4-Hydroxycinnamic acid suppresses airway inflammation and mucus hypersecretion in allergic asthma induced by ovalbumin challenge

In this study, we investigated whether 4-hydroxycinnamic acid (HA) has a palliative effect on asthmatic inflammatory responses using a mouse model of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic asthma. The mice were divided into five groups, each consisting of seven females (normal control phosphate-buffered saline); OVA (OVA sensitization/challenge); dexamethasone (DEX, OVA sensitization/challenge + dexamethasone 3 mg/kg); HA-10 and HA-20 OVA sensitization/challenge + HA 10 and 20 mg/kg, respectively). Mice treated with HA showed a reduction in airway hyperresponsiveness and in the number of inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) compared with asthmatic control. HA treatment also reduced the levels of interleukin (IL)-5 and IL-13 in BALF and of OVA-specific immunoglobulin E in the serum compared with asthmatic control. HA treatment relieved airway inflammation and mucus overproduction caused by OVA exposure. Additionally, HA inhibited the increases in levels of nuclear factor kappa B, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and cyclooxygenase-2 that normally occur after OVA exposure. HA treatment also reduced the activity and protein level of matrix metalloproteinase-9. Taken together, HA effectively suppressed asthmatic airway inflammation and mucus production caused by OVA exposure. These findings indicate that HA has the potential to be used as a therapeutic agent for asthma.

Malarone® induced pancreatitis and alopecia in a dog: a case report

BACKGROUND

Malarone® is a drug used for the treatment of malaria in humans. This drug is also particularly effective in the treatment of canine Babesia gibsoni infections. Malarone® is rarely used in dogs, and its adverse effects have not been widely reported. Its mechanism of action is related to the inhibition of cytochrome b and electron transport in the cell. This is the first known report of the development of acute pancreatitis and alopecia in a dog following the administration of Malarone®.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 3-year-old, intact, female Maltese was referred to our clinic with intermittent vomiting and sudden, generalized alopecia. Two months previously, the dog had been prescribed Malarone® for the treatment of a suspected B. gibsoni infection. The dog was evaluated using hematology, radiography, ultrasonography, a PCR for Babesia detection, and a canine pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (cPLI) assay. The result of the PCR test was negative, whereas the cPLI assay yielded a positive result. Dermatologic examination revealed bacterial infection with hair cycle arrest.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on these findings, drug-induced acute pancreatitis and alopecia with superficial pyoderma were diagnosed. Malarone® may induce severe adverse reactions in dogs. Therefore, careful monitoring for adverse effects is required when using Malarone® in dogs.

Cisplatin-induced ototoxicity involves interaction of PRMT3 and cannabinoid system

This study investigated whether protein arginine methyltransferase (PRMT) and the cannabinoid system are involved in cisplatin-induced ototoxicity. Cisplatin increased cytosine-cytosine-adenosine-adenosine-thymidine-enhancer-binding protein homologous protein expression. This effect is indicative of an increase in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and apoptosis signaling including cleavage of caspase-3, caspase-9, poly-adenosine diphosphate-ribose polymerase, and phospho-p53, as well as expression of PRMT3, PRMT4 and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH)1 in House Ear Institute-Organ of Corti 1 (HEI-OC1) cells. In addition, overexpression of PRMT3 or PRMT4 increased the expression of FAAH1 expression, apoptosis, and ER stress signaling in HEI-OC1 cells, whereas PRMT3 or PRMT4 knockdown had the opposite effect. Furthermore, overexpression of FAAH1 increased apoptosis and ER stress, but expression of the PRMTs was unchanged. In addition, a cannabinoid 1 receptor agonist and FAAH inhibitor attenuated apoptosis and ER stress, while cisplatin increased the binding of PRMT3 with FAAH1. In the in vivo experiments, cisplatin was injected intraperitoneally at 6 mg/kg/day into C57BL/6 mice, and 7 days later, this study confirmed that PRMT3 and PRMT4 were upregulated in the organ of Corti of the mice. These results indicate that cisplatin-induced ototoxicity was correlated with PRMT3, PRMT4 and the cannabinoid system, and PRMT3 binding with FAAH1 was increased by cisplatin in HEI-OC1 cells. Therefore, this study suggests that PRMT3 mediates cisplatin-induced ototoxicity via interaction with FAAH1 in vitro and in vivo.

Modificated Mahuang-Tang, a traditional herbal medicine suppresses inflammatory responses induced by cigarette smoke in human airway epithelial cell and mice

BACKGROUND

Cigarette smoke (CS) is a major contributor to the high incidence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) featured as chronic inflammation and airway obstruction. Mahuang-Tang is a traditional polyherbal mixture composed of four different herbs. It is widely used in Asia as a remedy for allergic reaction and inflammation.

PURPOSE

We investigated the effects of a modificated Mahuang-Tang water extract (MTWE) against airway inflammation caused by CS and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice and cigarette smoke condensate (CSC)-stimulated NCI-H292 cells.

METHODS

CS exposed to animals for 1 h per day from day 1 to day 7 and treated with LPS intranasally on day 4. One hour before CS exposure, animals were received MTWE (50 or 100 mg/kg) by oral gavage. Inflammatory cell count and cytokines levels were measured in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Expression levels of matrix metalloprotease-9 (MMP-9) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk) were analyzed by western blotting.

RESULTS

MTWE markedly decreased the neutrophil and other inflammatory cell counts in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and reduced proinflammatory mediators as evidenced by the decreases in inflammatory cell recruitment in lung tissue. Furthermore, MTWE meaningfully declined MMP-9 expression and reduced the Erk phosphorylation, caused by the CS and LPS exposure. In in vitro experiments, MTWE suppressed the elevated expression of proinflammatory cytokines induced by CSC treatment. MTWE reduced Erk phosphorylation and MMP-9 expression in CSC-stimulated H292 cells.

CONCLUSION

Overall, MTWE effectively inhibited the pulmonary inflammation and MMP-9 expression caused by the CS and LPS exposure, which was closely involved in suppression of Erk phosphorylation. These results suggest that MTWE possesses a potential for the treatment of COPD.

Melatonin attenuates cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury in rats via induction of anti-aging protein, Klotho

This study investigated the protective effects of melatonin (MT) against cisplatin (CP)-induced acute kidney injury in rats as well as its possible mechanism of action associated with anti-aging protein Klotho. The following four experimental groups were evaluated: vehicle control, CP (7 mg/kg), CP&MT20 (20 mg/kg/day), and CP&MT40 (40 mg/kg/day). The concomitant administration of MT significantly ameliorated CP-induced acute kidney injury in rats, as evidenced by increased kidney weight, increased serum levels of blood urea nitrogen and creatinine, and increased incidence of histopathological alterations with renal tubular cell apoptosis. In addition, MT treatment protected kidney tissue against oxidative damages and significantly upregulated the expression level of Klotho decreased by CP treatment, resulting in reduced phosphorylation of protein kinase B (AKT) and forkhead box O (FOXO) as well as reduced expression levels of B-cell lymphoma 2-associated X protein (Bax) and caspase-3. MT not only partially regulated oxidative stress via AKT/FOXO signaling, but also reduced apoptosis caused by CP by inhibiting the Bax/caspase-3 pathway. Our results indicated that MT could prevent acute kidney injury induced by CP in rats, presumably through upregulating the expression of Klotho, resulting in elevated anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic properties.

S-Allyl cysteine reduces eosinophilic airway inflammation and mucus overproduction on ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma model

S-Allyl cysteine (SAC) is an active component in garlic and has various pharmacological effects, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-cancer activities. In this study, we explored the suppressive effects of SAC on allergic airway inflammation induced in an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma mouse model. To induce asthma, BALB/c mice were sensitized to OVA on days 0 and 14 by intraperitoneal injection and exposed to OVA from days 21 to 23 using a nebulizer. SAC was administered to mice by oral gavage at a dose of 10 or 20 mg/kg from days 18 to 23. SAC significantly reduced airway hyperresponsiveness, inflammatory cell counts, and Th2 type cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid induced by OVA exposure, which was accompanied by reduced serum OVA-specific immunoglobulin E. In histological analysis of the lung tissue, administration of SAC reduced inflammatory cell accumulation into lung tissue and mucus production in airway goblet cells induced by OVA exposure. Additionally, SAC significantly decreased MUC5AC expression and nuclear factor-κB phosphorylation induced by OVA exposure. In summary, SAC effectively suppressed allergic airway inflammation and mucus production in OVA-challenged asthmatic mice. Therefore, SAC shows potential for use in treating allergic asthma.

Galgeun-tang Attenuates Cigarette Smoke and Lipopolysaccharide Induced Pulmonary Inflammation via IκBα/NF-κB Signaling

Galgeun-tang water extract (GGWE) is used to treat various diseases such as the common cold, eczema and asthma in China and Korea. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effect of GGWE using a cigarette smoke (CS)- and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced induced pulmonary inflammation mouse model. The mice were exposed to CS for a total of seven days (eight cigarettes per day for 1 h) and LPS was administered intranasally to mice on day 4. GGWE was administered by oral gavage at doses of 50 mg/kg or 100 mg/kg 1 h before exposure to CS. GGWE decreased inflammatory cell counts, and expression of inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) from mice exposed to CS and LPS. GGWE reduced the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), as well as the phosphorylation of inhibitor of kappa-B subunit alpha (IκBα) and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) in CS- and LPS-exposed mice. Histological examinations revealed that GGWE suppressed inflammatory cell infiltration into lung tissue compared to untreated CS- and LPS-exposed mice. In conclusion, GGWE effectively suppressed CS- and LPS-induced pulmonary inflammation. Our results indicate that GGWE may be used as a protective drug to control pulmonary inflammation diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

So-Cheong-Ryoung-Tang Attenuates Pulmonary Inflammation Induced by Cigarette Smoke in Bronchial Epithelial Cells and Experimental Mice

So-Cheong-Ryoung-Tang is a traditionally used herbal formula for the treatment of pulmonary diseases in China, Korea, and Japan. We investigated the protective effects of So-Cheong-Ryong-Tang water extract (SCWE) in cigarette smoke concentrate (CSC) stimulated human airway epithelial cell line NCI-H292 and mice exposed cigarette smoke (CS) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In the CSC-stimulated NCI-H292 cells, SCWE inhibited proinflammatory cytokines in a concentration-dependent manner, as evidenced by a reduction in their mRNA levels. Also, SCWE significant reduced inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) phosphorylation in CSC-stimulated cells. The mice were exposed to CS for 1 h per day (a total of eight cigarettes per day) for 7 days and received LPS intranasally on day 5. The mice were administered a dose of SCWE (100 and 200 mg/kg) 1 h before CS exposure. In in vivo, SCWE decreased the inflammatory cell count and reduced the expression of the proinflammatory cytokines in the broncho-alveolar lavage fluid (BALF) compared with CS and LPS exposed mice. SCWE attenuated inflammatory cell infiltration in airway induced by CS and LPS exposure, and this decrease was accompanied by a reduction in the expression levels of iNOS and MMP-9 in lung tissue. The extract also inhibited the phosphorylation of inhibitor of kappa B alpha (IκBα) and NF-κB induced by CS and LPS exposure in lung tissue. These results suggest that SCWE may effectively inhibit airway inflammatory responses induced by CS and LPS exposure via the NF-κB pathway. Therefore, SCWE may be a potential treatment for airway inflammatory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Lignans Isolated From Flower Buds of Magnolia fargesii Attenuate Airway Inflammation Induced by Cigarette Smoke in vitro and in vivo

The flower buds of Magnolia fargesii, known traditionally as Xinyi, exert anti-inflammatory effects against inflammatory lung diseases such as COPD. Lignans isolated from Xinyi are an important group of plant-derived anti-inflammatory compounds. However, the mechanisms of action underlying their protective effects against COPD are not yet fully understood. Here, we showed that seven lignans (lignans 1–7) obtained from a CHCl₃ fraction of Xinyi effectively suppress the inflammatory response in CSC-stimulated airway epithelial cells (in vitro) and in a mouse model of COPD established by exposure to CS and LPS. The CHCl₃ fraction was found to inhibit CSC-induced IL-6 expression in human airway epithelial cells and to suppress the infiltration of inflammatory cells (neutrophils and macrophages) and secretion of inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the mouse model. Similarly, each of the seven lignans isolated from the CHCl₃ fraction also suppressed the infiltration of inflammatory cells (neutrophils and macrophages) and secretion of inflammatory mediators such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), TNF-α, and IL-6 in vivo. Notably, all lignan compounds significantly suppressed both extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) and Akt phosphorylation levels in CSC-stimulated human lung mucoepidermoid carcinoma (NCI-H292) cells. Of these, lignan 1 (dimethylpinoresinol) inhibited the expression of CSC-induced inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, -6, and -8) in vitro in a dose-dependent manner by suppressing the activation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and its downstream effectors, including ERK and Akt, in NCI-H292 cells. Our results show that the lignans isolated from Xinyi may prevent airway inflammatory diseases through the suppression of EGFR and its downstream effectors.

Lobeglitazone Attenuates Airway Inflammation and Mucus Hypersecretion in a Murine Model of Ovalbumin-Induced Asthma

Lobeglitazone (LB) is a novel agonist of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α and γ that was developed as a drug to treat diabetes mellitus. We explored the ameliorative effects of LB on allergic asthma using a murine model of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma. To boost the immune response of animals, OVA sensitization was performed on days 0 and 14. LB (250 or 500 μg/kg) was administered by oral gavage on days 18 to 23, and the OVA challenge was performed using an ultrasonic nebulizer on days 21 to 23. Plethysmography showed airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) on day 24. LB treatment effectively decreased inflammatory cell recruitment, T-helper type 2 cytokines in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and immunoglobulin (Ig) E in the serum of the animals with OVA-induced asthma, which was accompanied by a marked reduction in AHR. It also decreased airway inflammation, mucus hypersecretion, phosphorylation of nuclear transcription factor-kappa-B (NF-κB), and expression of activating protein (AP)-1 and mucin 5AC (MUC5AC). Overall, LB effectively attenuated the pathophysiological changes of asthma and its effects appear related to a reduction in the phosphorylation of NF-κB and the expression of AP-1. Thus, our results suggest that LB has a potential to treat allergic asthma.

Copper nanoparticles induce early fibrotic changes in the liver via TGF-β/Smad signaling and cause immunosuppressive effects in rats

Copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) have various uses, including as additives in polymers/plastics, lubricants for metallic coating, and biomedical applications. We investigated the role of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 signaling in hepatic damage caused by Cu NPs and explored the effects of a 28-day repeated oral administration to Cu NPs on the immune response. The exposure to Cu NPs caused a dose-dependent increase in Cu levels in the liver and spleen. Cu NPs caused hepatic damage and markedly increased oxidative stress in liver tissues. Cu NPs induced activation of TGF-β1/Smad signaling by induction of vascular endothelial growth factor and matrix metalloproteinase-9. Exposure to Cu NPs also induced activation of Smad-independent pathways, phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and Akt/FoxO3. Consistent with the activation of TGF-β1/Smad-dependent and -independent pathways, Cu NPs markedly increased the deposition and induction of extracellular matrix components, α-smooth muscle actin, and collagens in liver tissues. In addition, repeated exposure to Cu NPs suppressed the proliferation of mitogenically stimulated T- or B-lymphocytes and decreased CD3⁺ (particularly, CD3⁺CD4⁺CD8^-) and CD45⁺ population, followed by decreased levels of immunoglobulins and Th1/Th2 type cytokines. Collectively, Cu NPs caused hepatic damage and induced pro-fibrotic changes, which were closely related to the activation of oxidative stress-mediated TGF-β1/Smad-dependent and -independent pathways (MAPKs and Akt/FoxO3). We confirmed the immunosuppressive effect of Cu NPs via the inhibition of mitogen-stimulated spleen-derived lymphocyte proliferation and suppression of B- or T-lymphocyte-mediated immune responses.

Copper oxide nanoparticles induce collagen deposition via TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling in human airway epithelial cells

Use and application of nanoparticles has increased in recent years. Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) are one of the most common types of nanoparticles, and they are mainly used as catalysts and preservatives. However, limited toxicity data are available on the toxicity of CuONPs to the respiratory system. We investigated fibrotic responses induced by CuONPs in the respiratory tract and elucidated its underlying mechanism of action in vivo and in vitro experiments. In the mouse model, CuONPs exposure markedly increased transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and collagen I expression and Smad3 phosphorylation, combined with elevation of inflammatory mediators including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). These alterations were also observed in histological analysis of lung tissue. CuONPs markedly increased inflammatory responses and collagen deposition, accompanied by the elevation of TGF-β1 and collagen I expression in lung tissue. In addition, CuONPs-treated H292 cells showed significantly increased mRNA and protein production of TGF-β1, collagen I, IL-6, and TNF-α; this response was markedly decreased by treatment of a TGF-β1 inhibitor (SB-431542). Taken together, CuONPs induced fibrotic responses in the respiratory tract, closely related to TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling. Therefore, our results raise the necessity of further investigation for the present state of its risk by providing useful information of the toxicity of CuONPs.

4-Hydroxycinnamic acid protects mice from cigarette smoke-induced pulmonary inflammation via MAPK pathways

Cigarette smoke (CS) is the main etiological cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the prevalence of which has continuously increased in recent years. 4-Hydroxycinnamic acid (HA) is a plant phenolic acid that has anti-inflammatory activities. In this study, we explored the therapeutic effects of HA on airway inflammation caused by CS and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice. The animals received 1 h of CS exposure for 7 days and intranasal instillation of LPS on day 4. HA (10 and 20 mg/kg) was administered to animals via oral gavage 1 h before CS exposure. HA treatment significantly decreased the accumulation of inflammatory cells and production of cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-1β, caused by CS and LPS exposure. After histological examination, we observed that HA treatment significantly reduced the infiltration of inflammatory cells into lung tissue caused by CS and LPS exposure. Furthermore, HA-treated groups showed significantly decreased phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, p38, and nuclear factor-κB, and activity of cytochrome c oxidase subunit-2 caused by CS and LPS. In conclusion, HA effectively suppresses the airway inflammatory response induced by CS and LPS exposure, and is closely associated with the downregulation of mitogen-activated protein kinases signaling.

Genipin inhibits allergic responses in ovalbumin-induced asthmatic mice

Genipin is a natural compound isolated from the fruit of Gardenia jasminoides with various pharmacological effects. In this study, we investigated whether genipin effectively alleviates allergic responses in a murine model of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma. The mice were administered an intraperitoneal injection of OVA on day 0 and 14 to boost the immune response; genipin was then administered from day 18 to 23 by oral gavage. On days 21 to 23, mice were OVA-challenged using am ultrasonic nebulizer, and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) was determined on day 24 by plethysmography. Genipin significantly reduced the inflammatory cell count in bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALF) and AHR, which were accompanied by lower interleukin-5 (IL-5), IL-13 and OVA-specific immunoglobulin (Ig) E levels in the BALF or serum from OVA-induced asthmatic mice. In histology, genipin significantly decreased airway inflammation and mucus hypersecretion in OVA-induced asthmatic mice. Additionally, genipin inhibited OVA-induced increases in the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 proteins. Further, genipin reduced the activity and protein levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 in lung tissue from OVA induced asthmatic mice. Overall, genipin effectively alleviated the asthmatic inflammatory response in an OVA-induced asthmatic model. Therefore, our results suggest that genipin has therapeutic potential for treating asthma.

Melatonin suppresses fibrotic responses induced by cigarette smoke via downregulation of TGF-β1

Cigarette smoke (CS) is the most important risk factor in the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Pulmonary fibrosis is an irreversible response and important feature of COPD. In this study, we investigated the effects of melatonin on fibrotic response in development of COPD using a CS and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced COPD model and cigarette smoke condensate (CSC)-stimulated NCI-H292 cells, a human mucoepidermoid cell line. Mice were exposed to CS for 1 h per day (8 cigarettes per day) from day 1 to day 7 and were treated intranasally with LPS on day 4. Melatonin (10 or 20 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally 1 h before CS exposure. Melatonin decreased the inflammatory cell counts in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), with a reduction in transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1. Melatonin inhibited the expression of TGF-β1, collagen I and SMAD3 phosphorylation in lung tissue exposed to CS and LPS. In CSC-stimulated H292 cells, melatonin suppressed the elevated expression of fibrotic mediators induced by CSC treatment. Melatonin reduced the expression of TGF-β1, collagen I, SMAD3 and p38 phosphorylation in CSC-stimulated H292 cells. In addition, cotreatment with melatonin and TGF-β1 inhibitors significantly limited fibrotic mediators, with greater reductions in the expression of TGF-β1, collagen I, SMAD3 and p38 phosphorylation than those of H292 cells treated with TGF-β1 inhibitor alone. Taken together, melatonin effectively inhibited fibrotic responses induced by CS and LPS exposure, which was related to the downregulation of TGF-β1. Therefore, our results suggest that melatonin may suppress the pulmonary fibrotic response induced by CS.

Artemisia argyi attenuates airway inflammation in ovalbumin-induced asthmatic animals

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Artemisia argyi is a traditional herbal medicine in Korea and commonly called as mugwort. It is traditionally used as food source and tea to control abdominal pain, dysmenorrhea, uterine hemorrhage, and inflammation.

AIM OF THE STUDY

We investigated the effects of A. argyi (TOTAL) and dehydromatricarin A (DA), its active component on ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic asthma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The animals were sensitized on day 0 and 14 by intraperitoneal injection of OVA with aluminum hydroxide. On day 21, 22 and 23 after the initial sensitization, the animals received an airway challenge with OVA for 1h using an ultrasonic nebulizer. TOTAL (50 and 100mg/kg) or DA (10 and 20mg/kg) were administered to mice by oral gavage once daily from day 18-23. Airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) was measured 24h after final OVA challenge.

RESULT

TOTAL and DA treated animals reduced inflammatory cell counts, cytokines and AHR in asthmatic animals, which was accompanied with inflammatory cell accumulation and mucus hypersecretion. Furthermore, TOTAL and DA significantly declined Erk phosphorylation and the expression of MMP-9 in asthmatic animals.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, we indicate that Total and DA suppress allergic inflammatory responses caused by OVA challenge. It was considered that A. argyi has a potential for treating allergic asthma.

Silibinin inhibits the fibrotic responses induced by cigarette smoke via suppression of TGF-β1/Smad 2/3 signaling

Cigarette smoke (CS) is generally accepted as a major contributor to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) which is characterized by chronic inflammation, fibrotic response, and airway obstruction. In this study, we investigated the preventive effects of silibinin, an active constitute of silymarin on CS and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure-induced fibrotic response. Mice were exposed to CS for 1 h per day (8 cigarettes per day) for 4 weeks. On day 12 and 26, mice were treated with LPS intranasally. Silibinin (10 or 20 mg/kg) was administered orally 1 h before CS exposure. Silibinin markedly decreased the inflammatory cell count in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and reduced levels of proinflammatory mediators. Silibinin suppressed CS + LPS-induced collagen deposition in lung tissue, as evidenced via immunohistochemistry and Masson's trichrome stain. Additionally, silibinin effectively inhibited CS + LPS-mediated expression of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and Smad 2/3 phosphorylation. Taken together, our data indicate that silibinin effectively inhibits the fibrotic response induced by CS + LPS exposure, possibly via suppression of TGF-β1/Smad 2/3 signaling, which results in reduced collagen deposition. These findings suggest that silibinin has therapeutic potential for the treatment of COPD.

Effect of prolonged racing on muscle activity and spatiotemporal variables: double-poling technique

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a 40-minute race on muscle activity and spatiotemporal cycle variables at four-time points during a 12-km roller skiing test using the double-poling technique. [Subjects and Methods] Five elite cross-country (XC) skiers on the Korean National reserve team participated in the study. Part of a biathlon course that consisted of both flat land and slopes was selected, and three measurements were recorded after every 4-km lap. Spatiotemporal variables, mean frequency and mean amplitude of 6 muscles were the chosen computational parameters. [Results] Significant differences were observed in cycle time and rate. The mean frequency of the upper-body muscles exhibited declining trends, with statistically significant differences for the triceps brachii. In addition, there were significant differences in the mean amplitude of the tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius. The activity of the triceps brachii, tibialis anterior, and gastrocnemius showed some degree of dependence on the technique. [Conclusion] Training and race strategies that improve the function of elbow extensors and ankle dorsiflexors are important in XC skiing; the application of roller-ski training research to actual XC skiing competitions is needed.

Ameliorative effects of pine bark extract on cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury in rats

Objective: This study investigated the dose–response effects of pine bark extract (PBE, pycnogenol^®) on oxidative stress-mediated apoptotic changes induced by cisplatin (Csp) in rats.

Materials and methods: The ameliorating potential of PBE was evaluated after orally administering PBE at doses of 10 or 20 mg/kg for 10 days. Acute kidney injury was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of Csp at 7 mg/kg on test day 5.

Results: Csp treatment caused acute kidney injury manifested by elevated levels of serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (CRE) with corresponding histopathological changes, including degeneration of tubular epithelial cells, hyaline casts in the tubular lumen, and inflammatory cell infiltration (interstitial nephritis). Csp also induced significant apoptotic changes in renal tubular cells. In addition, Csp treatment induced high levels of oxidative stress, as evidenced by an increased level of malondialdehyde, depletion of the reduced glutathione (GSH) content, and decreased activities of glutathione S-transferase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase in kidney tissues. On the contrary, PBE treatment lowered BUN and CRE levels and effectively attenuated histopathological alterations and apoptotic changes induced by Csp. Additionally, treatment with PBE suppressed lipid peroxidation, prevented depletion of GSH, and enhanced activities of the antioxidant enzymes in kidney tissue.

Conclusions: These results indicate that PBE has a cytoprotective effect against oxidative stress-mediated apoptotic changes caused by Csp in the rat kidney, which may be attributed to both increase of antioxidant enzyme activities and inhibition of lipid peroxidation.

Protective effect of HwangRyunHaeDok-Tang water extract against chronic obstructive pulmonary disease induced by cigarette smoke and lipopolysaccharide in a mouse model

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hwangryunhaedok-tang is an oriental herbal formula treated to cure inflammation and gastric disorders in China, Japan, and Korea. We explored the protective effects of Hwangryunhaedok-tang water extract (HRWE) against airway pathophysiological changes caused by cigarette smoke (CS) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in a mouse.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed quantitative analyses of five marker components, namely geniposide, baicalin, coptisine, plamatine, and berberine, using high-performance liquid chromatography. Animals were received CS exposure (1h per day) for 7 days. LPS was administered intranasally on day 4. Mice were received HRWE at dose of 100 or 200mg/kg for 1h before CS exposure.

RESULTS

Treatment with HRWE significantly suppressed the increased inflammatory cell count induced by CS and LPS exposure. In addition, reduction in IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β in broncho-alveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was observed after HRWE treatment. HRWE not only decreased inflammatory cell infiltration in lung, but also decreased the expression of iNOS, NF-κB and matrix metallopeptidase (MMP)-9 in lung tissues.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that HRWE can attenuate respiratory inflammation caused by CS and LPS exposure. Therefore, HRWE has potential for treating airway inflammatory disease.

A standardized bark extract of Pinus pinaster Aiton (Pycnogenol®) attenuated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease via Erk-sp1 signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

A standardized bark extract of Pinus pinaster Aiton (Pycnogenol^®; PYC) used as an herbal medicine to treat various diseases in Europe and North America.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study evaluates the ability of PYC to inhibit chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the cigarette smoke extract (CSE)-stimulated human airway epithelial cell line NCI-H292 and in a cigarette smoke (CS) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced mouse model.

METHODS

To induce COPD, the mice intranasally received LPS on day 4 and were exposed to CS for 1h per day (total eight cigarettes per day) from days 1-7. The mice were administered PYC at a dose of 15mg/kg and 30mg/kg 1h before CS exposure.

RESULTS

In the CSE-stimulated NCI-H292 cells, PYC significantly inhibited Erk phosphorylation, sp1 expression, MUC5AC, and pro-inflammatory cytokines in a concentration-dependent manner, as evidenced by a reduction in their mRNA levels. Co-treatment with PYC and Erk inhibitors markedly reduced the levels inflammatory mediators compared to only PYC-treatment. In the COPD mice model, PYC decreased the inflammatory cell count and the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the broncho-alveolar lavage fluid compared with COPD mice. PYC attenuated the recruitment of inflammatory cells in the airways and decreased the expression levels of Erk phosphorylation and sp1. PYC also inhibited the expression of myeloperoxidase and matrix metalloproteinases-9 in lung tissue.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that PYC inhibited the reduction in the inflammatory response in CSE-stimulated NCI-H292 cells and the COPD mouse model via the Erk-sp1 pathway. Therefore, we suggest that PYC has the potential to treat COPD.

Comparative toxicity and biodistribution assessments in rats following subchronic oral exposure to copper nanoparticles and microparticles

Background

Copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) have great potential in electronics and biomedical fields because of their efficient thermodynamic and anti-microbial properties. However, their potential toxic effects and kinetic data following repeated exposure are still unclear.

Methods

We evaluated the physicochemical properties of Cu NPs (25 nm) and copper microparticles (Cu MPs, 14–25 μm). Comparative in vivo toxicity of Cu NPs and Cu MPs was evaluated by conducting a 28-day repeated oral dose study at equivalent dose levels of 0, 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day (vehicle, 1 % hydroxypropyl methylcellulose). We determined Cu levels in the blood, tissues, urine, and feces by using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

Results

The solubility of Cu NPs and Cu MPs was 84.5 and 17.2 %, respectively, in an acidic milieu; however, they scarcely dissolved in vehicle or intestinal milieus. The specific surface area of Cu NPs and Cu MPs was determined to be 14.7 and 0.16 m²/g, respectively. Cu NPs exhibited a dose-dependent increase of Cu content in the blood and tested organs, with particularly high levels of Cu in the liver, kidney, and spleen. Only for liver and kidney increased Cu levels were found in Cu MPs-treated rats. Cu NPs caused a dose-related increase in Cu levels in urine, whereas Cu MPs did not affect the urine Cu levels. Extremely high levels of Cu were detected in the feces of Cu MPs-treated rats, whereas much lower levels were detected in the feces of Cu NPs-treated rats. A comparative in vivo toxicity study showed that Cu NPs caused damages to red blood cells, thymus, spleen, liver, and kidney at ≥200 mg/kg/days, but Cu MPs did not cause any adverse effects even at the highest dose.

Conclusions

Overall, the in vivo repeated dose toxicity study of Cu NPs and Cu MPs demonstrated that large surface area and high solubility in physiological milieus could directly influence the toxicological responses and biodistribution of Cu particles when administered orally. Under these experimental conditions, the no-observed-adverse-effect levels of Cu NPs and Cu MPs were determined to be 100 and ≥400 mg/kg/day, respectively.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12989-016-0169-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Aqueous Extract of Gumiganghwal-tang, a Traditional Herbal Medicine, Reduces Pulmonary Fibrosis by Transforming Growth Factor-β1/Smad Signaling Pathway in Murine Model of Chronic Asthma

Gumiganghwal-tang is a traditional herbal prescription that is used widely for the treatment of the common cold and inflammatory diseases in Korea and other Asian countries. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of a Gumiganghwal-tang aqueous extract (GGTA) against airway inflammation and pulmonary fibrosis using a mouse model of chronic asthma. Chronic asthma was modeled in BALB/c mice via sensitization/challenge with an intraperitoneal injection of 1% ovalbumin (OVA) and inhalation of nebulized 1% OVA for 4 weeks. GGTA (100 mg/kg or 200 mg/kg) was also administered by oral gavage once a day for 4 weeks. We investigated the number of inflammatory cells, production of T-helper type 2 (Th2) cytokines, chemokine and the total transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF); the levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE) in the plasma; the infiltration of inflammatory cells in lung tissue; and the expression of TGF-β1, Smad-3, and collagen in lung tissue. Our results revealed that GGTA lowered the recruitment of inflammatory cells (particularly, lymphocyte); and decreased the production of Th2 cytokines, chemokine and total TGF-β1; and attenuated the levels of total and OVA-specific IgE; and decreased the infiltration of inflammatory cells. Moreover, GGTA significantly reduced the expression of TGF-β1 and Smad-3, and lowered collagen deposition. These results indicate that GGTA reduces airway inflammation and pulmonary fibrosis by regulating Th2 cytokines production and the TGF-β1/Smad-3 pathway, thus providing a potential treatment for chronic asthma.