Roles of NF-κB in Cancer and Inflammatory Diseases and Their Therapeutic Approaches

A polyherbal formulation, HC9 regulated cell growth and expression of cell cycle and chromatin modulatory proteins in breast cancer cell lines

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

HC9, a polyherbal formulation, is based upon a traditional Ayurvedic formulation, Stanya Shodhana Kashaya (SSK, having 10 plant materials), formulated on Stanyashodhana gana, explained by Charaka in Charakasaṃhita Sutrasthana IV and mentioned in other texts as well. Stanyasodhana is the Sanskrit name for a group of medicinal plants, classified for "improving the quality of milk". SSK is used by Ayurvedic practitioners for the cleansing and detoxification of breast milk in lactating mothers as well as for the management of various clinical conditions. HC9 is composed of equal ratios of nine different medicinal plants that include Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth., Cyperus rotundus L., Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Cedrus deodara (Roxb. ex D.Don) G.Don, Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers, Holarrhena antidysenterica (Roth) Wall. ex A.DC., Swertia chirata Buch.-Ham. ex Wall., Cissampelos pareira L. and Hemidesmus indicus (L.) R. Br. ex Schult.. It differs from the SSK formulation by having one ingredient [Marsdenia tenacissima (Roxb.)Moon (Murva)] less, due to its unavailability since it is mostly found in tropical hilly tracts of peninsular India and Vindhya ranges as well as in lower Himalayan tracts. All the medicinal plants in the formulation have reported activity against different types of cancers.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study is aimed at evaluating the anticancer activity of the polyherbal formulation (HC9) and its mechanism of action against breast cancer cell lines.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effect of HC9 on the viability of breast cancer (MCF-7 and MDAMB231) and non-cancerous (MCF-10A) cell lines was evaluated by MTT assay. The effect on cell growth and colony formation potential of cancer cells was determined by trypan blue dye exclusion method and soft agar assay, respectively. Cell cycle arrest was determined by propidium iodide (PI) staining and analyzed by flowcytometer. Scratch wound assay was used for studying cell migration. Cell invasion was determined by using BD BioCoat Matrigel invasion chambers. The gene expression of HIF-1α was examined by RT-PCR. The expression of p53, SMAR1, p16, MMP-2, CDP/Cux, p21, Rb, phospo-Rb (ppRb), VEGF, NFқB and COX-2 proteins was determined by western blotting.

RESULTS

HC9 significantly altered growth of breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and MDA MB-231. It blocked the cell cycle progression at S phase in MCF-7 by up regulating the expression of p53, p21 and p16 proteins. In MDA MB-231, HC9 induced G1 phase arrest by up regulating the expression of p53, p21 and pRb proteins with simultaneous decrease in ppRb. It significantly reduced migration and invasion in both the cell lines, accompanied by decrease in the expression of MMP-2/9, HIF-1α and VEGF. HC9 decreased the expression of inflammatory markers (NF-қB, COX-2), and modulated the expression of chromatin modulators (SMAR1 and CDP/Cux) in both MCF-7 and MDA MB-231.

CONCLUSIONS

HC9 exhibited potent anticancer activity against breast cancer cells, thereby warranting further pre-clinical and clinical studies in future.

DAla2GIP antagonizes H2O2-induced chondrocyte apoptosis and inflammatory factor secretion

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the protective effects of DAla2GIP against the apoptosis and inflammatory factor secretion in H₂O₂-induced chondrocyte, and explore the possible mechanisms of DAla2GIP underlying its protection.

METHODS

The chondrocytes were divided into the following four groups: Control, 300 μM H₂O₂, 100 pM DAla2GIP and 300 μM H₂O₂ + 100 pM DAla2GIP. The apoptosis of chondrocyte was measured by using mitochondrial membrane potential assay kit (JC-1) and TUNEL assay, the inflammatory factor secretion were assessed by ELISA assay, and the cellular and molecular mechanisms of DAla2GIP protection were investigated by using Real time-PCR, flow cytometry, Non- invasive calcium detection and western blotting techniques.

RESULTS

(1) DAPla2GIP prevents apoptosis of chondrocyte induced by H₂O₂. (2) DAla2GIP alleviated the inflammation of chondrocyte induced by H₂O₂. (3) DAla2GIP prevents chondrocyte apoptosis by inhibiting calcium influx of chondrocyte and regulating expression of Bcl-2 and Caspase-3induced by H₂O₂. (4) DAla2GIP inhibited the H₂O₂ mediated inflammation by up- regulating the expressions of Sox9 and Col2a1 and inhibiting PI3K/Akt/NF-κB pathway.

CONCLUSION

Our experimental results revealed that DAla2GIP prevents chondrocyte apoptosis by inhibiting calcium influx of chondrocyte and induced regulating expression of Bcl-2 and Casp ase-3by H₂O₂. Further, molecular biology experiments confirmed that DAla2GIP inhibited the H₂O₂ mediated inflammation vis up-regulating the expressions of Sox9 and Col2a1 and inhibiting PI3K/Akt/NF-κB pathway. The results demonstrate that DAla2GIP has protective properties in H₂O₂-induced chondrocyte injury, this finding shows that novel GIP analogues have the potential as a novel therapeutic for osteoarthritis patients.

Knockdown of TRIM28 inhibits PDGF-BB-induced vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration

Atherosclerosis is a common type of cardiovascular disease (CVD), remaining one of the leading causes of global death. Tripartite motif-containing 28 (TRIM28) is a member of TRIM family that has been found to be involved in atherosclerosis. However, the role of TRIM28 in atherosclerosis remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effects of TRIM28 on the phenotypic switching of human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs), which is considered as a fundamental event during the development of atherosclerosis. The results showed that TRIM28 was highly expressed in human atherosclerotic tissues, as well in cultured HASMCs stimulated by platelet-derived growth factor subunit B homodimer (PDGF-BB). Knockdown of TRIM28 by transfection with siRNA targeting TRIM28 (si-TRIM28) significantly suppressed the PDGF-BB-induced cell proliferation and migration of HASMCs. Besides, knockdown of TRIM28 inhibited the expressions of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9. The VSMC markers including α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), calponin and SM22α were upregulated in TRIM28 knocked down HASMCs. Furthermore, knockdown of TRIM28 blocked PDGF-BB-induced NF-κB activation in HASMCs. Collectively, knockdown of TRIM28 prevented PDGF-BB-induced phenotypic switching of HASMCs, which might be mediated by the regulation of NF-κB signaling pathway.

Investigating the impact of local inflammation on granulosa cells and follicular development in women with ovarian endometriosis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the possible impact of local inflammation on granulosa cells (GCs) and follicular development in endometriosis patients.

DESIGN

Prospective study with related paired design.

SETTING

Reproductive medicine center.

PATIENT(S)

A total of 80 endometriosis patients and 104 controls, with cultured GCs collected from control participants younger than 35 years.

INTERVENTION(S)

Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) inhibitor.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Intrafollicular concentrations of cytokines measured with ELISA, NF-κB binding levels with electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA), and telomerase activity (TA) with quantitative-telomeric repeat amplification protocol (Q-TRAP) assay, and protein and mRNA expression with Western blot and polymerase chain reaction analyses, respectively.

RESULT(S)

Patients with endometriosis exhibited a statistically significantly lower antral follicle count (11.48 ± 8.11 vs. 15.68 ± 8.56), lower number of retrieved oocytes (8.28 ± 6.69 vs. 10.87 ± 6.26), and lower number of mature oocytes (6.67 ± 6.09 vs. 8.53 ± 5.69). The GCs from endometriosis patients showed higher NF-κB binding activity and increased expression of inhibitor of NF-κB kinase subunit β (IKKβ, 2.743-fold) and NF-κB inhibitor α (IκBα, 5.017-fold). Their NF-κB p65 expression was negatively associated with mature oocytes (bNF-κB' = -0.304, R² = 0.195, R = 0.442) but positively associated with intrafollicular TNF-α (r = 0.37); TA showed a negative relationship with NF-κB binding levels (r = -0.667). Tumor necrosis factor-α induced expression of IκBα (5.408-fold) and NF-κB p65 (1.400-fold) but lowered human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) and TA levels (0.0009 vs. 0.5619) in cultured GCs. However, inhibiting NF-κB obviously increased hTERT expression (1.988-fold).

CONCLUSION(S)

Endometriosis showed activated NF-κB pathways in GCs, which might negatively affect TA and oocyte quality. Intrafollicular TNF-α might down-regulate TA and hTERT via NF-κB pathway, but further studies are required.

miR-138 activates NF-κB signaling and PGRN to promote rheumatoid arthritis via regulating HDAC4

BACKGROUND

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common immune-related disease worldwide, which is characterized by impaired fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) proliferation and increased release of inflammatory cytokines. Unfortunately, the detailed mechanism by which miR-138-modulated rheumatoid arthritis has not been fully understood.

METHODS

RT-qPCR was used to examined mRNA level of various genes and western blot was utilized to probe protein level of acetylated H3, p-p62 and IκBα. For cytokines detection, we used ELISA method to measure the extracellular level of these cytokines. Bioinformatic tool and dual-luciferase reporter assay were employed to predict and confirm the downstream target of miR-138.

RESULTS

miR-138 was upregulated in serum and synovial tissues of RA patients. Moreover, Increased miR-138 was observed in LPS-treated FLS cells. HDAC4 was shown as the direct target of miR-138 and could be negatively regulated by miR-138. miR-138 and HDAC4 were involved in RA-related inflammatory cytokines release of FLS cells. Next, we revealed NF-κB and PGRN were significantly modulated by HDAC4 and miR-138 in an acetylation-dependent manner. More importantly, IκBα depletion and PGRN overexpression had the ability to rescue miR-138 inhibitor-attenuated inflammatory cytokines release of FLS cells.

CONCLUSION

Here, we reveal miR-138 regulates RA-related inflammatory cytokines in rheumatoid arthritis through HDAC4/PGRN or HDAC4/NF-κB. Our findings uncover a new molecular mechanism implicated in rheumatoid arthritis, which may accelerate development of therapeutical strategy by targeting this mechanism.

Investigation of the Protective Effect of Nigella Sativa Oil in Cisplatin Induced Oral Mucositis: An Experimental Study

Objective

The aim of this experimental study was to investigate the histopathologic effect of Nigella Sativa oil (NSO) on cisplatin (Cis) induced oral mucositis (OM) in rats.

Methods

Twenty-four rats were divided into four equal groups. The animals in Group 1 and Group 2 were given 5 mg/kg intraperitoneal (ip) Cis systemically on the 1^st, 3^rd and 5^th days of the study. Additionally, 15 mL NSO were given to the rats in Group 2, with gavage feeding on days 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9. The animals in Group 3 were given per oral 15 ml NSO on days 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9. As the control group, Group 4 received a total of 15 mL 0.9% saline solution divided into 5 doses on days 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9 by oral gavage. On the 14^th day, animals were euthanized and buccal mucosa from both sides, including submucosal tissues, were excised and taken to histopathological examination.

Results

The mean mucosal thicknesses of the groups were 224.58 μm, 276.1 μm, 323.33 μm, and 331.33 μm, respectively for Groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 (p<0.05). When the degree of mucosal inflammation was examined, the most intense inflammation was detected in Group 1 and the least intense inflammation was in Group 4 (p<0.01). The degree of inflammation in Group 2 and Group 3 were similar to Group 4 (p>0.05).

Conclusion

According to the results of this study, NSO, for which anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties have been shown in previous studies, may also be effective in preventing Cis-induced OM.

A novel specific cleavage of IκBα protein in acute myeloid leukemia cells involves protease PR3

IκBα protein plays an important role in NFκB signaling pathway regulation. The dysfunction of IκBα is tightly related to various diseases, including cancers. However, the molecular mechanisms by which IκBα loses its normal functions are diverse and complex. Here, we reported a novel cleavage of IκBα protein occurred in AML cells. Compared with the full-length IκBα protein, the truncated IκBα fragment exhibited a dramatically weak binding ability to NFκB complex and showed a significant decreased inhibition on NFκB transactivation. Knockdown of PR3, a serine protease mainly expressed in myeloid cells, could inhibit such IκBα cleavage and enhance the sensitivities of AML cells to the differentiation inducers. In addition, we showed that the level of PR3 mRNA was relatively higher in newly diagnosed AML patients than in those patients with complete remission, suggesting that PR3 expression and its involvement in IκBα cleavage might be closely associated with AML. Our studies revealed for the first time a PR3-involved IκBα cleavage in AML cells, providing some new evidences for further understanding the mechanisms underlying the deregulation of NFκB pathway in AML. Finally, we also suggested a potential clinical application value of PR3 protein in the treatment and prognosis surveillance for leukemia.

Complexity on modulation of NF-κB pathways by hepatitis B and C: A double-edged sword in hepatocarcinogenesis

Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), a family of master regulated dimeric transcription factors, signaling transduction pathways are active players in the cell signaling that control vital cellular processes, including cell growth, proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, morphogenesis, angiogenesis, and immune responses. Nevertheless, aberrant regulation of the NF-κB signaling pathways has been associated with a significant number of human cancers. In fact, NF-κB acts as a double-edged sword in the vital cellular processes and carcinogenesis. This review provides an overview on the modulation of the NF-κB signaling pathways by proteins of hepatitis B and C viruses. One of the major NF-κB events that are modulated by these viruses is the induction of hepatocellular carcinoma. Given the central function of NF-κB in carcinogenesis, it has turned out to be a considerable therapeutic target for cancer therapy.

Alternate NF-κB-Independent Signaling Reactivation of Latent HIV-1 Provirus

Current combination antiretroviral therapies (cART) are unable to eradicate HIV-1 from infected individuals because of the establishment of proviral latency in long-lived cellular reservoirs. The shock-and-kill approach aims to reactivate viral replication from the latent state (shock) using latency-reversing agents (LRAs), followed by the elimination of reactivated virus-producing cells (kill) by specific therapeutics. The NF-κB RelA/p50 heterodimer has been characterized as an essential component of reactivation of the latent HIV-1 long terminal repeat (LTR). Nevertheless, prolonged NF-κB activation contributes to the development of various autoimmune, inflammatory, and malignant disorders. In the present study, we established a cellular model of HIV-1 latency in J-Lat CD4⁺ T cells that stably expressed the NF-κB superrepressor IκB-α 2NΔ4 and demonstrate that conventional treatments with bryostatin-1 and hexamethylenebisacetamide (HMBA) or ionomycin synergistically reactivated HIV-1 from latency, even under conditions where NF-κB activation was repressed. Using specific calcineurin phosphatase, p38, and MEK1/MEK2 kinase inhibitors or specific short hairpin RNAs, c-Jun was identified to be an essential factor binding to the LTR enhancer κB sites and mediating the combined synergistic reactivation effect. Furthermore, acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), a potent inhibitor of the NF-κB activator kinase IκB kinase β (IKK-β), did not significantly diminish reactivation in a primary CD4⁺ T central memory (T_CM) cell latency model. The present work demonstrates that the shock phase of the shock-and-kill approach to reverse HIV-1 latency may be achieved in the absence of NF-κB, with the potential to avoid unwanted autoimmune- and or inflammation-related side effects associated with latency-reversing strategies.IMPORTANCE The shock-and-kill approach consists of the reactivation of HIV-1 replication from latency using latency-reversing agents (LRAs), followed by the elimination of reactivated virus-producing cells. The cellular transcription factor NF-κB is considered a master mediator of HIV-1 escape from latency induced by LRAs. Nevertheless, a systemic activation of NF-κB in HIV-1-infected patients resulting from the combined administration of different LRAs could represent a potential risk, especially in the case of a prolonged treatment. We demonstrate here that conventional treatments with bryostatin-1 and hexamethylenebisacetamide (HMBA) or ionomycin synergistically reactivate HIV-1 from latency, even under conditions where NF-κB activation is repressed. Our study provides a molecular proof of concept for the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, like aspirin, capable of inhibiting NF-κB in patients under combination antiretroviral therapy during the shock-and-kill approach, to avoid potential autoimmune and inflammatory disorders that can be elicited by combinations of LRAs.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) in the Prevention of Ageing and Degenerative Diseases: Review of Current Evidence

Currently, the age of the population is increasing as a result of increased life expectancy. Ageing is defined as the progressive loss of physiological integrity, which can be characterized by functional impairment and high vulnerability to various types of diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and atherosclerosis. Numerous studies have reported that the presence of oxidative stress and inflammation contributes to the development of these diseases. In general, oxidative stress could induce proinflammatory cytokines and reduce cellular antioxidant capacity. Increased oxidative stress levels beyond the production of antioxidant agents cause oxidative damage to biological molecules, including DNA, protein, and carbohydrates, which affects normal cell signalling, cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis and leads to disease pathogenesis. Since oxidative stress and inflammation contribute to these diseases, ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is one of the potential herbs that can be used to reduce the level of oxidative stress and inflammation. Ginger consists of two major active components, 6-gingerol and 6-shogaol, which are essential for preventing oxidative stress and inflammation. Thus, this paper will review the effects of ginger on ageing and degenerative diseases, including AD, PD, type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension, and osteoarthritis.

NF-κB Signaling in Ovarian Cancer

The NF-κB signaling pathway is a master and commander in ovarian cancer (OC) that promotes chemoresistance, cancer stem cell maintenance, metastasis and immune evasion. Many signaling pathways are dysregulated in OC and can activate NF-κB signaling through canonical or non-canonical pathways which have both overlapping and distinct roles in tumor progression. The activation of canonical NF-κB signaling has been well established for anti-apoptotic and immunomodulatory functions in response to the tumor microenvironment and the non-canonical pathway in cancer stem cell maintenance and tumor re-initiation. NF-κB activity in OC cells helps to create an immune-evasive environment and to attract infiltrating immune cells with tumor-promoting phenotypes, which in turn, drive constitutive NF-κB activation in OC cells to promote cell survival and metastasis. For these reasons, NF-κB is an attractive target in OC, but current strategies are limited and broad inhibition of this major signaling pathway in normal physiological and immunological functions may produce unwanted side effects. There are some promising pre-clinical outcomes from developing research to target and inhibit NF-κB only in the tumor-reinitiating cancer cell population of OC and concurrently activate canonical NF-κB signaling in immune cells to promote anti-tumor immunity.

Paeonol ameliorates monosodium urate-induced arthritis in rats through inhibiting nuclear factor-κB-mediated proinflammatory cytokine production

Moutan Cortex has been widely used to treat various types of arthritis in traditional Chinese medicine. Paeonol is isolated as an active ingredient from Moutan Cortex. However, the effect and potential mechanism of paeonol on gouty arthritis have not been evaluated. In this study, rats were treated intragastrically with paeonol for consecutive 7 days. On Day 5, rats were intra-articularly injected with monosodium urate (MSU) crystals in the ankle joints to induce MSU-induced arthritis (MIA). Paw volume was detected at various time points. Gait score was measured at 24 hr after MSU crystal injection. Ankle joints were collected for evaluation of histological score and expression of proinflammatory cytokines using hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemistry staining, respectively. Nuclear level of nuclear factor (NF)-κBp65 in synovial tissues was analyzed by western blot assay. NF-κB DNA-binding activity was measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Paeonol markedly lowered the paw volume, gait score, and histological score in MIA rats. Mechanistically, paeonol markedly reduced the expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in synovial tissues of MIA rats. In addition, the elevated level of p65 in nucleus and NF-κB DNA-binding activity in synovial tissues of MIA rats were reduced significantly by paeonol treatment. These findings suggest that paeonol exerts anti-inflammatory effect in MIA rats through inhibiting expression of proinflammatory cytokines and NF-κB activation.

Methylation of the RELA Gene is Associated with Expression of NF-κB1 in Response to TNF-α in Breast Cancer

The nuclear factor (NF)-κB family of transcriptional factors plays a critical role in inflammation, immunoregulation, cell differentiation, and tumorigenesis. This study aims to investigate the role of methylation of genes encoding for the NF-κB family in breast cancer. We analyze the DNA methylation status of the NFKB1 gene and the RELA gene in breast cancer using pyrosequencing. The expression of NF-κB1 and RELA proteins is assessed and the level of RNA transcripts in frozen tissue is determined using RT-PCR. There is no statistically significant difference in the methylation status of the NFKB1 and the RELA genes between tumors and normal tissues. The methylation status of the NFKB1 gene and the RELA gene is not significantly associated with the levels of NF-κB1 transcripts in tumor tissues. However, the methylation level of the RELA gene is significantly associated with the level of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. In addition, the level of NF-κB1 transcripts was associated with the levels of TNF-α and IL-4. In tumors with positive TNF-α, the increased methylation level of the RELA gene is significantly associated with the positive expression of NF-κB1 transcripts. These results demonstrate that the level of the RELA gene methylation is related to the levels of NF-κB1 transcripts under the influence of TNF-α. Further study is needed to determine how TNF-α is involved in the methylation of the RELA gene and the subsequent expression of NF-κB1.

Genetic mutations in NF-κB pathway genes were associated with the protection from hepatitis C virus infection among Chinese Han population

Host genetic polymorphism is one of major unalterable major factors for HCV infection. NF-κB proteins play multiple roles in immune response and involve in HCV infection and progression. This study was conducted to explore the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in NF-κB pathway and the susceptibility as well as resolution of HCV infection. A total of 1642 Chinese subjects were enrolled in the study, including 963 uninfected control cases, 231 cases with spontaneous viral clearance and 448 cases with persistent HCV infection, and four SNPs (Rel rs842647, NF-κB2 rs12769316, RelA rs7101916, RelB rs28372683) were genotyped by TaqMan assay among them. Potentially functional polymorphisms were analyzed using online bioinformatics tools. The logistic analyses results indicated that RelA rs7101916 T allele (P_Bonferroni = 0.016) and RelB rs28372683 A allele (P_Bonferroni = 4.8e-5) were associated with an decreased risk of the susceptibility to HCV infection among Chinese Han population, which were consistent with the results of cumulative effects and haplotype analysis. The silico analysis of SNPs function suggested that the genetic variation of rs7101916 and rs28372683 could influence gene transcriptional regulation and expression, subsequently affecting NF-κB pathway activation and the susceptibility to HCV infection. This study firstly reported that the carriage of RelA rs7101916 T or RelB rs28372683 A was the potential protective factor against HCV infection among the Chinese population.

A novel curcumin analog inhibits canonical and non-canonical functions of telomerase through STAT3 and NF-κB inactivation in colorectal cancer cells

Curcumin is a biologically active polyphenol that exists in Indian spice turmeric. It has been reported that curcumin exerted anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-cancer effects in numerous in vitro and in vivo studies. However, it is not well-understood the molecular mechanism of curcumin for the cancer stem cells and telomerase in colorectal cancer. In this study, compound 19, a nitrogen-containing curcumin analog, was used to treat human colorectal cancer cells. Compound 19 showed a greater anti-proliferative activity than curcumin while displayed no significant toxicity toward normal human colon epithelial cells. Compound 19 exerted anti-inflammatory activities by deactivating STAT3 and NF-κB. In cancer stem cell populations, CD44, Oct-4 and ALDHA1 expressions were abolished upon treating with compound 19. Cancer stem cell biomarkers CD51 and CD133 positive populations were reduced and telomerase activities were decreased with the reduced STAT3 binding to hTERT promoters. This means compound 19 dually inhibits canonical and non-canonical functions of telomerase. Furthermore, compound 19 treatments induced cell cycle arrest at G1 phase and apoptosis. Human apoptosis-related array screening revealed that activated caspase 3, catalase, clusterin and cytochrome C led to apoptosis. Taken together, our data suggest that compound 19 can be a novel therapeutic agent for metastatic colorectal cancer by concurrently targeting STAT3 and NF-κB signaling pathways.

Nobiletin and Derivatives: Functional Compounds from Citrus Fruit Peel for Colon Cancer Chemoprevention

The search for effective methods of cancer treatment and prevention has been a continuous effort since the disease was discovered. Recently, there has been increasing interest in exploring plants and fruits for molecules that may have potential as either adjuvants or as chemopreventive agents against cancer. One of the promising compounds under extensive research is nobiletin (NOB), a polymethoxyflavone (PMF) extracted exclusively from citrus peel. Not only does nobiletin itself exhibit anti-cancer properties, but its derivatives are also promising chemopreventive agents; examples of derivatives with anti-cancer activity include 3'-demethylnobiletin (3'-DMN), 4'-demethylnobiletin (4'-DMN), 3',4'-didemethylnobiletin (3',4'-DMN) and 5-demethylnobiletin (5-DMN). In vitro studies have demonstrated differential efficacies and mechanisms of NOB and its derivatives in inhibiting and killing of colon cancer cells. The chemopreventive potential of NOB has also been well demonstrated in several in vivo colon carcinogenesis animal models. NOB and its derivatives target multiple pathways in cancer progression and inhibit several of the hallmark features of colorectal cancer (CRC) pathophysiology, including arresting the cell cycle, inhibiting cell proliferation, inducing apoptosis, preventing tumour formation, reducing inflammatory effects and limiting angiogenesis. However, these substances have low oral bioavailability that limits their clinical utility, hence there have been numerous efforts exploring better drug delivery strategies for NOB and these are part of this review. We also reviewed data related to patents involving NOB to illustrate the extensiveness of each research area and its direction of commercialisation. Furthermore, this review also provides suggested directions for future research to advance NOB as the next promising candidate in CRC chemoprevention.

TRAF3 Is Required for NF-κB Pathway Activation Mediated by HTLV Tax Proteins

Human T-cell leukemia viruses type 1 (HTLV-1) and type 2 (HTLV-2) share a common genome organization and expression strategy but have distinct pathological properties. HTLV-1 is the etiological agent of Adult T-cell Leukemia (ATL) and of HTLV-1-Associated Myelopathy/Tropical Spastic Paraparesis (HAM/TSP), whereas HTLV-2 does not cause hematological disorders and is only sporadically associated with cases of subacute myelopathy. Both HTLV genomes encode two regulatory proteins that play a pivotal role in pathogenesis: the transactivating Tax-1 and Tax-2 proteins and the antisense proteins HBZ and APH-2, respectively. We recently reported that Tax-1 and Tax-2 form complexes with the TNF-receptor associated factor 3, TRAF3, a negative regulator of the non-canonical NF-κB pathway. The NF-κB pathway is constitutively activated by the Tax proteins, whereas it is inhibited by HBZ and APH-2. The antagonistic effects of Tax and antisense proteins on NF-κB activation have not yet been fully clarified. Here, we investigated the effect of TRAF3 interaction with HTLV regulatory proteins and in particular its consequence on the subcellular distribution of the effector p65/RelA protein. We demonstrated that Tax-1 and Tax-2 efficiency on NF-κB activation is impaired in TRAF3 deficient cells obtained by CRISPR/Cas9 editing. We also found that APH-2 is more effective than HBZ in preventing Tax-dependent NF-κB activation. We further observed that TRAF3 co-localizes with Tax-2 and APH-2 in cytoplasmic complexes together with NF-κB essential modulator NEMO and TAB2, differently from HBZ and TRAF3. These results contribute to untangle the mechanism of NF-κB inhibition by HBZ and APH-2, highlighting the different role of the HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 regulatory proteins in the NF-κB activation.

SIRT7 Regulates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Injury by Suppressing the NF-κB Signaling Pathway

Mastitis has severely affected the cattle industry worldwide and has resulted in decreased dairy production and cattle reproduction. Although prevention and treatment methods have been implemented for decades, cattle mastitis is still an intractable disease. Sirtuin 7 (SIRT7) is an NAD⁺-dependent deacetylase that is involved in various biological processes, including ribosomal RNA synthesis and protein synthesis, DNA damage response, metabolism, and tumorigenesis. However, whether SIRT7 participates in inflammation remains unknown. Our results revealed that SIRT7 is downregulated in tissue samples from mastitic cattle. Therefore, we isolated dairy cow mammary epithelial cells (DCMECs) from breast tissues and developed an in vitro model of lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced inflammation to examine SIRT7 function and its potential role in inflammation. We showed that SIRT7 was significantly downregulated in LPS-treated DCMECs. SIRT7 knockdown significantly increased the LPS-stimulated production of inflammatory mediators, like reactive oxygen and nitric oxide, and upregulated TAB1 and TLR4. In addition, SIRT7 knockdown significantly increased the phosphorylation of TAK1 and NF-κBp65 in LPS-treated DCMECs. Moreover, SIRT7 knockdown promoted the translocation of NF-κBp-p65 to the cell nucleus and then increased the secretion of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-6). In contrast, SIRT7 overexpression had the opposite effects when compared to SIRT7 knockdown in LPS-treated DCMECs. In addition, SIRT7 overexpression attenuated LPS-induced DCMEC apoptosis. Taken together, our results indicate that SIRT7 can suppress LPS-induced inflammation and apoptosis via the NF-κB signaling pathway. Therefore, SIRT7 may be considered as a potential pharmacological target for clinical mastitis therapy.

The role of fibromodulin in cancer pathogenesis: implications for diagnosis and therapy

Fibromodulin (FMOD) is known as one of very important extracellular matrix small leucine-rich proteoglycans. This small leucine-rich proteoglycan has critical roles in the extracellular matrix organization and necessary for repairing of tissue in many organs. Given that the major task of FMOD is the modulation of collagen fibrillogenesis. However, recently observed that FMOD plays very important roles in the modulation of a variety of pivotal biological processes including angiogenesis, regulation of TGF-β activity, and differentiation of human fibroblasts into pluripotent cells, inflammatory mechanisms, apoptosis and metastatic related phenotypes. Besides these roles, FMOD has been considered as a new tumor-related antigen in some malignancies such as lymphoma, leukemia, and leiomyoma. Taken together, these findings proposed that FMOD could be introduced as diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers in treatment of various cancers. Herein, for first time, we highlighted the various roles of FMOD in the cancerous conditions. Moreover, we summarized the diagnostic and therapeutic applications of FMOD in cancer therapy.

In silico identification of novel lncRNAs with a potential role in diagnosis of gastric cancer

Gastric cancer (GC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. Due to the shortage of adequate symptoms in the early stages, it is diagnosed when the tumor has spread to distant organs. Early recognition of GC enhances the chance of successful treatment. Molecular mechanisms of GC are still poorly understood. LncRNAs are emerging as new players in cancer in both oncogene and tumor suppressor roles. High-throughput technologies such as RNA-Seq, have revealed thousands of lncRNAs which are dysregulated in GC. In this study, we retrieved lncRNAs obtained by High-throughput technologies from OncoLnc database. Consequently, retrieved lncRNAs were compared in literature-based databases including PubMed. As a result, two lists, including experimentally validated lncRNAs and predicted lncRNAs were provided. We found 43 predicted lncRNAs that had not been experimentally validated in GC, so far. Further Bioinformatics analyses were performed to obtain the expression profile of predicted lncRNAs in tumor and normal tissues. Also, the roles and targets of predicted lncRNAs in GC were identified by related databases. Finally, using the GEPIA database was reviewed the significant relationship of predicted lncRNAs with the survival of GC patients. By recognizing the lncRNAs involved in initiation and progression of GC, they may be considered as potential biomarkers in the GC early diagnosis or targeted treatment and lead to novel therapeutic strategies. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Curcumin induced oxidative stress causes autophagy and apoptosis in bovine leucocytes transformed by Theileria annulata

Bovine tropical theileriosis is a tick-borne disease, caused by Theileria annulata which is a protozoan parasite that resides within the B-cells and macrophages. T. annulata is a unique parasite that can transform bovine leucocytes which leads to the cancer hallmarks in the infected cells. Previously, curcumin has been shown to possess multiple pharmacological activities such as anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities. In this study, we demonstrated that curcumin inhibits the proliferation of Theileria-transformed bovine leucocytes by promoting apoptosis and autophagy. The transcriptome analysis of curcumin treated cells showed that the genes involved in cell death and autophagy are also differentially regulated. We further elucidated the mechanism of action of curcumin on Theileria infected bovine cells. We found that curcumin induced the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which activated caspase 8 and destabilized the mitochondrial membrane potential leading to the release of cytochrome c from mitochondria. This subsequently led to the activation of caspase 3 and PARP cleavage, finally leading to apoptosis in the infected cells. Furthermore, curcumin induced the process of autophagy which was characterized by the formation of acidic vesicular organelles, LC3B accumulation with lysosome inhibitor, E64d, and the presence of autophagosomes as visualized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Curcumin treatment suppressed the mTOR and increased the expression of autophagy-related proteins. We also found that N- acetylcysteine, an inhibitor of ROS, could rescue the infected cells from curcumin induced apoptosis and autophagy mediated cell death. Intriguingly, curcumin had no effect on uninfected bovine PBMCs. Altogether, these data suggest the therapeutic potential of curcumin against bovine tropical theileriosis.

Novel Targeted Nano-Parthenolide Molecule against NF-kB in Acute Myeloid Leukemia

The targeted nano-encapsulation of anticancer drugs can improve drug delivery and the selective targeting of cancer cells. Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) is a regulator for different biological responses, including cell proliferation and differentiation. In acute myeloid leukemia (AML), constitutive NF-κB has been detected in more than 50% of cases, enabling leukemic cells to resist apoptosis and stimulate uncontrolled proliferation. We evaluated NF-kB expression in bone marrow samples from 103 patients with AML using quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and found that expression was increased in 80.5% (83 out 103) of these patients with AML in comparison to the control group. Furthermore, overexpressed transmembrane glycoprotein (CD44) on leukemic cells in comparison to normal cells is known to play an important role in leukemic cell engraftment and survival. We designed poly lactide co-glycolide (PLGA) nanoparticles conjugated with antiCD44 and encapsulating parthenolide (PTL), a nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) inhibitor, in order to improve the selectivity and targeting of leukemic cells and to spare normal cells. In vitro, in leukemic cell lines Kasumi-1, KG-1a, and THP-1, proliferation was decreased by 40% (** p < 0.01) with 5 µM PLGA-antiCD44-PTL nanoparticles in comparison to the same concentration of free PTL (~10%). The higher uptake of the nanoparticles by leukemic cells was confirmed with confocal microscopy. In conclusion, PLGA-antiCD44-PTL nanoparticles improved the bioavailability and selective targeting of leukemic cells, thus holding promise as a drug delivery system to improve the cure rate of AML.

Helicobacter pylori urease induces pro-inflammatory effects and differentiation of human endothelial cells: Cellular and molecular mechanism

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori urease (HPU) is a key virulence factor that enables bacteria to colonize and survive in the stomach. We early demonstrated that HPU, independent of its catalytic activity, induced inflammatory and angiogenic responses in vivo and directly activated human neutrophils to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS). We have investigated the effects of HPU on endothelial cells, focusing on the signaling mechanism involved.

METHODS

Monolayers of human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1) were stimulated with HPU (up to 10 nmol/L): Paracellular permeability was accessed through dextran-FITC passage. NO and ROS production was evaluated using intracellular probes. Proteins or mRNA expressions were detected by Western blotting and fluorescence microscopy or qPCR assays, respectively.

RESULTS

Treatment with HPU enhanced paracellular permeability of HMEC-1, preceded by VE-cadherin phosphorylation and its dissociation from cell-cell junctions. This caused profound alterations in actin cytoskeleton dynamics and focal adhesion kinase (FAK) phosphorylation. HPU triggered ROS and nitric oxide (NO) production by endothelial cells. Increased intracellular ROS resulted in nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation and upregulated expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). Higher ICAM-1 and E-selectin expression was associated with increased neutrophil adhesion on HPU-stimulated HMEC monolayers. The effects of HPU on endothelial cells were dependent on ROS production and lipoxygenase pathway activation, being inhibited by esculetin. Additionally, HPU improved vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR-2) expression.

CONCLUSION

The data suggest that the pro-inflammatory properties of HPU drive endothelial cell to a ROS-dependent program of differentiation that contributes to the progression of H pylori infection.

I-BET151 suppresses osteoclast formation and inflammatory cytokines secretion by targetting BRD4 in multiple myeloma

Background: Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable hematologic cancer, accompanied by excessive osteoclast formation and inflammatory cytokine secretion. The mechanisms by which bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) protein inhibitor I-BET151 regulates osteoclast differentiation and inflammatory cytokine secretion in MM are largely unknown. Methods: The isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells from normal or patients with MM were treated with receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) and M-CSF to induce osteoclast differentiation. RAW 264.7 cells were treated with RANKL. I-BET151 was applied to investigate the effects of BRD4 inhibition on osteoclast formation and inflammatory cytokine secretion. Osteoclast formation was determined by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRACP) staining. The expression of osteoclast-specific genes TRACP, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), cathepsin K (Ctsk), and c-Src was tested using quantitative real-time PCR. And the level of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 was assessed by ELISA. Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6), BRD4, nuclear and cytoplasm p65, IκB-α, nuclear factor of activated T cells cytoplasmic (NFATc1), and osteoprotegerin (OPG) expression were measured by Western blotting. RNAi technology was applied to knock down BET family member BRD4. Results: I-BET151 dose-dependently suppressed osteoclast formation, inhibited the levels of osteoclast-specific genes TRACP, MMP-9, Ctsk, and c-Src and inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 secretion in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and RAW 264.7. I-BET151 inhibited the protein levels of BRD4 and NFATc1, increased OPG expression, and suppressed IκB-α degradation and p65 nuclear translocation. Further, the effects of I-BET151 on osteoclast formation, osteoclast-specific genes expression, inflammatory cytokine secretion, and NF-κB inhibition were promoted by BRD4 knockdown. Conclusion: I-BET151 inhibits osteoclast formation and inflammatory cytokine secretion by targetting BRD4-mediated RANKL-NF-κB signal pathway and BRD4 inhibition might be beneficial for MM treatment.

Adipose Tissue Dysfunction as Determinant of Obesity-Associated Metabolic Complications

Obesity is a critical risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes (T2D), and its prevalence is rising worldwide. White adipose tissue (WAT) has a crucial role in regulating systemic energy homeostasis. Adipose tissue expands by a combination of an increase in adipocyte size (hypertrophy) and number (hyperplasia). The recruitment and differentiation of adipose precursor cells in the subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), rather than merely inflating the cells, would be protective from the obesity-associated metabolic complications. In metabolically unhealthy obesity, the storage capacity of SAT, the largest WAT depot, is limited, and further caloric overload leads to the fat accumulation in ectopic tissues (e.g., liver, skeletal muscle, and heart) and in the visceral adipose depots, an event commonly defined as “lipotoxicity.” Excessive ectopic lipid accumulation leads to local inflammation and insulin resistance (IR). Indeed, overnutrition triggers uncontrolled inflammatory responses in WAT, leading to chronic low-grade inflammation, therefore fostering the progression of IR. This review summarizes the current knowledge on WAT dysfunction in obesity and its associated metabolic abnormalities, such as IR. A better understanding of the mechanisms regulating adipose tissue expansion in obesity is required for the development of future therapeutic approaches in obesity-associated metabolic complications.

Fisetin and Quercetin: Promising Flavonoids with Chemopreventive Potential

Despite advancements in healthcare facilities for diagnosis and treatment, cancer remains the leading cause of death worldwide. As prevention is always better than cure, efficient strategies are needed in order to deal with the menace of cancer. The use of phytochemicals as adjuvant chemotherapeutic agents in heterogeneous human carcinomas like breast, colon, lung, ovary, and prostate cancers has shown an upward trend during the last decade or so. Flavonoids are well-known products of plant derivatives that are reportedly documented to be therapeutically active phytochemicals against many diseases encompassing malignancies, inflammatory disorders (cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative disorder), and oxidative stress. The current review focuses on two key flavonols, fisetin and quercetin, known for their potential pharmacological relevance. Also, efforts have been made to bring together most of the concrete studies pertaining to the bioactive potential of fisetin and quercetin, especially in the modulation of a range of cancer signaling pathways. Further emphasis has also been made to highlight the molecular action of quercetin and fisetin so that one could explore cancer initiation pathways and progression, which could be helpful in designing effective treatment strategies.

Papaver nudicaule (Iceland poppy) alleviates lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation through inactivating NF-κB and STAT3

BACKGROUND

Papaver nudicaule belongs to the Papaveraceae family, which is planted as an annual herbaceous species generally for ornamental purpose. Papaver rhoeas in the same family has been reported to have various pharmacological activities such as antioxidant and analgesic effects. In contrast, little is known about the pharmacological activity of Papaver nudicaule. In this study, the anti-inflammatory activity of Papaver nudicaule extracts and the action mechanisms were investigated in RAW264.7 macrophage cells.

METHODS

To investigate the anti-inflammatory activity of five cultivars of Papaver nudicaule with different flower color, samples were collected from their aerial parts at two growth stages (60 and 90 days) and their ethanol extracts were evaluated in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated RAW264.7 cells by measuring nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels. Interleukin 1-beta (IL-1β), Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) production were also analyzed by RT-PCR and multiplex assays. Nuclear Factor-kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathways were examined using western blotting and luciferase reporter assays to reveal the action mechanism of Papaver nudicaule extracts in their anti-inflammatory activity.

RESULTS

All of the Papaver nudicaule extracts were effective in reducing the LPS-induced NO, which is an important inflammatory mediator, and the extract of Papaver nudicaule with white flower collected at 90 days (NW90) was selected for further experiments because of the best effect on reducing the LPS-induced NO as well as no toxicity. NW90 lowered the LPS-induced PGE2 level and decreased the LPS-induced Nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS2) and Cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2). In addition, NW90 reduced the LPS-induced inflammatory cytokines, IL-1β and IL-6. Furthermore, NW90 inhibited the LPS-induced activation of NF-κB and STAT3.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that NW90 may restrain inflammation by inhibiting NF-κB and STAT3, suggesting the potential therapeutic properties of Papaver nudicaule against inflammatory disease.

Identification of key regulatory genes connected to NF-κB family of proteins in visceral adipose tissues using gene expression and weighted protein interaction network

Obesity is connected to the activation of chronic inflammatory pathways in both adipocytes and macrophages located in adipose tissues. The nuclear factor (NF)-κB is a central molecule involved in inflammatory pathways linked to the pathology of different complex metabolic disorders. Investigating the gene expression data in the adipose tissue would potentially unravel disease relevant gene interactions. The present study is aimed at creating a signature molecular network and at prioritizing the potential biomarkers interacting with NF-κB family of proteins in obesity using system biology approaches. The dataset GSE88837 associated with obesity was downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Statistical analysis represented the differential expression of a total of 2650 genes in adipose tissues (p = <0.05). Using concepts like correlation, semantic similarity, and theoretical graph parameters we narrowed down genes to a network of 23 genes strongly connected with NF-κB family with higher significance. Functional enrichment analysis revealed 21 of 23 target genes of NF-κB were found to have a critical role in the pathophysiology of obesity. Interestingly, GEM and PPP1R13L were predicted as novel genes which may act as potential target or biomarkers of obesity as they occur with other 21 target genes with known obesity relationship. Our study concludes that NF-κB and prioritized target genes regulate the inflammation in adipose tissues through several molecular signaling pathways like NF-κB, PI3K-Akt, glucocorticoid receptor regulatory network, angiogenesis and cytokine pathways. This integrated system biology approaches can be applied for elucidating functional protein interaction networks of NF-κB protein family in different complex diseases. Our integrative and network-based approach for finding therapeutic targets in genomic data could accelerate the identification of novel drug targets for obesity.

Protective effect of pig brain polypeptides against corticosterone-induced oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and apoptosis in PC12 cells

OBJECTIVE

Pig brain polypeptides (PBP), active polypeptides hydrolysate extracted from fresh porcine brain tissue, has been shown to have neuroprotective effects in both in vitro and in vivo studies. The present study aimed to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effects of PBP in corticosterone (CORT)-induced rat adrenal pheochromocytoma PC12 cells.

METHODS

Cell viability and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release were measured in PC12 cells induced with 200 μM CORT in the presence or absence of various concentrations of PBP for 48 h. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and glutathione (GSH) content were examined to analyze the effect of PBP on CORT-induced oxidative stress. The levels of pro-inflammatory factors, the percentage of apoptotic cells, and apoptosis-related protein expression in PC12 cells were determined.

RESULTS

PBP is mainly composed of protein subunits with molecular weights ranging from 1000 to 10,000 Da. PBP treatment increased cell viability and decreased the release of LDH in CORT-stimulated PC12 cells. Moreover, PBP reduced the level of CORT-induced oxidative stress by decreasing ROS levels and increasing SOD, GSH-Px activities and GSH content. PBP had an inhibitory effect on the CORT-induced inflammatory response through inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway. PBP also inhibited CORT-induced apoptosis by downregulating the mitochondrial apoptotic signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that PBP exerts a neuroprotective effect against CORT-induced cell injury by inhibiting oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. PBP could act as a neuroprotective agent against nerve injury induced by CORT.

Reactive oxygen species: a volatile driver of field cancerization and metastasis

Field cancerization and metastasis are the leading causes for cancer recurrence and mortality in cancer patients. The formation of primary, secondary tumors or metastasis is greatly influenced by multifaceted tumor-stroma interactions, in which stromal components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) can affect the behavior of the cancer cells. Many studies have identified cytokines and growth factors as cell signaling molecules that aid cell to cell communication. However, the functional contribution of reactive oxygen species (ROS), a family of volatile chemicals, as communication molecules are less understood. Cancer cells and various tumor-associated stromal cells produce and secrete a copious amount of ROS into the TME. Intracellular ROS modulate cell signaling cascades that aid in the acquisition of several hallmarks of cancers. Extracellular ROS help to propagate, amplify, and effectively create a mutagenic and oncogenic field which facilitate the formation of multifoci tumors and act as a springboard for metastatic tumor cells. In this review, we summarize our current knowledge of ROS as atypical paracrine signaling molecules for field cancerization and metastasis. Field cancerization and metastasis are often discussed separately; we offer a model that placed these events with ROS as the focal instigating agent in a broader "seed-soil" hypothesis.

Gliclazide Prevents 5-FU-Induced Oral Mucositis by Reducing Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and P-Selectin Adhesion Molecules

Oral mucositis (OM) is one of the main side effects of the head and neck cancer treatment, particularly radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. OM is characterized by ulcers, erythema, dysphagia, xerostomia, and increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections. In the perspective of finding pharmacological therapies to prevent inflammation and ulceration of OM, the investigation of the pleiotropic effect of commercial drugs is needed, among them gliclazide, an antidiabetic drug. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of gliclazide in an experimental OM model induced by 5-fluorouracil. Male hamsters were pre-treated with oral gliclazide (1, 5, or 10 mg/kg) for 10 days. Cheek pouch samples were subjected to histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis (COX₂, iNOS, MMP-2, NFκB P65, GPx) and imunofluorescence (P-selectin). IL-1β and TNF-α levels, Myeloperoxidase activity (MPO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were investigated by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy analysis. NFκB NLS P50 protein levels were analyzed by western blotting. The group treated with gliclazide at a dose of 10 mg/kg showed presence of erythema, no evidence of erosion, and absence of mucosal ulceration with a score of 1 (1–2) (p < 0.01). Histopathological data for the group treated with gliclazide 10 mg/kg showed re-epithelialization, discrete mononuclear inflammatory infiltrate and absence of hemorrhage, edema, ulcers and abscesses with a score of 1 (1–1) (p < 0.01). Treatment with gliclazide 10 mg/kg reduced MPO activity (p < 0.001), MDA levels (p < 0.001) and NFκB NLS P50 (p < 0.05) protein levels, resulting in low immunostaining to Cox-2, iNOS (p < 0.05), NFκB P65 (p < 0.05), and negative immunoreaction to MMP-2 (p < 0.001). However, it appeared that for Gpx1, the staining was restored in the GLI 10-FUT group compared with 5FUT/saline (p < 0.05). Immunofluorescence revealed decreased levels of P-selectin (p < 0.001) after treatment with gliclazide 10 mg/kg (p < 0.05). In summary, gliclazide accelerated mucosal recovery and reduced oxidative stress and inflammation in the 5-FU-induced OM in hamsters.

Physalactone and 4β-Hydroxywithanolide E Isolated from Physalis peruviana Inhibit LPS-Induced Expression of COX-2 and iNOS Accompanied by Abatement of Akt and STAT1

In previous studies, withanolides isolated from Physalis peruviana were found to exhibit anti-inflammatory potential by suppressing nitrite production induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment. Currently, we selected two of the most potent compounds, 4β-hydroxywithanolide E (1) and physalactone (2), to examine the underlying mechanism of action. With LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells in culture, the compounds inhibited the mRNA and protein expression of iNOS and COX-2. To determine which upstream signaling proteins were involved in these effects, phosphorylation levels of three mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) including ERK1/2, JNK1/2, and p38, were examined, but found unaffected. Similarly, the degradation of IκBα was not attenuated by the compounds. However, phosphorylation of Akt at the Ser-473 residue was inhibited, as was the phosphorylation of STAT1. Interestingly, the compounds also reduced the protein level of total STAT1, possibly by ubiquitin-dependent protein degradation. In sum, these results indicate the potential of 1 and 2 to mediate anti-inflammatory effects through the unexpected mechanism of inhibiting the transcription of iNOS and COX-2 via Akt- and STAT1-related signaling pathways.

Cytotoxicity and apoptogenic properties of the standardized extract of Portulaca oleracea on glioblastoma multiforme cancer cell line (U-87): a mechanistic study

The traditional uses of Portulaca oleracea L. (PO) with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activity as well as antioxidants properties were expressed previously. Glioma is considered the most common primary brain tumor and its malignant form is the most lethal adult brain tumor, that glioblastoma covers about 50 % of glioma tumors. The present study was aimed to evaluate the cytotoxicity and apoptogenic effects of the hydro-ethanolic extract of PO on human glioblastoma cancer cell line (U-87) and the role of NF-κB. Cytotoxicity of the extract in the presence or absence of Vitamin C was evaluated using MTT assay, and the following hypotonic PI and SubG1 peak were performed. Moreover, the reactive oxygen species (ROS), the level of NF-κB protein and nitric oxide (NO) production were investigated. The extract had cytotoxicity and apoptogenic effects on U-87 cells in both the concentration and time-dependent manners. The mechanism of cytotoxicity and apoptosis induction of the extract at the first hours of incubation and low concentrations were dependent on ROS. However, the toxicity was replaced with NO pathway with time-lapse and higher concentrations. Results also indicated that the extract acts as an NF-κB inhibitor with concentration and time-dependent manners. The present study may suggest the anti-NF-κB activity of PO along with two upstream ROS and NO mechanisms. Furthermore, the extract as ethnobotanical may be used as adjunctive anti-cancer therapy against glioblastoma multiforme.

1,8-Cineole Ameliorates LPS-Induced Vascular Endothelium Dysfunction in Mice via PPAR-γ Dependent Regulation of NF-κB

1,8-Cineole (eucalyptol), a monoterpene, has been widely reported for the anti-inflammatory effects. Our previous data confirmed that 1,8-cineole ameliorated the inflammatory phenotype of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) by mediating NF-κB expression in vitro. At present, we investigated the protection effects of 1,8-cineole on vascular endothelium in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute inflammatory injury mice and the potential mechanisms involved in the protection in HUVECs. Results from enzyme linked immunosorbent assays revealed that 1,8-cineole suppressed the secretion of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 and increased the expression of IL-10 in the serum of LPS-induced mice. 1,8-Cineole reduced the inflammatory infiltration and the expression of vascular cell adhesion molecular 1 (VCAM-1) in the sections of thoracic aorta in LPS-induced acute inflammatory mice. Western blotting indicated that 1,8-cineole significantly decreased the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 and increased the expression of PPAR-γ in the thoracic aorta tissue. 1,8-Cineole increased the expression of PPAR-γ in LPS-induced HUVECs. 1,8-Cineole and rosiglitazone reduced the protein and mRNA levels of VCAM-1, E-selectin, IL-6, and IL-8 in LPS-induced HUVECs, which could be reversed by the action of GW9662 (inhibitor of PPAR-γ). 1,8-Cineole and rosiglitazone blocked the LPS-induced IκBα degradation and NF-κB p65 nucleus translocation, which could be reversed by the pretreatment of GW9662 or silence of PPAR-γ gene. In conclusion, 1,8-cineole attenuated LPS-induced vascular endothelial cells injury via PPAR-γ dependent modulation of NF-κB.

The Immunogenicity in Mice of HCV Core Delivered as DNA Is Modulated by Its Capacity to Induce Oxidative Stress and Oxidative Stress Response

HCV core is an attractive HCV vaccine target, however, clinical or preclinical trials of core-based vaccines showed little success. We aimed to delineate what restricts its immunogenicity and improve immunogenic performance in mice. We designed plasmids encoding full-length HCV 1b core and its variants truncated after amino acids (aa) 60, 98, 152, 173, or up to aa 36 using virus-derived or synthetic polynucleotides (core191/60/98/152/173/36_191v or core152s DNA, respectively). We assessed their level of expression, route of degradation, ability to trigger the production of reactive oxygen species/ROS, and to activate the components of the Nrf2/ARE antioxidant defense pathway heme oxygenase 1/HO-1 and NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase/Nqo-1. All core variants with the intact N-terminus induced production of ROS, and up-regulated expression of HO-1 and Nqo-1. The capacity of core variants to induce ROS and up-regulate HO-1 and Nqo-1 expression predetermined their immunogenicity in DNA-immunized BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice. The most immunogenic was core 152s, expressed at a modest level and inducing moderate oxidative stress and oxidative stress response. Thus, immunogenicity of HCV core is shaped by its ability to induce ROS and oxidative stress response. These considerations are important in understanding the mechanisms of viral suppression of cellular immune response and in HCV vaccine design.

Rosmarinic Acid Analogue-11 Induces Apoptosis of Human Gastric Cancer SGC-7901 Cells via the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR)/Akt/Nuclear Factor kappa B (NF-κB) Pathway

BACKGROUND According to the latest statistics from the American Cancer Society, there will be 1.73 million cancer cases and more than 600 000 cancer deaths in the United States in 2018, among which there will be 26 240 new cases of gastric cancer and around 10 800 deaths arising from gastric cancer. The objective of this study was to use RAA-11 to intervene in SGC-7901 cells to understand its effects on cell proliferation and apoptosis, and to explore the apoptosis mechanism. MATERIAL AND METHODS MTT assay was used to detect the survival of human gastric mucosal epithelial GES-1 cells and human gastric cancer SGC-7901 cells. Colony formation assay was used to observe the colony forming ability in SGC-7901 cells. The apoptotic rate of SGC-7901 cells was evaluated by Hoechst33258 staining and flow cytometry. qRT-PCR was used to analyze the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mRNA expression level in SGC-7901 cells. Western blot was used to examine the expression levels of caspase-3, Bcl-2, BAX, EGFR, Akt, p-Akt, and NF-κB in SGC-7901 cells. RESULTS RAA-11 is capable of inhibiting the proliferation and inducing the apoptosis of SGC-7901 cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Western blot showed that the expression levels of caspase-3 and BAX were upregulated, while the expression levels of Bcl-2, EGFR, Akt, p-Akt, and NF-κB in the SGC-7901 cells were downregulated. CONCLUSIONS Apoptosis can be induced in SGC-7901 cells by RAA-11, potentially via the EGFR/Akt/NF-κB pathway, indicating that RAA-11 might be a potent agent for cancer treatment.

Resveratrol as a Tumor-Suppressive Nutraceutical Modulating Tumor Microenvironment and Malignant Behaviors of Cancer

Tumor-suppressive effects of resveratrol have been shown in various types of cancer. However, regulation of tumor microenvironment by resveratrol is still unclear. Recent findings suggest resveratrol can potentiate its tumor-suppressive effect through modulation of the signaling pathways of cellular components (fibroblasts, macrophages and T cells). Also, studies have shown that resveratrol can suppress malignant phenotypes of cancer cells acquired in response to stresses of the tumor microenvironment, such as hypoxia, oxidative stress and inflammation. We discuss the effects of resveratrol on cancer cells in stress environment of tumors as well as interactions between cancer cells and non-cancer cells in this review.

Acute glucose fluctuation impacts microglial activity, leading to inflammatory activation or self-degradation

Diabetes mellitus is associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s dementia and cognitive decline. The cause of neurodegeneration in chronic diabetic patients remains unclear. Changes in brain microglial activity due to glycemic fluctuations may be an etiological factor. Here, we examined the impact of acute ambient glucose fluctuations on BV-2 microglial activity. Biochemical parameters were assayed and showed that the shift from normal glucose (NG; 5.5 mM) to high glucose (HG; 25 mM) promoted cell growth and induced oxidative/inflammatory stress and microglial activation, as evidenced by increased MTT reduction, elevated pro-inflammatory factor secretion (i.e., TNF-α and oxygen free radicals), and upregulated expression of stress/inflammatory proteins (i.e., HSP70, HO-1, iNOS, and COX-2). Also, LPS-induced inflammation was enlarged by an NG-to-HG shift. In contrast, the HG-to-NG shift trapped microglia in a state of metabolic stress, which led to apoptosis and autophagy, as evidenced by decreased Bcl-2 and increased cleaved caspase-3, TUNEL staining, and LC3B-II expression. These stress episodes were primarily mediated through MAPKs, PI3K/Akt, and NF-κB cascades. Our study demonstrates that acute glucose fluctuation forms the stress that alters microglial activity (e.g., inflammatory activation or self-degradation), representing a novel pathogenic mechanism for the continued deterioration of neurological function in diabetic patients.

20-Hydroxy-3-Oxolupan-28-Oic Acid Attenuates Inflammatory Responses by Regulating PI3K⁻Akt and MAPKs Signaling Pathways in LPS-Stimulated RAW264.7 Macrophages

20-Hydroxy-3-oxolupan-28-oic acid (HOA), a lupane-type triterpene, was obtained from the leaves of Mahonia bealei, which is described in the Chinese Pharmacopeia as a remedy for inflammation and related diseases. The anti-inflammatory mechanisms of HOA, however, have not yet been fully elucidated. Therefore, the objective of this study was to characterize the molecular mechanisms of HOA in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. HOA suppressed the release of nitric oxide (NO), pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages without affecting cell viability. Quantitative real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis indicated that HOA also suppressed the gene expression of inducible NO synthase (iNOS), TNF-α, and IL-6. Further analyses demonstrated that HOA inhibited the phosphorylation of upstream signaling molecules, including p85, PDK1, Akt, IκBα, ERK, and JNK, as well as the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) p65. Interestingly, HOA had no effect on the LPS-induced nuclear translocation of activator protein 1 (AP-1). Taken together, these results suggest that HOA inhibits the production of cytokine by downregulating iNOS, TNF-α, and IL-6 gene expression via the downregulation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), and the inhibition of NF-κB activation. Our findings indicate that HOA could potentially be used as an anti-inflammatory agent for medical use.

Prostate cancer and inflammation: A new molecular imaging challenge in the era of personalized medicine

The relationship between cancer and inflammation is one of the most important fields for both clinical and translational research. Despite numerous studies reported interesting and solid data about the prognostic value of the presence of inflammatory infiltrate in cancers, the biological role of inflammation in prostate cancer development is not yet fully clarified. The characterization of molecular pathways that connect altered inflammatory response and prostate cancer progression can provide the scientific rationale for the identification of new prognostic and predictive biomarkers. Specifically, the detection of infiltrating immune cells or related-cytokines by histology and/or by molecular imaging techniques could profoundly change the management of prostate cancer patients. In this context, the anatomic pathology and imaging diagnostic teamwork can provide a valuable support for the validation of new targets for diagnosis and therapy of prostate cancer lesions associated to the inflammatory infiltrate. The aim of this review is to summarize the current literature about the role of molecular imaging technique and anatomic pathology in the study of the mutual interaction occurring between prostate cancer and inflammation. Specifically, we reported the more recent advances in molecular imaging and histological methods for the early detection of prostate lesions associated to the inflammatory infiltrate.

Over-expression of TGF-β1 gene in medication free Schizophrenia

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Immunological pathways play a crucial role in developing and precipitating neuropsychiatric disorders. Although the exact pathogenesis of schizophrenia is unknown, the possible role of genetic and biomarker involvement of the immune system is gaining attention. Here we quantified the mRNA expression of cytokines as a key role player of the immune system from the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with schizophrenia and healthy controls to identify the differentially expressed genes.

METHODS

Sixteen medication-free schizophrenia patients and 16 healthy subjects were enrolled in the current study. To investigate the desired expression level of mRNAs including TGF-β1, IL-1β, IL-23, TNF-α, NF-κB, and BDNF, quantitative real-time PCR was performed using specific oligonucleotide primers and the Applied Bio systems StepOne™ real time PCR system. DNA methylation was also analyzed through methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP).

RESULTS

TGF-β1 was significantly up-regulated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients vs. healthy individuals (P value = 0.03). In addition, we found a significant correlation between the positive symptom scale and TGF-β1 gene overexpression (r = 0.536, P = 0.039). However, we did not observe any statistically significant differences for the methylation status of CpG Islands 1 and 2 between the patients and normal group. No statistical significance was found either for gene expression of IL-1β (P = 0.32), IL-23 (P = 0.12), TNF-α (P = 0.87), NF-κB (P = 0.07), and BDNF (P = 0.33).

CONCLUSIONS

Although the number of medication-free schizophrenia patients is extremely limited, our data highlighted the potential role of TGF-β1 as a regulatory cytokine in complex inflammatory mechanism involved in medication-free schizophrenia. In addition, we observed that increased level of TGF-β1 mRNA in this disease might not be under methylation as an epigenetic control element at the genomic level.

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) Aggravates High Glucose- and Hypoxia/Reoxygenation-Induced Injury through Activating ROS-Dependent NLRP3 Inflammasome-Mediated Pyroptosis in H9C2 Cardiomyocytes

Diabetes aggravates myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury because of the combination effects of changes in glucose and lipid energy metabolism, oxidative stress, and systemic inflammatory response. Studies have indicated that myocardial I/R may coincide and interact with sepsis and inflammation. However, the role of LPS in hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury in cardiomyocytes under high glucose conditions is still unclear. Our objective was to examine whether lipopolysaccharide (LPS) could aggravate high glucose- (HG-) and hypoxia/reoxygenation- (H/R-) induced injury by upregulating ROS production to activate NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis in H9C2 cardiomyocytes. H9C2 cardiomyocytes were exposed to HG (30 mM) condition with or without LPS, along with caspase-1 inhibitor (Ac-YVAD-CMK), inflammasome inhibitor (BAY11-7082), ROS scavenger N-acetylcysteine (NAC), or not for 24 h, then subjected to 4 h of hypoxia followed by 2 h of reoxygenation (H/R). The cell viability, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, caspase-1 activity, and intracellular ROS production were detected by using assay kits. The incidence of pyroptosis was detected by calcein-AM/propidium iodide (PI) double staining kit. The concentrations of IL-1β and IL-18 in the supernatants were assessed by ELISA. The mRNA levels of NLRP3, ASC, and caspase-1 were detected by qRT-PCR. The protein levels of NF-κB p65, NLRP3, ASC, cleaved caspase-1 (p10), IL-1β, and IL-18 were detected by western blot. The results indicated that pretreatment LPS with 1 μg/ml not 0.1 μg/ml could efficiently aggravate HG and H/R injury by activating NLRP3 inflammasome to mediate pyroptosis in H9C2 cells, as evidenced by increased LDH release and decreased cell viability in the cells, and increased expression of NLRP3, ASC, cleaved caspase-1 (p10), IL-1β, and IL-18. Meanwhile, Ac-YVAD-CMK, BAY11-7082, or NAC attenuated HG- and H/R-induced H9C2 cell injury with LPS stimulated by reversing the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis. In conclusion, LPS could increase the sensitivity of H9C2 cells to HG and H/R and aggravated HG- and H/R-induced H9C2 cell injury by promoting ROS production to induce NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis.

Antarctic freshwater microalga, Chloromonas reticulata, suppresses inflammation and carcinogenesis

Inflammation triggered by the innate immune system is a strategy to protect organisms from the risk of environmental infection. However, it has recently become clear that inflammation can cause a variety of human diseases, including cancer. In this study, we investigated the effects of an ethanol extract of the Antarctic freshwater microalgae, Chloromonas reticulata (ETCH), on inflammation and carcinogenesis in RAW 264.7 macrophages and HCT116 human colon cancer cells, respectively. ETCH exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity through the dose-dependent modulation of major inflammatory markers such as COX-2, IL-6, iNOS, TNF-α, and NO production. For example, ETCH reduced LPS-induced upregulation of COX-2, IL-6, iNOS, and TNF- alpha mRNA levels, leading to a significant decrease in the levels of LPS-stimulated NO and IL-6 as well as TNF-alpha products. In contract, ETCH exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxic activity against HCT116 cells, yielding a profound reduction in the proliferation of the cancer cells. Furthermore, ETCH induced G2 phase cell cycle arrest by transcriptionally regulating of genes involved in G2 / M transition including p21 (CDKN1A), cyclin B1 (CCNB1), and CDK1; CDKN1A mRNA levels were upregulated in response to ETCH, whereas CCNB1 and CDK1 were downregulated. This study reports for the first time anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects of, C. reticulata and provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms of the linkage between inflammation and cancer.

Phytochemicals: Current strategy to sensitize cancer cells to cisplatin

Cisplatin-based chemotherapeutic regimens are the most frequently used adjuvant treatments for many types of cancer. However, the development of chemoresistance to cisplatin results in treatment failure. Despite the significant developments in understanding the mechanisms of cisplatin resistance, effective strategies to enhance the chemosensitivity of cisplatin are lacking. Phytochemicals are naturally occurring plant-based compounds that can augment the anti-cancer activity of cisplatin, with minimal side effects. Notably, some novel phytochemicals, such as curcumin, not only increase the efficacy of cisplatin but also decrease toxicity induced by cisplatin. However, the exact mechanisms underlying this process remain unclear. In this review, we discussed the progress made in utilizing phytochemicals to enhance the anti-cancer efficacy of cisplatin. We also presented some ideal phytochemicals as novel agents for counteracting cisplatin-induced organ damage.