Sexual dimorphism in SARS-COV-2 infection

Previous studies have demonstrated that female patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) demonstrate more favorable prognosis relative to male patients. In this article, we elaborate the possible role of estrogen in the modulation of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection severity. The potential interplay between several factors, including inherently lower estradiol (E₂) and slightly higher estrogen receptor β (ERβ) levels in males, with inflammatory mediators are described. Altogether, there seems to be a sexually dimorphic response towards SARS-CoV-2 infection, and a possibility that COVID-19 severity is dependent on both E₂ levels and ERα:ERβ expression ratio in lymphoid and lung cells.

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell transplantation attenuates overexpression of inflammatory mediators in rat brain after cardiopulmonary resuscitation

Emerging evidence suggests that bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell transplantation improves neurological function after cardiac arrest and cardiopulmonary resuscitation; however, the precise mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effect of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell treatment on expression profiles of multiple cytokines in the brain after cardiac arrest and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Cardiac arrest was induced in rats by asphyxia and cardiopulmonary resuscitation was initiated 6 minutes after cardiac arrest. One hour after successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation, rats were injected with either phosphate-buffered saline (control) or 1 × 10⁶ bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells via the tail vein. Serum S100B levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and neurological deficit scores were evaluated to assess brain damage at 3 days after cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Serum S100B levels were remarkably decreased and neurological deficit scores were obviously improved in the mesenchymal stem cell group compared with the phosphate-buffered saline group. Brains were isolated from the rats and expression levels of 90 proteins were determined using a RayBio Rat Antibody Array, to investigate the cytokine profiles. Brain levels of the inflammatory mediators tumor necrosis factor-α, interferon-γ, macrophage inflammatory protein-1α, macrophage inflammatory protein-2, macrophage inflammatory protein-3α, macrophage-derived chemokine, and matrix metalloproteinase-2 were decreased ≥ 1.5-fold, while levels of the anti-inflammatory factor interleukin-10 were increased ≥ 1.5-fold in the mesenchymal stem cell group compared with the control group. Donor mesenchymal stem cells were detected by immunofluorescence to determine their distribution in the damaged brain, and were primarily observed in the cerebral cortex. These results indicate that bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell transplantation attenuates brain damage induced by cardiac arrest and cardiopulmonary resuscitation, possibly via regulation of inflammatory mediators. This experimental protocol was approved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee of Fujian Medical University, China in January 2016 (approval No. 2016079).

The Association between Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) and Cancer Risk in Korea: A Prospective Cohort Study within the KoGES-HEXA Study

Several epidemiological studies have shown that there are consistently positive associations between dietary inflammatory index (DII^®) scores and cancer incidence in Western populations. However, few DII-cancer studies have been conducted in East Asian populations. In a large cohort representative of the general Korean population, we investigated whether the DII is associated with overall cancer risk. A total of 163,660 participants (56,781 males and 106,879 females) had evaluable data for analyses. This follow-up study was carried out over the course of 7.9 years. DII scores were calculated based on Semi-Quantitative Food-Frequency Questionnaire (SQ-FFQ) data for 106 food items. Cancers were self-reported based on notification by the participants’ medical doctors. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). After the follow-up, 1643 incident cases of cancer (520 males and 1123 females) had developed. In a fully adjusted model, women in the highest DII quintile showed a 44% increased risk of getting cancer (HR_Q5vsQ1 = 1.44; 95% CI = 1.14–1.82; p-trend = 0.0006), while men showed no apparent association (HR_Q5vsQ1 = 0.80; 95% CI = 0.58–1.10). These results indicate that in Korean women, a more pro-inflammatory diet is associated with a higher risk of incident cancer.

Possible interaction between visfatin, periodontal infection, and other systemic diseases: A brief review of literature

Gingivitis and periodontitis are common bacterial infections caused by a variety of microorganisms. Despite the microorganisms’ roles as etiologic agents, inflammation-induced substances also have crucial parts in the loss of connective tissue and the supporting alveolar bone. Visfatin is a pleiotropic mediator, which acts as growth factor, cytokine, and pre-B-cell colony-enhancing factor. A positive correlation was detected between the serum/plasma levels of visfatin and inflammatory disorders such as diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease. In addition, the visfatin level was higher in saliva and the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of subjects with periodontal disease. This review defined current, predictable patterns of possible interaction of visfatin with periodontal infection and other systemic diseases, using PubMed and Medline databases searching for articles written in English. Peer-reviewed articles were targeted using the following keywords: “visfatin,” “periodontal disease,” “inflammatory mediator,” and “biomarker.” Available full-text articles were read, and related articles were also scrutinized, while a hand search was also performed. Search was confined to human studies, and articles written in English and published between 1985 and 2016 were selected. It was concluded that periodontal infection and other systemic diseases could be related to the levels of visfatin in GCF, saliva, and serum as a biomarker of these diseases.

PM2.5 upregulates rat mesenteric arteries 5-HT2A receptor via inflammatory-mediated mitogen-activated protein kinases signaling pathway

Fine particulate matter (PM_2.5 ) is an important environmental risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. However, little is known about the effects of PM_2.5 on arteries. The present study investigated whether PM_2.5 alters 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) receptor expression and inflammatory mediators on rat mesenteric arteries, and examined the underlying mechanisms. Isolated rat mesenteric arteries segments were cultured with PM_2.5 in the presence or absence of ERK1/2, JNK, and p38 pathway inhibitors. Contractile reactivity was monitored by a sensitive myograph. The expression of 5-HT_2A/1B receptors and inflammatory mediators were studied by a real-time polymerase chain reaction and/or by immunohistochemistry. The phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) pathway was detected by Western blot. Compared with the fresh or culture alone groups, 1.0 μg/mL PM_2.5 cultured for 16 hours significantly enhanced contractile response induced by 5-HT and increased 5-HT_2A receptor mRNA and protein expressions, indicating PM_2.5 upregulates 5-HT_2A receptor. SB203580 (p38 inhibitor) and U0126 (ERK1/2 inhibitor) significantly decreased PM_2.5 -induced elevated contraction and mRNA and protein expression of 5-HT_2A receptor. Cultured with PM_2.5 significantly increased the mRNA expression of inflammatory mediators (NOS2, IL-1β, and TNF-α), while SB203580 decreased mRNA expression level of NOS2, IL-1β, and TNF-α. SP600125 (JNK inhibitor) decreased mRNA expression level of TNF-α and IL-1β. After PM_2.5 exposure, the phosphorylation of p38 and ERK1/2 protein were increased. SB203580 and U0126 inhibited the PM_2.5 caused increased phosphorylation protein of p38 and ERK1/2. In conclusion, PM_2.5 induces inflammatory-mediated MAPK pathway in artery which subsequently results in enhanced vascular contraction responding to 5-HT via the upregulated 5-HT_2A receptors.

[Levels of airway inflammatory mediators in peripheral blood in infants and young children with wheezing]

OBJECTIVE

To examine the levels of airway inflammatory mediators in peripheral blood in infants and young children with wheezing and to study the possible pathogenesis of wheezing from the aspects of T helper cell 1 (Th1)/T helper cell 2 (Th2) imbalance and airway inflammation.

METHODS

A total of 50 children aged 1 month to 3 years with an acute wheezing episode were enrolled as the wheezing group, and 25 age-matched healthy infants were enrolled as the healthy control group. According to the number of wheezing episodes, the wheezing group was divided into a first-episode group (n=25) and a recurrent wheezing (number of episodes ≥2) group (n=25). According to the presence or absence of high-risk factors for asthma, the wheezing group was divided into a high-risk factor group (n=22) and a non-high-risk factor group (n=28). According to the results of pathogen detection, the wheezing group was divided into a positive pathogen group (n=23) and a negative pathogen group (n=27). Levels of interleukin-2 (IL-2), interleukin-4 (IL-4), interleukin-5 (IL-5), interleukin-13 (IL-13), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and total IgE (TIgE) in peripheral blood were measured for each group. For children with wheezing, eosinophil (EOS) count in peripheral blood was measured, and related samples were collected for respiratory pathogen detection.

RESULTS

The wheezing group had significantly higher levels of IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, TGF-β1, and TIgE in peripheral blood than the healthy control group (P<0.05). There were no significant differences in the levels of IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, TGF-β1, and TIgE in peripheral blood between the first-episode and recurrent wheezing groups, between the high-risk factor and non-high-risk factor groups, and between the positive pathogen and negative pathogen groups (P>0.05). The correlation analysis showed that in children with wheezing, EOS count was positively correlated with IL-4 level (P<0.01), IL-4 level was positively correlated with IL-5 and IL-13 levels (P<0.01), IL-5 level was positively correlated with IL-13 level (P<0.01), and IL-2 level was positively correlated with TGF-β1 level (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Th1/Th2 imbalance with a predominance of Th2 is observed in infants and young children with wheezing. IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, TGF-β1, and IgE are involved in the pathogenesis of wheezing in these children. Airway inflammation is also observed in these children with wheezing, but it is not associated with the number of wheezing episodes, presence or absence of high-risk factors for asthma, or results of pathogen detection.

Atherosclerosis: integration of its pathogenesis as a self-perpetuating propagating inflammation: a review

This review proposes that the development of the atherosclerotic plaque is critically dependent on its inflammatory components forming a self-perpetuating and propagating positive feedback loop. The components involved are: (1) LDL oxidation, (2) activation of the endothelium, (3) recruitment of inflammatory monocytes, (4) macrophage accumulation, which induces LDL oxidation, and (5) macrophage generation of inflammatory mediators, which also activate the endothelium. Through these stages, the positive feedback loop is formed, which generates and promotes expansion of the atherosclerotic process. To illustrate this dynamic of lesion development, the author previously produced a computer simulation, which allowed realistic modelling. This hypothesis on atherogenesis can explain the existence and characteristic focal morphology of the atherosclerotic plaque. Each of the components contributing to the feedback loop is discussed. Many of these components also contain subsidiary positive feedback loops, which could exacerbate the overall process.

RhACE2 - playing an important role in inhibiting apoptosis induced by Ang II in HUVECs

BACKGROUND

Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) is a common hemorrhagic disease, which manifests the inflammation in the body's most microvasculars. Angiotensin II (Ang II) can induce the damage and apoptosis of vascular endothelial cells while angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) can antagonist the action of Ang II. However, the effect of ACE2 on Ang II-induced endothelial damage remains unknown.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of recombinant human angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (rhACE2) on the Ang II-induced damage of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and the release of inflammatory mediator in vitro.

METHODS

Cultured HUVECs were randomly divided into 6 groups: the control group, rhACE2 group, Ang II group, and Ang II+ rhACE2 groups (3 subgroups). The cell vitality, cell cycle, apoptosis rate of the HUVECs and the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), interleukin 8 (IL-8), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were measured, respectively.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, the cell viability and the rate of S phase cells in Ang II group significantly decreased (P < .05) while the apoptosis percentage and the levels of ROS, IL-8, TNF-α, TGF-β1, and LDH in Ang II group significantly increased (P < .05). There were no significant differences between the control group and rhACE2 group. Compared with the Ang II group, the cell viability and the rate of S phase cells in Ang II+rhACE2 groups were higher (P < .05) and the apoptosis percentage, the level of ROS, IL-8, TNF-α, TGF-β1, LDH in Ang II+rhACE2 groups were lower (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Ang II can induce the apoptosis of HUVECs and the release of inflammatory mediator, while rhACE2 can inhibit the detrimental effects of Ang II. The results of this study suggest that rhACE2 has a protective effect on HSP, which is probably a new way for the prevention and treatment of HSP.

Hydroxycarboxylic Acid Receptor Ligands Modulate Proinflammatory Cytokine Expression in Human Macrophages and Adipocytes without Affecting Adipose Differentiation

Members of the hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor (HCA1-3) family are mainly expressed in adipocytes and immune cells. HCA2 ligand, niacin, has been used for decades as lipid-modifying drug. Recent studies suggest that HCA ligands can be involved in the modulation of inflammatory processes. In this study, we evaluated the effects of HCA1-3 ligands on adipose differentiation and cytokine expression in human adipocytes and macrophages. Simpson-Golabi-Behmel syndrome (SGBS) preadipocytes were induced to differentiate into adipocytes for 8 d in the presence or absence of HCA ligands and evaluated for lipid accumulation and adipogenic gene expression. The inhibitory effects of the ligands on the expression and production of cytokines were measured in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated adipocytes and THP-1 macrophage cells. Preadipocytes treated with HCA ligands showed no changes in the capacity to differentiate into adipocytes and no significant alteration in peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ (PPARγ) or its target gene expression. HCA2-3 ligands significantly downregulated LPS-induced expression of interleukin (IL)-6 (53-64%), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (55-69%) and IL-8 (51-59%) in adipocytes and macrophages. IL-1β inhibition (58-68%) by HCA2-3 ligands was observed only in adipocytes. Furthermore, LPS increased the expression of HCA2-3 in adipocytes and macrophages and this expression was decreased by treatment with their ligands. These results suggest that HCA ligands modulated LPS-mediated pro-inflammatory gene expression in both macrophages and adipocytes without affecting adipogenesis. Therefore, targeting HCA2 and HCA3 would be beneficial in treating inflammation conditions associated with atherosclerosis and obesity.

MicroRNA‑143‑3p contributes to the regulation of pain responses in collagen‑induced arthritis

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) suffer from pain, which is associated with inflammation, peripheral and central pain processing, and joint structure damage. The aim of the present study was to investigate a key microRNA (miR) and its target genes that are involved in the pain responses of RA, and to clarify the mechanism of pain regulation. Collagen‑induced arthritis (CIA) was induced in DBA/1 and C57BL/6 mice. The paw swelling, mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT), thermal withdrawal latency (TWL), and expression levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‑α and prostaglandin (PG)E2 in the sera were investigated. Decreased MWT and TWL, and increased TNF‑α and PGE2, in the CIA model group were observed in DBA/1 and C57BL/6 mice. DBA/1 mice exhibited greater hyperalgesia and higher levels of inflammatory mediators. miR‑143‑3p expression in the blood and the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) were detected, and low miR‑143‑3p expression was demonstrated in the blood and DRG tissue of CIA mice. The target genes of miR‑143 were predicted and analyzed. A total of 1,305 genes were predicted and 55 pain‑associated genes were obtained. Prostaglandin‑endoperoxide synthase 2 (Ptgs2), MAS related GPR family member E (Mrgpre), prostaglandin D2 receptor and Tnf were selected as target genes of miR‑143. DRG cells were cultured and transfected with miR‑143‑3p inhibitor or mimic. The expression of Mrgpre, Ptgs2 and Tnf was significantly inhibited following miR‑143‑3p mimic transfection, while the expression of Mrgpre, Ptgs2 and Tnf was increased following inhibitor transfection. Additionally, the expression of pain‑associated genes in the DRG of mice was investigated and the expression of Ptgs2, Mrgpre and Tnf in the DRG of CIA mice was also significantly upregulated. These results revealed that CIA mice exhibited marked hyperalgesia and high levels of inflammatory pain mediators. Low expression of miR‑143‑3p negatively regulated the pain‑associated target genes, including Mrgpre, Ptgs2 and Tnf, thereby affecting chronic inflammatory pain and neuropathic pain in RA.

Protective Effects of Peucedanum japonicum Extract against Osteoarthritis in an Animal Model Using a Combined Systems Approach for Compound-Target Prediction

Peucedanum japonicum Thunberg is an herbal medicine used to treat neuralgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory-related diseases. However, its effects on osteoarthritis (OA) and its regulatory mechanisms have not been investigated by network analysis. Here, we investigated the pharmacological effects of Peucedanum japonicum extract (PJE) on OA, by combining in vivo effective verification and network pharmacology prediction. Rats in which OA was induced by monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) were treated with PJE (200 mg/kg), and histopathological parameters, weight bearing distribution and inflammatory factors in serum and joint tissue were measured after 28 days of treatment. Additionally, in silico network analysis was used to predict holistic OA regulatory mechanisms of PJE. The results showed that PJE exerted potential protective effects by recovering hind paw weight bearing distribution, alleviating histopathological features of cartilage and inhibiting inflammatory mediator levels in the OA rat model. Furthermore, network analysis identified caspase-3 (CASP3), caspase-7 (CASP7), and cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) as potential target genes; in addition, the TNF (Tumor necrosis factor) signaling pathway was linked to OA therapeutic action. Our combined animal OA model and network analysis confirmed the therapeutic effects of PJE against OA and identified intracellular signaling pathways, active compounds and target genes linked to its therapeutic action.

Preclinical renal chemo-protective potential of Prunus amygdalus Batsch seed coat via alteration of multiple molecular pathways

Prunus amygdalus Batsch (almond) is a classical nutritive traditional Indian medicine. Along with nutritive with anti-oxidant properties, it is, clinically, used in the treatment of various diseases with underlying anti-oxidant mechanism. This study is an effort to scrutinise the renal protective effect of P. amygdalus Batsch or green almond (GA) seed coat extract and its underlying mechanism in animal model of Ferric nitrilotriacetate (Fe-NTA) induced renal cell carcinoma (RCC). RCC was induced in Swiss Albino Wistar rats by intraperitoneal injection of Fe-NTA. The rats were then treated with ethanolic extract of GA (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg per oral) for 22 weeks. Efficacy of GA administration was evaluated by change in biochemical, renal, macroscopical and histopathological parameters and alterations. Additionally, interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and inflammatory mediator including prostaglandin E2 (PGE₂), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) were also observed to explore the possible mechanisms. The oral administration of GA significantly (p < .001) altered the Fe-NTA induced RCC in rats by inhibition of renal nodules, decolourisation of tissues, tumour promoter marker including thymidine ³[H] incorporation, ornithine decarboxylase, renal parameters and anti-oxidant parameters in serum. Additionally, GA treatment significantly (p < .001) down-regulated the IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, inflammatory mediators PGE₂ and NF-κB in a dose-dependent manner. Histopathology observation supported the renal protective effect of GA by alteration in necrosis, size of Bowman capsules and inflammatory cells. Hence, it can be concluded that GA possesses observable chemo-protective action and effect on Fe-NTA induced RCC via dual inhibition mechanism one by inhibiting free radical generation and second by inhibiting inflammation.

Dysfunctional phagocytosis capacity, granulocyte recruitment and inflammatory factor secretion of Kupffer cells in diabetes mellitus reversed by Lidocaine

PURPOSE

Kupffer cells (KCs) present dysfunctional immunity capacity among the diabetes mellitus patients. This study aims to investigate whether Lidocaine could reverse dysfunctions of KCs, in terms of phagocytosis, granulocyte recruitment and inflammatory mediator secretion.

METHODS

db/db and C57BL/6 mice were employed to establish diabetic and nondiabetic models. Upon intravenous injection of Lidocaine, KCs were isolated and cultured ex vivo. The functions of phagocytosis, recruiting granulocytes and inflammatory mediator secretion in KCs were compared between Lidocaine-treated and untreated (control) groups.

RESULTS

Comparing with nondiabetic mice, KCs in diabetic mice presented reduced phagocytosis, activated granulocyte recruitment, increased expression of intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and activated levels of inflammatory mediators. With Lidocaine injection, phagocytic functions of KCs in diabetic mice were improved significantly; in contrast, recruitment of granulocytes, expression of ICAM-1 and secretion of inflammatory mediators were reduced markedly. However, Lidocaine intervention did not alter KC functions in phagocytosis, granulocyte recruitment, ICAM-1 expression or inflammatory mediator secretion among nondiabetic mice.

CONCLUSION

Lidocaine reversed diabetes-related dysfunctions of KCs in terms of phagocytosis, granulocyte recruitment, ICAM-1 expression or inflammatory mediator secretion.

A multispecies approach for understanding neuroimmune mechanisms of stress

The relationship between stress challenges and adverse health outcomes, particularly for the development of affective disorders, is now well established. The highly conserved neuroimmune mechanisms through which responses to stressors are transcribed into effects on males and females have recently garnered much attention from researchers and clinicians alike. The use of animal models, from mice to guinea pigs to primates, has greatly increased our understanding of these mechanisms on the molecular, cellular, and behavioral levels, and research in humans has identified particular brain regions and connections of interest, as well as associations between stress-induced inflammation and psychiatric disorders. This review brings together findings from multiple species in order to better understand how the mechanisms of the neuroimmune response to stress contribute to stress-related psychopathologies, such as major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.

Inflammatory mediators mediate airway smooth muscle contraction through a G protein-coupled receptor-transmembrane protein 16A-voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel axis and contribute to bronchial hyperresponsiveness in asthma

BACKGROUND

Allergic inflammation has long been implicated in asthmatic hyperresponsiveness of airway smooth muscle (ASM), but its underlying mechanism remains incompletely understood. Serving as G protein-coupled receptor agonists, several inflammatory mediators can induce membrane depolarization, contract ASM, and augment cholinergic contractile response. We hypothesized that the signal cascade integrating on membrane depolarization by the mediators might involve asthmatic hyperresponsiveness.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to investigate the signaling transduction of inflammatory mediators in ASM contraction and assess its contribution in the genesis of hyperresponsiveness.

METHODS

We assessed the capacity of inflammatory mediators to induce depolarization currents by electrophysiological analysis. We analyzed the phenotypes of transmembrane protein 16A (TMEM16A) knockout mice, applied pharmacological reagents, and measured the Ca²⁺ signal during ASM contraction. To study the role of the depolarization signaling in asthmatic hyperresponsiveness, we measured the synergistic contraction by methacholine and inflammatory mediators both ex vivo and in an ovalbumin-induced mouse model.

RESULTS

Inflammatory mediators, such as 5-hydroxytryptamin, histamine, U46619, and leukotriene D₄, are capable of inducing Ca²⁺-activated Cl^- currents in ASM cells, and these currents are mediated by TMEM16A. A combination of multiple analysis revealed that a G protein-coupled receptor-TMEM16A-voltage-dependent Ca²⁺ channel signaling axis was required for ASM contraction induced by inflammatory mediators. Block of TMEM16A activity may significantly inhibit the synergistic contraction of acetylcholine and the mediators and hence reduces hypersensitivity.

CONCLUSIONS

A G protein-coupled receptor-TMEM16A-voltage-dependent Ca²⁺ channel axis contributes to inflammatory mediator-induced ASM contraction and synergistically activated TMEM16A by allergic inflammatory mediators with cholinergic stimuli.

Do Genetic Markers of Inflammation Modify the Relationship between Periodontitis and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease? Findings from the SHIP Study

An association between periodontitis and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been reported by experimental animal and epidemiologic studies. This study investigated whether circulating levels of serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and a weighted genetic CRP score representing markers of inflammatory burden modify the association between periodontitis and NAFLD. Data came from 2,481 participants of the Study of Health in Pomerania who attended baseline examination that occurred between 1997 and 2001. Periodontitis was defined as the percentage of sites (0%, <30%, ≥30%) with probing pocket depth (PD) ≥4 mm, and NAFLD status was determined using liver ultrasound assessment. Serum CRP levels were assayed at a central laboratory, and single-nucleotide polymorphisms previously identified through genome-wide association studies as robustly associated with serum CRP were combined into a weighted genetic CRP score (wGS_CRP). Logistic regression models estimated the association between periodontitis and NAFLD within strata of serum CRP and separately within strata of the wGS_CRP. The prevalence of NAFLD was 26.4% (95% confidence interval [CI], 24.6, 28.1) while 17.8% (95% CI, 16.0-19.6) had ≥30% of sites with PD ≥4 mm. Whereas the wGS_CRP was not a modifier ( P_interaction = 0.8) on the multiplicative scale, serum CRP modified the relationship between periodontitis and NAFLD ( P_interaction = 0.01). The covariate-adjusted prevalence odds ratio of NAFLD comparing participants with ≥30% of sites with PD ≥4 mm to those with no site affected was 2.39 (95% CI, 1.32-4.31) among participants with serum CRP <1 mg/L. The corresponding estimate was 0.97 (95% CI, 0.57-1.66) for participants with serum CRP levels of 1 to 3 mg/L and 1.12 (95% CI, 0.65-1.93) for participants with serum CRP >3 mg/L. Periodontitis was positively associated with higher prevalence odds of NAFLD, and this relationship was modified by serum CRP levels.

Maternal obesity and inflammatory mediators: A controversial association

The link between maternal obesity and inflammatory mediators is still unclear. Our aim was to summarize the main findings of recently published studies on this topic. We performed a search in Medline for studies published in the last years on obesity, human pregnancy, and inflammatory mediators. We report the findings of 30 studies. The characteristics and number of participants, study design, gestational age at sample collection, and type of sample varied widely. Approximately two-thirds of them investigated more than one mediator, and 50% included participants in only one trimester of pregnancy. The most frequently investigated mediators were leptin, tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin (IL)-6. Almost all studies reported an association between maternal obesity, leptin, and C-reactive protein (CRP) serum levels but not with IL-1β and IL-10. The association of IL-6, TNF-α, monocyte chemo-attractant protein-1 (MCP-1), adiponectin, and resistin with maternal obesity is still controversial. To clarify the physiopathological link between maternal obesity and inflammation, more high-quality studies are needed.

A multispecies approach for understanding neuroimmune mechanisms of stress

The relationship between stress challenges and adverse health outcomes, particularly for the development of affective disorders, is now well established. The highly conserved neuroimmune mechanisms through which responses to stressors are transcribed into effects on males and females have recently garnered much attention from researchers and clinicians alike. The use of animal models, from mice to guinea pigs to primates, has greatly increased our understanding of these mechanisms on the molecular, cellular, and behavioral levels, and research in humans has identified particular brain regions and connections of interest, as well as associations between stress-induced inflammation and psychiatric disorders. This review brings together findings from multiple species in order to better understand how the mechanisms of the neuroimmune response to stress contribute to stress-related psychopathologies, such as major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.

Critical role of calpain in inflammation

Calpains are a family of cysteine proteases, implicated in a wide range of cellular calcium-regulated functions. Evidence from previous studies using an inhibitor of calpain indicates that calpain activation is involved in the process of numerous inflammation-associated diseases. As a result of in-depth studies, calpains have been proposed to influence the process of inflammation via a variety of mechanisms. The aim of the present study is to provide an overview of recent reports regarding the role of calpain in the process of inflammation, including regulation of immune cell migration, modulation of the activation of inflammatory mediators, degradation of certain associated proteins and induction of cell apoptosis. Understanding these mechanisms may contribute to the investigation of novel therapeutic targets for inflammation-associated diseases.

Tong Luo Jiu Nao, a Chinese Medicine Formula, Reduces Inflammatory Stress in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease

AIM

The aim of this study is to extend the molecular mechanism of Tong Luo Jiu Nao (TLJN) for Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is a modern Chinese formula that has been used to treat AD.

METHODS

The senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 strain (SAMP8) is one of the most appropriate models to study the mechanism that underlies AD. The levels of plasma amyloid β (Aβ) and the Aβ deposits were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunohistochemistry. Immunoblotting was used to observe the effect of TLJN on inflammatory mediator expression in an senescence-accelerated mouse model of AD.

RESULTS

Our data showed that the TLJN-treated groups exhibited a reduction in plasma Aβ levels and reduced Aβ expression. Moreover, TLJN effectively attenuated Aβ-induced activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase and c-Jun N-terminal kinases and blocked changes in inflammatory mediator expression.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that TLJN might have protective effects and could potentially act to attenuate inflammatory stress in the pathogenesis of AD.

Inhaled lead affects lung pathology and inflammation in sensitized and control guinea pigs

The association between lead exposure and respiratory diseases including asthma is controversial. Some studies indicate that exposure to environmental lead pollution may cause asthma; however, there is not sufficient data in this regard. The effect of lead on lung pathological findings and serum inflammatory mediators in sensitized and non-sensitized guinea pigs exposed to inhaled lead was examined. Eleven animal groups including control, sensitized, three groups of non sensitized animals, three groups during sensitization, and three groups after sensitization exposed to aerosol of three lead concentrations (n = 6 for each group) were studied. Serum inflammatory mediators levels and lung pathological changes were evaluated. All pathological changes and serum ET-1, EPO, NO levels were significantly higher in the sensitized and non sensitized animals exposed to lead than control group (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). There was no significant difference between non sensitized groups exposed to high lead concentration and sensitized group. Serum inflammatory mediators levels and pathological findings in sensitized groups exposed to lead both during and after sensitization were significantly higher than sensitized non exposed group (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). The data of exposed animals to high lead concentration were significantly higher than those of medium and low concentrations; those of medium concentration were also higher than low concentration (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). In summary, the present study indicates that exposure to inhaled lead is able to induce respiratory changes similar to asthma. In addition, the results indicated that exposure to environmental lead is able to aggravate asthma severity both during development of asthma or after its manifestation.

Gingival crevicular fluid interleukin-8 and lipoxin A4 levels of smokers and nonsmokers with different periodontal status: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Smoking is an important risk factor for periodontal disease and effects the pathogenesis of the disease. This study evaluated the impact of smoking on gingival crevicular fluid interleukin-8 (IL-8) and lipoxin A4 (LxA4 ) levels in patients with and without periodontal disease.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 122 participants were grouped as follows: smokers with generalized aggressive periodontitis (S-GAgP, n = 15); smokers with chronic periodontitis (S-CP, n = 17); smokers with gingivitis (SG, n = 15); smokers classified as periodontally healthy (SH, n = 15); nonsmokers with generalized aggressive periodontitis (N-GAgP, n = 15); nonsmokers with chronic periodontitis (N-CP, n = 15); nonsmokers with gingivitis (NG, n = 15); and nonsmokers classified as periodontally healthy (NH, n = 15). Gingival index, plaque index, probing pocket depth and clinical attachment level were recorded. Gingival crevicular fluid IL-8 and LxA4 levels were analyzed by ELISA.

RESULTS

Gingival crevicular fluid IL-8 levels varied among groups, as follows: S-GAgP>S-CP>SG>SH and N-GAgP>N-CP>NG>NH. The gingival crevicular fluid IL-8 levels were significantly higher in the S-GAgP group compared with the N-GAgP group and in the S-CP group compared with the N-CP group (p < 0.05); differences between the SG and NG and the SH and NH groups were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Gingival crevicular fluid LxA4 levels also varied among groups, but in an inverse direction when compared with the IL-8 levels, as follows: S-GAgP<S-CP<SG and N-GAgP<N-CP<NG. (The gingival crevicular fluid LxA4 levels in SH and NH groups were below the limits of detection.) The gingival crevicular fluid LxA4 levels were significantly lower in the S-GAgP group than in the N-GAgP group and in the S-CP group than in the N-CP group (p < 0.05); differences between the SG and NG groups were not statistically significant (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The study findings suggest that the observed increases in gingival crevicular fluid IL-8 levels and decreases in gingival crevicular fluid LxA4 levels reflect changes in immune and inflammatory responses that occur as a result of smoking.

Glutamine Administration After Sublethal Lower Limb Ischemia Reduces Inflammatory Reaction and Offers Organ Protection in Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury

BACKGROUND

This study investigated the effects of intravenous glutamine (GLN) administration on the expression of adhesion molecules and inflammatory mediators in a mice model of hind limb ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury.

METHODS

There were 3 IR groups and 1 normal control (NC) group. The NC group did not undergo the IR procedure. Mice in the IR groups underwent 90 minutes of limb ischemia followed by a variable period of reperfusion. Ischemia was performed by applying a 4.5-oz orthodontic rubber band to the left thigh. Mice in one IR group were sacrificed immediately after reperfusion. The other 2 IR groups were injected once with either 0.75 g GLN/kg body weight (G group) or an equal volume of saline (S group) via tail vein before reperfusion. Mice in the S and G groups were subdivided and sacrificed at 4 or 24 hours after reperfusion.

RESULTS

IR enhanced the inflammatory cytokine gene expressions in muscle. Also, plasma interleukin (IL)-6 levels, blood neutrophil percentage, and the adhesion molecule and chemokine receptors expressed by leukocytes were upregulated after reperfusion. The IR-induced muscle inflammatory mediator gene expressions, blood macrophage percentage, and plasma IL-6 concentration had declined at an early or a late phase of reperfusion when GLN was administered. Histologic findings also found that remote lung injury was attenuated during IR insult.

CONCLUSIONS

A single dose of GLN administration immediately after sublethal lower limb ischemia reduces the inflammatory reaction locally and systemically; this may offer local and distant organ protection in hind limb IR injury.

Fingolimod alters inflammatory mediators and vascular permeability in intracerebral hemorrhage

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) leads to high rates of death and disability. The pronounced inflammatory reactions that rapidly follow ICH contribute to disease progression. Our recent clinical trial demonstrated that oral administration of an immune modulator fingolimod restrained secondary injury derived from initial hematoma, but the mechanisms remain unknown. In this study, we aim to investigate the effects of fingolimod on inflammatory mediators and vascular permeability in the clinical trial of oral fingolimod for intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). The results showed that fingolimod decreased the numbers of circulating CD4(+) T, CD8(+) T, CD19(+) B, NK, and NKT cells and they recovered quickly after the drug was stopped. The plasma ICAM level was decreased and IL-10 was increased by fingolimod. Interestingly, fingolimod protected vascular permeability as indicated by a decreased plasma level of MMP9 and the reduced rT1%. In conclusion, modulation of systemic inflammation by fingolimod demonstrates that it is an effective therapeutic agent for ICH. Fingolimod may prevent perihematomal edema enlargement by protecting vascular permeability.