HMGB1 binding to receptor for advanced glycation end products enhances inflammatory responses of human bronchial epithelial cells by activating p38 MAPK and ERK1/2

High mobility group box-1 protein promotes astrocytic CCL5 production through the MAPK/NF-κB pathway following spinal cord injury

Astrocytes act as immune cells that can produce a series of chemokines to attract large numbers of leucocytes to the lesion site, where they contribute to excessive inflammation following spinal cord injury (SCI). However, the relevant regulatory mechanism involved in chemokine production by astrocytes has not been fully elucidated. In the present study, we examined the correlation between C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5) and high mobility group box-1 protein (HMGB1) in a T8-T10 spinal cord contusion model. Our results revealed that SCI-induced CCL5 protein levels increased synchronously with the increase in HMGB1. Administration of an HMGB1-neutralizing antibody significantly reduced the protein expression of CCL5 in the context of SCI. An in vitro study revealed that HMGB1 binding with TLR2/4 receptors potently facilitates the production of CCL5 by astrocytes by activating the intracellular ERK/JNK-mediated NF-κB pathway. Furthermore, the HMGB1-induced release of CCL5 from astrocytes is involved in promoting microglia/macrophage accumulation and M1 polarization. The inhibition of HMGB1 activity reduces microglia/macrophage infiltration by decreasing the expression of CCL5 and improves motor functional recovery following SCI. Our results provide insights into the new functions of HMGB1-mediated astrocytic CCL5 production, which elicits inflammatory cell recruitment to the site of injury; this recruitment is associated with excessive inflammation activation. These data may provide a new therapeutic strategy for central nervous system (CNS) inflammation.

HMGB1/RAGE Signaling Regulates Th17/IL-17 and Its Role in Bronchial Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transformation

BACKGROUND

Airway remodeling is one of the reasons for severe steroidresistant asthma related to HMGB1/RAGE signaling or Th17 immunity.

OBJECTIVE

Our study aims to investigate the relationship between the HMGB1/RAGE signaling and the Th17/IL-17 signaling in epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) of airway remodeling.

METHODS

CD4+ T lymphocytes were collected from C57 mice. CD4+ T cell and Th17 cell ratio was analyzed by flow cytometry. IL-17 level was detected by ELISA. The Ecadherin and α-SMA were analyzed by RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry. The Ecadherin, α-SMA, and p-Smad3 expression were analyzed by western blot.

RESULTS

The HMGB1/RAGE signaling promoted the differentiation and maturation of Th17 cells in a dose-dependent manner in vitro. The HMGB1/RAGE signaling also promoted the occurrence of bronchial EMT. The EMT of bronchial epithelial cells was promoted by Th17/IL-17 and the HMGB1 treatment in a synergic manner. Silencing of RAGE reduced the signaling transduction of HMGB1 and progression of bronchial EMT.

CONCLUSION

HMGB1/RAGE signaling synergistically enhanced TGF-β1-induced bronchial EMT by promoting the differentiation of Th17 cells and the secretion of IL-17.

Assessment of Fraction of Exhaled Nitric Oxide and Soluble Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products Biomarkers for Jordanian Asthmatic Children

PURPOSE

Fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) and soluble advanced glycation end-product receptor (sRAGE) are proposed as biomarkers of asthma, therefore we sought to assess their use in asthmatic children of Jordan.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted a case-control study at The University of Jordan Hospital. A total of 141 asthmatic children followed by respiratory pediatricians and 118 healthy children aged 4-18 years were recruited. FeNO was measured by NObreath device and serum sRAGE by ELISA that detect endogenously soluble isoform (esRAGE) and total soluble RAGE (sRAGE).

RESULTS

sRAGE in asthmatic was half of the control (p <0.001). In addition, ratio of esRAGE/sRAGE was two-fold higher in asthmatic (p = <0.001). Neither FeNO nor esRAGE levels were significantly different between groups. FeNO and asthma control test (ACT) score were negatively correlated corrected for age and body mass index (BMI), (r = -0.180, p= 0.034). For the uncontrolled asthma group, esRAGE/sRAGE negatively correlated with ACT score (r = -.329, p = 0.038). Receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis revealed significant predictive value (PV) for sRAGE and esRAGE/sRAGE in asthma detection with area under the curve (AUC) of (0.751 ± 0.031) and (0.711±.033), consequently. However, no biomarker had a significant PV for lack of control.

CONCLUSION

The current study supports utilizing sRAGE as a marker for asthma and present a potential therapeutic target. However, our results indicate that both FeNO and sRAGE have a limited role in the management of asthmatic children or assessment of asthma control.

18β-Glycyrrhetinic Acid Alleviates P. multocida-Induced Vascular Endothelial Inflammation by PARP1-Mediated NF-κB and HMGB1 Signalling Suppression in PIEC Cells

Background

At present, the treatment and prevention of Pasteurella multocida infections in pigs mainly rely on antibiotics and vaccines, but inflammatory injury cannot be eliminated. The compound 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (GA), a pentacyclic triterpenoid extracted from Glycyrrhiza glabra L. root (liquorice) and with a chemical structure similar to that of steroidal hormones, has become a research focus because of its anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, antimicrobial, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective and neuroprotective effects, but its potential for the treatment of vascular endothelial inflammatory injury by P. multocida infections has not been evaluated. This study aimed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of GA intervention in the treatment of vascular endothelial inflammatory injury by P. multocida infections.

Materials and Methods

Putative targets of GA intervention in the treatment of vascular endothelial inflammatory injury by P. multocida infections were identified using network pharmacological screening and molecular docking simulation. The cell viability of PIEC cells was investigated via the CCK-8 assay. The mechanism of GA intervention in the treatment of vascular endothelial inflammatory injury by P. multocida infections were investigated using cell transfection and western blot.

Results

Through network pharmacological screening and molecular docking simulation, this study found that PARP1 may be a core target for GA to exert anti-inflammatory effects. Mechanistically, GA alleviates P. multocida-induced vascular endothelial inflammation by PARP1-mediated NF-κB and HMGB1 signalling suppression.

Conclusion

These findings, for the first time, demonstrate the potential therapeutic relationship among GA, PARP1 and inflammatory injury, providing a candidate drug, therapeutic targets and explanation for treating vascular endothelial inflammatory injury caused by P. multocida infection.

Severe Asthmatic Responses: The Impact of TSLP

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the lower respiratory system and includes several categories of patients with varying features or phenotypes. Patients with severe asthma (SA) represent a group of asthmatics that are poorly responsive to medium-to-high doses of inhaled corticosteroids and additional controllers, thus leading in some cases to life-threatening disease exacerbations. To elaborate on SA heterogeneity, the concept of asthma endotypes has been developed, with the latter being characterized as T2-high or low, depending on the type of inflammation implicated in disease pathogenesis. As SA patients exhibit curtailed responses to standard-of-care treatment, biologic therapies are prescribed as adjunctive treatments. To date, several biologics that target specific downstream effector molecules involved in disease pathophysiology have displayed superior efficacy only in patients with T2-high, eosinophilic inflammation, suggesting that upstream mediators of the inflammatory cascade could constitute an attractive therapeutic approach for difficult-to-treat asthma. One such appealing therapeutic target is thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), an epithelial-derived cytokine with critical functions in allergic diseases, including asthma. Numerous studies in both humans and mice have provided major insights pertinent to the role of TSLP in the initiation and propagation of asthmatic responses. Undoubtedly, the magnitude of TSLP in asthma pathogenesis is highlighted by the fact that the FDA recently approved tezepelumab (Tezspire), a human monoclonal antibody that targets TSLP, for SA treatment. Nevertheless, further research focusing on the biology and mode of function of TSLP in SA will considerably advance disease management.

TSLP and HMGB1: Inflammatory Targets and Potential Biomarkers for Precision Medicine in Asthma and COPD

The airway epithelium, through pattern recognition receptors expressed transmembrane or intracellularly, acts as a first line of defense for the lungs against many environmental triggers. It is involved in the release of alarmin cytokines, which are important mediators of inflammation, with receptors widely expressed in structural cells as well as innate and adaptive immune cells. Knowledge of the role of epithelial cells in orchestrating the immune response and mediating the clearance of invading pathogens and dead/damaged cells to facilitate resolution of inflammation is necessary to understand how, in many chronic lung diseases, there is a persistent inflammatory response that becomes the basis of underlying pathogenesis. This review will focus on the role of pulmonary epithelial cells and of airway epithelial cell alarmins, in particular thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) and high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), as key mediators in driving the inflammation of chronic lung diseases, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), evaluating the similarities and differences. Moreover, emerging concepts regarding the therapeutic role of molecules that act on airway epithelial cell alarmins will be explored for a precision medicine approach in the context of pulmonary diseases, thus allowing the use of these molecules as possible predictive biomarkers of clinical and biological response.

Glycyrrhizin regulates the HMGB1/P38MAPK signalling pathway in status epilepticus

In recent decades, studies have reported that inflammation serves key roles in epilepsy and that high mobility group box protein‑1 (HMGB1) may be involved in status epilepticus. However, it has not been reported whether HMGB1 participates in the pathogenesis of status epilepticus through the regulation of the p38 mitogen‑activated protein kinase (p38MAPK) signalling pathway. In the present study, Sprague‑Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups as follows: Control, status epilepticus (SE), dimethyl sulfoxide treatment (DMSO + SE), and glycyrrhizin treatment (GL + SE) groups. Behavioural changes were then evaluated using the Racine score. In the hippocampus, the protein expression levels of HMGB1 were assessed using western blotting, the neuronal damage was evaluated using haematoxylin and eosin staining and transmission electron microscopy, and the activation of microglia was assessed using immunochemistry and immunofluorescence. The results demonstrated that, in the hippocampal region, HMGB1 existed in neurons and astrocytes and the protein expression levels of HMGB1, p38MAPK and phosphorylated‑p38MAPK were significantly inhibited after treatment with GL. Furthermore, GL could alleviate neuronal injury in the CA1 region of the hippocampus and prevented HMGB1 translocation from the nucleus into the cytoplasm in these areas. These findings expand the understanding of how HMGB1 may participate in SE and lay a foundation for evaluation of HMGB1 as a drug target.

Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in Asthma: Friends or Foes?

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by variable airflow limitation and airway hyperresponsiveness. A plethora of immune and structural cells are involved in asthma pathogenesis. The roles of neutrophils and their mediators in different asthma phenotypes are largely unknown. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are net-like structures composed of DNA scaffolds, histones and granular proteins released by activated neutrophils. NETs were originally described as a process to entrap and kill a variety of microorganisms. NET formation can be achieved through a cell-death process, termed NETosis, or in association with the release of DNA from viable neutrophils. NETs can also promote the resolution of inflammation by degrading cytokines and chemokines. NETs have been implicated in the pathogenesis of various non-infectious conditions, including autoimmunity, cancer and even allergic disorders. Putative surrogate NET biomarkers (e.g., double-strand DNA (dsDNA), myeloperoxidase-DNA (MPO-DNA), and citrullinated histone H3 (CitH3)) have been found in different sites/fluids of patients with asthma. Targeting NETs has been proposed as a therapeutic strategy in several diseases. However, different NETs and NET components may have alternate, even opposite, consequences on inflammation. Here we review recent findings emphasizing the pathogenic and therapeutic potential of NETs in asthma.

HMGB1 increases RAGE expression in vascular smooth muscle cells via ERK and p-38 MAPK-dependent pathways

The increased expression of receptors for advanced glycation end-product (RAGE) is known as a key player in the progression of vascular remodeling. However, the precise signal pathways regulating RAGE expression in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in the injured vasculatures are unclear. Given the importance of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling in cell proliferation, we investigated the importance of MAPK signaling in high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1)-induced RAGE expression in VSMCs. In HMGB1 (100 ng/ml)-stimulated human VSMCs, the expression of RAGE mRNA and protein was increased in association with an increase in AGE-induced VSMC proliferation. The HMGB1-induced RAGE expression was attenuated in cells pretreated with inhibitors for ERK (PD98059, 10 μM) and p38 MAPK (SB203580, 10 μM) as well as in cells deficient in ERK and p38 MAPK using siRNAs, but not in cells deficient of JNK signaling. In cells stimulated with HMGB1, the phosphorylation of ERK, JNK, and p38 MAPK was increased. This increase in ERK and p38 MAPK phosphorylation was inhibited by p38 MAPK and ERK inhibitors, respectively, but not by JNK inhibitor. Moreover, AGE-induced VSMC proliferation in HMGB1-stimulated cells was attenuated in cells treated with ERK and p38 MAPK inhibitors. Taken together, our results indicate that ERK and p38 MAPK signaling are involved in RAGE expression in HMGB1-stimulated VSMCs. Thus, the ERK/p38 MAPK-RAGE signaling axis in VSMCs was suggested as a potential therapeutic target for vascular remodeling in the injured vasculatures.

Indoprofen exerts a potent therapeutic effect against sepsis by alleviating high mobility group box 1-mediated inflammatory responses

Indoprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, and has provided insights into treatment of spinal muscular atrophies; however, the treatment effect of indoprofen on sepsis and the precise underlying mechanism remain to be elucidated. This study was carried out to examine the inhibitory effect of indoprofen on high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1)-mediated inflammatory responses in vivo and in vitro. Intraperitoneal injection of indoprofen (20 or 40 mg/kg) at 8 h post-sepsis markedly improved the survival of BALB/c mice and ameliorated multiple-organ injury by blocking the inflammatory responses. In addition, indoprofen partially reduced the HMGB1 level in the serum and in the lung, as well as ameliorated pulmonary edema. Mechanistically, indoprofen potently inhibited the release of HMGB1 following stimulation by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly I:C), and suppressed recombinant human HMGB1(rhHMGB1)-induced inflammatory responses. It was also found that indoprofen has both cyclooxygenase 2-dependent and -independent inhibitory effects on the proinflammatory effect of HMGB1 in THP-1 cells. Further, the drug reduced rhHMGB1-induced cell surface levels of toll-like receptor 2, toll-like receptor 4, and receptor of advanced glycation end-products in a concentration-dependent manner. Collectively, these data demonstrated that the anti-inflammatory effect of indoprofen in sepsis was associated with HMGB1-mediated inflammatory responses, thus offering a favorable mechanistic basis to support the therapeutic potential of indoprofen for the treatment of lethal sepsis or other inflammatory diseases.

High Mobility Group Box 1 Protein in Osteoarthritic Knee Tissue and Chondrogenic Progenitor Cells: An Ex Vivo and In Vitro Study

OBJECTIVE

In osteoarthritis (OA), a loss of healthy cartilage extracellular matrix (ECM) results in cartilage degeneration. Attracting chondrogenic progenitor cells (CPCs) to injury sites and stimulating them toward chondrogenic expression profiles is a regenerative approach in OA therapy. High mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) is associated with chemoattractant and proinflammatory effects in various pathological processes. Here, we investigate the migratory effects of HMGB1 in knee OA and CPCs for the first time.

DESIGN

Immunohistochemistry, immunoblotting, and immunocytochemistry were performed to identify HMGB1 and its receptors, receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in OA knee tissue, chondrocytes, and CPCs. In situ hybridization for HMGB1 mRNA was performed in CPCs ex vivo. The chemoattractant effects of HMGB1 on CPCs were analyzed in cell migration assays.

RESULTS

HMGB1 expression in OA tissue and OA chondrocytes was higher than in healthy specimens and cells. HMGB1, RAGE, and TLR4 were expressed in CPCs and chondrocytes. In situ hybridization revealed HMGB1 mRNA in CPCs after migration into OA knee tissue, and immunohistochemistry confirmed HMGB1 expression at the protein level. Stimulation via HMGB1 significantly increased the migration of CPCs.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show the chemoattractant role of HMGB1 in knee OA. HMGB1 is released by chondrocytes and has migratory effects on CPCs. These effects might be mediated via RAGE and TLR4. The in vitro and ex vivo results of this study need to be confirmed in vivo.

Characteristics and Role of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in Asthma

Asthma is a common chronic respiratory disease that affects millions of people worldwide. The incidence of asthma has continued to increase every year. Bronchial asthma involves a variety of cells, including airway inflammatory cells, structural cells, and neutrophils, which have gained more attention because they secrete substances that play an important role in the occurrence and development of asthma. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are mesh-like structures composed of DNA, histones, and non-histone molecules that can be secreted from neutrophils. NETs can enrich anti-bacterial substances and limit pathogen migration, thus having a protective effect in case of inflammation. However, despite of their anti-inflammatory properties, NETs have been shown to trigger allergic asthma and worsen asthma progression. Here, we provide a systematic review of the roles of NETs in asthma.

HMGB1 downregulation in retinal pigment epithelial cells protects against diabetic retinopathy through the autophagy-lysosome pathway

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus and currently one of the major causes of blindness. Several previous studies have demonstrated that autophagy, which is regulated by HMGB1 (high mobility group box 1), is involved in DR development. However, the role of autophagy in DR is quite complicated in that it promotes pericyte survival in early DR, whereas excessive autophagy causes excess stress and leads to necrosis. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between HMGB1, the macroautophagy/autophagy-lysosome pathway, and DR, as well as their underlying molecular mechanisms. In brief, the relationship between high glucose (HG) and the autophagy-lysosome pathway was examined in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. The relationship was studied by detecting classical autophagic features, and siRNAs targeting HMGB1 and pharmacological regulators were used to explore the role of the autophagy-lysosome pathway in DR development. The results demonstrated that HG inhibited autophagy and diminished the degradative capacity of autophagy due to lysosome membrane permeabilization (LMP). In addition, HMGB1 was found to be involved in LMP via the CTSB (cathepsin B)-dependent pathway, but not the CTSL (cathepsin L)-dependent pathway. Knockdown of HMGB1 expression rescued LMP, restored the degradative capacity of autophagy, decreased the expression of inflammatory factors and VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), and protected against apoptosis in RPE cells in the early stages of DR.

The axis of the receptor for advanced glycation endproducts in asthma and allergic airway disease

Asthma is a generalized term that describes a scope of distinct pathologic phenotypes of variable severity, which share a common complication of reversible airflow obstruction. Asthma is estimated to affect almost 400 million people worldwide, and nearly ten percent of asthmatics have what is considered "severe" disease. The majority of moderate to severe asthmatics present with a "type 2-high" (T2-hi) phenotypic signature, which pathologically is driven by the type 2 cytokines Interleukin-(IL)-4, IL-5, and IL-13. However, "type 2-low" (T2-lo) phenotypic signatures are often associated with more severe, steroid-refractory neutrophilic asthma. A wide range of clinical and experimental studies have found that the receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE) plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of asthma and allergic airway disease (AAD). Current experimental data indicates that RAGE is a critical mediator of the type 2 inflammatory reactions which drive the development of T2-hi AAD. However, clinical studies demonstrate that increased RAGE ligands and signaling strongly correlate with asthma severity, especially in severe neutrophilic asthma. This review presents an overview of the current understandings of RAGE in asthma pathogenesis, its role as a biomarker of disease, and future implications for mechanistic studies, and potential therapeutic intervention strategies.

The Effect and Regulatory Mechanism of High Mobility Group Box-1 Protein on Immune Cells in Inflammatory Diseases

High mobility group box-1 protein (HMGB1), a member of the high mobility group protein superfamily, is an abundant and ubiquitously expressed nuclear protein. Intracellular HMGB1 is released by immune and necrotic cells and secreted HMGB1 activates a range of immune cells, contributing to the excessive release of inflammatory cytokines and promoting processes such as cell migration and adhesion. Moreover, HMGB1 is a typical damage-associated molecular pattern molecule that participates in various inflammatory and immune responses. In these ways, it plays a critical role in the pathophysiology of inflammatory diseases. Herein, we review the effects of HMGB1 on various immune cell types and describe the molecular mechanisms by which it contributes to the development of inflammatory disorders. Finally, we address the therapeutic potential of targeting HMGB1.

Association of High-Mobility Group Box-1 with Inflammationrelated Cytokines in the Aqueous Humor with Acute Primary Angle-Closure Eyes

AIM

The aim of this study was to measure the levels of High-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) and inflammation-related cytokines in the aqueous humor of patients with acute primary angle-closure glaucoma (APAG) and age-related cataract eyes (ARC).

METHODS

Aqueous humor samples were obtained from 59 eyes of 59 Chinese subjects (APAG, 32 eyes; and ARC, 27eyes). The multiplex bead immunoassay technique was used to measure the levels of HMGB1 and IL-8, IL-6, G-CSF, MCP-3, VEGF, sVEGFR- 1, sVEFGR-2, TNF-α, PDGF, and IL-10 in aqueous. The data of Patients' demographics and preoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) were also collected for detailed analysis.

RESULTS

The APAG group showed significantly elevated concentrations of HMGB1, IL- 8, IL-6, G-CSF, VEGF, sVEGFR-1, and TNF-α than those in the ARC group. Aqueous HMGB1 level correlated significantly with IOP, IL-8, IL-6, G-CSF and sVEGFR-1 levels but not with age, TNF-α, or VEGF levels.

CONCLUSION

The aqueous level of HMGB1 is elevated in APAG and associated with aqueous level of inflammation-related cytokines, suggesting an association between elevated levels of HMGB1, APAC and certain inflammatory modulators which, of course, should lead to further investigations in order to demonstrate the cause and effect.

Clara cell 16 KDa protein mitigates house dust mite-induced airway inflammation and damage via regulating airway epithelial cell apoptosis in a manner dependent on HMGB1-mediated signaling inhibition

Background

House dust mite (HDM) inhalation can cause airway epithelial damage which is implicated in the process of airway inflammation in asthma. High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is critically required for cellular damage and apoptosis as an important endogenous danger signal. Recently, Clara cell 16KDa protein (CC16) has been identified to exert anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory influence in various injury-related diseases model. However, little is known about its ability to protect against airway epithelial injury in allergic asthma. This study was aimed to clarify the protective roles of CC16 on airway epithelia in HDM-induced asthma and the regulation of HMGB1 by CC16.

Methods

Mice were sensitized and challenged by HDM extract and administrated intranasally with CC16 (5 μg/g or 10 μg/g) or saline in the challenged period. The BEAS-2B human airway epithelial cell line were cultured with CC16 or the control vehicle and then exposed to HDM. Knockdown or overexpression of HMGB1 was induced by cell transfection or intratracheal injection of recombinant adenovirus.

Results

CC16 treatment decreased airway inflammation and histological damage of airway epithelium dose-dependently in HDM-induced asthma model. Airway epithelia apoptosis upon HDM stimulation was noticeably abrogated by CC16 in vivo and in vitro. In addition, upregulation of HMGB1 expression and its related signaling were also detected under HDM conditions, while silencing HMGB1 significantly inhibited the apoptosis of BEAS-2B cells. Furthermore, the activity of HMGB1-mediated signaling was restrained after CC16 treatment whereas HMGB1 overexpression abolished the protective effect of CC16 on HDM-induced airway epithelia apoptosis.

Conclusions

Our data confirm that CC16 attenuates HDM-mediated airway inflammation and damage via suppressing airway epithelial cell apoptosis in a HMGB1-dependent manner, suggesting the role of CC16 as a potential protective option for HDM-induced asthma.

Cold-inducible RNA-binding protein contributes to tissue remodeling in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps

BACKGROUND

Cold-inducible RNA-binding protein (CIRP) is a newly identified damage-associated molecular pattern molecule. Its roles beyond promoting inflammation and in human diseases are poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the involvement of CIRP in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP).

METHODS

Immunohistochemistry, quantitative RT-PCR, and ELISA were used to detect the expression of CIRP and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in sinonasal mucosal samples and nasal secretions. Human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs) and THP-1 cells, a human monocytic/macrophage cell line, were cultured to explore the regulation of CIRP expression and MMP expression.

RESULTS

Cytoplasmic CIRP expression in nasal epithelial cells and CD68⁺ macrophages in sinonasal tissues, and CIRP levels in nasal secretions were significantly increased in both patients with eosinophilic and noneosinophilic CRSwNP as compared to those in control subjects. IL-4, IL-13, IL-10, IL-17A, TNF-α, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus group 1, and lipopolysaccharide induced the production and secretion of CIRP from HNECs and macrophages differentiated from THP-1 cells. CIRP promoted MMP2, MMP7, MMP9, MMP12, and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) production from HNECs, macrophages differentiated from THP-1 cells, and polyp tissues, which was inhibited by the blocking antibody for Toll-like receptor 4, but not advanced glycation end products. The expression of MMPs and VEGF-A in tissues correlated with CIRP levels in nasal secretions in patients with CRSwNP.

CONCLUSIONS

The upregulated production and release of CIRP from nasal epithelial cells and macrophages may contribute to the edema formation in both eosinophilic and noneosinophilic CRSwNP by inducing MMP and VEGF-A production from epithelial cells and macrophages.

Inhibition of HMGB1 involved in the protective of salidroside on liver injury in diabetes mice

High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is a nuclear protein that is released on injury triggers inflammation. This study aims to elucidate the effects of salidroside on diabetes-induced liver inflammation. The levels of glucose, inflammatory cytokines and hepatic functional parameters in serum and liver of type 2 diabetic db/db mice were examined. Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and western blot tests were performed to determine the mechanisms underlying the action. Palmitic acid (PA) or HMGB1-stimulated was adopted as an in vitro cell model. Salidroside treatment improved glucose tolerance, lipid profiles while decreased the production of inflammatory cytokines. It also reduced the levels of serum biochemical markers. In addition, salidroside inhibited HMGB1 signaling pathway in db/db mice. In the salidroside treatment significantly inhibited PA or HMGB1 induced inflammatory signaling pathway, too. HMGB1 inhibitors and HMGB1 knockdown both hindered PA-induced HMGB1 signaling pathway, showing the same effect as salidroside. Salidroside treatment significantly alleviates insulin resistance, hyperglycemia and hepatic inflammation in db/db mice, and also showed beneficial to PA-stimulated. Salidroside proves to control hyperglycemia and hepatic inflammation via inhibiting HMGB1/RAGE/NF-κB and HMGB1/TLR4/NLRP3 signaling pathways.

An overview of high-mobility group box 1, a potent pro-inflammatory cytokine in asthma

High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), also called amphoterin, HMG1 and p30, is a highly conserved protein between different species that has various functions in nucleus such as stabilization of nucleosome formation, facilitation of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) bending and increasing the DNA transcription, replication and repair. It has also been indicated that HMGB1 acts as a potent pro-inflammatory cytokine with increasing concentrations in acute and chronic inflammatory diseases. Asthma is a common chronic respiratory disease associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. One central characteristic in its pathogenesis is airway inflammation. Considering the inflammatory role of HMGB1 and importance of inflammation in asthma pathogenesis, a better understanding of this protein is vital. This review describes the structure, cell surface receptors, signaling pathways and intracellular and extracellular functions of HMGB1, but also focuses on its inflammatory role in asthma. Moreover, this manuscript reviews experimental and clinical studies that investigated the pathologic role of HMGB1.

Betulin alleviates on myocardial inflammation in diabetes mice via regulating Siti1/NLRP3/NF-κB pathway

The aim of this study is to study the effect of betulin (BE) on myocardial injury in diabetic mice. Insulin-related indexes and inflammation-related cytokines are detected by commercial kits. The mechanism of BE on diabetic myocardial injury was studied by modern molecular biology techniques. BE significantly improved glocose tolerance, reduced lipid accumulation and reduced the content of inflammatory cytokines in diabetic mice. Furthermore, BE regulated Siti1/NLRP3/NF-κB signaling pathway in db/db mice and H9C2 cells. Siti1 inhibitor (EX-57) counteracted those changes. BE significantly protected against diabetic cardiomyopathy, which was related to the regulation of Siti1/NLRP3/NF-κB pathway.

Glycated albumin stimulates expression of inflammatory cytokines in muscle cells

The effects of glycated albumin on the expression of inflammatory cytokines in differentiated myotubes were investigated. Glycated albumin stimulates the expression of TNF α, IL-1β, IL-6 and CCL-2 both at the mRNA and protein levels via the receptor of AGEs. Various cytokines demonstrated different kinetics of stimulation by glycated albumin. At a high glucose concentration, the stimulation effect was more pronounced than at a low one. At physiological concentrations of albumin and fructosamine, the stimulation effect of glycated albumin on inflammatory cytokine expression in myotubes was also observed. The induction of expression of all studied cytokines was sensitive to the inhibitors of JNK, p38 MAPK, MEK1/2, Src family protein kinases and NF-κB. At the same time, the induction of TNFα and IL-1β was diminished by the Ca²⁺/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase inhibitor, whereas the induction of IL-6 and CCL-2 was reduced by the inhibitor of phosphoinositide 3-kinase. Possible implications of observed stimulation of cytokine expression by glycated albumin in the development of diabetes mellitus symptoms are discussed.

The Role of HMGB1, a Nuclear Damage-Associated Molecular Pattern Molecule, in the Pathogenesis of Lung Diseases

Significance: High-mobility group protein box 1 (HMGB1), a ubiquitous nuclear protein, regulates chromatin structure and modulates the expression of many genes involved in the pathogenesis of lung cancer and many other lung diseases, including those that regulate cell cycle control, cell death, and DNA replication and repair. Extracellular HMGB1, whether passively released or actively secreted, is a danger signal that elicits proinflammatory responses, impairs macrophage phagocytosis and efferocytosis, and alters vascular remodeling. This can result in excessive pulmonary inflammation and compromised host defense against lung infections, causing a deleterious feedback cycle. Recent Advances: HMGB1 has been identified as a biomarker and mediator of the pathogenesis of numerous lung disorders. In addition, post-translational modifications of HMGB1, including acetylation, phosphorylation, and oxidation, have been postulated to affect its localization and physiological and pathophysiological effects, such as the initiation and progression of lung diseases. Critical Issues: The molecular mechanisms underlying how HMGB1 drives the pathogenesis of different lung diseases and novel therapeutic approaches targeting HMGB1 remain to be elucidated. Future Directions: Additional research is needed to identify the roles and functions of modified HMGB1 produced by different post-translational modifications and their significance in the pathogenesis of lung diseases. Such studies will provide information for novel approaches targeting HMGB1 as a treatment for lung diseases.

Hyperbaric oxygen inhibits the HMGB1/RAGE signaling pathway by upregulating Mir-107 expression in human osteoarthritic chondrocytes

OBJECTIVE

MicroRNA (miRNA)107 expression is downregulated but high mobility group box 1 (HMGB-1), Toll-like receptors (TLRs), and receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) are upregulated in osteoarthritic (OA) cartilage. We investigated mir-107/HMGB-1 signaling in OA after hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) treatment.

DESIGN

MiR-107 mimic was transfected and the HMGB-1 was analyzed in OA chondrocytes. MiRNA targets were identified using bioinformatics and a luciferase reporter assay. After HBO treatment, the mRNA or protein levels of HMGB-1, RAGE, TLR2, TLR4, and inducible nitric oxide (NO) synthase (iNOS) and phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) were evaluated. The secreted HMGB-1 and matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) levels were quantified. Finally, we detected the HMGB-1 and iNOS expression in rabbit cartilage defects.

RESULTS

Overexpression of miR-107 suppressed HMGB-1 expression in OA chondrocytes. The 3'UTR of HMGB-1 mRNA contained a 'seed-matched-sequence' for miR-107. MiR-107 was induced by HBO and a marked suppression of HMGB-1 was observed simultaneously in OA chondrocytes. Knockdown of miR-107 upregulated HMGB-1 expression in hyperoxic cells. HBO downregulated the mRNA and protein expression of HMGB-1, RAGE, TLR2, TLR4, and iNOS, and the secretion of HMGB-1. HBO decreased the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB, downregulated the phosphorylation of MAPK, and significantly decreased the secretion of MMPs. Morphological and immunohistochemical observation demonstrated that HBO markedly enhanced cartilage repair and the area stained positive for HMGB-1 and iNOS tended to be lower in the HBO group.

CONCLUSIONS

HBO inhibits HMGB-1/RAGE signaling related pathways by upregulating miR-107 expression in human OA chondrocytes.

Resveratrol protects against asthma-induced airway inflammation and remodeling by inhibiting the HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB pathway

The aim of the present study was to explore the protective role of resveratrol (RES) in asthma-induced airway inflammation and remodeling, as well as its underlying mechanism. An asthma rat model was induced by ovalbumin (OVA) treatment. Rats were randomly assigned into sham, asthma, 10 µmol/l RES and 50 µmol/l RES groups. The amount of inflammatory cells in rat bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was detected. Pathological lesions in lung tissues were accessed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), and Masson's trichrome staining. Levels of inflammatory factors in lung homogenate were detected via ELISA. The blood serum of asthmatic and healthy children was also collected for analysis. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed to detect high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), Τoll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88) and NF-κB expression in asthmatic and healthy children, as well as rats of the different groups. H&E staining demonstrated that multiple inflammatory cell infiltration into the rat airway epithelium of the asthma group occurred whilst the 50 µmol/l RES group displayed alleviated pathological lesions. Masson staining indicated that there was an increased airway collagen deposition area in the asthma and 10 µmol/l RES groups compared with the 50 µmol/l RES group. The number of inflammatory cells in BALF extracted from rats of the asthma and 10 µmol/l RES groups was higher compared with the 50 µmol/l RES group. Treatment with 50 µmol/l RES significantly decreased the thicknesses of the airway wall and smooth muscle. ELISA results illustrated that interleukin (IL)-1, IL-10 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels were elevated, whereas IL-12 level was reduced in lung tissues of the asthma and 10 µmol/l RES groups whilst the 50 µmol/l RES group demonstrated the opposite trend. HMGB1, TLR4, MyD88 and NF-κB mRNA levels were remarkably elevated in rats of the asthma and 10 µmol/l RES groups compared with the 50 µmol/l RES group. Serum levels of IL-1, IL-10 and TNF-α were elevated, whereas IL-12 was reduced in asthmatic children compared with healthy children. The present results demonstrated that a large dose of RES alleviated asthma-induced airway inflammation and airway remodeling by inhibiting the release of inflammatory cytokines via the HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB pathway.

Upregulation of miR-107 expression following hyperbaric oxygen treatment suppresses HMGB1/RAGE signaling in degenerated human nucleus pulposus cells

Background

The expression of both high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) is upregulated in degenerated discs. HMGB1 is known to function as a coupling factor between hypoxia and inflammation in arthritis, and this inflammatory response is modulated by microRNAs (miRNAs), with miR-107 expression downregulated during hypoxia. In this study, we investigated the regulation of the miR-107/HMGB1/RAGE pathway in degenerated nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) after hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) treatment.

Methods

NPCs were separated from human degenerated intervertebral disc tissues. The control cells were maintained in 5% CO₂/95% air, and the hyperoxic cells were exposed to 100% O₂ at 2.5 atmospheres absolute. MiRNA expression profiling was performed via microarray and confirmed by real-time PCR, and miRNA target genes were identified using bioinformatics and luciferase reporter assays. The cellular protein and mRNA levels of HMGB1, RAGE, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) were assessed, and the phosphorylation of MAPK (p38MAPK, ERK, and JNK) was evaluated. Additionally, cytosolic and nuclear fractions of the IκBα and NF-κB p65 proteins were analyzed, and secreted HMGB1 and metalloprotease (MMP) levels in the conditioned media were quantified.

Results

Using microarray analyses, 96 miRNAs were identified as upregulated and 66 downregulated following HBO treatment. Based on these results, miR-107 was selected for further investigation. Bioinformatics analyses indicated that the 3′ untranslated region of the HMGB1 mRNA contained the “seed-matched-sequence” for hsa-miR-107, which was validated via dual-luciferase reporter assays. MiR-107 was markedly induced by HBO, and simultaneous suppression of HMGB1 was observed in NPCs. Knockdown of miR-107 resulted in upregulation of HMGB1 expression in HBO-treated cells, and HBO treatment downregulated the mRNA and protein levels of HMGB1, RAGE, and iNOS and the secretion of HMGB1. In addition, HBO treatment upregulated the protein levels of cytosolic IκBα and decreased the nuclear translocation of NF-κB in NPCs. Moreover, HBO treatment downregulated the phosphorylation of p38MAPK, ERK, and JNK and significantly decreased the secretion of MMP-3, MMP-9, and MMP-13.

Conclusions

HBO inhibits pathways related to HMGB1/RAGE signaling via upregulation of miR-107 expression in degenerated human NPCs.

MiR-216a-5p protects 16HBE cells from H2O2-induced oxidative stress through targeting HMGB1/NF-kB pathway

Asthma is a complex, chronic inflammatory disorder of the bronchial tree, and can affect patients of all ages including children. High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) has been proved as a therapeutic target in children with asthma, and was predicted to be the target gene of microRNA-216a-5p (miR-216a-5p). The present study aimed to investigate the function of miR-216a-5p in asthma by creating a human bronchial epithelial cell (16HBE) injury model using H₂O₂. A significantly elevation of HMGB1 protein expression and a reduction of miR-216a-5p expression were observed in children with asthma as well as in H₂O₂ stimulated 16HBE cells. Dual luciferase reporter assays confirmed the target reaction between HMGB1 and miR-216a-5p. MiR-216a-5p repressed HMGB1 protein expression in H₂O₂ induced 16HBE cells. Moreover, miR-216a-5p inhibited H₂O₂ induced cell injury by elevating cell proliferation and decreasing cell apoptosis in 16HBE cells. Furthermore, miR-216a-5p repressed NF-kB pathway activation in H₂O₂ induced 16HBE cells. In conclusion, these results suggested that miR-216a-5p functions as a negative regulator of H₂O₂ induced 16HBE cell injury through targeting HMGB1/NF-kB pathway, provided a potential therapeutic target for asthma.

TSLP promotes asthmatic airway remodeling via p38-STAT3 signaling pathway in human lung fibroblast

PURPOSE

Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) acts as a critical cytokine involved in asthmatic airway remodeling. Our study aimed to characterize the crosstalk between airway epithelial cells and fibroblasts regulated by TSLP through the signaling pathways of Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Human biopsy specimens and lung tissues from mice were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and immunohistochemistry. Human lung fibroblasts were stimulated with human recombinant TSLP. The protein expression of phosphorylation of STAT3 (p-STAT3) and phosphorylation of MAPK as well as the expression of collagen I and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were detected by Western blotting and immunofluorescence. Co-culture was performed to detect the influence of TSLP secreted by airway epithelial cells on fibroblasts. An ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthmatic murine model was established with or without intraperitoneal injection of SB203580 (inhibitor of p-38). Protein expression in lung tissue was detected by immunohistochemistry and western blotting.

RESULT

TSLP could activate MAPK in HLF-1. SB203580 could inhibit the activation of p38, attenuate phosphorylation of STAT3, and decrease the expression of collagen I and α-SMA consequently in human fibroblasts. Co-culture demonstrated that TSLP secreted by epithelial cells could promote the expression of collagen I and α-SMA and aggravates airway remodeling in fibroblasts. In vivo, expression of TSLP, collagen I, α-SMA, p-p38 and p-STAT3 was upregulated in airway tissue of OVA-challenged mice and downregulated in mice which were treated by SB203580. The tissue staining showed that airway structure change was attenuated by SB203580 compared with OVA challenged mice as well.

CONCLUSIONS

TSLP might promote asthmatic airway remodeling via p38 MAPK-STAT3 axis activation and the crosstalk between airway epithelial cells and fibroblasts could aggravate remodeling. Blockade of p38 could alleviate airway remodeling which might provide a new therapeutic target for asthma.

E4BP4 facilitates glucocorticoid sensitivity of human bronchial epithelial cells via down-regulation of glucocorticoid receptor-beta

It has recently been recognized that a subset of asthma patients suffer from glucocorticoid (GC) insensitivity, and glucocorticoid receptor-β (GR-β) is associated with corticosteroid resistance, but the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Here we demonstrated that Interleukin-17A induced glucocorticoid sensitivity in human bronchial epithelial cells (16HBE) is enhanced, which is depend on E4 promoter-binding protein 4 (E4BP4) mediated GR-β expression. Our data show that the expression of E4BP4 is significantly up-regulated in 16HBE cells, and the depletion of E4BP4 dramatically decreased glucocorticoid sensitivity in IL-17A induced 16HBE cells. Mechanistic studies revealed that E4BP4 plays a crucial role in Interleukin-17A induced glucocorticoid sensitivity in 16HBE cells via down-regulating GR-β, which is probably mediated by PI3K/Akt activation. Collectively, we can draw the conclusion that E4BP4 contribute to enhance the GCs sensitivity, which may offer a new strategy for therapeutic intervention for GC-insensitive asthma.

Induction of high-mobility group Box-1 in vitro and in vivo by respiratory syncytial virus

BackgroundDespite decades that have passed since its discovery, accurate biomarkers of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) disease activity and effective therapeutic strategies are still lacking. The high-mobility group box type 1 (HMGB1) protein has been proposed as a possible link between RSV and immune system, but only limited information is currently available to support this hypothesis.MethodsExpression of HMGB1 gene and protein was analyzed by quantitative PCR, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), western blot, immunocytochemistry, and confocal microscopy in immortalized and primary human bronchial epithelial cells, as well as in rat pup lungs. The role of HMGB1 in RSV infection was explored using glycyrrhizin, a selective HMGB1 inhibitor.ResultsRSV infection strongly induced HMGB1 expression both in vitro and in vivo. Glycyrrhizin dose-dependently inhibited HMGB1 upregulation in both RSV-infected immortalized and primary human bronchial epithelial cells, and this effect was associated with significant reduction of viral replication.ConclusionOur data suggest that HMGB1 expression increases during RSV replication. This seems to have a critical pathogenic role as its selective inhibition virtually modified the infection. These observations provide further insight into the pathophysiology of RSV infection and uncover a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for the most common respiratory infection of infancy.

Short Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin Attenuates Toluene Diisocyanate-induced Airway Inflammation and Inhibits High Mobility Group Box 1-Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products and Long Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin Expression

Short thymic stromal lymphopoietin (short TSLP), one of TSLP variants, exerts anti-inflammatory activities in endotoxin shock and colitis mouse models. Our latest work reported that short TSLP prevented house dust mite-induced epithelial barrier disruption. Yet the role of short TSLP in toluene diisocyanate (TDI)-induced asthma is unknown. Male BALB/c mice were sensitized and challenged with TDI to generate a chemical-induced asthma model. Synthetic short TSLP peptides were given intranasally or intraperitoneally before each challenge. TDI significantly increased inflammation and hyperresponsiveness of airway, which were suppressed by short TSLP treatment. Levels of mouse TSLP, high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), and receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) in airway epithelium and whole lung tissues were markedly increased in TDI group compared with control mice, which were decreased after administration of short TSLP. Meanwhile, short TSLP also inhibited STAT5(Y694) phosphorylation, which was highly expressed in airways of TDI-exposure mice. In vitro, both TDI-human serum albumin (HSA) and recombinant human (rh) HMGB1 promoted long TSLP but not short TSLP gene production in human bronchial epithelial cells (16HBE). Cells pre-treated with short TSLP exhibited less expression of RAGE and long TSLP and lower phosphorylation of Akt(S473), p38 MAPK(T180/Y182), and STAT5(Y694) than stimulated with TDI-HSA or rhHMGB1 alone. Results suggest that short TSLP prevents airway inflammation in a chemical-induced asthma model, which might be associated with the inhibitions of HMGB1-RAGE and long TSLP expression and STAT5(Y694) phosphorylation.

The function and mechanism of HMGB1 in lung cancer and its potential therapeutic implications

As a non-histone chromatin-associated protein, high-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) performs a pivotal function in various human diseases, including autoimmune diseases, neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. Overexpression of HMGB1 has been demonstrated in numerous types of cancer, including breast cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the underlying mechanism of HMGB1 function in lung cancer remains to be elucidated. The present study aimed to analyze, and summarize the role and mechanism of HMGB1 in lung cancer by retrieving available literature regarding HMGB1 in association with lung cancer. It provides comprehensive information on the association of HMGB1 with the carcinogenesis and progression of lung cancer, and discusses the molecular mechanism of these processes. HMGB1 may induce tumorigenesis, metastasis and chemotherapy resistance in lung cancer. Overall, it is evident that HMGB1 serves an important role in the development and progression of lung cancer, and this review warrants further investigation into HMGB1 as a novel target for cancer therapy.

PM2.5 Induced the Expression of Fibrogenic Mediators via HMGB1-RAGE Signaling in Human Airway Epithelial Cells

Background

The aim of the present study was to test whether fine particulate matter (PM2.5) induces the expression of platelet-derived growth factor-AB (PDGF-AB), PDGF-BB, and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in human bronchial epithelial cells (HBECs) in vitro via high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) signaling.

Methods

Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to motor vehicle exhaust (MVE) or clean air. HBECs were either transfected with a small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting HMGB1 or incubated with anti-RAGE antibodies and subsequently stimulated with PM2.5.

Results

The expression of HMGB1 and RAGE was elevated in MVE-treated rats compared with untreated rats, and PM2.5 increased the secretion of HMGB1 and upregulated RAGE expression and the translocation of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) into the nucleus of HBECs. This activation was accompanied by an increase in the expression of PDGF-AB, PDGF-BB, and TGF-β1. The HMGB1 siRNA prevented these effects. Anti-RAGE antibodies attenuated the activation of NF-κB and decreased the secretion of TGF-β1, PDGF-AB, and PDGF-BB from HBECs.

Conclusion

PM2.5 induces the expression of TGF-β1, PDGF-AB, and PDGF-BB in vitro via HMGB1-RAGE signaling, suggesting that this pathway may contribute to the airway remodeling observed in patients with COPD.

Regulating effect of glycyrrhetinic acid on bronchial asthma smooth muscle proliferation and apoptosis as well as inflammatory factor expression through ERK1/2 signaling pathway

OBJECTIVE

To study the influence of glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) on bronchial asthma (BA) smooth muscle proliferation and apoptosis as well as inflammatory factor expression and its molecular mechanism.

METHODS

Male SD guinea pigs were selected and made into asthma models, bronchial asthma smooth muscle cells were cultured and divided into BA group, GA group and GA + LM group that were treated with serum-free RPMI1640 culture medium, serum-free RPMI1640 culture medium containing 50 ng/mL glycyrrhetinic acid, serum-free RPMI1640 culture medium containing 50 ng/mL glycyrrhetinic acid and 100 ng/mL LM22B-10 respectively; normal guinea pigs were collected and bronchial smooth muscle cells were cultured as control group. The cell proliferation activity as well as the expression of proliferation and apoptosis genes, inflammatory factors and p-ERK1/2 was determined.

RESULTS

Proliferation activity value and mRNA expression of Bcl-2, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-6, YKL-40, protein expression of p-ERK1/2 of airway smooth muscle cell in BA group were significantly higher than those of control group while mRNA expression levels of Bax, caspase-9 as well as caspase-3 were significantly lower than that of control group (P < 0.05); proliferation activity value and mRNA expression of Bcl-2, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-6, YKL-40, protein expression of p-ERK1/2 of airway smooth muscle cell in GA group were significantly lower than those of BA group (P < 0.05) while the mRNA expression levels of Bax, caspase-9 as well as caspase-3 were significantly higher than those of BA group (P < 0.05); proliferation activity value and mRNA expression of Bcl-2, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-6, YKL-40 of airway smooth muscle cell in GA + LM group were significantly higher than those of GA group (P < 0.05) while mRNA expression levels of Bax, caspase-9 as well as caspase-3 were significantly lower that of GA group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

GA can inhibit the proliferation of bronchial smooth muscle cells and reduce the expression of inflammatory factors by inhibiting the phosphorylation of ERK1/2.

Association between HMGB1 and asthma: a literature review

Background

Recently, some studies demonstrated that HMGB1, as proinflammatory mediator belonging to the alarmin family, has a key role in different acute and chronic immune disorders. Asthma is a complex disease characterised by recurrent and reversible airflow obstruction associated to airway hyper-responsiveness and airway inflammation.

Objective

This literature review aims to analyse advances on HMGB1 role, employment and potential diagnostic application in asthma.

Methods

We reviewed experimental studies that investigated the pathogenetic role of HMGB in bronchial airway hyper-responsiveness, inflammation and the correlation between HMGB1 level and asthma.

Results

A total of 19 studies assessing the association between HMGB1 and asthma were identified.

Conclusions

What emerged from this literature review was the confirmation of HMGB-1 involvement in diseases characterised by chronic inflammation, especially in pulmonary pathologies. Findings reported suggest a potential role of the alarmin in being a stadiation method and a marker of therapeutic efficacy; finally, inhibiting HMGB1 in humans in order to contrast inflammation should be the aim for future further studies.

Molecular Pathways Involved in the Amelioration of Myocardial Injury in Diabetic Rats by Kaempferol

There is growing evidence that chronic hyperglycemia leads to the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) which exerts its effect via interaction with the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE). AGE-RAGE activation results in oxidative stress and inflammation. It is well known that this mechanism is involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease in diabetes. Kaempferol, a dietary flavonoid, is known to possess antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory activities. However, little is known about the effect of kaempferol on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury in diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced in male albino Wistar rats using streptozotocin (70 mg/kg; i.p.), and rats with glucose level >250 mg/dL were considered as diabetic. Diabetic rats were treated with vehicle (2 mL/kg; i.p.) and kaempferol (20 mg/kg; i.p.) daily for a period of 28 days and on the 28th day, ischemia was produced by one-stage ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery for 45 min followed by reperfusion for 60 min. After completion of surgery, rats were sacrificed and the heart tissue was processed for biochemical, morphological, and molecular studies. Kaempferol pretreatment significantly reduced hyperglycemia, maintained hemodynamic function, suppressed AGE-RAGE axis activation, normalized oxidative stress, and preserved morphological alterations. In addition, there was decreased level of inflammatory markers (tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and NF-κB), inhibition of active c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 proteins, and activation of Extracellular signal regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) a prosurvival kinase. Furthermore, it also attenuated apoptosis by reducing the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins (Bax and Caspase-3), Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) positive cells, and increasing the level of anti-apoptotic protein (Bcl-2). In conclusion, kaempferol attenuated myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in diabetic rats by reducing AGE-RAGE/ mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) induced oxidative stress and inflammation.

The effect of calprotectin on TSLP and IL-25 production from airway epithelial cells

BACKGROUND

Calprotectin is a heterodimer complex of the S100A8 and S100A9 proteins, and has various functions as an innate mediator at the sites of inflammation. The aim of this study was to elucidate the roles of calprotectin in the eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis (ECRS).

METHODS

Allergen-induced production of calprotectin was evaluated in cultured normal human bronchial epithelial (NHBE) cells by ELISA and RT-PCR. We then examined the roles of calprotectin on Alternaria alternata (Alternaria)-induced production of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) and IL-25 in NHBE cells. The extracellular concentration and allergen-induced secretion of calprotectin in cultured primary nasal epithelial (PNE) cells were examined and compared between patients with ECRS and non-eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis (NECRS).

RESULTS

Alternaria, house dust mites, protease from Staphylococcus aureus, papain, trypsin, polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid and lipopolysaccharide stimulated calprotectin production in the cultured NHBE cells. The combination of calprotectin and ATP stimulated the production of TSLP and IL-25 in NHBE cells, and calprotectin stimulated Alternaria-induced production of TSLP and IL-25, which was suppressed by blocking P2 purinergic receptors and by treatment with siRNA for S100A8, S100A9 or calprotectin receptors (Toll-like receptor 4 or receptor for advanced glycation end products). Allergen-induced calprotectin production was significantly stimulated in PNE cells from patients with ECRS.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that calprotectin enhances the allergen-induced Th2-type inflammatory responses in airway epithelial cells via the secretion of TSLP and IL-25, and that calprotectin secreted by the epithelial cells may be involved in the pathogenesis of ECRS.

Lipopolysaccharide Attenuates Induction of Proallergic Cytokines, Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin, and Interleukin 33 in Respiratory Epithelial Cells Stimulated with PolyI:C and Human Parechovirus

Epidemiological studies based on the "hygiene hypothesis" declare that the level of childhood exposure to environmental microbial products is inversely related to the incidence of allergic diseases in later life. Multiple types of immune cell-mediated immune regulation networks support the hygiene hypothesis. Epithelial cells are the first line of response to microbial products in the environment and bridge the innate and adaptive immune systems; however, their role in the hygiene hypothesis is unknown. To demonstrate the hygiene hypothesis in airway epithelial cells, we examined the effect of lipopolysaccharide (LPS; toll-like receptor 4 ligand) on the expression of the proallergic cytokines thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) and interleukin 33 (IL33) in H292 cells (pulmonary mucoepidermoid carcinoma cells). Stimulation with the TLR ligand polyI:C and human parechovirus type 1 (HPeV1) but not LPS-induced TSLP and IL33 through interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) and NF-κB activity, which was further validated by using inhibitors (dexamethasone and Bay 11-7082) and short hairpin RNA-mediated gene knockdown. Importantly, polyI:C and HPeV1-stimulated TSLP and IL33 induction was reduced by LPS treatment by attenuating TANK-binding kinase 1, IRF3, and NF-κB activation. Interestingly, the basal mRNA levels of TLR signaling proteins were downregulated with long-term LPS treatment of H292 cells, which suggests that such long-term exposure modulates the expression of innate immunity signaling molecules in airway epithelial cells to mitigate the allergic response. In contrast to the effects of LPS treatment, the alarmin high-mobility group protein B1 acts in synergy with polyI:C to promote TSLP and IL33 expression. Our data support part of the hygiene hypothesis in airway epithelia cells in vitro. In addition to therapeutic targeting of TSLP and IL33, local application of non-pathogenic LPS may be a rational strategy to prevent allergies.

Protective effect of Xuebijing injection on D-galactosamine- and lipopolysaccharide-induced acute liver injury in rats through the regulation of p38 MAPK, MMP-9 and HO-1 expression by increasing TIPE2 expression

Xuebijing injection (XBJ) has long been used to treat infectious diseases in China. The therapeutic effect of XBJ is probably associated with anti-inflammatory effects. However, the precise mechanisms responsible for the effects of XBJ remain unknown. The present study was conducted in order to evaluate the protective effects of XBJ in a rat model of D-galactosamine (D-Gal)- and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute liver injury. In the present study, the rats were injected with D-Gal and LPS intraperitoneally to induce acute liver injury. Two hours prior to D-Gal and LPS administration, the treatment group was administered XBJ by intravenous infusion. The effects of XBJ on D-Gal- and LPS-induced expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha-induced protein 8-like 2 (TIPE2), nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) as well as mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling was examined using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), western blot analysis, immunofluorescence, as well as by analysing the serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the transaminases, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Myeloperoxidase (MPO), malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels in the rat liver tissues were also measured. For histological analysis, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E)-stained liver samples were evaluated. The results showed that XBJ upregulated TIPE2 and HO-1 expression, reduced the expression of NF-κB65 and MMP-9, inhibited the LPS-induced gene expression of c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 MAPK, decreased the generation of pro-inflammatory cytokines [interleukin (IL)-6, IL-13 and TNF-α], inhibited ALT and AST activity, and ameliorated D-Gal- and LPS-induced liver injury. The histological results also demonstrated that XBJ attenuated D-Gal- and LPS-induced liver inflammation. It was found that XBJ may prevent LPS-induced pro-inflammatory gene expression through inhibiting the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways by upregulating TIPE2 expression, thereby attenuating LPS-induced liver injury in rats. The marked protective effects of XBJ suggest that it has the potential to be used in the treatment of LPS-induced liver injury.

Toll-like receptors, triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells family members and receptor for advanced glycation end-products in allergic airway inflammation

Asthma is a chronic disorder of the airways characterized by cellular infiltration, airway hyper-responsive and airway inflammation. Innate immune cells are the first line of defense against endogenous and exogenous signals in the airways and as such possess a diverse array of pattern recognition receptors. Toll-like receptors are crucial sentinels which when activated, can either promote or ameliorate the inflammatory response in predisposed individuals. The recently discovered triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells family members are emerging mediators of inflammation. These receptors are believed to modulate inflammatory responses by collaborating with classic PRRs. Endogenous signals like HMGB-1, signaling through the receptor for advanced glycation end products, also promotes inflammation, however, its contribution to inflammation in the airways is not well known. Here, we discuss the role of each receptor in airway inflammation and highlight potential synergistic mechanisms, which contribute to disease pathogenesis in allergic asthma.

High-mobility group box 1 induces neuron autophagy in a rat spinal root avulsion model

Autophagy, a tightly regulated lysosome-dependent catabolic pathway, is implicated in various pathological states in the nervous system. High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is an inflammatory mediator known to be released into the local microenvironment from damaged cells. However, whether autophagy is induced and exogenous HMGB1 is involved in the process of spinal root avulsion remain unclear. Here, we investigated the induction effect of autophagy and the possible role of HMGB1 during spinal root avulsion. It was found that autophagy was activated in the anterior horn of the spinal cord as represented by the increased expression of the autophagic marker microtubule-associated protein light chain 3-II (LC3-II), degradation of sequestosome 1 (p62), and formation of autophagosomes, and that autophagy was inhibited after intraperitoneal injection of anti-HMGB1-neutralizing antibodies in the rat spinal root avulsion model. In addition, HMGB1-induced autophagy and activated mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in primary spinal neurons, including c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and p38MAPK. Inhibition of JNK or ERK activity significantly blocked the effect of HMGB1-induced autophagy in primary spinal neurons. Finally, HMGB1-induced autophagy increased cell viability in primary spinal neurons under oxygen-glucose deprivation conditions. The above results suggest that HMGB1 is a critical regulator of autophagy and HMGB1-induced autophagy plays an important role in protecting spinal neurons against injury, which may provide new insights into the pathophysiological process of spinal root avulsion.