJZ in inhibiting cell proliferation, inducing apoptosis, and modulating gene expression associated with GC progression. This editorial highlights XJZ as a promising therapeutic strategy for GC and indicates a need for further clinical exploration and validation of its efficacy.

Cardiotoxicity concerns in total joint arthroplasty

This editorial examines the cardiotoxic effects of elevated metal concentrations in patients who received total joint arthroplasty, as detailed in the study of Brennan et al. The study findings reveal that elevated cobalt and titanium levels may affect the cardiac structure and function, providing crucial insights for clinical practice and research. This editorial suggests that the close monitoring of metal ion levels in patients undergoing arthroplasty is necessary to reduce cardiovascular risk.

Understanding the molecular crossroads in acute liver failure: A pathway to new therapies

In this editorial we comment on the article published in a recent issue of the World Journal of Gastroenterology. Acute liver failure (ALF) is a critical condition characterized by rapid hepatocellular injury and organ dysfunction, and it often necessitates liver transplant to ensure patient survival. Recent research has elucidated the involvement of distinct cell death pathways, namely ferroptosis and pyroptosis, in the pathogenesis of ALF. Ferroptosis is driven by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, whereas pyroptosis is an inflammatory form of cell death; both pathways contribute to hepatocyte death and exacerbate tissue damage. This comprehensive review explores the interplay between ferroptosis and pyroptosis in ALF, highlighting the role of key regulators such as silent information regulator sirtuin 1. Insights from clinical and preclinical studies provide valuable perspectives on the dysregulation of cell death pathways in ALF and the therapeutic potential of targeting these pathways. Collaboration across multiple disciplines is essential for translating the experimental insights into effective treatments for this life-threatening condition.

Advancing treatment strategies: Insights from network meta-analysis of hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma

This study examines the pivotal findings of the network meta-analysis of Zhou et al, which evaluated the efficacy of hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy and combination therapies for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This meta-analysis suggests that therapeutic combinations have greater efficacy than do standard treatments. The article highlights the key insights that have the potential to shift current clinical practice and enhance outcomes for patients with advanced HCC. Additionally, this article discusses further research that can be conducted to optimize these treatments and achieve personalized care for patients with HCC.