Pharmacological and biochemical demonstration of the role of cyclooxygenase 2 in inflammation and pain

Mitigating the risk of opioid abuse through a balanced undergraduate pain medicine curriculum

Chronic pain is highly prevalent in the United States and Canada, occurring in an estimated 30% of the adult population. Despite its high prevalence, US and Canadian medical schools provide very little training in pain management, including training in the safe and effective use of potent analgesics, most notably opioids. In 2005, the International Association for the Study of Pain published recommendations for a core undergraduate pain management curriculum, and several universities have implemented pilot programs based on this curriculum. However, when outcomes have been formally assessed, these initiatives have resulted in only modest improvements in physician knowledge about chronic pain and its treatment. This article discusses strategies to improve undergraduate pain management curricula and proposes areas in which those efforts can be augmented. Emphasis is placed on opioids, which have great potency as analgesics but also substantial risks in terms of adverse events and the risk of abuse and addiction. The authors conclude that the most important element of an undergraduate pain curriculum is clinical experience under mentors who are capable of reinforcing didactic learning by modeling best practices.

Effects of rebamipide on nephrotoxicity associated with selected NSAIDs in rats

Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is primarily limited by renal and gastrointestinal adverse effects. Rebamipide suppresses gastric mucosal injury when administered with NSAIDs. This study aimed to determine rebamipide's influence upon renal effects following concomitant use with celecoxib or diclofenac. On day 0, rats were randomly divided into 6 groups (n≥6). On days 1 and 2, three groups received placebo and three groups were administered rebamipide (30 mg/kg) twice daily. On day 3, the rats treated with placebo received another dose of placebo and ten minutes later a single dose of celecoxib (40 mg/kg), diclofenac (10mg/kg), or placebo, respectively. The rats treated with rebamipide received one more dose of rebamipide and ten minutes later one single dose of celecoxib, diclofenac, or placebo, respectively. Urine and blood samples were collected on days 0, 2, and 3. Sodium and potassium excretion rates decreased significantly in the rats treated with celecoxib, diclofenac, rebamipide plus celecoxib, or rebamipide plus diclofenac on day 3. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels significantly increased in placebo plus diclofenac and rebamipide plus diclofenac groups on day 3. Comparing the two groups, the levels of BUN was significantly higher in the rebamipide plus diclofenac group compared to that of placebo plus diclofenac group. Concomitant administration of rebamipide with either NSAID caused a rise in concentrations of urinary kidney injury molecule-1. Histopathological evaluations revealed an intensified NSAID-induced tubular necrosis by rebamipide. Based upon the results obtained, concomitant administration of rebamipide with NSAIDs enhances the effect of NSAIDs on tubular injury.

Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Supercritical-Carbon Dioxide Fluid Extract from Flowers and Buds of Chrysanthemum indicum Linnén

The aim of this study was to analyze the chemical composition and investigate the anti-inflammatory property of the supercritical-carbon dioxide extract from flowers and buds of C. indicum (CI_SCFE). The anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated in four animal models including xylene-induced mouse ear edema, acetic acid-induced mouse vascular permeability, carrageenan-induced mouse hind paw edema, and cotton pellet-induced rat granuloma formation. The results indicated that CI_SCFE significantly attenuated xylene-induced ear edema, decreased acetic acid-induced capillary permeability, reduced carrageenan-induced paw, and inhibited the cotton pellet-induced granuloma formation in a dose-dependent manner. Histopathologically, CI_SCFE abated inflammatory response of the edema paw. Preliminary mechanistic studies demonstrated that CI_SCFE decreased the MDA level via increasing the activities of anti-oxidant enzymes (SOD, GPx, and GRd), attenuated the productions of NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, PGE₂ and NO, and suppressed the activities of iNOS and COX-2. In phytochemical study, 35 compounds were identified by GC-MS, and 5 compounds (chlorogenic acid, luteolin-7-glucoside, linarin, luteolin and acacetin) were reconfirmed and quantitatively determined by HPLC-PAD. This paper firstly analyzed the chemical composition by combining GC-MS with HPLC-PAD and explored possible mechanisms for the anti-inflammatory effect of CI_SCFE.

Synthesis and chemical and biological comparison of nitroxyl- and nitric oxide-releasing diazeniumdiolate-based aspirin derivatives

Structural modifications of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have successfully reduced the side effect of gastrointestinal ulceration without affecting anti-inflammatory activity, but they may increase the risk of myocardial infarction with chronic use. The fact that nitroxyl (HNO) reduces platelet aggregation, preconditions against myocardial infarction, and enhances contractility led us to synthesize a diazeniumdiolate-based HNO-releasing aspirin and to compare it to an NO-releasing analogue. Here, the decomposition mechanisms are described for these compounds. In addition to protection against stomach ulceration, these prodrugs exhibited significantly enhanced cytotoxcity compared to either aspirin or the parent diazeniumdiolate toward nonsmall cell lung carcinoma cells (A549), but they were not appreciably toxic toward endothelial cells (HUVECs). The HNO-NSAID prodrug inhibited cylcooxgenase-2 and glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase activity and triggered significant sarcomere shortening on murine ventricular myocytes compared to control. Together, these anti-inflammatory, antineoplasic, and contractile properties suggest the potential of HNO-NSAIDs in the treatment of inflammation, cancer, or heart failure.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of ethanolic extract of aerial parts of Vernonia patula (Dryand.) Merr

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the inflammatory and antioxidant activities of ethanolic extract of aerial part of Vernonia patula (Dryand.) Merr (EAV).

METHODS

The anti-inflammatory activity of EAV was studied using carrageenan and histamine-induced rat paw edema test at different doses (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight). DPPH free radical scavenging, nitric oxide scavenging, reducing power and Fe(2+) ion chelating ability were used for determining antioxidant activities.

RESULTS

The EAV, at the dose of 400 mg/kg, showed a significant anti-inflammatory activity (P<0.01) both in the carrageenan and histamine-induced oedema test models in rats, showing 62.86% and 64.42% reduction in the paw volume comparable to that produced by the standard drug indomethacin (67.26% and 66.01%) at 5 h respectively. In DPPH free radical scavenging test, IC50 value for EAV was found fairly significant 36.59 μg/mL when compared to the IC50 value of the reference standards ascorbic acid 8.97 μg/mL. The IC50 values of the extract and ascorbic acid were 47.72 and 12.39 μg/mL, respectively in nitric oxide scavenging assay. The IC50 value of the EAV (33.59 μg/mL) as percentage of Fe(2+) ion chelating ability was also found significant compared to that of EDTA (9.16 μg/mL). The maximum absorbance for reducing power assay was found to be 1.928 at 100 μg/mL when compared to 2.449 for standard ascorbic acid. The total phenolic content was 198.81 mg/g of gallic acid equivalent. Acute toxicity test showed that the plant might be safe for pharmacological uses up to a dose level of 3 200 mg/kg of body weight in rats.

CONCLUSIONS

Therefore, the obtained results suggest the acute anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of the EAV and thus provide the scientific basis for the traditional uses of this plant part as a remedy for inflammations.

The immunobiology of prostanoid receptor signaling in connecting innate and adaptive immunity

Prostanoids, including prostaglandins (PGs), thromboxanes (TXs), and prostacyclins, are synthesized from arachidonic acid (AA) by the action of Cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. They are bioactive inflammatory lipid mediators that play a key role in immunity and immunopathology. Prostanoids exert their effects on immune and inflammatory cells by binding to membrane receptors that are widely expressed throughout the immune system and act at multiple levels in innate and adaptive immunity. The immunoregulatory role of prostanoids results from their ability to regulate cell-cell interaction, antigen presentation, cytokine production, cytokine receptor expression, differentiation, survival, apoptosis, cell-surface molecule levels, and cell migration in both autocrine and paracrine manners. By acting on immune cells of both systems, prostanoids and their receptors have great impact on immune regulation and play a pivotal role in connecting innate and adaptive immunity. This paper focuses on the immunobiology of prostanoid receptor signaling because of their potential clinical relevance for various disorders including inflammation, autoimmunity, and tumorigenesis. We mainly discuss the effects of major COX metabolites, PGD2, PGE2, their signaling during dendritic cell (DC)-natural killer (NK) reciprocal crosstalk, DC-T cell interaction, and subsequent consequences on determining crucial aspects of innate and adaptive immunity in normal and pathological settings.

Synthesis and biological evaluation of new heteroaryl carboxylic acid derivatives as anti-inflammatory-analgesic agents

A series of nicotinic acid derivatives structurally related to niflumic acid and certain pyridazine-containing compounds have been synthesized and characterized by analytical and spectral data. All compounds were screened for their potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities. The compounds which displayed analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities were tested for ulcerogenicity and screened for in vivo inhibition of certain inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Compounds 1c, 2a, 2b, and 5a have shown potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities.

Combined losartan and nitro-oleic acid remarkably improves diabetic nephropathy in mice

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a leading cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The inhibitors of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) can alleviate some of the symptoms of DN but fail to stop the progression to ESRD. Our previous studies demonstrate renoprotective action of nitro-oleic acid (OA-NO2) in several rodent models of renal disease. Here we examined the therapeutic potential and the underlying mechanism of combination of losartan and OA-NO2 in db/db mice. OA-NO2 was infused at 5 mg·kg(-1)·day(-1) via osmotic minipump, and losartan was incorporated into diet at 10 mg·kg(-1)·day(-1), each administered alone or in combination for 2 wk. Diabetic db/db mice developed progressive albuminuria and glomerulosclerosis, accompanied by podocytes loss, increased indexes of renal fibrosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Treatment of the diabetic mice with OA-NO2 or losartan alone moderately ameliorated kidney injury; however, the combined treatment remarkably reduced albuminuria, restored glomerular filtration barrier structure, and attenuated glomerulosclerosis, accompanied with significant suppression of renal oxidative stress and inflammation. These data demonstrate that combination of losartan and OA-NO2 effectively reverses renal injury in DN.

Cyclooxygenase-2 regulated by the nuclear factor-κB pathway plays an important role in endometrial breakdown in a female mouse menstrual-like model

The role of prostaglandins (PGs) in menstruation has long been proposed. Although evidence from studies on human and nonhuman primates supports the involvement of PGs in menstruation, whether PGs play an obligatory role in the process remains unclear. Although cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors have been used in the treatment of irregular uterine bleeding, the mechanism involved has not been elucidated. In this study, we used a recently established mouse menstrual-like model for investigating the role of COX in endometrial breakdown and its regulation. Administration of the nonspecific COX inhibitor indomethacin and the COX-2 selective inhibitor DuP-697 led to inhibition of the menstrual-like process. Furthermore, immunostaining analysis showed that the nuclear factor (NF)κB proteins P50, P65, and COX-2 colocalized in the outer decidual stroma at 12 to 16 hours after progesterone withdrawal. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis showed that NFκB binding to the Cox-2 promoter increased at 12 hours after progesterone withdrawal in vivo, and real-time PCR analysis showed that the NFκB inhibitors pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate and MG-132 inhibited Cox-2 mRNA expression in vivo and in vitro, respectively. Furthermore, COX-2 and NFκB inhibitors similarly reduced endometrial breakdown, suggesting that NFκB/COX-2-derived PGs play a critical role in this process. In addition, the CD45(+) leukocyte numbers were sharply reduced following indomethacin (COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitor), DuP-697 (COX-2 inhibitor), and pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (NFκB inhibitor) treatment. Collectively, these data indicate that NFκB/COX-2-induced PGs regulate leukocyte influx, leading to endometrial breakdown.

Anti-inflammatory activity of N-(3-florophenyl)ethylcaffeamide in mice

In this study, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory activity of one synthetic product, N-(3-Florophenyl)ethylcaffeamide (abbrev. FECA), by using animal model of λ-carrageenan-induced paw edema in mice. The anti-inflammatory mechanism of FECA was determined by measuring the levels of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the edema paw tissue, and the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione reductase (GRd) in the liver. The results showed that FECA reduced the paw edema at three, four and five hours after λ-carrageenan administration. The levels of COX-2, NO, TNF-α, and MDA in the λ-carrageenan-induced edema paws were reduced and the activities of SOD, GPx, and GRd in liver tissues were raised by FECA. These results suggested that FECA possessed anti-inflammatory activities and the anti-inflammatory mechanisms might be related to the decrease of the levels of COX-2, NO, and TNF-α in inflamed tissues and the increase in the MDA level by increasing the activities of SOD, GPx, and GRd.

Arrabidaea chica extract improves gait recovery and changes collagen content during healing of the Achilles tendon

INTRODUCTION

Tendon lesions are still a serious clinical problem. The leaves of the Bignoniaceae Arrabidaea chica (Humb. & Bonpl.) B. Verlot. (syn. Bignonia chica (Bonpl.)) have been used in traditional medicine and described in the literature for its healing properties. However, no study has shown the effects of A. chica during tendon healing. The aim of this study was to investigate the healing properties of the A. chica leaves extract on tendons after partial transection.

METHODS

A partial transection in the tension region of the Achilles tendon of rats was performed with subsequent posterior topical application of A. chica extract (2.13g/mL in 0.85% saline solution) at the site of the injury. The animals (n=154) were separated into 7 groups: N - rats with tendons without transection; S7, S14 and S21 - rats with tendons treated with topical applications of saline for 7 days and sacrificed on the 7th, 14th and 21st days after surgery, respectively; A7, A14 and A21 - rats with tendons treated with topical applications of the plant extract. The transected regions of the tendons were analyzed through biochemical, morphological and functional analyses. To evaluate the type and concentration of collagen, Western blotting for collagen types I and III was performed, and the hydroxyproline concentration was determined. The participation of metalloproteinases (MMP)-2 and -9 during tendon remodelling was investigated through zymography. Gait recovery was analyzed using the catwalk system. The organization of the extracellular matrix and morphometry were detected in sections stained with haematoxylin-eosin.

RESULTS

The application of A. chica extract in the region of tendon injury led to an increase in the amount of hydroxyproline (mg/g tissue) on the 7th (91.5±18.9) and 21st (95.8±11.9) days after the tendon lesion relative to the control groups treated with saline (S7: 75.2±7.2; and S21: 71.9±7.9). There were decreases in collagen types I and III (as determined by densitometry) in the groups treated with the plant extract 7 days after injury (type I: 103.9±15.9; type III: 206.3±8.1) compared to the saline-treated groups (type I: 165.2±31.1; type III: 338.6±48.8). The plant extract stimulated the synthesis of MMP-2 on the 21st day after the lesion and decreased the amount of latent and active isoforms of MMP-9 on the 14th day. Analysis by the catwalk system (max contact intensity) showed that the A. chica extract improved the gait of rats on the 7th day of the healing process when compared to the saline group.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of A. chica extract during the healing process of the tendon leads to an increase in collagen content and improved gait recovery. Further studies will be performed to analyze the effect of this plant extract on the organization of the collagen bundles of tendons after lesions and to study its probable anti-inflammatory effect.

Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activity of epiisopiloturine, an imidazole alkaloid isolated from Pilocarpus microphyllus

The aim of this study was to investigate the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of epiisopiloturine (1), an imidazole alkaloid found in the leaves of Pilocarpus microphyllus. The anti-inflammatory activity of 1 was evaluated using several agents that induce paw edema and peritonitis in Swiss mice. Paw tissue and peritoneal fluid samples were obtained to determine myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity or tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1β levels. The antinociceptive activity was evaluated by acetic acid-induced writhing, the hot plate test, and pain induction using formalin. Compared to vehicle treatment, pretreatment with 1 (0.1, 0.3, and 1 mg/kg, ip) of mice significantly reduced carrageenan-induced paw edema (p < 0.05). Furthermore, compound 1 at a dose of 1 mg/kg effectively inhibited edema induced by dextran sulfate, serotonin, and bradykinin, but had no effect on histamine-induced edema. The administration of 1 (1 mg/kg) following carrageenan-induced peritonitis reduced total and differential peritoneal leukocyte counts and also carrageenan-induced paw MPO activity and TNF-α and IL-1β levels in the peritoneal cavity. Pretreatment with 1 also reduced acetic acid-induced writhing and inhibited the first and second phases of the formalin test, but did not alter response latency in the hot plate test. Pretreatment with naloxone reversed the antinociceptive effect of 1.

Beneficial effects of Anadenanthera colubrina (Vell.) Brenan extract on the inflammatory and nociceptive responses in rodent models

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Anadenanthera colubrina (Vell.) Brenan, popularly known as "angico", is a plant that has been widely used in folk medicine due to its anti-inflammatory property. To evaluate the pharmacological activities of this plant, studies were performed on its antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The AE of Anadenanthera colubrina, made from the bark, was used in rodents via oral route (p.o.), at 100, 200, and 400mg/kg in classical models of nociception (acetic acid-induced writhing and hot-plate test) and inflammation evoked by carrageenan (e.g., paw edema, peritonitis, and synovitis).

RESULTS

The acetic acid-induced abdominal writhes in mice were significantly reduced (P<0.001) by oral treatment with the extract (100, 200, and 400mg/kg), but the extract did not significantly increase the latency in the nociceptive hot-plate test. Anadenanthera colubrina aqueous extract reduced significantly the edema and, besides, diminished the mieloperoxidase activity (200 and 400mg/kg, P<0.01). The carrageenan-induced peritonitis was significantly reduced (P<0.05) by the aqueous extract at 100, 200, and 400mg/kg. The aqueous extract (200mg/kg) reduces the synovial leukocyte infiltration on carrageenan-induced synovitis in rats (P<0.01), but failed to significantly affect joint swelling and impaired mobility.

CONCLUSIONS

We show for the first time that the anti-inflammatory and peripheral antinociceptive activities of Anadenanthera colubrina are consistent, at least in part, with the use of this plant in popular medicine practices.

Attenuation of Proinflammatory Responses by S-[6]-Gingerol via Inhibition of ROS/NF-Kappa B/COX2 Activation in HuH7 Cells

Introduction. Hepatic inflammation underlies the pathogenesis of chronic diseases such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus. S-[6]-Gingerol has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Important inflammatory mediators of interleukins include nuclear factor κ B (NF κ B) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2). We now explore the mechanism of anti-inflammatory effects of S-[6]-gingerol in liver cells. Methods. HuH7 cells were stimulated with IL1β to establish an in vitro hepatic inflammatory model. Results. S-[6]-Gingerol attenuated IL1β-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in HuH7 cells, as evidenced by decreasing mRNA levels of inflammatory factor IL6, IL8, and SAA1, suppression of ROS generation, and increasing mRNA levels of DHCR24. In addition, S-[6]-gingerol reduced IL1β-induced COX2 upregulation as well as NF κ B activity. Similar to the protective effects of S-[6]-gingerol, both NS-398 (a selective COX2 inhibitor) and PDTC (a selective NF κ B inhibitor) suppressed mRNA levels of IL6, IL8, and SAA1. Importantly, PDTC attenuated IL1β-induced overexpression of COX2. Of particular note, the protective effect of S-[6]-gingerol against the IL1β-induced inflammatory response was similar to that of BHT, an ROS scavenger. Conclusions. The findings of this study demonstrate that S-[6]-gingerol protects HuH7 cells against IL1β-induced inflammatory insults through inhibition of the ROS/NF κ B/COX2 pathway.

1,4-Diaryl-substituted triazoles as cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors: Synthesis, biological evaluation and molecular modeling studies

A novel group of 1,4-diaryl-substituted triazoles was designed and synthesized by introducing the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) pharmacophore SO2NH2 attached to one aryl ring and various substituents (H, F, Cl, CH3 or OCH3) attached to the other aryl ring. The effects of size and flexibility of the compounds upon COX-1/COX-2 inhibitory potency and selectivity was studied by increasing the size of an alkyl linker chain [(-CH2)n, where n=0, 1, 2]. In vitro COX-1/COX-2 inhibition studies showed that all compounds (14-18, 21-25 and 28-32) are more potent inhibitors of COX-2 isozyme (IC50=0.17-28.0μM range) compared to COX-1 isozyme (IC50=21.0 to >100μM range). Within the group of 1,4 diaryl-substituted triazoles, 4-{2-[4-(4-chloro-phenyl)-[1,2,3]triazol-1-yl]-ethyl}-benzenesulfonamide (compound 30) displayed highest COX-2 inhibitory potency and selectivity (COX-1: IC50=>100μM, COX-2: IC50=0.17μM, SI >588). Molecular docking studies using the catalytic site of COX-1 and COX-2, respectively, provided complementary theoretical support for the obtained experimental biological structure-activity relationship data. Results of molecular docking studies revealed that COX-2 pharmacophore SO2NH2 in compound 30 is positioned in the secondary pocket of COX-2 active site; with the nitrogen atom of the SO2NH2 group being hydrogen bonded to Q192 (N⋯OC=2.85Å), and one of the oxygen atoms of SO2NH2 group forming a hydrogen bond to H90 (SO⋯N=2.38Å).

Molecular design, synthesis and biological evaluation of cyclic imides bearing benzenesulfonamide fragment as potential COX-2 inhibitors. Part 2

A group of cyclic imides (1-10) was designed for evaluation as a selective COX-2 inhibitors and investigated in vivo for their anti-inflammatory activity. Compounds 6a, 6b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a and 10b were proved to be potent COX-2 inhibitors with IC50 range of 0.1-4.0 μM. In vitro COX-1/COX-2 inhibition structure-activity studies identified compound 8a as a highly potent (IC50=0.1 μM), and an extremely selective [COX-2 (SI)>1000] comparable to celecoxib [COX-2 (SI)>384], COX-2 inhibitor that showed superior anti-inflammatory activity (ED50=72.4 mg/kg) relative to diclofenac (ED50=114 mg/kg). Molecular modeling was carried out through docking the designed compounds into the COX-2 binding site to predict if these compounds have analogous binding mode to the COX-2 inhibitors. The study showed that the homosulfonamide fragment of 8a inserted deep inside the 2°-pocket of the COX-2 active site, where the SO2NH2 group underwent H-bonding interaction with Gln(192)(2.95 Å), Phe(518)(2.82 Å) and Arg(513)(2.63 and 2.73 Å). Docking study of the synthesized compound 8a into the active site of COX-2 revealed a similar binding mode to SC-558, a selective COX-2 inhibitor.

Celecoxib improves host defense through prostaglandin inhibition during Histoplasma capsulatum infection

Prostaglandins act as mediators of inflammation and, similar to cytokines, function as immune modulators during innate and adaptive immune responses. Therefore, using a pharmacological inhibitor, celecoxib, we investigated the role of prostaglandins in host defense against Histoplasma capsulatum infection in C57BL/6 mice. Our results showed that treatment with celecoxib inhibited cyclooxygenase 2, reduced the total fungal burden, and reduced the concentration of PGE₂, cytokines, lymphocytes, neutrophils, and mononuclear cells in the bronchoalveolar space and lung parenchyma. In addition, celecoxib treatment increased the synthesis of nitric oxide, IFN-γ, LTB₄, and the phagocytic capacity of alveolar macrophages. Moreover, celecoxib treatment increased the survival of mice after infection with a lethal inoculum of H. capsulatum. These results suggest that prostaglandins alter the host immune response and play an important role in the pathogenesis of histoplasmosis. Thus, the inhibition of prostaglandins could be a valuable immunomodulatory strategy and antifungal therapy for histoplasmosis treatment.

[Mineral content of some herbs and plant extracts with anti-inflammatory effect used in gastrointestinal diseases]

INTRODUCTION

In gastrointestinal diseases folk medicine usually recommends herbs and teas with antiinflammatory activities, especially mucilage and bitter agent containing plants. The use of stomatics as adjuvant therapy in medical practice is frequent.

AIM

The authors explored the mineral element content of some herbs, because mineral elements may have significant role in the development and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, and a close connection between the presence or absence of mineral elements and inflammatory mediators was noted.

METHODS

The mineral content in Trigonellae foenugraeci semen, Farfarae folium et flos, Taraxaci radix and Cichorii radix and teas prepared from these herbs was determined using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. The results were evaluated from nutritional and biomedical points of view.

RESULTS

Farfarae folium et flos tea was found to be a rich source of calcium, chromium, manganese and molybdenum. Trigonellae foenugraeci semen, Taraxaci radix and Cichorii radix displayed favourable calcium to magnesium ratio (1-1.5) and they contained other elements (manganese, iron, copper, zinc) which may have significant role in the immune defence system.

CONCLUSION

The beneficial therapeutic effect of the studied herbs may be related to their mineral element content.

Pathogenic mechanisms implicated in the intravascular coagulation in the lungs of BVDV-infected calves challenged with BHV-1

Resistance to respiratory disease in cattle requires host defense mechanisms that protect against pathogens which have evolved sophisticated strategies to evade them, including an altered function of pulmonary macrophages (MΦs) or the induction of inflammatory responses that cause lung injury and sepsis. The aim of this study was to clarify the mechanisms responsible for vascular changes occurring in the lungs of calves infected with bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) and challenged later with bovine herpesvirus type 1 (BHV-1), evaluating the role of MΦs in the development of pathological lesions in this organ. For this purpose, pulmonary lesions were compared between co-infected calves and healthy animals inoculated only with BHV-1 through immunohistochemical (MAC387, TNFα, IL-1α, iNOS, COX-2 and Factor-VIII) and ultrastructural studies. Both groups of calves presented important vascular alterations produced by fibrin microthrombi and platelet aggregations within the blood vessels. These findings were earlier and more severe in the co-infected group, indicating that the concomitance of BVDV and BHV-1 in the lungs disrupts the pulmonary homeostasis by facilitating the establishment of an inflammatory and procoagulant environment modulated by inflammatory mediators released by pulmonary MΦs. In this regard, the co-infected calves, in spite of presenting a greater number of IMΦs than single-infected group, show a significant decrease in iNOS expression coinciding with the presence of more coagulation lesions. Moreover, animals pre-inoculated with BVDV displayed an alteration in the response of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNFα and IL-1), which play a key role in activating the immune response, as well as in the local cell-mediated response.

(E)-1-(4-ethoxyphenyl)-3-(4-nitrophenyl)-prop-2-en-1-one suppresses LPS-induced inflammatory response through inhibition of NF-κB signaling pathway

Flavonoids are a class of compounds that exist in nature with the structure of 2-phenyl-chromone. In Chinese traditional medicine, herbal drugs containing flavonoids are widely used for the treatment of inflammation, cardiovascular disease, tumor and so on. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effect and related mechanisms of a novel synthetic flavonoid, (E)-1-(4-ethoxyphenyl)-3-(4-nitrophenyl)-prop-2-en-1-one (ETH) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulated macrophages. Our results showed that ETH inhibited LPS-induced TNF-α and IL-6 release in a dose-dependent manner, and decreased TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and iNOS mRNA production. LPS-induced expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) was also significantly attenuated by ETH. Pretreatment with ETH reduced the I-κBα phosphorylation, p65 nuclear translocation as well as NF-κB-dependent transcriptional activity. In addition, ETH exhibited a significant protection against LPS-induced inflammatory mortality in mice. Taken together, these findings suggest that ETH can inhibit LPS-induced inflammation via suppressing NF-κB signaling pathway, indicating that ETH may be a potential anti-inflammatory agent.

Current perspectives in NSAID-induced gastropathy

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most highly prescribed drugs in the world. Their analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic actions may be beneficial; however, they are associated with severe side effects including gastrointestinal injury and peptic ulceration. Though several approaches for limiting these side effects have been adopted, like the use of COX-2 specific drugs, comedication of acid suppressants like proton pump inhibitors and prostaglandin analogs, these alternatives have limitations in terms of efficacy and side effects. In this paper, the mechanism of action of NSAIDs and their critical gastrointestinal complications have been reviewed. This paper also provides the information on different preventive measures prescribed to minimize such adverse effects and analyses the new suggested strategies for development of novel drugs to maintain the anti-inflammatory functions of NSAIDs along with effective gastrointestinal protection.

Inhibitory effects of traditional herbal formula pyungwi-san on inflammatory response in vitro and in vivo

Pyungwi-san (PWS) is a traditional basic herbal formula. We investigated the effects of PWS on induction of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF- α )) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF- κ B) as well as mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in lipopolysaccharide-(LPS-) induced Raw 264.7 cells and on paw edema in rats. Treatment with PWS (0.5, 0.75, and 1 mg/mL) resulted in inhibited levels of expression of LPS-induced COX-2, iNOS, NF- κ B, and MAPKs as well as production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), nitric oxide (NO), IL-6, and TNF- α induced by LPS. Our results demonstrate that PWS possesses anti-inflammatory activities via decreasing production of pro-inflammatory mediators through suppression of the signaling pathways of NF- κ B and MAPKs in LPS-induced macrophage cells. More importantly, results of the carrageenan-(CA-) induced paw edema demonstrate an anti-edema effect of PWS. In addition, it is considered that PWS also inhibits the acute edematous inflammations through suppression of mast cell degranulations and inflammatory mediators, including COX-2, iNOS and TNF- α . Thus, our findings may provide scientific evidence to explain the anti-inflammatory properties of PWS in vitro and in vivo.

Augmented epithelial multidrug resistance-associated protein 4 expression in peritoneal endometriosis: regulation by lipoxin A(4)

OBJECTIVE

To compare the expression of the prostaglandin (PG) E(2) transporter multidrug resistance-associated protein 4 (MRP4) in eutopic and ectopic endometrial tissue from endometriosis patients with that of control subjects and to examine whether MRP4 is regulated by the antiinflammatory lipid lipoxin A(4) (LXA(4)) in endometriotic epithelial cells.

DESIGN

Molecular analysis in human samples and a cell line.

SETTING

Two university hospitals and a private clinic.

PATIENT(S)

A total of 59 endometriosis patients and 32 age- and body mass index-matched control subjects undergoing laparoscopy or hysterectomy.

INTERVENTION(S)

Normal, eutopic, and ectopic endometrial biopsies as well as peritoneal fluid were obtained during surgery performed during the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle. 12Z endometriotic epithelial cells were used for in vitro mechanistic studies.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Tissue MRP4 mRNA levels were quantified by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and localization was analyzed with the use of immunohistochemistry. Cellular MRP4 mRNA and protein were quantified by qRT-PCR and Western blot, respectively. PGE(2) was measured in peritoneal fluid and cell supernatants using an enzyme immunoassay (EIA).

RESULT(S)

MRP4 was expressed in eutopic and ectopic endometrium, where it was overexpressed in peritoneal lesions and localized in the cytoplasm of glandular epithelial cells. LXA(4) attenuated MRP4 mRNA and protein levels in endometriotic epithelial cells in a dose-dependent manner, while not affecting the expression of enzymes involved in PGE(2) metabolism. Investigations employing receptor antagonists and small interfering RNA revealed that this occurred through estrogen receptor α. Accordingly, LXA(4) treatment inhibited extracellular PGE(2) release.

CONCLUSION(S)

We report for the first time that MRP4 is expressed in human endometrium, elevated in peritoneal endometriosis, and modulated by LXA(4) in endometriotic epithelial cells.

Reciprocal regulation of the nitric oxide and cyclooxygenase pathway in pathophysiology: relevance and clinical implications

The nitric oxide (NO) and cyclooxygenase (COX) pathways share a number of similarities. Nitric oxide is the mediator generated from the NO synthase (NOS) pathway, and COX converts arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, prostacyclin, and thromboxane A(2). Two major forms of NOS and COX have been identified to date. The constitutive isoforms critically regulate several physiological states. The inducible isoforms are overexpressed during inflammation in a variety of cells, producing large amounts of NO and prostaglandins, which may underlie pathological processes. The cross-talk between the COX and NOS pathways was initially reported by Salvemini and colleagues in 1993, when they demonstrated in a series of in vitro and in vivo studies that NO activates the COX enzymes to produce increased amounts of prostaglandins. Those studies led to the concept that COX enzymes represent important endogenous "receptor" targets for amplifying or modulating the multifaceted roles of NO in physiology and pathology. Since then, numerous studies have furthered our mechanistic understanding of these interactions in pathophysiological settings and delineated potential clinical outcomes. In addition, emerging evidence suggests that the canonical nitroxidative species (NO, superoxide, and/or peroxynitrite) modulate biosynthesis of prostaglandins through non-COX-related pathways. This article provides a comprehensive state-of-the art overview in this area.

[123I]Iodooctyl fenbufen amide as a SPECT tracer for imaging tumors that over-express COX enzymes

This study is concerned with the development of an agent for single photon emission computer tomography (SPECT) for imaging inflammation and tumor progression. [(123)I]Iodooctyl fenbufen amide ([(123)I]IOFA) was prepared from the precursor N-octyl-4-oxo-4-(4'-(trimethylstannyl)biphenyl-4-yl)butanamide with a radiochemical yield of 15%, specific activity of 37 GBq/μmol, and radiochemical purity of 95%. Analysis of the binding of [(123)I]IOFA to COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes by using HPLC and a gel filtration column showed a selectivity ratio of 1:1.3. An assay for the competitive inhibition of substrate transfer showed that IOFA exhibited a comparable IC(50) value compared to fenbufen. In the normal rat liver, a lower level and homogeneous pattern of [(123)I]IOFA radioactivity was observed by SPECT. In contrast, in the rat liver with thioacetamide-induced cholangiocarcinoma, a higher uptake and heterogeneous pattern of [(123)I]IOFA radioactivity was seen as hot spots in tumor lesions by SPECT imaging. Importantly, elevated COX-1 and COX-2 expressions from immunostaining were found in the bile ducts of tumor rats but not of normal rats. Therefore, [(123)I]IOFA was found to exhibit the potential for imaging tumors that over-express COX.

Synthesis and biological evaluation of asymmetric indole curcumin analogs as potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents

Abstract A series of asymmetric indole curcumin analogs were synthesized and evaluated as possible inhibiters of pro-inflammatory enzymes such as COX-2, pro-inflammatory cytokines as TNF-α and IL-6, trypsin and β-glucuronidase. They were also tested for antioxidant activities. The results showed that compounds 5e and 5h were found to be the most potent inhibitors of COX-2 (83.33%, 82.50%) and β-glucuronidase (67.80%, 64.12%). All the synthesized compounds exhibited promising activity against IL-6 in a range of 71-100% at 10 µM concentration. Compounds 5f, 5h, 5e, 5c and 5d showed significant inhibition against TNF-α (28-51%) and IL-6 (87-98%) with low toxicity (45-51%) against CCK-8 cells. With few exceptions, all other compounds were found to be good to excellent inhibitors of IL-6 and moderate inhibitors of TNF-α; however, the toxicity profiles of these compounds need to be ameliorated in further optimization studies. Amongst the tested compounds, 5c, 5b, 5j and 5g were found to possess excellent reducing activity and 5b, 5c and 5h were moderate DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazine) radical scavengers.

Functional microRNAs in Alzheimer's disease and cancer: differential regulation of common mechanisms and pathways

Two of the main research priorities in the United States are cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, which are attributed to abnormal patterns of cellular behavior. MicroRNAs (miRNA) have been implicated as regulators of cellular metabolism, and thus are an active topic of investigation in both disease areas. There is presently a more extensive body of work on the role of miRNAs in cancer compared to neurodegenerative diseases, and therefore it may be useful to examine whether there is any concordance between the functional roles of miRNAs in these diseases. As a case study, the roles of miRNAs in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and their functions in various cancers will be compared. A number of miRNA expression patterns are altered in individuals with AD compared with healthy older adults. Among these, some have also been shown to correlate with neuropathological changes including plaque and tangle accumulation, as well as expression levels of other molecules known to be involved in disease pathology. Importantly, these miRNAs have also been shown to have differential expression and or functional roles in various types of cancer. To examine possible intersections between miRNA functions in cancer and AD, we review the current literature on these miRNAs in cancer and AD, focusing on their roles in known biological pathways. We propose a pathway-driven model in which some molecular processes show an inverse relationship between cancer and neurodegenerative disease (e.g., proliferation and apoptosis) whereas others are more parallel in their activity (e.g., immune activation and inflammation). A critical review of these and other molecular mechanisms in cancer may shed light on the pathophysiology of AD, and highlight key areas for future research. Conclusions from this work may be extended to other neurodegenerative diseases for which some molecular pathways have been identified but which have not yet been extensively researched for miRNA involvement.

Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of Campomanesia adamantium

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Campomanesia species are used in folk medicine as anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, anti-diarrheal and hypocholesterolemic.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study investigated the in vivo anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive properties of ethyl acetate (AE) and aqueous (Aq) extracts from leaves of Campomanesia adamantium and in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of AE and its isolated flavonols, myricitrin and myricetin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The antinociceptive activity of AE and Aq was evaluated using acetic acid-induced writhing and formalin methods. The in vivo anti-inflammatory effect of AE and Aq was evaluated using carrageenan-induced paw oedema in mice. AE, myricitrin and myricetin were evaluated for their abilities to modulate the production of NO, TNF-α and IL-10 in LPS/IFN-γ stimulated J774.A1 macrophages.

RESULTS

It was found that orally administrated AE and Aq (125 and 250 mg/kg) inhibited carrageenan-induced paw oedema in mice. AE (125 and 250 mg/kg) and Aq (125 mg/kg) reduced the time to licking at the second phase of the formalin method in vivo in mice. AE (250 mg/kg) and Aq (125 mg/kg) also reduced the number of writhes. AE, myricitrin and myricetin inhibited NO (320 μg/mL and 6.25-100 μM, respectively) and TNF-α production by macrophages (320 μg/mL for AE, 100 μM for myricitrin and 25-100 μM for myricetin). AE (160 and 320 μg/mL), myricitrin (50 and 100 μM) and myricetin (25-100 μM) increased IL-10 production by macrophages.

CONCLUSIONS

The ethyl acetate and aqueous extracts from Campomanesia adamantium showed antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects supporting the use of the plant in folk medicine. The results suggest that anti-oedematogenic effect promoted by aqueous extract involves several anti-inflammatory mechanisms of action. The antinociceptive effect shown by aqueous extract can be due to the modulation of release of inflammatory mediators involved in nociception. The anti-inflammatory effects of AE and of its isolated flavonols may be attributed to inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines production, TNF-α and NO and to the increased of IL-10 production.

Cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2 both play an important role in the protection of the duodenal mucosa in cats

Although nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs often cause ulcers in the duodenum in humans, the role of cyclooxygenase (COX) isoforms in the pathogenesis of duodenal ulcers has not been fully elucidated. We examined in cats the 1) ulcerogenic effects of selective COX-1 (SC-560, ketorolac) and COX-2 (celecoxib, meloxicam) inhibitors on the gastrointestinal mucosa, 2) effect of feeding and cimetidine on the expression of COX isoforms and prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) level in the duodenum, and 3) localization of COX isoforms in the duodenum. COX inhibitors were administered after the morning meal in cats once daily for 3 days. Gastrointestinal lesions were examined on day 4. Localization and expression of COX isoforms (by immunohistochemistry, Western blot) and PGE(2) level (by enzyme immunoassay) were examined. Results were as follows. First, selective COX-1 or COX-2 inhibitors alone produced marked ulcers in the duodenum but did not cause obvious lesions in the small intestine. Coadministration of SC-560 and celecoxib produced marked lesions in the small intestine. Second, feeding increased both the expression of COX isoforms and PGE(2) level in the duodenum, and the effects were markedly inhibited by pretreatment with cimetidine. Third, COX-1 was localized in goblet and Brunner's gland cells, Meissner's and Auerbach's plexus, smooth muscle cells, and arterioles; and COX-2 was observed in capillaries, venules, and basal granulated cells. The expression of COX isoforms in the duodenum is up-regulated by feeding, and inhibition of either COX-1 or COX-2 causes ulcers in the duodenum, suggesting that both isoforms play an important role in the protection of the duodenal mucosa.

Paraquat Exposure Up-regulates Cyclooxygenase-2 in the Lungs, Liver and Kidneys in Rats

Paraquat is a commonly used herbicide in many countries which can lead to systematic poisoning on exposure, In this study, paraquat (PQ)-induced changes in the expression of Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) along with biochemical and histopathological changes in the lungs, liver and kidneys were studied. Twenty four male Wistar rats (180-200 g) were exposed either against saline as control group or various doses of PQ (3.5, 7 and 10 mg/kg, SC) as test groups for 7 consecutive days. The animals in test groups demonstrated a significant increase of malondialdehyde and NO contents, while a remarkable decrease of total thiol molecules was recorded. Histopathological studies revealed a severe alveolar edema and hemorrhages in the lungs, congestion and glycogen degeneration in the liver and multifocal interstitial nephritis along with proximal tubular degeneration in the kidneys. PQ up-regulated the COX-2 expression at mRNA level significantly in the examined organs. This data suggest that the PQ-induced oxidative disturbances and pathological damages can be attributed to the upregulation of COX-2 in examined organs.

Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of the Ethanolic Extract of Artemisia morrisonensis Hayata in Mice

The aim of this study was to investigate the possible analgesic and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of the ethanolic extract of A. morrisonensis Hayata (AM_EtOH). Two models were employed for evaluation of the analgesic effects: acetic acid-induced writhing response and formalin-induced paw licking. The results demonstrated that AM_EtOH decreased writhing response for both the acetic acid assay and the licking time in the formalin test. The anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated by paw edema of mice induced by λ-carrageenan. AM_EtOH significantly decreased induced paw edema three to four hours after λ-carrageenan injection. Additionally, the results indicated that the anti-inflammatory mechanism of AM_EtOH may be due to the declined levels of nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the edematous paw. Furthermore, AM_EtOH decreased the tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels, leading to the reduction of prostaglandins and subsequently alleviated edema. Isolation and purification of the AM_EtOH extract determined p-hydroxyacetophenone to be a major component at 130 mg/g of extract. No mortality was observed in the acute toxicity test given at the dose of 10 g/kg. This study demonstrated the possible mechanisms for the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of AM_EtOH for mice and provided evidence for the ethnobotanical uses of A. morrisonensis in treating inflammatory diseases.

Anti-inflammatory and cicatrizing activities of thymol, a monoterpene of the essential oil from Lippia gracilis, in rodents

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Lippia gracilis Schauer (Verbenaceae) has long been recognized in folk medicine as a medicinal plant. The essential oil of Lippia gracilis has antimicrobial activity and is used externally to treat cutaneous diseases, burns, wounds, and ulcers. Recently, our research group demonstrated that the essential oil of Lippia gracilis leaves possesses antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory actions and its major component identified was thymol. The objective of this study was to assess the anti-inflammatory and wound healing activities of thymol in rodents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

For the anti-inflammatory analysis the paw oedema and peritonitis models were used, followed by the assessment of the mieloperoxidase (MPO) activity, total cell counting, and histological analysis. The animals were treated (i.p., n=6/group) with thymol (10, 30, and 100 mg/kg), dexamethasone (2 mg/kg), or vehicle (1% Tween 80). In order to assess the wound healing potential, thymol was vehiculated into collagen-based dressing films and a biological wound healing test was conducted. The retraction index of the wounds and histological analysis were performed on the 3rd, 7th, 14th, and 21th days, split into three groups: undressed wounds (CTR), dressed with collagen-based films (COL), and dressed with collagen-based containing thymol (COLTHY) films.

RESULTS

Thymol reduced significantly the oedema (100 mg/kg, P<0.001) and, besides, diminished the influx of leukocytes to the injured area (10, 30, and 100 mg/kg), according to the assessment of MPO activity (P<0.001), total cell count (P<0.05), and histological analysis. Wounds dressed with COLTHY films showed significantly bigger wound retraction rates (7 and 14 day, P<0.05) and improved the granulation reaction, as well provided better collagenization density and arrangement during wound healing.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that thymol is a promising compound to be used in treatment of inflammatory processes as well as wound healing. The pharmacological actions of Lippia gracilis in popular medicine practices may be related, at least in part, to the presence of thymol in the essential oil.

Comparison of the efficacy and skin permeability of topical NSAID preparations used in Europe

This study compared the efficacy and skin permeability of nine topical preparations of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (ketoprofen, diclofenac, flurbiprofen, and piroxicam patches; and ketoprofen, diclofenac, piroxicam, niflumic acid, and ibuprofen gels) available in the European Union. The anti-inflammatory effect of these NSAID preparations was evaluated in rat models of acute inflammation (carrageenan or yeast treatment) and chronic inflammation (collagen or adjuvant treatment). Skin permeability of the preparations was evaluated in vitro using mouse skin. In rats with acute inflammation, both ketoprofen preparations significantly inhibited carrageenan-induced edema and yeast-induced hyperalgesia. Flurbiprofen and diclofenac preparations also showed a significant anti-inflammatory effect, but the ketoprofen products were the most potent among the four patch preparations and five gel preparations. With repeated application, the ketoprofen patch significantly decreased edema from day 3 in collagen-treated rats, while other preparations (ketoprofen gel, diclofenac patch, and diclofenac gel) decreased edema from day 7. In rats with adjuvant-induced arthritis, only the ketoprofen patch significantly decreased edema after 2 weeks of application. In the skin permeation study, the ketoprofen preparations showed higher skin permeability compared with the other NSAID preparations. These results suggested that ketoprofen preparations had the most potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity related to good skin permeability. Efficacy of the ketoprofen patch was comparable to or better than that of ketoprofen gel at a lower dose and frequency of administration. Ketoprofen products, especially the patch preparation, could be useful for treating inflammatory pain in diseases like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Methanol Extract of Cissus repens in Mice

The aim of this study was to investigate possible analgesic and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of the CR_MeOH. Analgesic effect was evaluated in two models including acetic acid-induced writhing response and formalin-induced paw licking. The anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated by λ-carrageenan-induced mouse paw edema and histopathologic analyses. The results showed that CR_MeOH (500 mg/kg) decreased writhing response in the acetic acid assay and licking time in the formalin test. CR_MeOH (100 and 500 mg/kg) significantly decreased edema paw volume at 4th to 5th hours after λ-carrageenan had been injected. Histopathologically, CR_MeOH abated the level of tissue destruction and swelling of the edema paws. These results were indicated that anti-inflammatory mechanism of CR_MeOH may be due to declined levels of NO and MDA in the edema paw through increasing the activities of SOD, GPx, and GRd in the liver. Additionally, CR_MeOH also decreased IL-1β, IL-6, NFκB, TNF-α, COX-2, and iNOS levels. The contents of two active ingredients, ursolic acid and lupeol, were quantitatively determined. This paper demonstrated possible mechanisms for the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of CR_MeOH and provided evidence for the classical treatment of Cissus repens in inflammatory diseases.

Sinularin from indigenous soft coral attenuates nociceptive responses and spinal neuroinflammation in carrageenan-induced inflammatory rat model

Three decades ago, the marine-derived compound sinularin was shown to have anti-edematous effects on paw edema induced by carrageenan or adjuvant. To the best of our knowledge, no new studies were conducted to explore the bioactivity of sinularin until we reported the analgesic properties of sinularin based on in vivo experiments. In the present study, we found that sinularin significantly inhibits the upregulation of proinflammatory proteins, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and upregulates the production of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cells according to western blot analysis. We found that subcutaneous (s.c.) administration of sinularin (80 mg/kg) 1 h before carrageenan injection significantly inhibited carrageenan-induced nociceptive behaviors, including thermal hyperalgesia, mechanical allodynia, cold allodynia, and hindpaw weight-bearing deficits. Further, s.c. sinularin (80 mg/kg) significantly inhibited carrageenan-induced microglial and astrocyte activation as well as upregulation of iNOS in the dorsal horn of the lumbar spinal cord. Moreover, s.c. sinularin (80 mg/kg) inhibited carrageenan-induced tissue inflammatory responses, redness and edema of the paw, and leukocyte infiltration. The results of immunohistochemical studies indicate that s.c. sinularin (80 mg/kg) could upregulate production of TGF-β1 in carrageenan-induced inflamed paw tissue. The present results demonstrate that systemic sinularin exerts analgesic effects at the behavioral and spinal levels, which are associated with both inhibition of leukocyte infiltration and upregulation of TGF-β1.

Anti-inflammatory effects of bangpungtongsung-san, a traditional herbal prescription

Bangpungtongsung-san (BPTS), a traditional oriental herbal prescription, is widely used for expelling wind, draining heat, and providing general improvement to the immune system. In this study, we investigated the effects of BPTS on induction of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), proinflammatory cytokines, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in lipopolysaccharide- (LPS- ) stimulated Raw 264.7 cells, and on paw edema in rats. At concentrations of 0.5, 0.75, and 1 mg/mL, treatment with BPTS inhibited levels of expression of LPS-induced NF-κB and MAPKs (ERK, JNK, and p38) as well as production of proinflammatory mediators, such as nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) by LPS. These results suggest that BPTS may exert anti-inflammatory effects via reduction of proinflammatory mediators, including NO, PGE₂, TNF-α, and IL-6 through suppression of the signaling pathways of NF-κB and MAPKs in LPS-induced macrophages. In addition, using the carrageenan-induced paw edema assay, an antiedema effect of BPTS was observed in rats. These findings may provide scientific evidence validating the use of BPTS in treatment of patients with heat syndrome in Korean oriental medicine.

Drug repurposing: far beyond new targets for old drugs

Repurposing drugs requires finding novel therapeutic indications compared to the ones for which they were already approved. This is an increasingly utilized strategy for finding novel medicines, one that capitalizes on previous investments while derisking clinical activities. This approach is of interest primarily because we continue to face significant gaps in the drug-target interactions matrix and to accumulate safety and efficacy data during clinical studies. Collecting and making publicly available as much data as possible on the target profile of drugs offer opportunities for drug repurposing, but may limit the commercial applications by patent applications. Certain clinical applications may be more feasible for repurposing than others because of marked differences in side effect tolerance. Other factors that ought to be considered when assessing drug repurposing opportunities include relevance to the disease in question and the intellectual property landscape. These activities go far beyond the identification of new targets for old drugs.

Acute treatment with methotrexate induces hippocampal dysfunction in a mouse model of breast cancer

Methotrexate (MTX) is a well-known cytostatic agent used in adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer, that has neurological side effects, including depression and cognitive impairment. We investigated the neurotoxic effects of MTX on the hippocampus and hippocampus-dependent behaviors in breast cancer cell line (FM3A)-inoculated tumor-bearing mice. In addition, we evaluated the changes in inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in the hippocampus of tumor-bearing mice after treatment with MTX. Depressive-like behavior test (tail-suspension test, TST) and learning and memory tasks (passive avoidance) were administered 24h after MTX (40 mg/kg, i.p.) injection. MTX-treated tumor-bearing mice showed significant depressive-like behaviors and cognitive impairment. Treatment with MTX significantly decreased the number of doublecortin (a marker for immature progenitor neurons)-positive cells in the hippocampal dentate gyrus of tumor-free and tumor-bearing mice. Moreover, treatment with MTX significantly upregulated proinflammatory enzymes, including iNOS and COX-2, in tumor-bearing mice. These findings indicate that the acute neurotoxic effect of MTX leads to hippocampal dysfunction including depressive-like behaviors and memory deficits, which may be related to an inhibition of neurogenesis and an increase of the inflammatory response in the hippocampus of a mouse model of breast cancer.