Honokiol Attenuates Sepsis-Associated Acute Kidney Injury via the Inhibition of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

A derivative of honokiol HM568 has an anti-neuroinflammatory effect in Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the fastest growing neurodegenerative disease in the world at present. Neuroinflammation plays an important role in Parkinson's disease. In our study, we initially screened magnolol/honokiol derivatives synthesized by our group for their potential anti-neuroinflammatory properties. This was done using LPS-activated BV-2 microglial cell and MPP + -induced PC-12 cell models. Most of derivatives had increased anti-inflammatory activities and decreased toxicities compared to raw materials. Then, compounds were scored with inflammatory factors IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-6 by molecular docking in silico. Our studies revealed the strongest binding compound HM568 which binds with honokiol and metformin. Furthermore, HM568 showed no acute toxicity in mice through acute toxicity. And it is stable under high temperature, high humidity and strong light irradiation. Combining cell experiments and computer results, HM568 was considered for further in vivo pharmacological validations. Intraperitoneal injection administration of MPTP into C57BL/6 mice was utilized as Parkinson's animal model. Results showed that administration of HM568 for 14 days in MPTP-PD mice led to a significant alleviation in weight loss and movement disorders. Further HM568 could significantly down-regulate the expression levels of inflammatory factors IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α in brain tissue of the mouse model, reduce the level of caspase-3 and the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax, and up-regulate the level of transforming factor TGF-β, thus producing anti-apoptosis and anti-neuroinflammatory effects on neuronal cells. In terms of pathological features, HM568 could reduce the infiltration of neuronal cells and alleviate the development of lesions, promote the transformation of microglia from M1 negative phenotype to M2 type, and reverse the reduction of TH-positive immune cells in mouse neurons induced by MPTP. The administration of HM568 could reduce the abnormal accumulation of α-syn, and thus produce neuroprotective effect on MPTP-PD mice. Cell experiments, molecular docking and animal experiments thus depict HM568 as a promising agent to delay neuronal degeneration in PD, and its mechanism is related to anti-neuroinflammation.

Naturally-derived modulators of the Nrf2 pathway and their roles in the intervention of diseases

Cumulative evidence has verified that persistent oxidative stress is involved in the development of various chronic diseases, including pulmonary, neurodegenerative, kidney, cardiovascular, and liver diseases, as well as cancers. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) plays a pivotal role in regulating cellular oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions, making it a focal point for disease prevention and treatment strategies. Natural products are essential resources for discovering leading molecules for new drug research and development. In this review, we comprehensively outlined the progression of the knowledge on the Nrf2 pathway, Nrf2 activators in clinical trials, the naturally-derived Nrf2 modulators (particularly from 2014-present), as well as their effects on the pathogenesis of chronic diseases.

Dietary honokiol supplementation improves antioxidant capacity, enhances intestinal health, and modulates cecal microbial composition and function of broiler chickens

Honokiol is a multifunctional polyphenol present in Magnolia officinalis. The effects of honokiol as a supplement in broiler chicken diets, and the underlying mechanisms, remain unclear. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of honokiol on the growth performance, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal histomorphology of broiler chickens and to explore the underlying mechanisms. In total, 240 one-day-old broilers were randomly allocated to 5 dietary treatments, with 6 replicate pens and 8 birds per pen. Birds were fed a basal diet supplemented with 0 (blank control, BC), 100, 200, or 400 mg/kg honokiol (H100, H200, and H400), or 200 mg/kg bacitracin zinc (PC) for 42 d. The results showed that H200 and H400 increased body weight gain (BWG) and decreased feed conversion ratio (FCR) during the starter period (P < 0.05). H100 and H200 increased total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity in the serum and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) amount in the jejunum on d 42 (P < 0.05). Moreover, H100 increased villus height-to-crypt depth ratio in both the jejunum and ileum on d 21 (P < 0.05). PCR analysis showed that honokiol upregulated intestinal expression of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and downregulated intestinal expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) on d 42 (P < 0.05). The Shannon index, which represents the microbial alpha diversity, was reduced for the PC, H200, and H400 groups. Notably, honokiol treatment altered the cecal microbial community structure and promoted the enrichment of several bacteria, including Firmicutes and Lactobacillus. Higher production of short-chain fatty acids was observed in the cecal digesta of H100 birds, accompanied by an enriched glycolysis/gluconeogenesis pathway, according to the functional prediction of the cecal microbiota. This study provides evidence that honokiol improves growth performance, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal health of broiler chickens, possibly by manipulating the composition and function of the microbial community.

Honokiol Exhibits Anti-NLRP3 Inflammasome and Antimicrobial Properties in Neisseria gonorrhoeae-Infected Macrophages

Purpose

The NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, crucial in infectious and inflammatory diseases by regulating IL-1β, presents a target for disease management. Neisseria gonorrhoeae causes gonorrhea in over 87 million people annually, with previous research revealing NLRP3 inflammasome activation in infected macrophages. No natural products have been reported to counteract this activation. Exploring honokiol, a phenolic compound from Chinese herbal medicine, we investigated its impact on NLRP3 inflammasome activation in N. gonorrhoeae-infected macrophages.

Methods

Honokiol's impact on the protein expression of pro-inflammatory mediators was analyzed using ELISA and Western blotting. The generation of intracellular H2O2 and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) was detected through specific fluorescent probes (CM-H2DCFDA and MitoSOX, respectively) and analyzed by flow cytometry. Mitochondrial membrane integrity was assessed using specific fluorescent probes (MitoTracker and DiOC2(3)) and analyzed by flow cytometry. Additionally, the effect of honokiol on the viability of N. gonorrhoeae was examined through an in vitro colony-forming units assay.

Results

Honokiol effectively inhibits caspase-1, caspase-11 and GSDMD activation and reduces the extracellular release of IL-1β, NLRP3, and apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC) in N. gonorrhoeae-infected macrophages. Detailed investigations have demonstrated that honokiol lowers the production of H2O2 and the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in N. gonorrhoeae-infected macrophages. Importantly, the phosphorylation of JNK1/2 and p38 and the activation of NF-κB remain unaffected. Moreover, honokiol reduces the N. gonorrhoeae-mediated generation of reactive oxygen species within the mitochondria, preserving their integrity. Additionally, honokiol suppresses the expression of the pro-inflammatory mediator IL-6 and inducible nitric oxide synthase induced by N. gonorrhoeae independently of NLRP3. Impressively, honokiol exhibits in vitro anti-gonococcal activity against N. gonorrhoeae.

Conclusion

Honokiol inhibits the NLRP3 inflammasome in N. gonorrhoeae-infected macrophages and holds great promise for further development as an active ingredient in the prevention and treatment of symptoms associated with gonorrhea.

Deciphering the prognostic significance of anoikis-related lncRNAs in invasive breast cancer: from comprehensive bioinformatics analysis to functional experimental validation

The global prevalence of breast cancer necessitates the development of innovative prognostic markers and therapeutic strategies. This study investigated the prognostic implications of anoikis-related long non-coding RNAs (ARLs) in invasive breast cancer (IBC), which is an area that has not been extensively explored. By integrating the RNA sequence transcriptome and clinical data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and employing advanced regression analyses, we devised a novel prognostic model based on ARL scores. ARL scores correlated with diverse clinicopathological parameters, cellular pathways, distinct mutation patterns, and immune responses, thereby affecting both immune cell infiltration and anticipated responses to chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Additionally, the overexpression of a specific lncRNA, AL133467.1, significantly impeded the proliferation and migration, as well as possibly the anoikis resistance of breast cancer cells. These findings highlight the potential of the ARL signature as a robust prognostic tool and a promising basis for personalized IBC treatment strategies.

A comprehensive insight into the molecular and cellular mechanisms of action of resveratrol on complications of sepsis a systematic review

Sepsis and septic shock are still one of the most important medical challenges. Sepsis is an extreme and uncontrolled response of the innate immune system to invading pathogenesis. Resveratrol (3,5,4'-trihydroxytrans-stilbene), is a phenolic and non-flavonoid compound naturally produced by some plants and fruits. The object of the current study is to systematically review the impacts of resveratrol and its mechanisms of function in the management of sepsis and its related complications. The guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statements were applied to perform the study (PROSPERO: CRD42021289357). We searched Embase, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed, ProQuest, and Scopus databases up to January 2023 by using the relevant keywords. Study criteria were met by 72 out of 1415 articles screened. The results of this systematic review depict that resveratrol can reduces the complications of sepsis by affecting inflammatory pathways, oxidative stress, and modulating immune responses. Future human randomized clinical trials are necessary due to the promising therapeutic effects of resveratrol on sepsis complications and the lack of clinical trials in this regard.

Effects and mechanisms of Chinese herbal medicine on IgA nephropathy

BACKGROUND

Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN), is the main cause of end-stage renal disease, that causes serious physical and psychological burden to patients worldwide. Some traditional treatment measures, such as blocking the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, controlling blood pressure, and following a low-protein diet, may not achieve satisfactory results. Therefore, more effective and safe therapies for IgAN are urgently needed.

PURPOSE

The aim of this review is to summarize the clinical efficacy of Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) and their active ingredients in the treatment and management of IgAN based on the results of clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses, to fully understand the advantages and perspectives of CHMs in the treatment of IgAN.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

For this review, the following electronic databases were consulted: PubMed, ResearchGate, Science Direct, Web of Science, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure and Wanfang Data, "IgA nephropathy," "traditional Chinese medicine," "Chinese herbal medicine," "herb," "mechanism," "Meta-analysis," "systematic review," "RCT" and their combinations were the keywords to search the relevant literature. Data were collected from 1990 to 2022.

RESULTS

This review found that the active ingredients of CHMs commonly act on multiple signaling pathways in the clinical treatment of IgAN, mainly with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrosis effects, and regulation of autophagy.

CONCLUSION

Compared with the single-target therapy of modern medicine, CHMs can regulate the corresponding pathways from the aspects of anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, anti-fibrosis and autophagy to play a multi-target treatment of IgAN through syndrome differentiation and treatment, which has good clinical efficacy and can be used as the first choice or alternative therapy for IgAN treatment. This review provides evidence and research direction for a comprehensive clinical understanding of the protective effect of Chinese herbal medicine on IgAN.

Synthesis, Quality Control and Preliminary Activity Evaluation of a New Compound HM475

Based on the principle of molecular splicing and theory of traditional Chinese medicine pairs, a new multi-active compound (HM475) was synthesized by connecting metformin with honokiol, and its structure was characterized, which not only reduced the toxicity of raw materials, but also maintained the original activity, and had a certain significance in research and innovation. At the same time, quality control and preliminary activity evaluation were carried out, and the effect of HM475 on neuroinflammation was further explored, which provided a new idea for drug development of neurodegenerative diseases.

Blockade of Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced kidney injury by inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB signaling

Blockade of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) has been shown to alleviate lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endotoxic shock and reduce sepsis mortality, but its effect on LPS-induced kidney damage has not been reported. Herein, we established a mouse kidney injury model by intraperitoneal injection of 10 mg/kg LPS and established an in vitro renal tubular epithelial cell injury model by stimulating TCMK-1 cells with 10 mg/L LPS. We found that pretreatment with 1-methyl tryptophan (1-MT), an IDO inhibitor, significantly improved LPS-induced mouse survival, and IDO knockout (KO) mice also had higher survival rates after LPS exposure than wild-type mice. At the same time, IDO KO or pretreatment with 1-MT not only reduced serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, renal tubular injury pathological score, but also inflammatory factors and oxidative stress status in serum or kidney of LPS-exposed mice. In vitro, blockade of IDO with 1-MT significantly inhibited LPS-induced apoptosis, inflammation and oxidative stress in TCMK-1 cells. In addition, blockade of IDO significantly inhibited LPS-activated TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in kidney of mice or in TCMK-1 cells. In conclusion, our results suggested that blockade of IDO attenuated kidney inflammation, apoptosis and oxidative stress to protect against LPS-induced septic kidney injury via inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Honokiol alleviates sepsis-associated cardiac dysfunction via attenuating inflammation, apoptosis and oxidative stress

OBJECTIVE

Honokiol, a natural active compound extracted from Chinese herbal medicine, can ameliorate acute lung and kidney injury of sepsis. This study was to explore the effects of honokiol on sepsis-associated cardiac dysfunction and the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

Septic mice were induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and septic HL-1 or AC16 cells were induced by LPS.

RESULTS

Honokiol improved the survival and alleviated cardiac dysfunction in mice with CLP-induced sepsis. Honokiol inhibited the increased interleukin (IL) 1-β, IL-6 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α in the serum and heart of CLP- and LSP-induced septic mice. Honokiol treatment reversed the increased levels of IL1-β, IL-6 and TNF-α in LPS-induced HL-1 cells. Honokiol treatment also decreased the elevated levels of IL1-β, IL-6 and TNF-α in LPS-induced AC16 cells. The increased cardiac apoptosis in CLP- and LPS-induced septic mice was alleviated by honokiol. The enhancement of oxidative stress in the heart of CLP- and LPS-induced septic mice was suppressed after honokiol administration.

CONCLUSION

These results showed that honokiol could ameliorate sepsis-associated cardiac dysfunction via attenuating inflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress. Honokiol is a prospective drug for sepsis-associated heart damage in the future.

Neohesperidin dihydrochalbazone protects against septic acute kidney injury in mice

BACKGROUND

Neohesperidin dihydrochalbazone (NHDC) shows a range of pharmacological actions, however, in septic acute kidney injury (AKI), the effect of NHDC is little known.

PURPOSE

To assess the role of NHDC against AKI and the possible mechanisms.

METHODS

In vivo, we used different concentration of NHDC (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) treated septic AKI model of mice. Moreover, in vitro, in HK-2 cells, a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced cell model was treated with 10, 20, and 30 μM NHDC. Next, kidney tissue pathologic change, marker of renal injury, apoptosis, and inflammatory factors were assessed using hematoxylin and eosin staining, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling, and western blot. HK-2 cell apoptosis and viability were assessed via flow cytometry and cell counting kit-8. In HK-2 cells and tissues, NLRP3, caspase 1, ASC, and P38/ERK 1/2/JNK pathway related protein levels were tested using western blot.

RESULTS

NHDC (100 and 200 mg/kg) significantly attenuated kidney injury in caecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-treated mice. In CLP-treated mice, the level of BUN, Scr, KIM-1, and NAGL was reduced by 100 and 200 mg/kg NHDC. Furthermore, 100 and 200 mg/kg NHDC inhibited inflammation by reducing the production of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β, and inhibited oxidative stress by regulating the change of MDA, SOD, GSH, and CAT. NHDC (100 and 200 mg/kg) inhibited renal cell apoptosis by increasing Bcl2 protein expression and inhibiting Bax and cleaved caspase-3 protein expression. Additionally, NHDC (100 and 200 mg/kg) inhibited the protein levels of phosphorylated (p)-P38, p-JNK, p-ERK 1/2, NLRP3, caspase 1, ASC. In vitro, in LPS-stimulated HK-2 cells, NHDC (20 and 30 μM) increased cell viability, reduced cell apoptosis, restrained inflammation by reducing the content of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β, and inhibited the protein expression of caspase 1, NLRP3, ASC, p-P38, p-JNK, and p-ERK1/2. Importantly, the promotive effect of NHDC on HK-2 cell viability was reversed by DHR (an activator of P38 MAPK signaling pathway), and DHR reversed the inhibitive effects of NHDC on HK-2 cell apoptosis and inflammation.

CONCLUSION

For the first time, NHDC was found to inhibit oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in AKI model, which was related to the inhibition of P38 MAPK pathways. Our findings provided the theoretical basis for NHDC on the prevention of AKI.

Honokiol alleviated neurodegeneration by reducing oxidative stress and improving mitochondrial function in mutant SOD1 cellular and mouse models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting both upper and lower motor neurons (MNs) with large unmet medical needs. Multiple pathological mechanisms are considered to contribute to the progression of ALS, including neuronal oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Honokiol (HNK) has been reported to exert therapeutic effects in several neurologic disease models including ischemia stroke, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Here we found that honokiol also exhibited protective effects in ALS disease models both in vitro and in vivo. Honokiol improved the viability of NSC-34 motor neuron-like cells that expressed the mutant G93A SOD1 proteins (SOD1-G93A cells for short). Mechanistical studies revealed that honokiol alleviated cellular oxidative stress by enhancing glutathione (GSH) synthesis and activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2)-antioxidant response element (ARE) pathway. Also, honokiol improved both mitochondrial function and morphology via fine-tuning mitochondrial dynamics in SOD1-G93A cells. Importantly, honokiol extended the lifespan of the SOD1-G93A transgenic mice and improved the motor function. The improvement of antioxidant capacity and mitochondrial function was further confirmed in the spinal cord and gastrocnemius muscle in mice. Overall, honokiol showed promising preclinical potential as a multiple target drug for ALS treatment.

Honokiol Ameliorates DSS-Induced Mouse Colitis by Inhibiting Inflammation and Oxidative Stress and Improving the Intestinal Barrier

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a multifactor intestinal disease with increased morbidity. Recently, pleiotropic drugs with exact biosafety have been urgently needed. Honokiol (HKL) is the major bioactive component of traditional Chinese medicine "Houpu," with almost no toxic effects and approved anti-inflammation, antioxidant, antispasmodic, etc. effects. This study examined the therapeutic effect of HKL in dextran sulfate sodium- (DSS-) induced experimental colitis. In vivo, C57BL/6 mice received 3% DSS for seven days to generate UC, and HKL was pretreated for five days and given during the whole DSS-induced period. In vitro, RAW264.7 macrophages were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce inflammation, and mouse colon epithelial cells (MCEC) were treated with HKL or pretreated with HKL and then stimulated with LPS-induced macrophage supernate to investigate the barrier enhancement roles. HKL significantly ameliorated disease activity index (DAI), colon length, and histopathological scores in DSS-induced colitis. The inflammatory mediators of interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) were decreased, and the tight conjunction proteins were increased in the HKL-treated group both in vivo and in vitro. Above all, HKL can relieve experimental UC through anti-inflammation, antioxidant, and epithelial barrier enhancement roles. These effects were associated with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) p65, sirtuin3 (SIRT3)/adenosine 5'-monophosphate- (AMP-) activated protein kinase (AMPK), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2)/heme oxygenase 1 (HO1) signaling pathways. In conclusion, after further clinical studies, HKL may be a promising drug for UC.

Honokiol Microemulsion Causes Stage-Dependent Toxicity Via Dual Roles in Oxidation-Reduction and Apoptosis through FoxO Signaling Pathway

Honokiol, the main bioactive extract of Magnolia officinalis, exhibits extensive therapeutic actions. Its treatment for advanced non-small cell lung cancer is undergoing clinical trials in China. However, the published safety evaluation studies have focused on extract mixtures of Magnolia officinalis in which the honokiol content was well below the reported clinical dose of the honokiol monomer. Therefore, safety assessment of the honokiol monomer is urgently needed. Our previous studies have already demonstrated that a high dose of the honokiol microemulsion (0.6 μg/mL) induces developmental toxicity in rats and zebrafish by inducing oxidative stress. By exploring the relationship between time and toxicity, we found that developmental toxic responses were stage-dependent. They mainly occurred within the first 24 h post fertilization (hpf) especially the first 12 hpf. In zebrafish, low doses of honokiol microemulsion (0.15, 0.21 μg/mL) significantly decreased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and increased the mRNA expression of bcl-2. In contrast, high dose (0.6 μg/mL) increased the levels of ROS and MDA, decreased activities and mRNA expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), and increased mRNA expression of bax, c-jnk, p53 and bim. By acridine orange staining, we found that a high dose of honokiol microemulsion induced apoptosis mainly in zebrafish brain. In rat pheochromocytoma cells (PC12 cells), low doses of the honokiol microemulsion (1, 5, 10 µM) exerted a protective effect against H₂O₂-induced oxidative damage while high doses (≥20 µM) induced oxidative stress, which further confirms the dual effects of honokiol microemulsion on nerve cells. These dual roles of the honokiol microemulsion in oxidation-reduction reactions and apoptosis may be regulated by the forkhead box class O (FoxO) signaling pathway. Due to the potential of developmental toxicity, we recommend that the administration of high dose honokiol microemulsion in pregnant women should be considered with caution.

Honokiol and Alpha-Mangostin Inhibit Mayaro Virus Replication through Different Mechanisms

Mayaro virus (MAYV) is an emerging arbovirus with an increasing circulation across the Americas. In the present study, we evaluated the potential antiviral activity of the following natural compounds against MAYV and other arboviruses: Sanguinarine, (R)-Shikonin, Fisetin, Honokiol, Tanshinone IIA, and α-Mangostin. Sanguinarine and Shikonin showed significant cytotoxicity, whereas Fisetin, Honokiol, Tanshinone IIA, and α-Mangostin were well tolerated in all the cell lines tested. Honokiol and α-Mangostin treatment protected Vero-E6 cells against MAYV-induced damage and resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in viral progeny yields for each of the MAYV strains and human cell lines assessed. These compounds also reduced MAYV viral RNA replication in HeLa cells. In addition, Honokiol and α-Mangostin disrupted MAYV infection at different stages of the virus life cycle. Moreover, Honokiol and α-Mangostin decreased Una, Chikungunya, and Zika viral titers and downmodulated the expression of E1 and nsP1 viral proteins from MAYV, Una, and Chikungunya. Finally, in Honokiol- and α-Mangostin-treated HeLa cells, we observed an upregulation in the expression of type I interferon and specific interferon-stimulated genes, including IFNα, IFNβ, MxA, ISG15, OAS2, MDA-5, TNFα, and IL-1β, which may promote an antiviral cellular state. Our results indicate that Honokiol and α-Mangostin present potential broad-spectrum activity against different arboviruses through different mechanisms.

Lipidomics reveals the potential mechanism of honokiol against adenine-induced chronic kidney disease

Honokiol (HKL), a biphenolic compound, is derived from the bark of Magnolia officinalis, which is used in traditional Chinese medicine for gastrointestinal complaints. HKL has diverse pharmacological activities and has protective effects in various disease models. However, the role and mechanism of HKL in treating chronic kidney disease (CKD) remain unclear. This study was designed to investigate whether HKL can alleviate CKD and the potential mechanism by which it acts. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed 0.75% w/w adenine feed for 3 weeks to induce CKD. HKL was administered by gavage at a dose of 5 mg/kg/day for 4 weeks. Using a special kit, serum creatinine (Scr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were measured. To assess renal pathology, periodic acid-Schiff and Masson’s trichrome staining were conducted. Renal lipid profiles were analyzed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (UHPLC/MS). The results showed that the administration of HKL reduced Scr and BUN and alleviated renal tubular atrophy and tubulointerstitial fibrosis in an adenine-induced CKD rat model. By using lipidomics, we identified 113 lipids (47 lipids in negative ion mode, 66 lipids in positive ion mode) that could be significantly reversed by HKL treatment in CKD rat kidneys. Most of these lipids belonged to the phosphatidylcholine (PC), ceramide (Cer), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), and triacylglycerol (TAG) classes. Moreover, HKL improved fatty acid oxidation in the kidneys of CKD rats. In conclusion, this study found that HKL can protect against adenine-induced CKD, possibly through the regulation of lipid metabolism.

Honokiol Antagonizes Cadmium-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Quail by Alleviating Autophagy Dysfunction, Apoptosis and Mitochondrial UPR Inhibition with Its Antioxidant Properties

Japanese quail is a highly economically valuable bird due to its commercial production for meat and eggs. Although studies have reported Cadmium (Cd) is a ubiquitous heavy metal that can cause injury to various organs, the molecular mechanisms of Cd on quail kidney injury remain largely unknown. It has been reported that Honokiol (HKL), a highly functional antioxidant, can protect cells against oxidative stress effectively. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of Cd on quail kidneys injury and the protective effect of HKL on Cd-induced nephrotoxicity. A total of 40 Japanese quails were randomly divided into four groups: the control group, Cd treatment group, Co-treatment group and HKL treatment group. The results showed that Cd resulted in significant changes in growth performance, kidney histopathology and kidney biochemical status, antioxidant enzymes and oxidative stress parameters, and ultrastructure of renal tubular epithelial cells, compared with controls. Cd increased the expression of autophagy-related and apoptosis-related genes, but decreased expression of lysosomal function-related and UPR^mt-related genes. The co-treatment group ameliorated Cd-induced nephrotoxicity by alleviating oxidative stress, inhibiting apoptosis, repairing autophagy dysfunction and UPR^mt disorder. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of HKL showed beneficial effects on Japanese quail kidney injury caused by Cd.

Tubule-mitophagic secretion of SerpinG1 reprograms macrophages to instruct anti-septic acute kidney injury efficacy of high-dose ascorbate mediated by NRF2 transactivation

High-dose ascorbate confers tubular mitophagy responsible for septic acute kidney injury (AKI) amelioration, yet its biological roles in immune regulation remain poorly understood.

Methods: The role of tubular mitophagy in macrophage polarization upon high-dose ascorbate treatment was assessed by fluorescence-activated cell sorter analysis (FACS) in vitro and by immunofluorescence in AKI models of LPS-induced endotoxemia (LIE) from Pax8-cre; Atg7^flox/flox mice. The underlying mechanisms were revealed by RNA-sequencing, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), luciferase reporter, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and adeno-associated viral vector serotype 9 (AAV9) delivery assays.

Results: High-dose ascorbate enables conversion of macrophages from a pro-inflammatory M1 subtype to an anti-inflammatory M2 subtype in murine AKI models of LIE, leading to decreased renal IL-1β and IL-18 production, reduced mortality and alleviated tubulotoxicity. Blockade of tubular mitophagy abrogates anti-inflammatory macrophages polarization under the high-dose ascorbate-exposed coculture systems. Similar abrogations are verified in LIE mice with tubular epithelium-specific ablation of Atg7, where the high-dose ascorbate-inducible renal protection and survival improvement are substantially weaker than their control littermates. Mechanistically, high-dose ascorbate stimulates tubular secretion of serpin family G member 1 (SerpinG1) through maintenance of mitophagy, for which nuclear factor-erythroid 2 related factor 2 (NRF2) transactivation is required. SerpinG1 perpetuates anti-inflammatory macrophages to prevent septic AKI, while kidney-specific disruption of SerpinG1 by adeno-associated viral vector serotype 9 (AAV9)-short hairpin RNA (shRNA) delivery thwarts the anti-inflammatory macrophages polarization and anti-septic AKI efficacy of high-dose ascorbate.

Conclusion: Our study identifies SerpinG1 as an intermediate of tubular mitophagy-orchestrated myeloid function during septic AKI and reveals a novel rationale for ascorbate-based therapy.

Pinocembrin ameliorates lipopolysaccharide‑induced HK‑2 cell apoptosis and inflammation by regulating endoplasmic reticulum stress

Pinocembrin (PINO) is a natural flavonoid drug that possesses a range of biological activities, including antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The specific aim of the present study was to examine the pharmacological role of PINO in sepsis-mediated acute kidney injury (AKI), as well as to investigate the potential underlying mechanism. Human renal tubular epithelial cells (of the HK-2 cell line) were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 24 h to simulate septic AKI in vitro, after which the experiments were repeated and the cells were pretreated with increasing concentrations of PINO (0, 50, 100 and 200 µg/ml). Using an MTT cell viability assay, PINO was revealed to be non-toxic to HK-2 cells. In LPS-treated HK-2 cells, PINO alleviated the loss of cell viability. Western blotting was used to analyze the expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α, and the results revealed that PINO decreased the expression levels of these cytokines in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) activities were assessed using MDA and GSH assay kits and it was revealed that PINO decreased the significantly increased level of malondialdehyde, while it also decreased the reduction in the level of GSH in LPS-challenged HK-2 cells. In addition, a TUNEL assay and western blotting were performed to examine cell apoptosis, and PINO was identified to significantly inhibit the level of apoptosis in LPS-induced HK-2 cells. Subsequently, the expression levels of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)-associated factors, including activating transcription factor 4, C/EBP homologous protein and phosphorylated/total eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 subunit 1 were examined by western blotting and it was demonstrated that ERS was triggered in HK-2 cells exposed to LPS, although this was partly circumvented through PINO treatment in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, after the addition of tunicamycin, which acts as an agonist of ERS, the aforementioned experiments were performed again. Tunicamycin led to partial abolition of the protective function of PINO against inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis in LPS-challenged HK-2 cells. Overall, the results of the present study demonstrated that PINO was able to ameliorate the injuries sustained by LPS-challenged HK-2 cells via modulating ERS to reduce inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis; therefore, PINO may be a novel candidate drug for treating septic AKI.

Programmed Cell Death in Sepsis Associated Acute Kidney Injury

Sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (SA-AKI) is common in patients with severe sepsis, and has a high incidence rate and high mortality rate in ICU patients. Most patients progress to AKI before drug treatment is initiated. Early studies suggest that the main mechanism of SA-AKI is that sepsis leads to vasodilation, hypotension and shock, resulting in insufficient renal blood perfusion, finally leading to renal tubular cell ischemia and necrosis. Research results in recent years have shown that programmed cell death such as apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis and autophagy play important roles. In the early stage of sepsis-related AKI, autophagy bodies form and inhibit various types of programmed cell death. With the progress of disease, programmed cell death begins. Apoptosis promoter represents caspase-8-induced apoptosis and apoptosis effector represents caspase-3-induced apoptosis, however, caspase-11 and caspase-1 regulate gasdermin D-mediated pyroptosis. Caspase-8 and receptor interacting kinase 1 bodies mediate necroptosis. This review focuses on the pathophysiological mechanisms of various programmed cell death in sepsis-related AKI.

Preconditioned MSCs Alleviate Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats by Improving the Neurological Function and the Inhibition of Apoptosis

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have great application prospects in the treatment of ischemic injury. However, their long-time cultivation before transplantation and poor survival after transplantation greatly limit the therapeutic effect and applications. This study aimed to investigate whether MSCs under the ischemic microenvironment could improve their survival and better alleviate cerebral ischemic injury. Firstly, we used ischemic brain tissue to culture MSCs and evaluated the functional changes of MSCs. Then a middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model was induced in rats, and the pretreated MSCs were injected via the tail vein. The adhesive removal test, rotarod test, modified neurological severity score, and pathological analyses were applied to assess the rats' neurological function. Then the expression of neuron and apoptosis related markers was detected. The results indicated that ischemic brain tissue pretreated MSCs promoted the proliferation and the release of the growth factors of MSCs. Meanwhile, in MCAO model rats, transplantation of pretreated MSCs enhanced the neurogenesis, attenuated behavioral changes, reduced infarct size, and inhibited apoptosis. The expression of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), NF-L, and NeuN were increased, while BCL2-Associated X (Bax) and Caspase-3 decreased. Our results suggest that MSCs pretreatment with stroke brain tissue could be an effective strategy in treating cerebral ischemic injury.

Polyphenols and Their Metabolites in Renal Diseases: An Overview

Kidney diseases constitute a worldwide public health problem, contributing to morbidity and mortality. The present study aimed to provide an overview of the published data regarding the potential beneficial effects of polyphenols on major kidney diseases, namely acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, diabetic nephropathy, renal cancer, and drug-induced nephrotoxicity. This study consists of a bibliographical review including in vitro and in vivo studies dealing with the effects of individual compounds. An analysis of the polyphenol metabolome in human urine was also conducted to estimate those compounds that are most likely to be responsible for the kidney protective effects of polyphenols. The biological effects of polyphenols can be highly attributed to the modulation of specific signaling cascades including those involved in oxidative stress responses, anti-inflammation processes, and apoptosis. There is increasing evidence that polyphenols afford great potential in renal disease protection. However, this evidence (especially when in vitro studies are involved) should be considered with caution before its clinical translation, particularly due to the unfavorable pharmacokinetics and extensive metabolization that polyphenols undergo in the human body. Future research should consider polyphenols and their metabolites that indeed reach kidney tissues.

Cul4a attenuates LPS-induced acute kidney injury via blocking NF-kB signaling pathway in sepsis

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common disease that can develop into end-stage kidney disease. Sepsis is one of the main causes of AKI. Currently, there is no satisfactory way to treat septic AKI. Therefore, we have shown the protective function of Cul4a in septic AKI and its molecular mechanism.

Methods

The cellular and animal models of septic AKI were established by using lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Western blot (WB) was employed to analyze Cul4a expression. RT-qPCR was employed to test the expression of Cul4a, SOD1, SOD2, GPX1, CAT, IL-6, TNF-a, Bcl-2, IL1b, Bax and KIM-1 mRNA. ELISA was performed to detect the contents of inflammatory factors and LDH. CCK-8 was utilized to detect cell viability. Flow cytometry was utilized to analyze the apoptosis. DHE-ROS kit was used to detect the content of ROS.

Results

Cul4a was down-regulated in cellular and animal models of septic AKI. Oxidative stress is obviously induced by LPS, as well as apoptosis and inflammation. However, these can be significantly inhibited by up-regulating Cul4a. Moreover, LPS induced the activation of the NF-kB pathway, which could also be inhibited by overexpression of Cul4a.

Conclusions

Cul4awas found to be a protective factor in septic AKI, which could inhibit LPS-induced oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammation of HK-2 cells by inhibiting the NF-kB pathway.

The rich pharmacological activities of Magnolia officinalis and secondary effects based on significant intestinal contributions

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Magnolia officinalis Cortex (M. officinalis) is a traditional herbal drug widely used in Asian countries. Depending on its multiple biological activities, M. officinalis is used to regulate gastrointestinal (GI) motility, relieve cough and asthma, prevent cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, and treat depression and anxiety.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

We aimed to review the abundant form of pharmacodynamics activity and potential mechanisms of action of M. officinalis and the characteristics of the internal processes of the main components. The potential mechanisms of local and distance actions of M. officinalis based on GI tract was provided, and it was used to reveal the interconnections between traditional use, phytochemistry, and pharmacology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Published literatures about M. officinalis and its main components were collected from several scientific databases, including PubMed, Elsevier, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar and Web of Science etc. RESULTS: M. officinalis was shown multiple effects including effects on digestive system, respiratory system, central system, which is consistent with traditional applications, as well as some other activities such as cardiovascular system, anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and so on. The mechanisms of these activities are abundant. Its chief ingredients such as magnolol and honokiol can be metabolized into active metabolites in vivo, which can increase water solubility and bioavailability and exert pharmacological activity in the whole body. In the GI tract, M. officinalis and its main ingredient can regulate GI hormones and substance metabolism, protect the intestinal barrier and affect the gut microbiota (GM). These actions are effective to improve local discomfort and some distal symptoms such as depression, asthma, or metabolic disorders.

CONCLUSIONS

Although M. officinalis has rich pharmacological effects, the GI tract makes great contributions to it. The GI tract is not only an important place for absorption and metabolism but also a key site to help M. officinalis exert local and distal efficacy. Pharmacodynamical studies on the efficacies of distal tissues based on the contributions of the GI tract hold great potential for understanding the benefits of M. officinalis and providing new ideas for the treatment of important diseases.

Honokiol inhibits endoplasmic reticulum stress-associated lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation and apoptosis in bovine endometrial epithelial cells

Honokiol (HKL) has been previously reported to exert anti-inflammatory effects in numerous diseases. However, the role of HKL in endometritis remains unclear. The present study aimed to explore and elucidate the role of HKL in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced in vitro model of endometritis. Bovine endometrial epithelial cells (bEECs) were pre-treated with HKL at doses of 1, 10 and 20 µM, followed by 1 µg/ml LPS. MTT assay was then used to detect cell viability. ELISA was utilized to measure the levels of the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 in bEECs culture supernatants. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR was further performed to examine the mRNA expression levels of these cytokines. Cell apoptosis was observed by TUNEL staining and the levels of Bcl-2, Bax, cleaved caspase 3 and cleaved caspase 9 were assayed by western blotting. Western blotting was also performed to detect the expression levels of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-related proteins activating transcription factor 6, CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein homologous protein, inositol-requiring enzyme 1 and cleaved caspase 12 in bEECs. LPS treatment reduced cell viability and HKL treatment improved the viability of bEECs after LPS treatment. The LPS-induced inflammatory response and apoptosis in bEECs were also inhibited by HKL treatment. Additionally, the increased expression of ER stress-related proteins induced by LPS was reversed by HKL treatment. Following stimulation with the ER stress inducer tunicamycin, it was revealed that HKL attenuated ER stress and inhibited LPS-induced inflammatory response and apoptosis in bEECs. In summary, HKL inhibited ER stress associated with LPS-induced inflammation and apoptosis in bEECs, providing evidence that HKL can serve to be a novel agent for the treatment of endometritis.

The Therapeutic Value of Hydralazine in Reducing Inflammatory Response, Oxidative Stress, and Mortality in Animal Sepsis: Involvement of the PI3K/AKT Pathway

ABSTRACT

Sepsis is an amplified systemic immune-inflammatory response produced by a microorganism, which involves activation of inflammatory cytokine signaling pathways and oxidative stress. A variety of studies have shown that hydralazine (HDZ) has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory proprieties. Therefore, we hypothesize that HDZ can improve the clinical outcome of sepsis. Thus, this work aimed to evaluate therapeutic value of HDZ in reducing inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and mortality in animal sepsis, and to investigate its possible mechanism of action. Sepsis was induced by the cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) method in Wistar rats. After surgery, the animals were randomly divided into three groups: sham, sepsis, and sepsis + HDZ (1 mg/kg, s.c.). All groups were monitored for 48 h to assess survival rate, and clinical, hemodynamic, biochemical, and cellular parameters. After euthanasia, blood, spleen, liver, and kidneys were collected for analysis. Blood serum cytokines, tissue myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and oxidative stress parameters were assessed. Involvement of the PI3K/Akt pathway was also investigated. Sepsis was successfully induced by the CLP technique. HDZ treatment increased the survival rate (from 50% to 90%), improved glycemia control, reduced the clinical severity sepsis and mean arterial pressure; and prevented increased MPO activity, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-10 levels, and oxidative damage markers. Additionally, HDZ significantly prevented the increase of Akt activation in the liver and kidney. HDZ largely mitigated the effects of sepsis by suppressing inflammatory and antioxidant responses via the PI3K/Akt pathway. These findings provide evidence that HDZ can be a new therapeutic alternative for treating sepsis.

Matairesinol exerts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in sepsis-mediated brain injury by repressing the MAPK and NF-κB pathways through up-regulating AMPK

Brain injury is a familiar complication of severe sepsis, in which excessive inflammation and oxidative stress are the main mechanisms leading to acute brain injury. Here, we focus on probing the function and mechanism of Matairesinol (Mat) in sepsis-mediated brain injury. We established a rat sepsis model by cecal ligation and perforation (CLP) and constructed an in vitro sepsis model by treating neurons and microglia with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Rats and cells were treated with varying concentrations of Mat, and the changes of neural function, neuronal apoptosis, microglial activation, neuroinflammation and the expression of oxidative stress factors in brain tissues were examined. Additionally, the activation of the MAPK, NF-κB and AMPK pathways in brain tissues and cells was evaluated by Western blot (WB) and/or immunohistochemistry (IHC). Our findings illustrated that Mat improved neuronal apoptosis and weakened microglial activation in CLP rats. Meanwhile, Mat hampered the expression of pro-inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ, IL-8, and MCP1) and facilitated the contents of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in brain tissues and microglia. Mechanistically, Mat concentration-dependently dampened the phosphorylation of MAPK, JNK and NF-κB in CLP rats and LPS-stimulated microglia and up-regulated Nrf2 and HO-1. Besides, Mat facilitated the AMPK expression. Meanwhile, Compound C, a specific inhibitor of the AMPK pathway, substantially reduced the neuronal protection and anti-inflammatory effects mediated by Mat. Overall, Mat exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress effects by up-regulating AMPK, thereby ameliorating sepsis-mediated brain injury.

Matairesinol exerts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in sepsis-mediated brain injury by repressing the MAPK and NF-κB pathways through up-regulating AMPK

Brain injury is a familiar complication of severe sepsis, in which excessive inflammation and oxidative stress are the main mechanisms leading to acute brain injury. Here, we focus on probing the function and mechanism of Matairesinol (Mat) in sepsis-mediated brain injury. We established a rat sepsis model by cecal ligation and perforation (CLP) and constructed an in vitro sepsis model by treating neurons and microglia with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Rats and cells were treated with varying concentrations of Mat, and the changes of neural function, neuronal apoptosis, microglial activation, neuroinflammation and the expression of oxidative stress factors in brain tissues were examined. Additionally, the activation of the MAPK, NF-κB and AMPK pathways in brain tissues and cells was evaluated by Western blot (WB) and/or immunohistochemistry (IHC). Our findings illustrated that Mat improved neuronal apoptosis and weakened microglial activation in CLP rats. Meanwhile, Mat hampered the expression of pro-inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ, IL-8, and MCP1) and facilitated the contents of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in brain tissues and microglia. Mechanistically, Mat concentration-dependently dampened the phosphorylation of MAPK, JNK and NF-κB in CLP rats and LPS-stimulated microglia and up-regulated Nrf2 and HO-1. Besides, Mat facilitated the AMPK expression. Meanwhile, Compound C, a specific inhibitor of the AMPK pathway, substantially reduced the neuronal protection and anti-inflammatory effects mediated by Mat. Overall, Mat exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress effects by up-regulating AMPK, thereby ameliorating sepsis-mediated brain injury.

Integrated Network Pharmacology Analysis and Experimental Validation to Investigate the Mechanism of Zhi-Zi-Hou-Po Decoction in Depression

Zhi-Zi-Hou-Po Decoction (ZZHPD) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that has been widely used in depression. However, the antidepressant mechanism of ZZHPD has not yet been fully elucidated. The purpose of this study was to explore the pharmacological mechanisms of ZZHPD acting on depression by combining ultra flow liquid chromatography with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UFLC-Q-TOF/MS) and network pharmacology strategy. The chemical components of ZZHPD were identified using UFLC-Q-TOF/MS, while the potential drug targets and depression-related targets were collected from databases on the basis of the identified compounds of ZZHPD. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, gene ontology (GO), and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were used to unravel potential antidepressant mechanisms. The predicted antidepressant targets from the pharmacology-based analysis were further verified in vivo. As a result, a total of 31 chemical compounds were identified by UFLC-Q-TOF/MS; 514 promising drug targets were mined by using the Swiss Target Prediction; and 527 depression-related target genes were pinpointed by the GeneCards and OMIM databases. STRING database and Cytoscape's topological analysis revealed 80 potential targets related to the antidepressant mechanism of ZZHPD. The KEGG pathway analysis revealed that the antidepressant targets of ZZHPD were mainly involved in dopaminergic synapse, serotonin synapse, cAMP, and mTOR signaling pathways. Furthermore, based on the animal model of depression induced by chronic corticosterone, the regulatory effects of ZZHPD on the expression of MAOA, MAOB, DRD2, CREBBP, AKT1, MAPK1, HTR1A, and GRIN2B mRNA levels as well as the cAMP signaling pathway and monoaminergic metabolism were experimentally verified in rats. Our study revealed that ZZHPD is expounded to target various genes and pathways to perform its antidepressant effect.

Taurine alleviates kidney injury in a thioacetamide rat model by mediating Nrf2/HO-1, NQO-1 and MAPK/ NF-κB signaling pathways

This study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms by which taurine exerts its reno-protective effects in thioacetamide (TAA)-induced kidney injury in rats. Rats received taurine (100 mg/kg daily, intraperitoneally) either from day 1 of TAA injection (250 mg/kg twice weekly for 6 weeks) or after 6 weeks of TAA administration. Taurine treatment, either concomitant or later as a therapy, restored kidney functions, reduced BUN, creatinine, MDA, and increased renal levels of SOD and reversed the increase of KIM-1 and NGAL caused by TAA. Taurine treatment also led to a significant rise in Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO-1 levels, with significant suppression of ERK 1/2, NF-κB, and TNFα gene expressions, and IL-18 and TNFα protein levels compared to those in TAA kidney-injured rats. Taurine exhibited reno-protective potential in TAA-induced kidney injury through its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Taurine anti-oxidant activity is accredited to its effect on Nrf-2 induction and subsequent activation of HO-1 and NQO-1. In addition, taurine exerts its anti-inflammatory effect via regulating NF-κB transcription and subsequent production of pro-inflammatory mediators via MAPK signaling regulation.

The role of miR-199b-3p in regulating Nrf2 pathway by dihydromyricetin to alleviate septic acute kidney injury

The pathophysiology of septic acute kidney injury (AKI) is very complex and the fatality is high. Nrf2 is crucial for septic AKI, and dihydromyricetin (DMY) has a protective effect on LPS-induced AKI. We aimed to explore whether DMY could affect Nrf2 pathway by regulating miR-199b-3p and played a protective role in septic AKI. The mouse model was induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) and the cell model was stimulated by LPS. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was conducted to examine MDA, SOD, LDH, GSH, TNF-α, kidney injury molecule 1 (KIM-1), and IL-6 levels. The pathological changes were observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. The targeted relationship between miR-199b-3p and Nrf2 was verified by a dual-luciferase reporter assay. Levels of SOD, GSH, NQO-1, Nrf2, and HO-1 were decreased, MDA, LDH, TNF-α, IL-6, and KIM-1, and miR-199b-3p were increased in the CLP group and LPS-induced HK-2 cells, while the effect was reversed after DMY treatment. There existed renal tubule cell edema and necrosis, inflammatory cell infiltration in the CLP group, the situation was partially improved by DMY. MiR-199b-3p bound to Nrf2. Nrf2 levels were increased, TNF-α, IL-6, and KIM-1 were decreased after transfected with miR-199b-3p inhibitor, these effects were reversed when co-transfected with si-Nrf2. TNF-α, IL-6, KIM-1, and miR-199b-3p levels were increased; Nrf2, NQO-1, and HO-1 levels were decreased in the LPS + DMY + mimics-miR group. MiR-199b-3p was increased in septic AKI models, DMY might alleviate septic AKI by regulating miR-199b-3p to affect the Nrf2 pathway.

Characterization of a Murine Model System to Study MicroRNA-147 During Inflammatory Organ Injury

Inflammatory organ injury and sepsis have profound impacts on the morbidity and mortality of surgical and critical care patients. MicroRNAs are small RNAs composed of 20-25 nucleotides that have a significant contribution to gene regulation. MicroRNA-147 (miR-147), in particular, has been shown to have an emerging role in different physiological functions such as cell cycle regulation and inflammatory responses. However, animal model systems to study tissue-specific functions of miR-147 during inflammatory conditions in vivo are lacking. In the present study, we characterize miR-147 expression in different organs and cell types. Next, we generated a transgenic mouse line with a floxed miR-147 gene. Subsequently, we used this mouse line to generate mice with whole-body deletion of miR-147 (miR-147 -/-) by crossing "floxed" miR-147 mice with transgenic mice expressing Cre recombinase in all tissues (CMVcre mice). Systematic analysis of miR-147 -/- mice demonstrates normal growth, development, and off-spring. In addition, deletion of the target gene in different organs was successful at baseline or during inflammation, including the heart, intestine, stomach, liver, spleen, bone marrow, lungs, kidneys, or stomach. Moreover, miR-147 -/- mice have identical baseline inflammatory gene expression compared to C57BL/6 mice, except elevated IL-6 expression in the spleen (7.5 fold, p < 0.05). Taken together, our data show the successful development of a transgenic animal model for tissue and cell-specific deletion of miR-147 that can be used to study the functional roles of miR-147 during inflammatory organ injury.

Ethanol consumption increases renal dysfunction and mortality in a mice model of sub-lethal sepsis

Chronic ethanol consumption and sepsis cause oxidative stress and renal dysfunction. This study aimed to examine whether chronic ethanol consumption sensitizes the mouse kidney to sub-lethal cecal ligation and puncture (SL-CLP) sepsis, leading to impairment of renal function by tissue oxidative and inflammatory damage. Male C57BL/6J mice were treated for 9 weeks with ethanol (20%, v/v) before SL-CLP was induced. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), survival rate, creatinine plasma, oxidative stress, and inflammatory parameters, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cytokines, and metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) levels were evaluated. Chronic ethanol consumption increased SBP, plasma creatinine, O2.-, H2O2, lipid peroxidation, catalase activity, Nox4, IL-6, and TNF-α levels, and MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio. SL-CLP decreased SBP, increased creatinine, lipid peroxidation, IL-6, TNF-α, nitrate/nitrite (NOx), and iNOS levels, and MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratio, and decreased catalase activity. SL-CLP mice previously treated with ethanol showed a similar decrease in SBP but higher mortality and creatinine levels than SL-CLP alone. These responses were mediated by increased O2-, lipid peroxidation, IL-6, TNF-α, NOx, iNOS, MMP-2, and MMP-9 levels, and MMP-9/TIMP-1 and MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratios. Our findings demonstrated that previous oxidative stress and inflammatory damage caused by ethanol consumption sensitizes the kidney to SL-CLP injury, resulting in impaired kidney function and sepsis prognosis.

Curcumin plays a protective role against septic acute kidney injury by regulating the TLR9 signaling pathway

Background

This study aims to evaluate the inhibitory effect of curcumin (Cur) on the progression of septic acute kidney injury (SAKI), in order to improve the survival rate in this patient population.

Methods

Acute kidney injury (AKI) was induced by cecal ligation perforation (CLP) in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Using this AKI animal model, the survival rate of the rats was evaluated at different time points after Cur treatment to explore whether Cur can improve survival in an animal model of AKI. The expression levels of inflammatory factors (NF-κB, TNF-α, and IL-10), organ injury markers [urea nitrogen (UN), creatinine (Cr), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), amylase, creatine kinase (CK), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)], and disease progression markers [neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), and cystatin-C (CysC)] were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

The serum levels of UN, Cr, NF-κB, ALT, AST, amylase, CK, LDH, inflammatory factors TNF-α and IL-10, and markers of early diagnosis of SAKI (NGAL, CysC, KIM-1) were significantly lower in the curcumin group than those in the placebo group (P<0.05). In addition, serum levels of TLR9 and its downstream molecules MyD88, IRF5, and IRF7 in the curcumin group were significantly lower than those in the placebo group (P<0.05). The application of TLR9-specific inhibitors to experimental rats led to similar results as those obtained in the curcumin group, whose detection indexes were significantly lower than those in the placebo treatment group (P<0.05).

Conclusions

Given the excellent performance of Cur in anti-tumor, anti-oxidation, anti-inflammatory, and other clinical trials, it is very likely to be further developed as a potential drug for the clinical treatment of AKI.

Effects of circular RNA Ttc3/miR-148a/Rcan2 axis on inflammation and oxidative stress in rats with acute kidney injury induced by sepsis

Aim Increasing evidence demonstrated circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in the development of various diseases, including sepsis-induced AKI. Although CIRC-Ttc3 has been proved to regulate cardiac function after myocardial infarction, its role in sepsis-induced AKI remains unclear.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The AKI rat model was firstly induced by sepsis through cecal ligation puncture (CLP). Serum levels of creatinine, BUN, NGAL, TNF-α, IL-6, SOD, MDA and IL-1β were measured through appropriate kits. The pathological alteration and renal microvascular permeability in renal tissues were determined by HE staining and Evans Blue assays. Cell apoptosis was detected by TUNEL assay. The expression levels of CIRC-Ttc3, miR-148a, TNF-α, IL-1β and iNOS in rats' renal samples were tested by qRT-PCR or/and western blot. The binding ability between CIRC-Ttc3 and miR-148a was evaluated through luciferase reporter, RIP and RNA pull-down assays.

KEY FINDINGS

Kidney injury was found in CLP-treated rats. CIRC-Ttc3 expression was down-regulated, and upregulation of CIRC-Ttc3 improved inflammatory responses and oxidative stress in AKI rats. Mechanismly, CIRC-Ttc3 was confirmed to bind to and negatively regulate miR-148a. Further rescue assays revealed that overexpression of miR-148a rescued the improvement of CIRC-Ttc3 on sepsis-induced AKI. Then, it was illustrated that CIRC-Ttc3 regulated Rcan2 expression by binding to miR-148a. Finally, knockdown of Rcan2 reversed the effects of miR-148a inhibition on sepsis-induced AKI.

SIGNIFICANCE

CIRC-Ttc3 relieved inflammation and oxidative stress through regulating the miR-148a/Rcan2 axis in rats with AKI induced by sepsis. Therefore, CIRC-Ttc3 may be a potential therapeutic target for sepsis-induced AKI.

Loganin Attenuates Septic Acute Renal Injury with the Participation of AKT and Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathways

Purpose

Sepsis, a destructive inflammatory response syndrome, is the principal reason to induce death in the intensive care unit. Loganin has been proved to possess the property of anti-inflammation, antioxidant, neuroprotection, and sedation. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate whether Loganin could alleviate acute kidney injury (AKI) during sepsis and investigate the latent mechanisms.

Methods

Septic AKI models were established by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) surgery in mice and given Loganin (20, 40, 80 mg/kg) by gavage. Lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-stimulated human kidney proximal tubular (HK2) cells incubated in Loganin (5, 10, 20 μ M) were used to explore the accurate mechanisms. Survival rate, renal function (creatinine and blood urea nitrogen), and renal pathological changes were detected in septic mice. Oxidative stress markers (SOD, GSH-Px, MDA, and SOD), mitochondrial membrane potential, mitochondrial calcium overload, and nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme-oxygenase 1 (HO-1) pathway activation in vivo and in vitro were determined by commercial kits and Western blot. Cell apoptosis, apoptotic-related protein (cleaved caspase-3, Bcl-2, and Bax) expression and protein kinase B (AKT) phosphorylation in vivo and in vitro were measured by TUNEL staining and Western blot. Finally, AKT blockage by 10 μM LY294002 or Nrf2 inhibition by10 μ M ML385 were utilized to prove the involvement of AKT and Nrf2/HO-1 pathway in AKI during sepsis.

Results

We found Loganin treatment (20, 40, 80 mg/kg) mitigated septic AKI reflected by elevated renal function and palliative pathological changes. Oxidative stress and apoptosis in the kidney and LPS-treated HK2 cells were also inhibited by Loganin administration, which was accompanied by AKT and Nrf2/HO-1 pathway activation. Besides, the protective effects of Loganin could be diminished by AKT or Nrf2 blockage, indicating the involvement of AKT and Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.

Conclusion

The results suggested that the protective effects of Loganin on AKI during sepsis might be mediated by AKT and Nrf2/HO-1 pathway signaling activation in kidney proximal tubular cells.

Nrf2-A Molecular Target for Sepsis Patients in Critical Care

The transcription factor NF-E2 p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is an established master regulator of the anti-oxidative and detoxifying cellular response. Thus, a role in inflammatory diseases associated with the generation of large amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) seems obvious. In line with this, data obtained in cell culture experiments and preclinical settings have shown that Nrf2 is important in regulating target genes that are necessary to ensure cellular redox balance. Additionally, Nrf2 is involved in the induction of phase II drug metabolizing enzymes, which are important both in degrading and converting drugs into active forms, and into putative carcinogens. Therefore, Nrf2 has also been implicated in tumorigenesis. This must be kept in mind when new therapy approaches are planned for the treatment of sepsis. Therefore, this review highlights the function of Nrf2 in sepsis with a special focus on the translation of rodent-based results into sepsis patients in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Protection against acute renal injury by naturally occurring medicines which act through Nrf2 signaling pathway

The cellular defense pathway plays a key role in maintaining the homeostasis, tissues and organisms. Nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), as a key cell signaling pathway, plays an important role in encoding detoxification enzymes and other stress response mediators. Recent studies have shown that it is closely related to the prevention and treatment of acute kidney injury (AKI). Therefore, this article reviews the protective effects of Nrf2-related signaling pathways on acute kidney injury, and summarizes the strategies of natural pharmaceutical ingredients such as flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenes, phenylpropionic acid, polyphenols, and polysaccharides to prevent and treat acute kidney injury. It is of great significance to further study the relationship between Nrf2 regulated signal pathway and kidney disease and the development of new medicines for acute kidney injury treatment. It can also provide new ideas and treatment strategies for clinical treatment of acute kidney injury. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: This article reviewed the mechanisms by which the active ingredients of natural medicines slow down acute kidney injury through the Nrf2 pathway. It will help us to understand the regulatory role of the Nrf2 pathway in AKI more comprehensively, and provide a theoretical basis for further exploring the mechanism of more natural drugs to reduce acute kidney injury.

Nrf-2 as a therapeutic target in acute kidney injury

Multifaceted cellular pathways exhibit a crucial role in the preservation of homeostasis at the molecular, cellular, and organism levels. One of the most important of these protective cascades is Nuclear factor E2-related factor (Nrf-2) that regulates the expression of several genes responsible for cellular detoxification, antioxidant function, anti-inflammation, drug/xenobiotic transportation, and stress-related factors. A growing body of evidence provides information regarding the protective role of Nrf-2 against a number of kidney diseases. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a substantial clinical problem that causes a huge social burden. In the kidneys, Nrf-2 exerts a dynamic role in improving the injury triggered by inflammation and oxidative stress. Understanding of the exact molecular mechanisms underlying AKI is vital in order to determine the equilibrium between renal adaptation and malfunction and thus reduce disease progression. This review highlights the role of Nrf-2 targeting against AKI and provides evidence that targeting Nrf-2 to prevail oxidative damage and its consequences might exhibit protective effects in kidney diseases.

Application of Chinese Medicine in the Management of Critical Conditions: A Review on Sepsis

Critical care medicine is a medical specialty engaging the diagnosis and treatment of critically ill patients who have or are likely to have life-threatening organ failure. Sepsis, a life-threatening condition that arises when the body responds to infection, is currently the major cause of death in intensive care units (ICU). Although progress has been made in understanding the pathophysiology of sepsis, many drawbacks in sepsis treatment remains unresolved. For example, antimicrobial resistance, controversial of glucocorticoids use, prolonged duration of ICU care and the subsequent high cost of the treatment. Recent years have witnessed a growing trend of applying traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in sepsis management. The TCM application emphasizes use of herbal formulation to balance immune responses to infection, which include clearing heat and toxin, promoting blood circulation and removing its stasis, enhancing gastrointestinal function, and strengthening body resistance. In this paper, we will provide an overview of the current status of Chinese herbal formulations, single herbs, and isolated compounds, as an add-on therapy to the standard Western treatment in the sepsis management. With the current trajectory of worldwide pandemic eruption of newly identified Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19), the adjuvant TCM therapy can be used in the ICU to treat critically ill patients infected with the novel coronavirus.

Honokiol Reduces Fungal Load, Toll-Like Receptor-2, and Inflammatory Cytokines in Aspergillus fumigatus Keratitis

Purpose

We characterized the effects of Honokiol (HNK) on Aspergillus fumigatus-caused keratomycosis and the underlying mechanisms. HNK is known to have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, but the influence on fungal keratitis (FK) remains unknown.

Methods

In ex vivo, minimum inhibitory concentration and Cell Count Kit-8 assay were carried out spectrophotometrically to provide preferred concentration applied in vivo. Time kill assay pointed that HNK was fungicidal and fungistatic chronologically. Adherence assay, crystal violet staining, and membrane permeability assay tested HNK effects on different fungal stages. In vivo, clinical scores reflected the improvement degree of keratitis outcome. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) assay, flow cytometry (FCM), and immunohistofluorescence staining (IFS) were done to evaluate neutrophil infiltration. Plate count detected HNK fungicidal potentiality. RT-PCR, Western blot, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) verified the anti-inflammatory activity of HNK collaboratively.

Results

In vitro, MIC90 HNK was 8 µg/mL (no cytotoxicity), and Minimal Fungicidal Concentration (MFC) was 12 µg/mL for A. fumigatus. HNK played the fungistatic and fungicidal roles at 6 and 24 hours, respectively, inhibiting adherence at the beginning, diminishing biofilms formation, and increasing membrane permeability all the time. In vivo, HNK improved C57BL/6 mice outcome by reducing disease severity (clinical scores), neutrophil infiltration (MPO, FCM, and IFS), and fungal loading (plate count). RT-PCR, Western blot, and ELISA revealed that HNK downregulated mRNA and protein expression levels of Toll-like receptor-2 (TLR-2), high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), IL-1β, and TNF-α.

Conclusions

Our study suggested HNK played antifungal and anti-inflammatory roles on keratomycosis by reducing survival of fungi, infiltration of leucocytes, and expression of HMGB1, TLR-2, and proinflammatory cytokines, providing a potential treatment for FK.

The Protective Effects of Perindopril Against Acute Kidney Damage Caused by Septic Shock

Acute kidney injury (AKI) resulting from septic shock caused by sepsis is an important health problem encountered at rates of 55-73%. Increasing oxidative stress and inflammation following sepsis is a widely observed condition with rising mortality rates. The purpose of this study was to determine whether perindopril (PER) can prevent sepsis-associated AKI with its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects. The control group received an oral saline solution only for 4 days. Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced sepsis only was applied to the CLP group, while the CLP + PER (2 mg/kg) received CLP-induced sepsis together with 2 mg/kg PER via the oral route for 4 days before induction of sepsis. Finally, all rats were euthanized by anesthesia and sacrificed. TBARS, total SH levels and NF-κβ, TNF-α, and Caspase-3 expression were then calculated for statistical analysis. TBARS, total SH, NF-kβ/p65, TNF-a, and Caspase-3 levels increased in the CLP group. In contrast, oral administration of PER (2 mg/kg) to septic rats reduced TBARS levels and NF-kβ/p65, TNF-α, and Caspase-3 immunopositivity at biochemical analysis. PER treatment appears to be a promising method for preventing sepsis-induced acute kidney injury through its antioxidant anti-inflammation and anti-apoptotic activities.

Honokiol ameliorates angiotensin II-induced hypertension and endothelial dysfunction by inhibiting HDAC6-mediated cystathionine γ-lyase degradation

Hypertension and endothelial dysfunction are associated with various cardiovascular diseases. Hydrogen sulphide (H₂S) produced by cystathionine γ‐lyase (CSE) promotes vascular relaxation and lowers hypertension. Honokiol (HNK), a natural compound in the Magnolia plant, has been shown to retain multifunctional properties such as anti‐oxidative and anti‐inflammatory activities. However, a potential role of HNK in regulating CSE and hypertension remains largely unknown. Here, we aimed to demonstrate that HNK co‐treatment attenuated the vasoconstriction, hypertension and H₂S reduction caused by angiotensin II (AngII), a well‐established inducer of hypertension. We previously found that histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) mediates AngII‐induced deacetylation of CSE, which facilitates its ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Our current results indicated that HNK increased endothelial CSE protein levels by enhancing its stability in a sirtuin‐3‐independent manner. Notably, HNK could increase CSE acetylation levels by inhibiting HDAC6 catalytic activity, thereby blocking the AngII‐induced degradative ubiquitination of CSE. CSE acetylation and ubiquitination occurred mainly on the lysine 73 (K73) residue. Conversely, its mutant (K73R) was resistant to both acetylation and ubiquitination, exhibiting higher protein stability than that of wild‐type CSE. Collectively, our findings suggested that HNK treatment protects CSE against HDAC6‐mediated degradation and may constitute an alternative for preventing endothelial dysfunction and hypertensive disorders.

Protective Effect of N-Acetylcysteine Pretreatment on Acute Kidney Injury in Septic Rats

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to investigate the protective effect of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) pretreatment on acute kidney injury in septic rats.

METHODS

We constructed a septic rat model by cecal ligation and perforation (CLP) and assessed kidney tissue pathologic damage, renal function changes, and inflammatory factor levels. Meanwhile, we also assessed oxide and antioxidant enzyme levels in kidney tissues, observed apoptosis of kidney tissues, and evaluated mitochondrial membrane activity in renal cortical cells.

RESULTS

Pretreatment of NAC significantly alleviated pathologic damage of kidney tissues in septic rats; decreased the levels of serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, plasma neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, and kidney injury molecule-1; and reduced the expression of tumor necrosis factor a, interleukin [IL]-1β, IL-6, and IL-8. Furthermore, NAC pretreatment reduced the level of protein-nitrotyrosine adducts and malondialdehyde in CLP-induced kidney tissues, while elevated the levels of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase. Moreover, pretreatment of NAC reduced the number of apoptosis in kidney tissues induced by CLP, decreased the mRNA levels of caspase-3, caspase-9, cytochrome c, and poly ADP-ribose polymerase, and increased mitochondrial membrane activity in renal cortical cells (complex I/II/III/IV).

CONCLUSIONS

NAC pretreatment has protective effects on acute kidney injury induced by CLP, and its mechanism is closely related to anti-inflammatory, antioxidation, antiapoptosis, and regulation of mitochondrial function.

MitoQ Modulates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Intestinal Barrier Dysfunction via Regulating Nrf2 Signaling

Background

Gut barrier dysfunction with alterant mucosal permeability during sepsis is a challenge problem in clinical practice. Intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) are strongly involved in mucosal oxidative stress and inflammatory response. The current study aimed at investigating the effect of MitoQ, a mitochondrial targeted antioxidant, in the treatment of intestinal injury and its potential mechanism during sepsis.

Methods

30 minutes before sepsis induction by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment, mice were treated with MitoQ. Intestinal histopathology, mucosal permeability, inflammatory cytokines, and mucosal barrier proteins were evaluated in the present study.

Results

MitoQ pretreatment significantly decreased the levels of plasma diamine oxidase, D-lactate, and intestinal histological damage and markedly restored the levels of tight junction proteins (ZO-1 and occludin) following LPS challenge. Furthermore, MitoQ inhibited the LPS-induced intestinal oxidative stress and inflammatory response, evidenced by increased levels of intestinal superoxide dismutase and glutathione, and decreased levels of intestinal IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, and nitric oxide levels. Mechanically, we found that MitoQ inhibited the oxidative stress via activating nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway and its downstream antioxidant genes, including HO-1, NQO-1, and GCLM.

Conclusions

MitoQ exerts antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects against sepsis-associated gut barrier injury by promoting Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Chaiqin chengqi decoction alleviates severe acute pancreatitis associated acute kidney injury by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress and subsequent apoptosis

BACKGROUND

Acute kidney injury (AKI), characterized by an increase of serum creatinine and urea, is a severe complication of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) with high mortality. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress has been considered as a key pathologic process in AKI. Chaiqin chengqi decoction (CQCQD) is an effective Chinese medicine formula for SAP treatment in China and has been used for many years. Our goal is to explore the role of CQCQD on ER stress of AKI in experimental SAP.

MATERIALS & METHODS

SAP was induced in rats by retrograde duct injection of 5% sodium taurocholate (NaTC, 1 ml/kg), sham operation (SO) rats simultaneously received saline infusion. Intraperitoneal injection of 4-PBA (50 mg/kg, once a day for three days before the surgery) or intragastric gavage of CQCQD (1 g/kg, 2 hourly × 3 after disease induction) was used to treat SAP rats. All animals were humanely sacrificed 12 h after disease induction. Histopathology scores of kidney and pancreas; serum biochemical indices and kidney protein levels of ER stress and apoptosis markers were assessed. Tubular epithelial cell line (HK-2) was treated either with TNF-α (10 ng/ml) or IL-6 (10 ng/ml) for 12 h plus either 4-PBA (0.1 M) or CQCQD (1 mg/ml) for in vitro study. Cell viability and markers of ER stress and apoptosis were measured.

RESULTS

Ductal perfusion of NaTC caused significant increases in serum lipase, amylase and pancreatic histopathology (inflammatory cell infiltration, interstitial edema, and acinar cell necrosis). Kidney histopathology (tubular dilation, brush border loss, little tubular necrosis, and cast formation), serum creatine and urea levels were raised when compared with the SO group. Moreover, apoptotic cell death markers (caspase-9, cleaved-caspase-3, and TUNEL) and kidney ER stress proteins (BIP, IRE1-α, XBP1s, and CHOP) were elevated after NaTC administration. 4-PBA and CQCQD significantly alleviated histopathological changes of kidney and pancreas, inflammatory cytokines, biochemical markers of AKI, ER stress proteins and apoptotic cell death markers. They also protected HK-2 cells from injury of TNF-α and IL-6, and alleviated both ER stress and apoptosis proteins in vitro.

CONCLUSION

CQCQD may alleviate SAP-related AKI by inhibiting ER stress-related apoptosis.

Ethanol Extract of Illicium henryi Attenuates LPS-Induced Acute Kidney Injury in Mice via Regulating Inflammation and Oxidative Stress

The root bark of Illicium henryi has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat various diseases. Its ethanol extract (EEIH) was found to contain a large number of phenols and possess in vitro antioxidant activities. The present study aimed to investigate its protective effect against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) in mice. BALB/c mice were intraperitoneally pretreated with EEIH for five days, and then LPS injection was applied to induce AKI. Blood samples and kidney tissues were collected and used for histopathology, biochemical assay, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and Western blot analyses. EEIH not only significantly dose-dependently attenuated histological damage and reduced renal myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity (from 9.77 ± 0.73 to 0.84 ± 0.30 U/g tissue) but also decreased serum creatinine (from 55.60 ± 2.70 to 27.20 ± 2.39 µmol/L) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (from 29.95 ± 1.96 to 16.12 ± 1.24 mmol/L) levels in LPS-treated mice. EEIH also markedly dose-dependently inhibited mRNA expression and production of TNF-α (from 140.40 ± 5.15 to 84.74 ± 5.65 pg/mg), IL-1β (from 135.54 ± 8.20 to 77.15 ± 5.34 pg/mg), IL-6 (from 168.74 ± 7.23 to 119.16 ± 9.35 pg/mg), and COX-2 in renal tissue of LPS-treated mice via downregulating mRNA and protein expressions of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and phosphorylation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) p65. Moreover, EEIH significantly dose-dependently reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) (from 5.43 ± 0.43 to 2.80 ± 0.25 nmol/mg prot) and NO (from 1.01 ± 0.05 to 0.24 ± 0.05 µmol/g prot) levels and increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) (from 22.32 ± 2.92 to 47.59 ± 3.79 U/mg prot) and glutathione (GSH) (from 6.57 ± 0.53 to 16.89 ± 0.68 µmol/g prot) levels in renal tissue induced by LPS through upregulating mRNA expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2). Furthermore, EEIH inhibited LPS-induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production from RAW264.7 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. These results suggest that EEIH has protective effects against AKI in mice through regulating inflammation and oxidative stress.

Application of Herbal Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Treatment of Acute Kidney Injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a clinical syndrome characterized by a rapid loss of renal function, which may further develop into chronic kidney damage (CKD) or even end-stage renal disease (ESRD). AKI is a global health problem associated with high morbidity and costly treatments, and there is no specific or effective strategy to treat AKI. In recent years, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has attracted more attention, with lines of evidence showing that application of TCM improved AKI, and the mechanisms of action for some TCMs have been well illustrated. However, reviews summarizing the progress in this field are still lacking. In this paper, we reviewed TCM preparations and TCM monomers in the treatment of AKI over the last 10 years, describing their renal protective effects and mechanisms of action, including alleviating inflammation, programmed cell death, necrosis, and reactive oxygen species. By focusing on the mechanisms of TCMs to improve renal function, we provide effective complementary evidence to promote the development of TCMs to treat AKI. Moreover, we also summarized TCMs with nephrotoxicity, which provides a more comprehensive understanding of TCMs in the treatment of AKI. This review may provide a theoretical basis for the clinical application of TCMs in the future.