A positive feedback loop between STAT3 and cyclooxygenase-2 gene may contribute to Helicobacter pylori-associated human gastric tumorigenesis

Persistent infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) contributes to gastric diseases including chronic gastritis and gastric cancer. However, the pathogenesis of this carcinogenic bacterium has not been completely elucidated. Here, we report that H. pylori rapidly triggers STAT3 signaling and induces STAT3-dependent COX-2 expression both in vitro and in vivo. STAT3 upregulates COX-2 by binding to and increasing the activity of COX-2 promoter. COX-2 in turn regulates IL-6/STAT3 signaling under basal conditions and during H. pylori infection. These findings suggest that a positive feedback loop between STAT3 and COX-2 exists in the basal condition and H. pylori infectious condition. Immunohistochemical staining revealed that H. pylori-positive gastritis tissues exhibited markedly higher levels of pSTAT3(Tyr705) than H. pylori-negative ones. High pSTAT3(Tyr705) levels are correlated with intestinal metaplasia and dysplasia, suggesting pSTAT3(Tyr705) may be useful in the early detection of gastric tumorigenesis. Additionally, a strong positive correlation between STAT3/pSTAT3(Tyr705) levels and COX-2 expression was identified in gastritis and gastric cancer tissues. Together, these findings provide new evidence for a positive feedback loop between STAT3 signaling and COX-2 in H. pylori pathogenesis and may lead to new approaches for early detection and effective therapy of gastric cancer

Comprehensive analysis of HPV expression in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma

Role of human papillomavirus (HPV) in laryngeal carcinoma remains controversial. The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of HPV in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma by determining presence of markers of viral infection. HPV DNA and E6*I mRNA status was determined by type-specific E7 PCR bead-based multiplex genotyping and RT-PCR assays in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma biopsy samples. p16(INK4a) and COX-2 expression was determined by immunohistochemistry. Four cases out of 32 (13%) were HPV DNA+: HPV 11 (n = 1), HPV 31 (n = 3), HPV 59 (n = 1). One double infection: HPV 11 and HPV 31. p16(INK4a) was overexpressed in three cases (9%) and COX-2 in 17 cases (53%). Two of four HPV DNA+ samples had E6*I mRNA for HPV 31 and overexpressed p16(INK4a) and COX-2. HPV appears to play an active role in a small subset of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. p16(INK4a) can be used as a surrogate marker of transcriptionally active HPV infection; COX-2 expression had no correlation with HPV DNA and/or RNA positivity.

Effect of nimesulide on the growth of human laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma

PURPOSE

To investigate the effect of nimesulide on the growth of human laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effect of NIM on Hep-2 cell proliferation was measured by the MTT assay. Flow cytometry was used to evaluate the cell cycle and apoptosis in Hep-2 cells. A Western blot analysis was used to detect changes in the protein expression levels of COX-2, Survivin and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in Hep-2 cells. A Hep-2 tumor xenograft model was established in nude mice to observe tumor growth. The changes in the xenograft tumors were observed after hematoxylin/eosin staining. The expression levels of COX-2, Survivin and PCNA proteins and mRNA were measured by immunohistochemical analysis and RT-PCR, respectively.

RESULTS

NIM had time- and dose-dependent inhibitory effect on the proliferation of Hep-2 cells. NIM could prevent the progression of the cell cycle. After NIM treatment, COX-2, Survivin and PCNA protein levels were reduced in the Hep-2 cells. The volume and weight of the xenograft tumors in the NIM treatment group were significantly reduced. The NIM treatment group also exhibited significantly reduced expression levels of COX-2, Survivin and PCNA at both the protein and mRNA levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggested that NIM has significant inhibitory effects on the growth of Hep-2 cells and xenograft tumors in nude mice. Selective COX-2 inhibitors could potentially become part of a comprehensive treatment for laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Additional research and development will provide new and broader prospects for the prevention and treatment of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma.

Myricetin blocks lipoteichoic acid-induced COX-2 expression in human gingival fibroblasts

Periodontitis is an infectious disease caused by microorganisms present in dental bacterial plaque. Lipoteichoic acid (LTA) is a component of the external membrane of Gram-positive bacteria. It causes septic shock. Ingested flavonoids have been reported to directly affect the regulation of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression induced by bacterial toxins. In this study, we examined the effects of four flavonoids (luteolin, fisetin, morin and myricetin) on the activation of ERK1/2, p38 and AKT, and on the synthesis of COX-2 in human gingival fibroblasts treated with LTA from Streptococcus sanguinis. We found that luteolin and myricetin blocked AKT and p38 activation and that myricetin blocked LTA-induced COX-2 expression. The results of our study are important for elucidating the mechanism of action of flavonoid regulation of inflammatory responses.

Physiological COX-2 expression in breast epithelium associates with COX-2 levels in ductal carcinoma in situ and invasive breast cancer in young women

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) overexpression is implicated in increased risk and poorer outcomes in breast cancer in young women. We investigated COX-2 regulation in normal premenopausal breast tissue and its relationship to malignancy in young women. Quantitative COX-2 immunohistochemistry was performed on adjacent normal and breast cancer tissues from 96 premenopausal women with known clinical reproductive histories, and on rat mammary glands with distinct ovarian hormone exposures. COX-2 expression in the normal breast epithelium varied more than 40-fold between women and was associated with COX-2 expression levels in ductal carcinoma in situ and invasive cancer. Normal breast COX-2 expression was independent of known breast cancer prognostic indicators, including tumor stage and clinical subtype, indicating that factors regulating physiological COX-2 expression may be the primary drivers of COX-2 expression in breast cancer. Ovarian hormones, particularly at pregnancy levels, were identified as modulators of COX-2 in normal mammary epithelium. However, serial breast biopsy analysis in nonpregnant premenopausal women suggested relatively stable baseline levels of COX-2 expression, which persisted independent of menstrual cycling. These data provide impetus to investigate how baseline COX-2 expression is regulated in premenopausal breast tissue because COX-2 levels in normal breast epithelium may prove to be an indicator of breast cancer risk in young women, and predict the chemopreventive and therapeutic efficacy of COX-2 inhibitors in this population.

Chemoprevention by celecoxib and mutagen sensitivity of cyclin d1 in patients with oropharyngeal carcinoma

The head and neck region is one of the most important locations predisposed for tobacco-associated cancer. Chemoprevention might offer a chance to decrease the risk for this type of disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Mini-organ cultures (MOC) of macroscopically-healthy pharyngeal tissues from 20 patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and from 20 controls were employed in the study. MOC were firstly incubated with Celecoxib, and DNA damage was induced by incubation with Benz[a]pyren-7,8-diol-9,10-epoxid (BPDE), a major representative of tobacco-associated carcinogens. DNA damage was evaluated with the alkaline single-cell microgel electrophoresis (Comet assay). Furthermore, fragmentation of the cyclin D1 gene, a gene of special importance in head and neck carcinogenesis was examined by the Comet-FISH assay. Finally, the chemoprotective potential of Celecoxib was analyzed after incubation with MOC.

RESULTS

As expected, BPDE caused significant DNA fragmentation in tumor compared to negative control tissues. No enhanced damage was observed in the cyclin D1 gene. DNA fragmentation was significantly reduced when MOC were incubated with Celecoxib in the tumor group. Surprisingly, these effects were also observed in the group without cancer of the oropharynx, although COX-2 is not expressed in macroscopically-healthy mucosa.

CONCLUSION

Celecoxib showed considerable chemoprotective effeciency against BPDE in both groups and this effect seems to be independent of COX-2 expression. No evidence for higher mutagen sensitivity in the Cyclin D1 gene was observed.

Size-dependent effect of zinc oxide on toxicity and inflammatory potential of human monocytes

With the rapid development of nanomedicines, it is important to understand their potential immunotoxicity. Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles have several applications in the pharmaceutical and biomedicine industries. This study investigates the effect of particles size (nano and micro) of ZnO on viability, phagocytosis, and cytokine induction in human monocytes, THP-1 cells, a model of the innate immune system. Cells were incubated with nano (approximately 100 nm) and micro (approximately 5 μm) sized ZnO particles in a concentration range of 10-100 μg/ml. The parameters measured included the MTT assay, phagocytosis assay, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), gene expression, and DNA analysis. ZnO particles significantly decreased cell viability in a size- and concentration-dependent manner associated with significant alterations in phagocytic capacity of monocytes. Exposure of THP-1 cells to both sizes of ZnO stimulated and increased release of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and IL-6, as well as chemokine IL-8, and upregulated the expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and cyclooxygenase-2 genes. However, ZnO particles did not markedly affect monocytes DNA. Collectively, these results suggest higher propensity of nano ZnO particles in inducing cytotoxicity and inflammation in human monocytes regardless of micro size, and caution needs to be taken concerning their biological application.

Analysis of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of silicon in murine macrophages

The purpose of this study is to investigate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of silicon (Si) in the RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cell line. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to induce inflammatory conditions, and cells were treated with 0, 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 μM Si in the form of sodium metasilicate. Tert-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ), a well-known antioxidative substance, was used as a positive control to assess the degree of antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of Si. Sodium metasilicate at 100 μM suppressed LPS-induced nitric oxide generation from macrophages 36 h after treatment. In addition, 50 μM sodium metasilicate decreased interleukin-6 production, and the degree of suppression was comparable to that of 10 μM TBHQ treatment. LPS-induced messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of tumor necrosis factor-α and inducible nitric oxide synthase was significantly decreased by 1, 5, 10, and 50 μM sodium metasilicate. Cyclooxygenase-2 mRNA expression was also suppressed by 1, 5, 25, and 50 μM sodium metasilicate. Based on these data, Si has the ability to suppress the production of inflammatory cytokines and mediators, possibly through the suppression of radical scavenger activity and down-regulation of gene expression of inflammatory mediators.

Amelioration of Danhong injection on the lipopolysaccharide-stimulated systemic acute inflammatory reaction via multi-target strategy

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), leading to dire consequences, is a serious and fatal disease in clinic. Danhong injection (DHI), one of the most popular medications for coronary heart disease and cerebral ischemia, plays pharmacological actions through inhibiting local inflammation. Nevertheless, the anti-inflammatory effect of DHI has not been reported before and has not been fully clarified.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this study, a model of systemic acute inflammatory reaction was induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to investigate whether DHI could be applied to SIRS through the anti-inflammatory effect.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The anti-inflammatory effect of DHI in vivo was evaluated in ICR mice pretreated intraperitoneally (i.p.) with LPS (1mg/kg) and the serum, liver and kidney were collected. Interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP-1) in serum were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and the mRNA expressions of inducible NO synthase (iNOS), IL-6, interleukin (IL)-1β, MCP-1 in mice liver and kidney were analyzed by quantitative real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (real-time RT-PCR). Meanwhile, Proteome profiler array was used to screen the acute phase proteins, cytokines and chemokines activated in the acute inflammation. The inflammatory model of macrophages stimulated by LPS (0.2μg/mL) was used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory mechanism of DHI in vitro. The secretion of nitric oxide (NO) was measured by the Griess reagent system. The productions of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), IL-6, TNF-α and MCP-1 were detected using ELISA, and the protein expression of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 was determined by cell-based ELISA. As well, the mRNA expressions of these inflammatory factors were detected by real-time RT-PCR.

RESULTS

DHI could attenuate the inflammatory reaction via decreasing 20 cytokines and acute phase proteins analyzed by Proteome profile array in serum. The secretions of IL-6, TNF-α and MCP-1 in serum were coincidence with the result of Proteome profile array. Meanwhile, the mRNA expressions of iNOS, IL-6, IL-1β, MCP-1 in mice liver and kidney were significantly reduced by DHI. Experiments performed in vitro further revealed that the productions of NO, PGE2 and the mRNA expressions of iNOS, COX-2 were notably inhibited by DHI. Cell-based ELISA revealed that the COX-2 protein expression was diminished by DHI. The results of ELISA demonstrated that DHI significantly down-regulated the protein productions of IL-6 and MCP-1. Furthermore, the mRNA expressions of iNOS, COX-2, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and MCP-1 analyzed by real-time RT-PCR were suppressed by DHI.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate that DHI exerts the protective effect through inhibiting the expressions of iNOS, COX-2, IL-1β, IL-6, MCP-1 and TNF-α, which elucidate that DHI may be a strongly multi-target Chinese medicine injection on improving the inflammatory diseases.

A new ligustrazine derivative--pharmacokinetic evaluation and antitumor activity by suppression of NF-kappaB/p65 and COX-2 expression in S180 mice

A new anticancer ligustrazine derivative, 3beta-hydroxyolea-12-en-28-oic acid-3,5,6-trimethylpyrazin-2-methyl ester (T-OA, C38H58O3N2), was previously reported. It was synthesized via conjugating the effective antitumor ingredients of a classic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulation. In the present study, anticancer efficacy of T-OA was evaluated in vivo using a murine sarcoma S180 model. Reduction of the tumor weight and tumor HE staining regions demonstrated that T-OA had promising inhibition effects and a 50% inhibitory rate in S180 mice. Combining the immunohistochemistry, we found T-OA exerted its antitumor activity by preventing the expression of nuclear transcription factor NF-kappaB/p65 and COX-2 in S180 mice. The acute toxic test showed that LD50 value of T-OA exceeded 6.0 g/kg via gavage in mice. In addition, a simple and rapid HPLC-UV method was developed and validated to study the pharmacokinetic characteristics of the compound. After single-dose oral administration, time to reach peak concentration of T-OA (3.97 microg/mL) was 8.33 h; the elimination half-life and area under the concentration-time curve from t = 0 to the last time of T-OA was 4.50 h and 48.01 microg x h/mL, respectively.

Effects of combined phytochemicals on skin tumorigenesis in SENCAR mice

The purpose of our study was to determine the effect of the combined action of phytochemicals on the early stages of skin tumorigenesis, i.e. initiation and promotion. We tested calcium D-glucarate (CG) given in the diet, while resveratrol (RES) and ursolic acid (UA) were applied topically. The 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-initiated, 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-promoted multistage skin carcinogenesis model in SENCAR mice was used. Mice received one topical dose of DMBA, then after one month, two weekly doses of TPA for 14 weeks until sacrifice. RES or UA were applied 20 min prior to DMBA or TPA treatment and 2% dietary CG was given from 2 weeks prior to 2 weeks after the DMBA dose or continually beginning 2 weeks prior to the first dose of TPA. UA applied alone and in combination with CG during the promotion stage was the only inhibitor of tumor multiplicity and tumor incidence. A number of combinations reduced epidermal proliferation, but only UA and the combination UA+CG applied during promotion significantly reduced epidermal hyperplasia. DMBA/TPA application resulted in significant increases in c-jun and p50, which were reversed by a number of different treatments. DMBA/TPA treatment also strongly increased mRNA levels of inflammation markers COX-2 and IL-6. All anti-promotion treatments caused a marked decrease in COX-2 and IL-6 expression compared to the DMBA/TPA control. These results show that UA is a potent inhibitor of skin tumor promotion and inflammatory signaling and it may be useful in the prevention of skin cancer and other epithelial cancers in humans.

A role for phosphodiesterase 3B in acquisition of brown fat characteristics by white adipose tissue in male mice

Obesity is linked to various diseases, including insulin resistance, diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders. The idea of inducing white adipose tissue (WAT) to assume characteristics of brown adipose tissue (BAT), and thus gearing it to fat burning instead of storage, is receiving serious consideration as potential treatment for obesity and related disorders. Phosphodiesterase 3B (PDE3B) links insulin- and cAMP-signaling networks in tissues associated with energy metabolism, including WAT. We used C57BL/6 PDE3B knockout (KO) mice to elucidate mechanisms involved in the formation of BAT in epididymal WAT (EWAT) depots. Examination of gene expression profiles in PDE3B KO EWAT revealed increased expression of several genes that block white and promote brown adipogenesis, such as C-terminal binding protein, bone morphogenetic protein 7, and PR domain containing 16, but a clear BAT-like phenotype was not completely induced. However, acute treatment of PDE3B KO mice with the β3-adrenergic agonist, CL316243, markedly increased the expression of cyclooxygenase-2, which catalyzes prostaglandin synthesis and is thought to be important in the formation of BAT in WAT and the elongation of very long-chain fatty acids 3, which is linked to BAT recruitment upon cold exposure, causing a clear shift toward fat burning and the induction of BAT in KO EWAT. These data provide insight into the mechanisms of BAT formation in mouse EWAT, suggesting that, in a C57BL/6 background, an increase in cAMP, caused by ablation of PDE3B and administration of CL316243, may promote differentiation of prostaglandin-responsive progenitor cells in the EWAT stromal vascular fraction into functional brown adipocytes.

Effects of PGF2α on the expression of uterine activation proteins in pregnant human myometrial cells from upper and lower segment

CONTEXT

The lower and upper segments of the uterus may play different roles in the process of parturition. The switch from pregnancy to delivery involves changes in expression of uterine activation proteins (UAPs). Prostaglandin (PG) F2α has multiple and complex roles in the birth process in addition to its vital contractile role.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether PGF2α regulates the expression of UAPs in human myometrium and to compare PGF2α actions in lower and upper segments.

DESIGN

Cultured human myometrial cells from upper and lower segments were treated with PGF2α. Western blotting was used to determine the levels of connexin 43 (CX-43), prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase-2 (PTGS-2; cyclooxygenase-2), oxytocin receptor (OTR), and PGF2α receptor (PTGFR) in the cells. The small interfering RNA approach was used to knock down PTGFR.

RESULTS

PGF2α dose dependently increased CX-43 and PTGS-2 while decreasing PTGFR in upper and lower segments. PGF2α increased OTR in the lower segment while decreasing it in the upper segment. PGF2α lost its effects on PTGS-2 and OTR in PTGFR knockdown cells, but its effect on CX-43 remained. AL8810, a specific antagonist of PTGFR, reversed the actions of PGF2α on UAPs except for CX-43 in the lower segment. Indomethacin reversed the PGF2α-induced effects on CX-43 and PTGS-2, but it did not alter PGF2α-induced PTGFR and OTR expression. The stimulatory effects of PGF2α were enhanced in the presence of IL-1β, which reversed the inhibitory effect of PGF2α on PTGFR.

CONCLUSION

PGF2α regulates UAPs in both upper and lower segment cells through either direct or indirect pathways, indicating that PGF2α uniquely participates in uterine preparation for the onset of labor.

Divergent expression of IL-1 receptor antagonists in CD34⁺ fibrocytes and orbital fibroblasts in thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy: contribution of fibrocytes to orbital inflammation

CONTEXT

Thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) manifests as inflammation of orbital connective tissue. Bone marrow-derived CD34⁺ fibrocytes infiltrate the orbit in TAO where they become CD34⁺ orbital fibroblasts. They express thyroid-specific antigens and thus may contribute to inflammation. Evidence suggests that orbital susceptibility to TAO may involve IL-1, which is modulated by IL-1 receptor antagonists, designated secreted (sIL-1RA) and intracellular (icIL-1RA).

OBJECTIVE

We sought to characterize the expression of sIL-1RA and icIL-1RA in TAO orbital fibroblasts compared to CD34⁺ fibrocytes.

DESIGN/SETTING/PARTICIPANTS

Patients with TAO and healthy donors were recruited from an academic medical center clinical practice.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Real-time PCR, cytokine-specific ELISA, gene promoter activities, transcriptional analysis, mRNA stability, and cytometric cell sorting were performed.

RESULTS

Orbital fibroblasts treated with IL-1β exhibit greater inductions of IL-1α, IL-1β, and prostaglandin endoperoxide H synthase-2 transcripts than do fibrocytes. Fibrocytes express dramatically higher basal levels of both icIL-1RA and sIL-1RA. When treated with IL-1β, icIL-1RA is induced in orbital fibroblasts but not sIL-1RA, whereas in fibrocytes, sIL-1RA is dominantly up-regulated. These inductions result from increased steady-state levels of respective mRNAs, enhanced transcript stabilities, and modestly increased gene transcription.

CONCLUSIONS

Robust responses of TAO orbital fibroblasts to IL-1β are a consequence of low-level sIL-1RA expression. This results in poorly opposed actions of IL-1β. In contrast, circulating fibrocytes express high levels of sIL-1RA, which are diminished as these cells transition to orbital fibroblasts. These findings identify an explanation for the inflammatory phenotype exhibited by TAO orbital fibroblasts and provide a potential target for altering disease susceptibility.

Mycoplasma fermentans MALP-2 induces heme oxygenase-1 expression via mitogen-activated protein kinases and Nrf2 pathways to modulate cyclooxygenase 2 expression in human monocytes

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is a stress-inducible rate-limiting enzyme in heme degradation that confers cytoprotection against oxidative injury and performs a vital function in the maintenance of cell hemostasis. Increasing numbers of reports have indicated that mycoplasma-derived membrane lipoproteins/lipopeptides, such as macrophage-activating lipopeptide-2 (MALP-2), function as agents that stimulate the immune system by producing various inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), which play roles in the pathogenesis of inflammatory responses during mycoplasma infection. Here, we report that MALP-2 induced HO-1 mRNA and protein expression and upregulated HO-1 enzyme activity in THP-1 cells. Specific inhibitors of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), SB203580, PD98059, and SP600125, significantly abolished HO-1 expression. In addition, MALP-2 also induced NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) translocation, and the silencing of Nrf2 expression in THP-1 cells decreased the levels of MALP-2-mediated HO-1 expression. Furthermore, COX-2 protein expression levels were upregulated in THP-1 cells in response to MALP-2, and transfection with small interfering RNAs of HO-1 significantly increased COX-2 accumulation. These results demonstrate that MALP-2 induces HO-1 expression via MAPKs and Nrf2 pathways and, furthermore, that MALP-2-induced COX-2 expression was modulated by HO-1 in THP-1 cells.

Selective impairment of P2Y signaling by prostaglandin E2 in macrophages: implications for Ca2+-dependent responses

Extracellular nucleotides have been recognized as important modulators of inflammation via their action on specific pyrimidine receptors (P2). This regulation coexists with the temporal framework of proinflammatory and proresolution mediators released by the cells involved in the inflammatory response, including macrophages. Under proinflammatory conditions, the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 leads to the release of large amounts of PGs, such as PGE2, that exert their effects through EP receptors and other intracellular targets. The effect of these PGs on P2 receptors expressed in murine and human macrophages was investigated. In thioglycollate-elicited and alternatively activated macrophages, PGE2 selectively impairs P2Y but not P2X7 Ca(2+) mobilization. This effect is absent in LPS-activated cells and is specific for PGE2 because it cannot be reproduced by other PGs with cyclopentenone structure. The inhibition of P2Y responses by PGE2 involves the activation of nPKCs (PKCε) and PKD that can be abrogated by selective inhibitors or by expression of dominant-negative forms of PKD. The inhibition of P2Y signaling by PGE2 has an impact on the cell migration elicited by P2Y agonists in thioglycollate-elicited and alternatively activated macrophages, which provide new clues to understand the resolution phase of inflammation, when accumulation of PGE2, anti-inflammatory and proresolving mediators occurs.

Phlorofucofuroeckol A suppresses expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, and pro-inflammatory cytokines via inhibition of nuclear factor-κB, c-Jun NH2-terminal kinases, and Akt in microglial cells

Microglial activation has been implicated in many neurological disorders for its inflammatory and neurotrophic effects. In this study, we investigated the effects of phlorofucofuroeckol A isolated from Ecklonia stolonifera Okamura on the production of inflammatory mediators in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated microglia. Pre-treatment of phlorofucofuroeckol A attenuated the productions of nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2, and pro-inflammatory cytokines in LPS-stimulated microglia. Profoundly, phlorofucofuroeckol A treatment showed inactivation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) by preventing the degradation of inhibitor κB-α and the nuclear translocation of p65 NF-κB subunit. Moreover, phlorofucofuroeckol A inhibited the activation of c-Jun NH2-terminal kinases (JNKs), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and Akt, but not that of extracellular signal-regulated kinase. These results indicate that phlorofucofuroeckol A inhibits the LPS-induced expression of inflammatory mediators through inactivation of NF-κB, JNKs, p38 MAPK, and Akt pathways. These findings suggest that phlorofucofuroeckol A can be considered as a nutraceutical candidate for the treatment of neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases.

Perthamide C inhibits eNOS and iNOS expression and has immunomodulating activity in vivo

Here we have characterized perthamide C, a cyclopeptide from a Solomon Lithistid sponge Theonella swinhoei, which displays an anti-inflammatory/immunomodulatory activity. The study has been performed using the carragenan-induced mouse paw edema that displays an early (0–6 h) and a late phase (24–96 h). Perthamide C significantly inhibits neutrophils infiltration in tissue both in the early and late phases. This effect was coupled to a reduced expression of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in the early phase while cyclooxygenase-1 and 2 (COX-1, COX-2), and inducible NOS (iNOS) expression were unaffected. In the late phase perthamide C reduced expression of both NOS isoforms without affecting COXs expression. This peculiar selectivity toward the two enzymes deputed to produce NO lead us to investigate on a possible action of perthamide C on lymphocytes infiltration and activation. We found that perthamide C inhibited the proliferation of peripheral lymphocytes, and that this effect was secondary to its metabolic activation in vivo. Indeed, in vitro perthamide C did not inhibit proliferation as opposite to its metabolite perthamide H.

In conclusion, perthamide C selectively interferes with NO generation triggered by either eNOS or iNOS without affecting either COX-1 or COX-2. This in turn leads to modulation of the inflammatory response through a reduction of vascular permeability, neutrophil infiltration as well as lymphocyte proliferation.

The effect of silymarin (Silybum marianum) on human skin fibroblasts in an in vitro wound healing model

CONTEXT

Silymarin, a flavonolignan from Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn. (Asteraceae), has been reported to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, it may be worthwhile to study the effect of silymarin on wound healing.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of silymarin on human fibroblast cells in an in vitro model of wound healing.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Human fibroblast cells were treated with different concentrations (4.5, 9, 18, 36 µg/mL) of silymarin. The effects of silymarin on cell viability, proliferation, collagen synthesis, and expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthetase (iNOS) were assessed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, 5-bromo-2'-deoxy-uridine, hydroxyproline analysis and real-time PCR, respectively. The effect of silymarin on cellular antioxidant status was determined by protection against hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced cell injury and free radical scavenging activity (ABTS assay) of the cells.

RESULTS

Results of the present study indicate that pretreatment of fibroblast cells with silymarin significantly protected cells against H₂O₂-induced injury (p < 0.05). After an 18 h treatment of cells with 36 µg/mL silymarin, total antioxidant capacity of cells significantly increased (p < 0.05). Furthermore, pretreatment of human fibroblast cells with silymarin significantly inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced COX-2 mRNA expression (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis between treatment and control groups (p > 0.05).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Silymarin may be useful as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of cutaneous wounds through its antioxidation and anti-inflammation effects.

COX-2 overexpression Induced by gene transfer reduces sensitivity of TE13 esophageal carcinoma cells to 5-fluorouracil and cisplatin

Previous clinicopathological studies demonstrated that overexpression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is associated with a poor treatment response of esophageal carcinoma. The aim of this study was to elucidate the role of COX-2 overexpression in the chemosensitivity of esophageal carcinoma cells. TE13 human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cells were transfected with a COX-2 constitutive expression vector, and stable transfectants overexpressing COX-2 were established. COX-2 overexpression in COX-2 transfectants was confirmed with western blotting and prostaglandin-E(2) (PGE(2)) assay. Chemosensitivity testing revealed that sensitivity of COX-2 transfectants to 5-fluorouracil and cisplatin was significantly lower than in control vector-only transfectants, and that sensitivity of COX-2 transfectants was restored by the transfection of COX-2-specific siRNA. In addition, expression of antiapoptotic B-cell lymphoma-extra large (BCL-xL) and myeloid cell leukaemia-1 (MCL-1) was increased in COX-2 transfectants. These results indicate that COX-2 overexpression may reduce the chemosensitivity of esophageal carcinoma cells through up-regulation of the expression of antiapoptotic BCL-2 family proteins.

Aging enhances contraction to thromboxane A2 in aorta from female senescence-accelerated mice

The time-course for aging-associated effects on vascular reactivity to U46619, a stable analogue of thromboxane A(2) (TXA(2)), was studied in aorta from female senescence-accelerated mice-prone (SAMP8), a murine model of accelerated senescence. SAMP8 and senescence-accelerated mice-resistant (SAMR1) were divided into three groups: 3-, 6- and 10-month-old. Contractile curves to U46619 (10(-9) to 10(-6) M) were performed in aortic rings in the absence or in the presence of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME; 10(-4) M) and/or cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor indomethacin (10(-5) M). Protein and gene expression for COX-1 and COX-2 were determined by immunofluorescence and real-time PCR, respectively. Maximal contraction to U46619 was markedly higher in SAMP8 at all ages. In SAMR1, increases were seen at 10 months, while SAMP8 displays augmented contraction at 6 months, which was further increased at 10 months. L-NAME enhanced U46619 contractions in both 6-month-old groups, although the increase was higher on vessels from SAMR1 at this age. Indomethacin equally increased U46619 contractions in both 3-month-old groups, suggesting the production of vasodilator prostaglandin in young animals. In contrast, at 6 and 10 months indomethacin decreased U46619 contractions in both groups, indicating an aging-associated swap to a release of contractile prostanoids in aorta. In conclusion, aging enhances contractile responses to TXA(2) in aorta from female mice by a mechanism involving a decrease of NO production and increased action of contractile prostanoids. This process occurs earlier in SAMP8 mice, establishing these mice as good model to study cardiovascular aging in a convenient and standard time-course.

Role of TNF-α in the mechanisms responsible for preterm delivery induced by Stx2 in rats

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Infections with a strain of Escherichia coli producing Shiga toxins could be one of the causes of fetal morbidity and mortality in pregnant women. We have previously reported that Shiga toxin type 2 (Stx2) induces preterm delivery in pregnant rats. In this study, we evaluate the role of TNF-α, PGs and NO in the Stx2-induced preterm delivery.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Pregnant rats were treated with Stx2 (0.7 ng g(-1)) and killed at different times after treatment. Placenta and decidua were used to analyse NOS activity by the conversion of L-[(14)C]arginine into L-[(14)C]citrulline, levels of PGE(2) and PGF(2α) assessed by radioimmunoassay, and cyclooxygenase (COX) proteins by Western blot. TNF-α level was analysed in serum by ELISA and by cytotoxicity in L929 cells. The inhibitor of inducible NOS, aminoguanidine, the COX-2 inhibitor, meloxicam, and the competitive inhibitor of TNF-α, etanercept, were used alone or combined to inhibit NO, PGs and TNF-α production respectively, to prevent Stx2-induced preterm delivery.

KEY RESULTS

Stx2 increased placental PGE(2) and decidual PGF(2α) levels as well as COX-2 expression in both tissues. Aminoguanidine and meloxicam delayed the preterm delivery time but did not prevent it. Etanercept blocked the TNF-α increase after Stx2 treatment and reduced the preterm delivery by approximately 30%. The combined action of aminoguanidine and etanercept prevented Stx2-induced preterm delivery by roughly 70%.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Our results demonstrate that the increased TNF-α and NO induced by Stx2 were the predominant factors responsible for preterm delivery in rats.

Soft coral-derived lemnalol alleviates monosodium urate-induced gouty arthritis in rats by inhibiting leukocyte infiltration and iNOS, COX-2 and c-Fos protein expression

An acute gout attack manifests in the joint as dramatic inflammation. To date, the clinical use of medicinal agents has typically led to undesirable side effects. Numerous efforts have failed to create an effective and safe agent for the treatment of gout. Lemnalol—an extract from Formosan soft coral—has documented anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive properties. In the present study, we attempt to examine the therapeutic effects of lemnalol on intra-articular monosodium urate (MSU)-induced gouty arthritis in rats. In the present study, we found that treatment with lemnalol (intramuscular [im]), but not colchicine (oral [po]), significantly attenuated MUS-induced mechanical allodynia, paw edema and knee swelling. Histomorphometric and immunohistochemistry analysis revealed that MSU-induced inflammatory cell infiltration, as well as the elevated expression of c-Fos and pro-inflammatory proteins (inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2) observed in synovial tissue, were significantly inhibited by treatment with lemnalol. We conclude that lemnalol may be a promising candidate for the development of a new treatment for gout and other acute neutrophil-driven inflammatory diseases.

Traditionally used Veronica officinalis inhibits proinflammatory mediators via the NF-κB signalling pathway in a human lung cell line

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Extracts from Veronica officinalis L. are traditionally used for the treatment of lung diseases; however, the effective compounds and the mode of action are still unknown.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Here we analyzed the effects of a standardized Veronica extract on genes expression and signalling protein production associated with the development of inflammatory lung diseases.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The degranulation capacity of primary mast cells, as well as gene expression and release of inflammatory mediators from human lung epithelial cells (A549 cells) were analyzed in relation to the synthetic drugs azelastine and dexamethasone. Gene and protein expression of cyclooxygenase-2 were investigated by semi-quantitative RT-PCR and western blotting, respectively. The involvement of phosphorylated mitogen-activated protein kinases and NF-κB signaling in regulation of these molecules were characterized by western blotting and electrophoretic mobility shift assays. Characteristic extract components were identified by LC-MS and verminoside was quantified by HPLC analysis.

RESULTS

We demonstrated that Veronica officinalis has a small influence on the degranulation capacity of mast cells but rather inhibits gene and protein expression of the chemokine eotaxin in A549 lung epithelial cells, which is essential for recruitment of inflammatory-associated cells in lung diseases. Furthermore, release of the inflammatory mediator PGE(2) was diminished through inhibition of COX-2 expression via the NF-κB signaling pathway in TNF-α-activated A549 cells. Phytochemical analysis identified verproside and verminoside as the most abundant iridoid glycosides.

CONCLUSION

Our results are a contribution to explaining the observed anti-inflammatory effects of Veronica offcinalis extract on a molecular level. However, its clinical potency has at first to be proven in animals and subsequently in clinical trials.

Age dependent increase in prostaglandin pathway coincides with onset of ovarian cancer in laying hens

Chronic inflammation has been linked to cancer. Prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) is the most pro-inflammatory lipid and one of the downstream products of 2 isoforms of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes: COX-1 and COX-2. Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological malignancy and mainly occurs in older women. The factors that contribute to the correlation of age and ovarian cancer are unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine the expression of COX enzymes and PGE₂ levels in ovaries and correlate them to ovarian cancer and aging. White Leghorn hens aged 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3 and 3.5 years were used. The incidence of ovarian cancer was determined by gross pathology and histology. COX-1 and COX-2 protein and mRNA expression and PGE₂ concentrations in ovaries were measured using Western blot, quantitative real-time PCR and ELISA, respectively. Our results indicated an increase in ovarian cancer incidence and expression of both COX enzymes in ovaries of older hens. In correlation with ovarian cancer incidence and COX enzymes expression, PGE₂ concentrations were elevated with age. Ovaries with tumor had elevated COX-1 expression and PGE₂ concentration compared to normal ovaries. Our findings suggest that the up-regulation of COX enzymes with age is the main contributing factor in the age associated increase in PGE₂. Furthermore, elevated PGE₂ in ovaries of hens concomitant with age suggests its important role in early stages of ovarian carcinogenesis. These finding may provide the basis for clinical trials utilizing COX specific inhibitors or dietary intervention targeting prostaglandin biosynthesis for the prevention and treatment of ovarian cancer.

Cyclooxygenase-2 expression, prostacyclin production and endothelial protection of high-density lipoprotein

Atherosclerosis is a multi-factorial inflammatory disease with accumulation of lipids and recruitment of leukocytes into the subendothelial space. Due to the consistent inflammation in vessels, a subset of atherosclerotic plaques is even prone to physical disruption or producing thrombosis that triggers acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Cyclooxygenase (COX) and the downstream diverse prostanoids are involved in numerous physiological activities and inflammatory processes. Remarkably, prostanoids are a group of bioactive lipid mediators, and play a series of complicated and even contradictory roles during the progression of atherogenesis. Some, mainly prostacyclin (PGI2) have cardioprotective effects to inhibit the aggravation of atherosclerosis, however, others including prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and thromboxane A2 (TXA2), increase the risk of cardiovascular thromboembolic events. Therefore, the controversial effects bring about a debate on the use of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) specific and non-specific inhibitors in the prevention from cardiovascular diseases. In addition to reverse cholesterol transport (RCT), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) exerts several beneficial effects on endothelial protection. Moreover, HDL could also regulate the expression of COX-2 and the production of PGI2 in endothelial cells. While as a diverse complex of heterogeneous particle composed of various apolipoproteins, enzymes and lipids, the individual components of HDL, such as apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), have distinct effects on COX-2 expression and PGI2 production in endothelial cells. In the present review, we summarize the roles of COX-2 as well as PGI2 in atherosclerosis and atherothrombosis, the controversial vascular effects on prostanoid inhibition by COX-2 inhibitors, and the effects of HDL on the endothelial protection by the upregulation of COX-2 and the release of PGI2 during the progression of atherosclerosis.

Ahr2-dependence of PCB126 effects on the swim bladder in relation to expression of CYP1 and cox-2 genes in developing zebrafish

The teleost swim bladder is assumed a homolog of the tetrapod lung. Both swim bladder and lung are developmental targets of persistent aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR(2)) agonists; in zebrafish (Danio rerio) the swim bladder fails to inflate with exposure to 3,3',4,4',5-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB126). The mechanism for this effect is unknown, but studies have suggested roles of cytochrome P450 1 (CYP1) and cyclooxygenase 2 (Cox-2) in some Ahr-mediated developmental effects in zebrafish. We determined relationships between swim bladder inflation and CYP1 and Cox-2 mRNA expression in PCB126-exposed zebrafish embryos. We also examined effects on β-catenin dependent transcription, histological effects, and Ahr2 dependence of the effect of PCB126 on swim bladder using morpholinos targeting ahr2. One-day-old embryos were exposed to waterborne PCB126 or carrier (DMSO) for 24h and then held in clean water until day 4, a normal time for swim bladder inflation. The effects of PCB126 were concentration-dependent with EC(50) values of 1.4 to 2.0 nM for induction of the CYP1s, 3.7 and 5.1 nM (or higher) for cox-2a and cox-2b induction, and 2.5 nM for inhibition of swim bladder inflation. Histological defects included a compaction of the developing bladder. Ahr2-morpholino treatment rescued the effect of PCB126 (5 nM) on swim bladder inflation and blocked induction of CYP1A, cox-2a, and cox-2b. With 2nM PCB126 approximately 30% of eleutheroembryos(3) failed to inflate the swim bladder, but there was no difference in CYP1 or cox-2 mRNA expression between those embryos and embryos showing inflated swim bladder. Our results indicate that PCB126 blocks swim bladder inflation via an Ahr2-mediated mechanism. This mechanism seems independent of CYP1 or cox-2 mRNA induction but may involve abnormal development of swim bladder cells.

Expression of COX-2 and E-cadherin in Tunisian patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma

Cyclo-oxygenase 2 (COX-2) and E-cadherin are promising biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and therapy. The aim of this study was to examine the expression of these two proteins in primary colorectal adenocarcinomas and to investigate their association with clinicopathological characteristics including survival of patients. Immunostaining of E-cadherin and COX-2 was assessed in 70 primary colorectal adenocarcinomas from Tunisian patients. Membranous E-cadherin immunostaining and cytoplasmic COX-2 expression were observed in 74.3% and 68.6% of cases respectively. A significant association was found between COX-2 expression and age at diagnosis (P=0.02), and vessel invasion (P=0.037). The expression of E-cadherin correlated with age at diagnosis (P=0.01), and tumor size (P=0.02). In addition, by multivariate analysis, we revealed a significant association with 1-year disease free survival and a tendency with distant metastasis (P=0.017 and P=0.065 respectively). On the other hand, tumors exhibiting COX-2+/E-cadherin-profile were larger (P=0.006), and in an advanced stage (P=0.001). Survival analysis showed that COX-2 over-expression confers a reduced overall survival rate (Plog rank=0.036) and is an independent factor predictive for prognosis.

Cytoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of melatonin in hydrogen peroxide-stimulated CHON-001 human chondrocyte cell line and rabbit model of osteoarthritis via the SIRT1 pathway

Melatonin has potent antioxidant, analgesic, and antinociceptive properties. However, the effects of melatonin against oxidative stress-induced cytotoxicity and inflammatory mediators in human chondrocytes remain poorly understood. This study examined the effects and underlying mechanism of melatonin in hydrogen peroxide (H(2) O(2) )-stimulated human chondrocytes and rabbit osteoarthritis (OA) model. Melatonin markedly inhibited hydrogen peroxide (H(2) O(2) )-stimulated cytotoxicity, iNOS, and COX-2 protein and mRNA expression, as well as the downstream products, NO and PGE(2) . Incubation of cells with melatonin decreased H(2) O(2) -induced Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) mRNA and protein expression. SIRT1 inhibition by sirtinol or Sirt1 siRNA reversed the effects of melatonin on H(2) O(2) -mediated induction of pro-inflammatory cytokines (NO, PGE(2) , TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-8) and the expression of iNOS, COX-2, and cartilage destruction molecules. Melatonin blocked H(2) O(2) -induced phosphorylation of PI3K/Akt, p38, ERK, JNK, and MAPK, as well as activation of NF-κB, which was reversed by sirtinol and SIRT1 siRNA. In rabbit with OA, intra-articular injection of melatonin significantly reduced cartilage degradation, which was reversed by sirtinol. Taken together, this study shows that melatonin exerts cytoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in an oxidative stress-stimulated chondrocyte model and rabbit OA model, and that the SIRT1 pathway is strongly involved in this effect.

Dichloromethane fraction of Laminaria japonica ethanolic extract inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 expression in RAW 264.7 cells via NF-κB pathway

Strong anti-inflammatory activity has been found in Laminaria japonica dichloromethane fraction (LDF); however, the molecular mechanisms underlying its anti-inflammatory activity are not reported. Our results indicated that LDF inhibited LPS-induced nitric oxide and prostaglandin E(2) production in a dose-dependent manner and suppressed the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) in RAW 264.7 cells. Also, levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 were remarkably reduced by LDF in LPS-treated RAW 264.7 cells. LDF greatly inhibited promoter activity of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and translocation of NF-κB subunits by prevention of the degradation of inhibitor κB-α in LPS-treated RAW 264.7 cells (p < 0.05). Moreover, LDF inhibited activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases and AKT in LPS-treated RAW 264.7 cells. These results indicate that the LDF downregulates iNOS and COX-2 expressions through the suppression of NF-κB pathway associated with inhibition of multiple signaling proteins.

Cross talk between PKC and CREB in the induction of COX-2 by PGF2α in human amnion fibroblasts

Compelling evidence indicates a crucial role of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) in parturition. Both the maternal and fetal sides of the fetal membranes synthesize PGF2α, which exerts effects via the prostaglandin F2α receptor (FP) that is coupled to the activation of protein kinase C (PKC). Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) catalyzes the rate-limiting step of the inducible synthesis of prostaglandin. Although activation of PKC is known to induce COX-2 expression, it is not clear whether PGF2α can induce COX-2 via FP receptor-coupled PKC activation. COX-2 promoter carries a cAMP-response element (CRE) and phosphorylation of CRE binding protein 1 (CREB1) is associated with COX-2 expression in human amnion fibroblasts. We demonstrated that human amnion fibroblasts produced PGF2α and expressed FP receptor. PGF2α increased COX-2 expression and CREB1 phosphorylation, which could be blocked by either the FP receptor antagonist AL8810 or PKC inhibitor Ro31-7549. The PKC activator, phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA), could mimic the induction of COX-2 and CREB1 phosphorylation. The induction of COX-2 by PGF2α and PMA could be attenuated by the small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of CREB1 expression or overexpressing dominant-negative CREB1. A chromatin immunoprecipitation assay showed that the binding of CREB1 to the COX-2 promoter was increased by PGF2α and PMA in amnion fibroblasts. In conclusion, we provide evidence that PGF2α induces COX-2 expression via the FP receptor and phosphorylates CREB1 by PKC, thus increasing CREB1 binding to the COX-2 promoter and the expression of COX-2 in human amnion fibroblasts. This feed-forward loop may be crucial for the production of prostaglandins in the fetal membranes prior to the onset of labor.

Anti-inflammatory effect of sinomenine by inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators in PMA plus A23187-stimulated HMC-1 Cells

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Sinomenine is an alkaloid compound and a prominent anti-inflammatory agent found in the root of the climbing plant Sinomenium acutum. However, its effects on the mechanism of human mast cell line (HMC)-1-mediated inflammation remained unknown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To provide insight into the biological effects of sinomenine, we examined its influence on the pro-inflammatory cytokine production in HMC-1 cells stimulated by phorbol 12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) plus A23187 by evaluating the stimulated cells in the presence or absence of sinomenine. In the present study, the pro-inflammatory cytokine production was measured using ELISA, Reverse Transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB, mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) pathway activation, as determined by Western blot analysis. Also, cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 expression was measured through Western blot and RT-PCR analysis.

RESULTS

Sinomenine inhibited the pro-inflammatory cytokine production induced by PMA plus A23187 in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, sinomenine inhibited the phosphorylations of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38 MAPKs as well as the translocation of NF-kappaB p65 through reduced IkappaBalpha degradation. In addition, sinomenine suppressed COX-2 protein and mRNA expression dose-dependently.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, the results of this study indicate that the anti-inflammatory effects of sinomenine may occur via the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokine and COX-2 production through the inhibition of MAPKs and NF-kappaB pathway activation by PMA plus A23187 stimulation in HMC-1 cells.

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) up-regulation is a prognostic marker for poor clinical outcome of upper tract urothelial cancer

BACKGROUND

There are no reliable biomarkers for diagnosis, prediction of outcome or treatment effect monitoring for upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC), which is a uniquely prevalent cancer in Taiwan. In the present study, 128 primary UTUC specimens of various grades and primary tumor status were examined for the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in tumor and stroma tissues aiming to clarify the association of COX-2 expression with clinical outcomes in Taiwanese patients with UTUC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Immunohistochemistry was implemented to investigate COX-2 expression levels in 128 paired tumor and stroma specimens. The association of COX-2 expression with tumor progression and prognosis was analyzed.

RESULTS

Our data demonstrated that positive COX-2 expression was more frequent in stromal cells (57.0%), than in tumor sites (53.1%), and the up-regulation of COX-2 was strongly associated with higher cancer-specific death and cancer recurrence rates. In COX-2-negative cases, no similar correlation was found.

CONCLUSION

COX-2 expression was up-regulated in both stromal and tumor cells of more than half of the studied UTUC patients and the positive expression of COX-2 in stromal cells may be a potential predictive and prognostic biomarker for UTUC, especially for cancer-specific death and recurrence.

Group IVA phospholipase A₂ optimizes ovulation and fertilization in rodents through induction of and metabolic coupling with prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase 2

Female mice lacking group IVA phospholipase A(2) (Pla2g4a(-/-)) have a smaller litter size, which is due, in part, to defective implantation. We examined PLA(2)G4A dependence of the processes of ovulation and fertilization. Following induction of ovulation by equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG)/human CG (hCG) treatment and mating, ovulation and fertilization rates were reduced significantly in Pla2g4a(-/-) mice as compared to wild-type littermates. Human CG triggered robust ovarian prostaglandin (PG) E(2) production in the preovulatory period that was significantly attenuated in Pla2g4a(-/-) mice. Human CG transiently enhanced ovarian expression of PLA(2)G4A and prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2) in wild-type mice. This PTGS2 induction was decreased in Pla2g4a(-/-) mice and also in immature rats treated with the PLA(2)G4A inhibitor, archidonyl trifluoromethyl ketone. A close spatiotemporal association of PLA(2)G4A with PTGS2 was found in mouse and rat preovulatory follicles examined by immunohistochemistry. Less association was observed with 4 other forms of PLA(2). Our data strongly suggest that PLA(2)G4A amplifies hCG induction of PTGS2 and colocalizes with the induced PTGS2, thus contributing to robust PG production required for optimal ovulation and fertilization in rodents.

Moringa oleifera pod inhibits inflammatory mediator production by lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cell lines

Pro-inflammatory mediators produced during inflammatory response have been demonstrated to initiate and aggravate pathological development of several chronic diseases. Plant bioactive constituents have been reported to exert anti-inflammatory activities. Various parts of Moringa oleifera have long been used as habitual diets and traditional remedy along the tropical region. Anti-inflammatory activity of boiled M. oleifera pod extract was assessed by measuring pro-inflammatory mediator expression in the lipopolysaccharide-induced murine RAW264.7 macrophage cells. Prior treatment with 31-250 μg/mL M. oleifera extract for 1 h inhibited elevation of mRNA and protein level of interleukine-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and cyclooxygenease-2, induced by lipopolysaccharide for 24 h in a dose-dependent manner. The suppressive effect was mediated partly by inhibiting phosphorylation of inhibitor kappa B protein and mitogen-activated protein kinases. These results indicate that the anti-inflammatory activity from bioactive compounds present in the M. oleifera pod constituents may contribute to ameliorate the pathogenesis of inflammatory-associated chronic diseases.

Ethanol extract of Elaeocarpus petiolatus inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in macrophage cells

Elaeocarpus petiolatus is known to exert active oxygen scavenging, anti-aging, and whitening actions. However, the biological effects of E. petiolatus on inflammation and the underlying mechanisms are yet to be established. In the present study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of the ethanol extract from E. petiolatus (EPE) bark in murine Raw264.7 macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). EPE inhibited the production of PGE(2), TNF-α, and IL-1β in a dose-dependent manner in Raw264.7 cells stimulated with LPS. The decrease in PGE(2) production was correlated with reduced COX-2 expression. Furthermore, EPE suppressed the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-related kinases (ERK), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and p38 as well as translocation of the NF-κB p65 subunit from the cytosol to nucleus. Our results suggest that EPE exerts anti-inflammatory activity through inhibition of inflammatory mediators, such as PGE(2), TNF-α, and IL-1β, and downregulation of COX-2 via suppression of NF-κB translocation and phosphorylation of ERK, JNK, and p38 in LPS-stimulated Raw264.7 cells.

Simultaneous modulation of COX-2, p300, Akt, and Apaf-1 signaling by melatonin to inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis in breast cancer cells

Melatonin exhibits anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects and could be a chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agent against cancers, but the precise mechanisms involved remain largely unresolved. In this study, we evaluated the mechanism of action of melatonin in human MDA-MB-361 breast cancer cells. Melatonin at pharmacological concentrations (10(-3)  m) significantly suppressed cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. The observed suppression of proliferation was accompanied by the melatonin-mediated inhibition of COX-2, p300, and NF-κB signaling. Melatonin significantly inhibited COX-2 expression and prostaglandin E(2) (PGE2) production, abrogated p300 histone acetyltransferase activity and p300-mediated NF-κB acetylation, thereby blocking NF-κB binding and p300 recruitment to COX-2 promoter. Pretreatment with a COX-2- or p300-selective inhibitor abrogated the melatonin-induced inhibition of cell proliferation, whereas PGE2 treatment or COX-2 transfection reversed the inhibition by melatonin. Moreover, melatonin markedly inhibited phosphorylation of PI3K, Akt, PRAS40, and GSK-3 proteins, thereby inactivating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Pretreatment with a PI3K- or an Akt-selective inhibitor or an Akt-specific siRNA blocked the melatonin-mediated inhibition of cell proliferation. Conversely, gene delivery of a constitutively active Akt effectively reversed the inhibition by melatonin. Furthermore, melatonin induced Apaf-1 expression, triggered cytochrome C release, and stimulated caspase-3 and caspase-9 activities and cleavage, leading to an activation of the Apaf-1-dependent apoptotic pathway. Pretreatment with an Apaf-1-specific siRNA effectively attenuated the melatonin-induced apoptosis. These results therefore indicate that melatonin inhibits cell proliferation and induces apoptosis in MDA-MB-361 breast cancer cells in vitro by simultaneously suppressing the COX-2/PGE2, p300/NF-κB, and PI3K/Akt/signaling and activating the Apaf-1/caspase-dependent apoptotic pathway.

Reduced systemic bicyclo-prostaglandin-E2 and cyclooxygenase-2 gene expression are associated with inefficient erythropoiesis and enhanced uptake of monocytic hemozoin in children with severe malarial anemia

In holoendemic Plasmodium falciparum transmission areas, severe malaria primarily occurs in children aged <48 months and manifests as severe malarial anemia [SMA; hemoglobin (Hb) < 6.0 g/dL]. Induction of high levels of prostaglandin-E(2) (PGE(2)) through inducible cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is an important host-defense mechanism against invading pathogens. We have previously shown that COX-2-derived PGE(2) levels are reduced in children residing in hyperendemic transmission regions with cerebral malaria and in those with mixed sequelae of anemia and hyperparasitemia. Our in vitro studies further demonstrated that reduced PGE(2) was due to downregulation of COX-2 gene products following phagocytosis of malarial pigment (hemozoin, PfHz). However, as COX-2-PGE(2) pathways and the impact of naturally acquired PfHz on erythropoietic responses have not been determined in children with SMA, plasma and urinary bicyclo-PGE(2)/creatinine and leukocytic COX-2 transcripts were determined in parasitized children (<36 months) stratified into SMA (n = 36) and non-SMA (Hb ≥ 6.0 g/dL; n = 38). Children with SMA had significantly reduced plasma (P = 0.001) and urinary (P < 0.001) bicyclo-PGE(2)/creatinine and COX-2 transcripts (P = 0.007). There was a significant positive association between Hb and both plasma (r = 0.363, P = 0.002) and urinary (r = 0.500, P = 0.001)] bicyclo-PGE(2)/creatinine. Furthermore, decreased systemic bicyclo-PGE(2)/creatinine was associated with inefficient erythropoiesis (i.e., reticulocyte production index; RPI < 2.0, P = 0.026). Additional analyses demonstrated that plasma (P = 0.031) and urinary (P = 0.070) bicyclo-PGE(2)/creatinine and COX-2 transcripts (P = 0.026) progressively declined with increasing concentrations of naturally acquired PfHz by monocytes. Results presented here support a model in which reduced COX-2-derived PGE(2), driven in part by naturally acquired PfHz by monocytes, promotes decreased erythropoietic responses in children with SMA.

Enteropathogenic e.coli sustains iodoacetamide-induced ulcerative colitis-like colitis in rats: modulation of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, COX-2, and apoptosisi

Pathogenic or non-pathogenic bacteria from flora may play a key role in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) pathogenesis. However, a specific infectious agent causing IBD has not been identified. This study assessed the impact of enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) on the modulation of IL-1beta, IL-6, TNF- alpha, COX-2, BAX and Bcl-2 expression, in sustaining inflammation of a rat colitis model. Two hundred male Sprague-Dawley rats (4 groups) were inoculated weekly or bi-weekly for 70 days, with 1 percent methylcellulose (MC), (b) 6 percent iodoacetamide (IA) in 1 percent MC, (c) 4x108 CFU of EPEC, and (d) IA+EPEC. After a month, treatment was stopped in half of the animals in each group. IL-1beta, IL-6, TNF-alpha, COX-2, BAX and Bcl-2 expression were measured in colonic mucosa scrapings. IL-1beta, IL-6, TNF-alpha, and COX-2 were significantly increased in colonic mucosa of the IA+EPEC group and to a lesser but significant level in the IA group compared to controls, or EPEC alone, both in continued and discontinued treatment groups. Additionally, the BAX/Bcl-2 ratio decreased, indicating less apoptosis in the IA+EPEC group which exhibited more necrosis. These effects increased with experiment duration. This work provides new arguments favouring the role of bacteria in IBD pathogenesis.

Regulatory T-cell-mediated inhibition of antitumor immune responses is associated with clinical outcome in patients with liver metastasis from colorectal cancer

Adaptive regulatory T cells (Tregs) contribute to an immunosuppressive microenvironment in colorectal cancer (CRC). Here, we examined whether the level of Treg-mediated inhibition of antitumor immune responses in patients with metastatic CRC (metCRC) selected for liver resection is associated with clinical outcome. Preoperatively and at follow-ups, we did flow-based phenotyping, examined antitumor immunity using peptides from carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) protein in the presence or absence of CD4(+)CD25(+)CD127(dim/-) cells (Tregs) and determined cytokine and PGE(2) levels in patient blood samples. At 18 months post-surgery, 8 patients were disease free (7 alive and 1 dead of unrelated cause) and 10 had experienced disease recurrence (7 alive and 3 dead of metCRC). Prior to surgery, the patients demonstrated Treg-mediated suppression of TNFα and IFNγ expression that could be perturbed through the PGE(2)/cAMP pathway and the immune suppression was significantly higher in the group that later developed disease recurrence (P = 0.046). Furthermore, the post-surgery plasma PGE(2) levels were related to the clinical outcome (PGE(2) levels of 280 ± 47 vs. 704 ± 153 pg/ml (mean ± SEM) for disease free and recurrent disease, respectively). T-cell phenotyping revealed higher frequencies of COX-2(+) cells in the patients with recurrent disease. These findings support the notion that the level of Treg-mediated suppression of adaptive antitumor immune responses at the time of surgery may influence later clinical outcome of metCRC and provide valuable prognostic information.

Protective effect of chitin oligosaccharides against lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory response in BV-2 microglia

Chitin oligosaccharides (NA-COS) of two different molecular weight ranges (below 1 and 1-3 kDa) were examined for their capabilities against lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory responses in BV-2 murine microglia. It was found that NA-COS reduced the level of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) production by suppressing the expression of NO synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 without significant cytotoxicity. Furthermore, the inhibitory effects of NA-COS on generation of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were determined. Notably, NA-COS exerted anti-inflammatory activities via blocking degradation of inhibitor of kappaB-alpha (IκB-α), translocation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB, and phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in a dose-dependent manner. These findings provide mechanistic insights into the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective actions of NA-COS in BV-2 microglia.

Imidazolineoxyl N-oxide induces COX-2 in endothelial cells: role of free radicals

cPTIO (2-[4-carboxyphenyl]-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide) exerts beneficial actions on systemic inflammatory response. Besides its nitric oxide (NO) scavenging properties cPTIO could exert beneficial effects through modulation of arachidonic acid metabolism. We studied the effect of cPTIO on the biosynthesis of vasoactive prostaglandins (PG) by endothelial cells. Human cord umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were treated with cPTIO, and expression of cycloxygenase (COX) isoenzymes in terms of mRNA and protein was determined by real-time-PCR and immunoblotting. Release of PGE2 (as index of untransformed PGH2 release) and 6-oxo-PGF1alpha (PGI2 stable metabolite) was determined by enzyme-immunoassay. cPTIO significantly increases the release of untransformed PGH2 associated to the induction of COX-2 expression. Experiments with NO-synthase inhibitors and radical scavengers showed that induction of COX-2 by cPTIO was mediated by free radical species, likely caused by the mobilization of NO from cellular stores. Finally, using specific signal-transduction inhibitors we show the involvement of Src/PI3-K/PKC pathway. Additional effects other than a direct NO scavenging activity may confer therapeutic advantages to cPTIO as compared with NO-synthase inhibitors for the treatment of systemic inflammation-associated vascular hyporeactivity.

DIO2 modifies inflammatory responses in chondrocytes

OBJECTIVE

Selenium neutralizes interleukin-1β (IL-1β) induced inflammatory responses in chondrocytes. We investigated potential mechanisms for this through in vitro knock down of three major selenoproteins, Iodothyronine Deiodinase-2 (DIO2), Glutathione Peroxidase-1 (GPX1), and Thioredoxin Reductase-1 (TR1) in primary human chondrocytes.

METHODS

Primary human chondrocytes were transfected with scrambled small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA) or siRNA specific for DIO2, GPX1 and TR1. After 48 h, transfected cells were cultured in serum free media for 48 h, with or without 10 pg/ml IL-1β for the final 24h. The efficiency of siRNAs was confirmed by quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot analysis. The gene expression, by qRT-PCR, of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2), IL-1β, and Liver X receptor (LXR) alpha and beta was evaluated to determine the impact of selenoprotein knockdown on inflammatory responses in chondrocytes.

RESULTS

The messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of DIO2, GPX1, and TR1 was significantly decreased by the specific siRNAs (reduced 56%, P=0.0004; 96%, P<0.0001; and 66%, P<0.0001, respectively). Suppression of DIO2, but not GPX1 or TR1, significantly increased (~2-fold) both basal (P=0.0005) and IL-1β induced (P<0.0001) COX2 gene expression. Similarly, suppression of DIO2 significantly increased (∼9-fold) IL-1β induced IL-1β gene expression (P=0.0056) and resulted in a 32% (P=0.0044) decrease in LXRα gene expression but no effect on LXRβ.

CONCLUSIONS

Suppression of the selenoprotein DIO2 resulted in strong pro-inflammatory effects with increased expression of inflammatory mediators, IL-1β and COX2, and decreased expression of LXRα suggesting that this may be the upstream target through which the anti-inflammatory effects of DIO2 are mediated.

Ultraviolet C irradiation induces different expression of cyclooxygenase 2 in NIH 3T3 cells and A431 cells: the roles of COX-2 are different in various cell lines

Ultraviolet C (UVC) is a DNA damage inducer, and 20 J/m² of UVC irradiation caused cell growth inhibition and induced cell death after exposure for 24–36 h. The growth of NIH 3T3 cells was significantly suppressed at 24 h after UVC irradiation whereas the proliferation of A431 cells was inhibited until 36 h after UVC irradiation. UVC irradiation increased COX-2 expression and such up-regulation reached a maximum during 3–6 h in NIH 3T3 cells. In contrast, UVC-induced COX-2 reached a maximum after 24–36 h in A431 cells. Measuring prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) level showed a biphasic profile that PGE2 release was rapidly elevated in 1–12 h after UVC irradiation and increased again at 24 h in both cell lines. Treatment with the selective COX-2 inhibitor, SC-791, during maximum expression of COX-2 induction, attenuated the UVC induced-growth inhibition in NIH 3T3 cells. In contrast, SC-791 treatment after UVC irradiation enhanced death of A431 cells. These data showed that the patterns of UVC-induced PGE2 secretion from NIH 3T3 cells and A431 cells were similar despite the differential profile in UVC-induced COX-2 up-regulation. Besides, COX-2 might play different roles in cellular response to UVC irradiation in various cell lines.

Inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase-3β prevents NSAID-induced acute kidney injury

Clinical use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like diclofenac (DCLF) is limited by multiple adverse effects, including renal toxicity leading to acute kidney injury. In mice with DCLF-induced nephrotoxicity, TDZD-8, a selective glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)3β inhibitor, improved acute kidney dysfunction and ameliorated tubular necrosis and apoptosis associated with induced cortical expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and prostaglandin E2. This renoprotective effect was blunted but still largely preserved in COX-2-null mice, suggesting that other GSK3β targets beyond COX-2 functioned in renal protection. Indeed, TDZD-8 diminished the mitochondrial permeability transition in DCLF-injured kidneys. In vitro, GSK3β inhibition reinstated viability and suppressed necrosis and apoptosis in DCLF-stimulated tubular epithelial cells. DCLF elicited oxidative stress, enhanced the activity of the redox-sensitive GSK3β, and promoted a mitochondrial permeability transition by interacting with cyclophilin D, a key component of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. TDZD-8 blocked GSK3β activity and prevented GSK3β-mediated cyclophilin D phosphorylation and the ensuing mitochondrial permeability transition, concomitant with normalization of intracellular ATP. Conversely, ectopic expression of a constitutively active GSK3β abolished the effects of TDZD-8. Hence, inhibition of GSK3β ameliorates NSAID-induced acute kidney injury by induction of renal cortical COX-2 and direct inhibition of the mitochondrial permeability transition.

[Expression and clinical significance of CD3, CD4 and COX-2 in non-small cell lung cancer]

AIM

To study expression and clinical significance of CD3, CD4 and COX-2 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

METHODS

Expression of COX-2, CD3 and CD4 was detected by immunohistochemical staining in 37 cases of NSCLC. The correlation of CD3, CD4, COX-2 expressions and overall survival(OS) was evaluated with spearman rank correlation analysis.

RESULTS

The average surface density of CD3 and the average optical density of CD4 were significantly associated with OS of NSCLC patients after surgery (P<0.05). However, both two densities of COX-2 were correlated with survival time of patients (P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

The expressions of CD3, CD4 were significantly associated with OS of NSCLC patients.

The γ-secretase blocker DAPT impairs recovery from lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in rat brain

γ-Secretase is an important contributing enzyme in Alzheimer's disease and is therefore an important therapeutic target. However, the impact of γ-secretase inhibition is not well studied in acute neuroinflammation induced by systemic infection. In this study the influence of γ-secretase on the expression of some proinflammatory markers was assessed in the acute phase as well as the subsiding phase of neuroinflammation. Cerebral γ-secretase cleavage activity was measured by a fluorometric assay after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) intraperitoneal administration. Time profiles of TNF-α and COX-II expression were then determined to detect the time points relevant to the maximal inflammatory responses and the subsequent recovery phase. γ-Secretase activity coincident with TNF-α protein expression returned to its basal level till 8-12 h after systemic challenge with low dose LPS while COX-II over expression lasted for 48-72 h later. Pharmacological inhibition of γ-secretase with local or systemic administration of DAPT (N-[N-(3,5-difluorophenacetyl)-l-alanyl]-S-phenylglycine t-butyl ester) was performed to indicate the results on the developmental and sinking phases of inflammatory responses in 6 and 72 h post LPS respectively. Our results demonstrate that both local and systemic modulation of γ-secretase hyper-activity with DAPT increase the duration of TNF-α, COX-II, and NFκB induction. We consistently found mild augmented apoptosis in animals treated with DAPT as determined by measuring cleaved caspase-3 expression and by TUNEL assay 72 h following LPS injection. These results suggest that γ-secretase modulation interferes with certain immune regulatory pathways which may restrict some inflammatory transcription factors such as NFκB.

EP2 and EP4 receptors on muscularis resident macrophages mediate LPS-induced intestinal dysmotility via iNOS upregulation through cAMP/ERK signals

Intestinal resident macrophages play an important role in gastrointestinal dysmotility by producing prostaglandins (PGs) and nitric oxide (NO) in inflammatory conditions. The causal correlation between PGs and NO in gastrointestinal inflammation has not been elucidated. In this study, we examined the possible role of PGE(2) in the LPS-inducible inducible NO synthase (iNOS) gene expression in murine distal ileal tissue and macrophages. Treatment of ileal tissue with LPS increased the iNOS and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 gene expression, which lead to intestinal dysmotility. However, LPS did not induce the expression of iNOS and COX-2 in tissue from macrophage colony-stimulating factor-deficient op/op mice, indicating that these genes are expressed in intestinal resident macrophages. iNOS and COX-2 protein were also expressed in dextran-phagocytized macrophages in the muscle layer. CAY10404, a COX-2 inhibitor, diminished LPS-dependent iNOS gene upregulation in wild-type mouse ileal tissue and also in RAW264.7 macrophages, indicating that PGs upregulate iNOS gene expression. EP(2) and EP(4) agonists upregulated iNOS gene expression in ileal tissue and isolated resident macrophages. iNOS mRNA induction mediated by LPS was decreased in the ileum isolated from EP(2) or EP(4) knockout mice. In addition, LPS failed to decrease the motility of EP(2) and EP(4) knockout mice ileum. EP(2)- or EP(4)-mediated iNOS expression was attenuated by KT-5720, a PKA inhibitor and PD-98059, an ERK inhibitor. Forskolin or dibutyryl-cAMP mimics upregulation of iNOS gene expression in macrophages. In conclusion, COX-2-derived PGE(2) induces iNOS expression through cAMP/ERK pathways by activating EP(2) and EP(4) receptors in muscularis macrophages. NO produced in muscularis macrophages induces dysmotility during gastrointestinal inflammation.

6,6'-Bieckol, isolated from marine alga Ecklonia cava, suppressed LPS-induced nitric oxide and PGE₂ production and inflammatory cytokine expression in macrophages: the inhibition of NFκB

Ecklonia cava is an edible brown alga that contains high levels of phlorotannins, which are unique marine polyphenolic compounds. In the present study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects and the underlying molecular mechanism of phlorotannin 6,6'-bieckol, which is an active component isolated from E. cava, on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated primary macrophages and RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. 6,6'-Bieckol was found to inhibit nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) production and to suppress the LPS-induced expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) at the mRNA and protein levels. In addition, 6,6'-bieckol downregulated the production and mRNA expression of the inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6. Moreover, pretreatment with 6,6'-bieckol decreased LPS-induced transactivation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NFκB) and nuclear translocation of p50 and p65 subunits of NFκB. Furthermore, chromatin immunoprecipitation assay revealed that 6,6'-bieckol inhibited LPS-induced NFκB binding to the TNF-α and IL-6 promoters. Taken together, these data suggest that the anti-inflammatory properties of 6,6'-bieckol are related to the down-regulation of iNOS, COX-2, and pro-inflammatory cytokines through the negative regulation of the NFκB pathway in LPS-stimulated macrophages.

The expression of MAGE and SSX, and correlation of COX2, VEGF, and survivin in colorectal cancer

AIM/PURPOSE

We investigated the expression of melanoma-associated antigen gene (MAGE), human synovial sarcoma on X chromosome (SSX) and their clinical implications in sporadic colon cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fresh tissue samples from 37 patients with colorectal adenocarcinomas were analyzed for MAGE and SSX mRNA by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and their paraffin-embedded tissues were used for immunohistochemistry for cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and survivin.

RESULTS

Expression of MAGE and SSX was not detected in normal tissues. Colon cancer expressed SSX in 32.4% and MAGE in 51.4% of cases. Co-expression of MAGE and SSX was directly correlated with liver metastasis (p=0.024) and also correlated with nuclear expression of survivin (p=0.016), yet did not correlate with expression of COX2 and VEGF. Nuclear survivin expression (83.3%) was found in the cancer tissues exclusively. No significant relationships between the expression of COX2 (73.9%) and VEGF (72.4%) and other clinicopathologic variables were found.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that nuclear expression of survivin, lymph node metastasis, vascular and perineural invasion, and co-expression of MAGE and SSX may be associated with the metastasis of colorectal cancer to the liver.