Carvedilol attenuates paraquat-induced lung injury by inhibition of proinflammatory cytokines, chemokine MCP-1, NF-κB activation and oxidative stress mediators

Mesenchymal stem cell-based therapy for paraquat-induced lung injury

Paraquat poisoning results in significant pulmonary damage, but current treatments are only minimally effective in repairing the injured lung tissues. Recent research has highlighted the promise of using stem cell therapy, namely mesenchymal stem cells, as a new method for treating paraquat toxicity. These cells have shown effectiveness in decreasing inflammation, apoptosis, and fibrosis in the mice lungs subjected to paraquat. The therapeutic implications of mesenchymal stem cells are believed to arise from their release of bioactive proteins and their capacity to regulate inflammatory responses. However, additional clinical study is required to validate these therapies' efficacy. This review thoroughly explores the pathophysiology of paraquat poisoning and the properties of mesenchymal stem cells. Additionally, it critically assesses the long-term safety and effectiveness of mesenchymal stem cell therapies, which is crucial for developing more dependable and effective treatment protocols. In summary, although mesenchymal stem cells offer promising prospects for treating lung injuries, more investigations are required to optimize their therapeutic promise and ensure their safe clinical application in the context of paraquat poisoning.

Therapeutic Potential of Pentoxifylline in Paraquat-Induced Pulmonary Toxicity: Role of the Phosphodiesterase Enzymes

Pentoxifylline (PTX), a non-selective phosphodiesterase inhibitor, has demonstrated protective effects against lung injury in animal models. Given the significance of pulmonary toxicity resulting from paraquat (PQ) exposure, the present investigation was designed to explore the impact of PTX on PQ-induced pulmonary oxidative impairment in male mice.Following preliminary studies, thirty-six mice were divided into six groups. Group 1 received normal saline, group 2 received a single dose of PQ (20 mg/kg; i.p.), and group 3 received PTX (100 mg/kg/day; i.p.). Additionally, treatment groups 4-6 were received various doses of PTX (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg/day; respectively) one hour after a single dose of PQ. After 72 hours, the animals were sacrificed, and lung tissue was collected.PQ administration caused a significant decrease in hematocrit and an increase in blood potassium levels. Moreover, a notable increase was found in the lipid peroxidation (LPO), nitric oxide (NO), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels, along with a notable decrease in total thiol (TTM) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) contents, catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes activity in lung tissue. PTX demonstrated the ability to improve hematocrit levels; enhance SOD activity and TTM content; and decrease MPO activity, LPO and NO levels in PQ-induced pulmonary toxicity. Furthermore, these findings were well-correlated with the observed lung histopathological changes.In conclusion, our results suggest that the high dose of PTX may ameliorate lung injury by improving the oxidant/antioxidant balance in animals exposed to PQ.

Effect of Carvedilol Versus Metoprolol on Contrast-Induced Nephropathy in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome Undergoing Percutaneous Intervention Therapy

Carvedilol can inhibit inflammation, vasoconstriction, and oxidative stress, which play important roles in the development and progression of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN). To the best of our knowledge, no studies have investigated the potential effect of carvedilol on the prevalence of CIN after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The present study aimed to determine whether carvedilol use is associated with the development of CIN. A total of 319 patients (mean age, 59.2 ± 12.4 years; 77.7% male) with ACS who underwent urgent PCI at our institution between May 2019 and May 2022 were included prospectively. Overall, 100 and 219 patients were assigned to the carvedilol and metoprolol groups, respectively. The prevalence of CIN was significantly lower in the carvedilol group (6.0%) than in the metoprolol group (18.3%; P = .003). Multivariate analysis revealed that carvedilol use (odds ratio [OR] .250, 95% confidence interval [CI] .092-.677, P = .006), amount of contrast agent (OR 1.004, 95% CI 1.000-1.008, P = .031), and admission estimated glomerular filtration rate (OR .978, 95% CI 0.960-.995, P = .014) were independently associated with the development of CIN. The use of carvedilol may be a promising option for the prevention of CIN in patients with ACS undergoing urgent PCI.

Improvement of inhaled paraquat induced lung and systemic inflammation, oxidative stress and memory changes by safranal

The effects of safranal and pioglitazone alone and their combination on inhaled paraquat (PQ)-induced systemic oxidative stress and inflammation as well as behavioral changes were examined in rats. In this study, animals were exposed to saline (Ctrl) or PQ (PQ groups) aerosols. PQ exposed animals were treated with dexamethasone, 0.8 and 3.2 mg/kg/day safranal (Saf-L and Saf-H), 5 mg/kg/day pioglitazone (Pio), and Saf-L + Pio for 16 days during PQ exposure period. PQ group showed increased numbers of total and differential WBCs in blood and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), increased malondialdehyde (MDA), in the serum BALF and brain reduced thiol, catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels compared to the control group (for all, p < 0.001). The escape latency and traveled distance were enhanced, but the time spent in the target quadrant in the probe day and the latency to enter the dark room 3, 24, 48, and 72 h after receiving an electrical shock, (in the shuttle box test) were decreased in the PQ group (p < 0.05 to P < 0.001). In all treated groups, all measure values were improved compared to PQ group (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). In combination treated group of Saf-L + Pio, most measured values were more improved than the Saf-L and Pio groups (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). Saf and Pio improved PQ-induced changes similar to dexamethasone but the effects produced by combination treatments of Saf-L + Pio were more prominent than Pio and Saf-L alone, suggesting a potentiating effect for the combination of the two agents.

Prognostic value of virtual portal pressure gradient response in compensated cirrhotic patients treated with carvedilol

AIM

This study aimed to assess the prognostic significance of virtual portal pressure gradient (vPPG) response to carvedilol in patients with compensated cirrhosis (CC).

METHODS

Compensated cirrhosis patients with high-risk varices were prospectively enrolled to receive carvedilol for prevention of first variceal hemorrhage (VH) and followed up for 1 year. The vPPG response was defined as a reduction of vPPG >10% from baseline after 1-month therapy. Logistic and Cox regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors for vPPG response and first decompensation, respectively. Competitive risk models were constructed to predict disease progression, and validated using the C-index, Kaplan-Meier analysis, competitive risk analysis, and calibration curves.

RESULTS

A total of 129 patients completed this study, of whom 56 (43.4%) achieved vPPG response and were referred as vPPG responders. Baseline vPPG, red color sign, Model for End-stage Liver Disease score, serum monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and laminin levels significantly correlated with vPPG response, which itself was further documented as an independent predictor of VH, ascites, and overall decompensation events in CC. Moreover, the red color sign or Child-Turcotte-Pugh score effectively predicted VH, while ascites correlated well with portal flow velocity or MCP-1. The predictive models for VH and ascites showed a good discrimination with C-index values of 0.747 and 0.689 respectively, and the high consistency on calibration curves.

CONCLUSION

The vPPG response could be used as a noninvasive tool for prediction of disease progression in patients with CC.

Inhibition of toll-like receptor 4 activation by apigenin and chrysin via competition for sites and conformational changes

The activation of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling is crucial for initiating and coordinating the immune response against infections, and is proved as a vital target for inflammatory diseases. Herein, TLR4 with sufficient amount and functional activity was generated by heterologous expression and used to investigate the mechanism of apigenin (Api)/chrysin (Chr) inhibition of TLR4 activation. The results demonstrated that Api/Chr exhibited a strong fluorescence quenching effect through a static quenching and a high binding affinity (Ka > 105 L·mol-1) with TLR4, indicating the potential of Api/Chr as a TLR4 inhibitor. Additionally, the binding of Api/Chr induced a loose and unstable conformation of TLR4 with evidence like the decreased hydrophobicity of the tryptophan microenvironment, decreased α-helix content and increased free sulfhydryl content, resulting in reduced stability of the TLR4. The computer simulations revealed that Api/Chr occupied the myeloid differentiation factor 2 (MD-2) binding region, preventing MD-2 from binding to TLR4. Furthermore, the accuracy of the binding site between Api/Chr and TLR4 was confirmed through genetic mutations. Overall, the mechanism by which Api/Chr inhibited TLR4 activation was elucidated at the macroscopic and molecular levels, providing the worthful information concerning the future therapeutic application of Api/Chr as a natural TLR4 inhibitor.

Nilotinib alleviates paraquat-induced hepatic and pulmonary injury in rats via the Nrf2/Nf-kB axis

BACKGROUND

Paraquat (PQ, 1,1'-dimethyl-4-4'-bipyridinium dichloride) is a highly toxic quaternary ammonium herbicide widely used in agriculture. It exerts its toxic effects mainly as a result of its redox cycle via the production of superoxide anions in organisms, leading to an imbalance in the redox state of the cell causing oxidative damage and finally cell death. The aim of this study was to estimate the beneficial protective role of nilotinib (NIL) on PQ-induced hepatic and pulmonary toxicity in rats.

METHODS

Male wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups, namely control, PQ (15 mg/kg), PQ plus NIL (5 mg/kg) and PQ plus NIL (10 mg/kg). NIL (5 and 10 mg/kg/day) was taken by oral syringe for five days followed by a single intra-peritoneal administration of PQ (15 mg/kg) on sixth day.

RESULTS

Pretreatment with NIL relieved the histological damage in liver and lung tissues and improved hepatic biochemical markers. It significantly (p < 0.05) reduced serum levels of ALT, AST, ALP, Y-GT and total bilirubin while increased that of albumin. Meanwhile, NIL significantly (p < 0.05) reduced oxidative stress markers via reduction of malondialdhyde (MDA) and elevation of glutathione (GSH) contents in liver and lung tissues. In addition, it significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the inflammation by reducing hepatic and pulmonary tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and nuclear transcription factor kappa B (NF-KB/p65) contents. Nilotinib also down-regulated apoptosis by reducing cysteinyl aspartate-specific proteinase-3 (caspase-3). Furthermore, it upregulated the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3 II (LC3II) in liver and lung tissues.

SIGNIFICANCE

NIL suppressed PQ-induced inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis in liver and lung tissues by modulating Nrf2/Nf-kB axis.

Potential cardioprotective and anticancer effects of carvedilol either free or as loaded nanoparticles with or without doxorubicin in solid Ehrlich carcinoma-bearing mice

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential cardioprotective and anti-cancer effects of carvedilol (CAR) either free or as loaded nano-formulated with or without doxorubicin (DOX) in solid Ehrlich carcinoma (SEC)-bearing mice. It focused on assessment of cardiac damage, drug resistance, apoptosis, oxidative stress status, angiogenesis and proliferation.

METHODS

CAR was loaded into poly-D,L lactic-co-glycolic acid)PLGA(or Niosomes. SEC was induced in female albino mice as an experimental model of breast cancer. Seventy-two mice were randomly divided into 9 equal groups (Normal control, Untreated-SEC, SEC + DOX, SEC + CAR-free, SEC + CAR-PLGA, SEC + CAR-Niosomes, SEC + DOX + CAR-free, SEC + DOX + CAR-PLGA and SEC + DOX + CAR-Niosomes). Tumor volume and survival rate were recorded. On day 28 from tumor inoculation, mice were sacrificed, and blood samples were collected for determination of serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB). One part from tumor tissues was prepared for assessment of multidrug resistance protein-1 (MDR-1), caspase-3, reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA), while the other part was processed for histopathological examination and immunohistochemical expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and Ki-67.

RESULTS

There was non-significant difference between CAR-free, CAR-PLGA and CAR-Niosomes as anticancer either alone or when combined with DOX. However, CAR-free demonstrated potential cardioprotective effects against cardiac damage mediated by cancer or DOX that have been enhanced using CAR-PLGA or CAR-Niosomes, but that of Niosomes outperformed them both.

CONCLUSION

CAR could be used as an adjuvant therapy with DOX, especially when nanoformualted with PLGA and even better with Niosomes, without compromising its cytotoxicity against cancer cells and preventing its cardiotoxic impacts.

Repurposing of carvedilol to alleviate lung fibrosis in rats: Repressing of TGF-β1/α-SMA/Smad2/3 and STAT3 gene expressions

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most widely studied interstitial lung disease. IPF eventually leads to respiratory insufficiency, lung cancer, and death. Carvedilol (CAR) is a third-generation β-adrenergic receptor antagonist with α1-blocking effect. CAR demonstrates antifibrotic activities in various experimental models of organ fibrosis.

AIMS

This work is designed to explore the possible alleviating effects of CAR on bleomycin (BLM)-induced lung fibrosis in rats.

MAIN METHODS

The BLM rat model of lung fibrosis was achieved by intratracheal delivery of a single dose of 5 mg/kg of BLM. Seven days following BLM injection, either prednisolone or CAR was orally administered at doses of 10 mg/kg once daily for 21 days to rats. The actions of CAR were evaluated by lung oxidant/antioxidant parameters, protein concentration and total leucocyte count (TLC) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), fibrosis regulator-related genes along with the coexistent lung histological changes.

KEY FINDINGS

CAR effectively decreased lung malondialdehyde level, increased superoxide dismutase activity, declined both protein concentration and TLC in BALF, downregulated TGF-β1/α-SMA/Smad2/3 and STAT3 gene expressions, and repaired the damaged lung tissues.

SIGNIFICANCE

CAR conferred therapeutic potential against BLM-induced lung fibrosis in rats, at least in part, to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic activities. CAR could be utilized as a prospective therapeutic option in patients with lung fibrosis in clinical practice.

Dimethyl fumarate attenuates paraquat-induced pulmonary oxidative stress, inflammation and fibrosis in mice

Paraquat (PQ) is the most important cationic bipyridyl herbicide in the agricultural industry, which is very toxic to humans and animals and causes disruption in many organs, mainly in the lungs. Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is an immune-modulating drug used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis and psoriasis shows antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic effects. In this study, the ameliorative effects of DMF (10, 30 and 100 mg/kg, orally) on PQ (30 mg/kg) model of lung damage were evaluated in male mice. DMF was given daily for 7 days and PQ was administrated in the fourth day in a single dose. On the eighth day, the animals were sacrificed, and their lung tissue were removed. The results indicated that DMF can ameliorate PQ-induced the significant increase in lung index, hydroxyproline, as well as TBARS, TGF-β, NF-κB and decrease in the amount of total thiol, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, Nrf-2, and INF-γ. The histopathological results confirmed indicated findings. The results showed that the protective effect of DMF on PQ-induced toxicity is mediated through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic activities.

Phlebotomy-induced iron deficiency attenuates the pulmonary toxicity of paraquat in mice

Phlebotomy is an effective method in the prevention and treatment of some poisonings, among which iron deficiency is a well-known consequence. Given the role of iron in paraquat (PQ) toxicity, the present study investigated the effectiveness of phlebotomy in PQ pulmonary toxicity. After conducting preliminary studies, the duration time of phlebotomy was set to be seven days. Then, the mice were divided into nine separate groups. Groups 1-3 received a single dose of normal saline, and 5 and 10 mg/kg of PQ, respectively, and phlebotomy was not performed on them (NPG status). The animals in groups 4-6 first underwent phlebotomy for seven days and then received a single dose of normal saline, and 5 and 10 mg/kg of PQ (PBPT status). Groups 7-9 first received a single dose of normal saline, and 5 and 10 mg/kg of PQ and then underwent phlebotomy for seven days (PAPT status). Seven days after acute exposure to PQ, the animals were anesthetized and biochemical biomarkers as well as lung tissue changes were evaluated. The findings showed that phlebotomy before and after PQ toxicity significantly decreased serum iron compared to NPG condition. In the PBPT status, phlebotomy could prevent PQ toxicity by increasing the activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and decreasing the activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO), and the levels of hydroxyproline and lipid peroxidation in the lung tissue. In the PAPT status, a significant improvement was observed in SOD and MPO activities compared to the NPG status. Confirming the biochemical findings, the histological results indicated higher effectiveness of phlebotomy in preventing PQ toxicity (PBPT) compared to its therapeutic effects (PAPT). Considering the role of iron in PQ toxicity, it appears that the reduction of serum iron levels during phlebotomy can be effective in preventing lung injuries caused by PQ and improving the performance of the pulmonary antioxidant system.

Immunomodulatory properties of antihypertensive drugs and digitalis glycosides

INTRODUCTION

The role of chronic inflammatory process in the pathogenesis or exacerbation of hypertension has been already acknowledged.

AREAS COVERED

Therefore, one can speculate that hypotensive drugs may exert some of their therapeutic effects due to immunomodulatory properties. So far, this assumption has been tested in different studies, and the resulting knowledge is summarized in the current review article that is dedicated to different groups of antihypertensives, namely calcium channel blockers, beta blockers, as well as other less commonly used medications, such as hydralazine, agonists of alfa-2 receptor, diazoxide, doxazosin, aliskiren, and sodium nitroprusside. Articles were found in the Pubmed database by entering the name of a specific drug (or group of drugs) together with the words: immunology, cellular response, humoral response, inflammation, interleukin. The 2000-2021 range was used to search for all drugs except propranolol (1980-2021) and calcium blockers (1990-2021).

EXPERT OPINION

Observed decrease in serum/plasma concentration of proinflammatory cytokines, and CRP along with lower expression of adhesion molecules on immune cells strongly suggest that these drugs possess immunomodulatory properties, which seems to be crucial in the medical practice, especially in the therapy of hypertensive patients with other accompanying inflammatory-based diseases, such as type II diabetes, developed metabolic syndrome, allergies or autoimmunity.

Carvedilol activates nuclear factor E2-related factor 2/ antioxidant response element pathway to inhibit oxidative stress and apoptosis of retinal pigment epithelial cells induced by high glucose

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the most prominent manifestation of diabetic microangiopathy and is a serious complication of diabetes. Despite extensive researches focusing on DR, treatment options for DR are still limited. Carvedilol (CAR) has vasodilatory, antioxidant stress and anti-inflammatory effects and poses a vital role in addressing the issue of diabetic complications. This paper attempts to explore this property of CAR and investigate into its effects on DR. First, ARPE-19 cells were treated with different concentrations of CAR and cells were induced with 30 mM high glucose (HG) to establish a DR cell model. Cell viability was assayed by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) with or without HG induction. Cellular inflammation and oxidative stress were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and corresponding kits. The measurement of apoptosis levels was conducted by Terminal dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) and Western blotting. The protein levels related to Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway were assessed by Western blotting. Finally, cellular inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis in ARPE-19 cells pretreated with Nrf2 inhibitor ML385 were tested again by the same methods. Results showed that under HG induction, CAR effectively improved ARPE-19 cell viability, inhibited cellular inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Moreover, CAR activated Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway, which further suppressed cellular inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Overall, CAR inhibited HG-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in retinal pigment epithelial cells by activating Nrf2/ARE pathway.

Covid-19 and development of heart failure: mystery and truth

Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) is a novel worldwide pandemic caused by a novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). During Covid-19 pandemic, socioeconomic deprivation, social isolation, and reduced physical activities may induce heart failure (HF), destabilization, and cause more complications. HF appears as a potential hazard due to SARS-CoV-2 infection, chiefly in elderly patients with underlying comorbidities. In reality, the expression of cardiac ACE2 is implicated as a target point for SARS-CoV-2-induced acute cardiac injury. In SARS-CoV-2 infection, like other febrile illnesses, high blood viscosity, exaggerated pro-inflammatory response, multisystem inflammatory syndrome, and endothelial dysfunction-induced coagulation disorders may increase risk of HF development. Hypoxic respiratory failure, as in pulmonary edema, severe acute lung injury (ALI), and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) may affect heart hemodynamic stability due to the development of pulmonary hypertension. Indeed, Covid-19-induced HF could be through the development of cytokine storm, characterized by high proliferation pro-inflammatory cytokines. In cytokine storm-mediated cardiac dysfunction, there is a positive correlation between levels of pro-inflammatory cytokine and myocarditis-induced acute cardiac injury biomarkers. Therefore, Covid-19-induced HF is more complex and related from a molecular background in releasing pro-inflammatory cytokines to the neuro-metabolic derangements that together affect cardiomyocyte functions and development of HF. Anti-heart failure medications, mainly digoxin and carvedilol, have potent anti-SARS-CoV-2 and anti-inflammatory properties that may mitigate Covid-19 severity and development of HF. In conclusion, SARS-CoV-2 infection may lead to the development of HF due to direct acute cardiac injury or through the development of cytokine storms, which depress cardiomyocyte function and cardiac contractility. Anti-heart failure drugs, mainly digoxin and carvedilol, may attenuate severity of HF by reducing the infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 and prevent the development of cytokine storms in severely affected Covid-19 patients.

Immediate and late systemic and lung effects of inhaled paraquat in rats

The immediate and the late effects of inhaled Paraquat (PQ) on systemic and lung inflammation and oxidative stress were investigated. Rats were exposed to saline (control group) and two doses of inhaled PQ (27 and 54 mg/m³) and studied variables were measured: 1) one day after the end of PQ exposure as "immediate condition", 2) 16 days after the end of PQ exposure as "late condition". Total and differential white blood cells (WBC) counts, lipid peroxidation and nitrite were increased but thiol, superoxide dismutase and catalase in the blood and BALF as well as methacholine EC50 was reduced in both conditions in the animals exposed to PQ compared to control groups (p < 0. 05 to p < 0.001). Most studied parameters in the immediate condition were significantly higher than the late condition (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). Systemic and lung inflammation and oxidative stress due to inhaled PQ in both the immediate and the late conditions were shown. Although most measured parameters in the immediate condition were higher, all variables were significantly different with the control group even in late condition, indicating a long-term effect of inhaled PQ toxicity, which may help in a more effective treatment of PQ poising in the future.

Systemic Catecholaminergic Deficiency in Depressed Patients with and without Coronary Artery Disease

Background: Stress and depression are known to contribute to coronary artery disease (CAD) with catecholamines (CA), altering the balance to a pro- and anti-inflammatory stetting and potentially playing a key role in the underlying pathophysiology. This study aimed to elucidate the impact of social stress on the CA system and inflammation markers in patients suffering from CAD and depression. Methods: 93 subjects were exposed to the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST). Based on the results of the depression subscale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS, German Version) and the presence/absence of CAD, they were divided into four groups. A total of 21 patients suffered from CAD and depression (+D+CAD), 26 suffered from CAD alone (−D+CAD), and 23 suffered from depression only (+D−CAD); another 23 subjects served as healthy controls (−D−CAD). Subjects were registered at 09:00 AM at the laboratory. A peripheral venous catheter was inserted, and after a 60-min-resting period, the TSST was applied. Prior to and 5, 15, 30, and 60 min after the stress test, plasma epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine concentrations (High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)) were measured together with the inflammation markers interleukin-6 (IL-6) and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1). High-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP, Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)) was measured prior to TSST. Results: (+D−CAD) and (+D+CAD) patients showed significantly lower epinephrine and dopamine levels compared to the (−D+CAD) and (−D−CAD) participants at baseline (prior to TSST). Over the whole measurement period after the TSST, no inter-group difference was detected. Partial correlation (controlling for age, gender and Body Mass Index (BMI)) revealed a significant direct relation between MCP-1 and norepinephrine (r = 0.47, p = 0.03) and MCP-1 and epinephrine (r = 0.46, p = 0.04) in patients with −D+CAD at rest. Conclusions: The stress response of the CA system was not affected by depression or CAD, whereas at baseline we detected a depression-related reduction of epinephrine and dopamine release independent of CAD comorbidity. Reduced norepinephrine and dopamine secretion in the central nervous system in depression, known as ‘CA-deficit hypothesis’, are targets of antidepressant drugs. Our results point towards a CA-deficit in the peripheral nervous system in line with CA-deficit of the central nervous system and CA exhaustion in depression. This might explain somatic symptoms such as constipation, stomach pain, diarrhoea, sweating, tremor, and the influence of depression on the outcome of somatic illness such as CAD.

The herbicide paraquat-induced molecular mechanisms in the development of acute lung injury and lung fibrosis

The herbicide paraquat (PQ; 1,1'-dimethyl-4,4'-bipyridylium dichloride) is a highly toxic organic heterocyclic herbicide that has been widely used in agricultural settings. Since its commercial introduction in the early 1960s, numerous cases of fatal PQ poisonings attributed to accidental and/or intentional ingestion of PQ concentrated formulations have been reported. The clinical manifestations of the respiratory system during the acute phase of PQ poisoning mainly include acute lung injury (ALI)/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), followed by pulmonary fibrosis in a later phase. The focus of this review is to summarize the most recent publications related to PQ-induced lung toxicity as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms for PQ-mediated pathologic processes. Growing sets of data from in vitro and in vivo models have demonstrated the involvement of the PQ in regulating lung oxidative stress, inflammatory response, epigenetics, apoptosis, autophagy, and the progression of lung fibrosis. The article also summarizes novel therapeutic avenues based on a literature review, which can be explored as potential means to combat PQ-induced lung toxicity. Finally, we also presented clinical studies on the association of PQ exposure with the incidence of lung injury and pulmonary fibrosis.

Carvedilol prevents pancreatic β-cell damage and the development of type 1 diabetes in mice by the inhibition of proinflammatory cytokines, NF-κB, COX-2, iNOS and oxidative stress

Inflammation is one of the main mechanisms of pancreatic β-cell damage and the development of type 1 diabetes (T1D). Carvedilol, a beta-adrenergic receptor blocker, has been demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effect of carvedilol against pancreatic β-cell damage and the development of T1D in an experimental model. T1D was induced in mice by multiple low-dose streptozotocin (STZ) injections. Diabetic mice were treated with carvedilol (15 and 20 mg/kg/day, orally) for 14 days. Results showed that blood glucose levels, diabetes incidence, body weight loss and insulitis in the pancreatic tissue were significantly reduced in mice treated with carvedilol. Treatment of mice with carvedilol significantly increased the levels of antioxidants glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase and decreased the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) in the pancreatic tissue as compared with those in the STZ-induced diabetic mice. Carvedilol decreased the expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) as important modulators of inflammation and β-cell damage in the pancreatic tissue. In addition, carvedilol significantly reduced the levels of proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 IL-12, IL-17, interferon (IFN)-γ and chemokine MCP-1, while increased the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in the pancreatic tissue. In conclusion, these findings suggest that carvedilol is able to prevent pancreatic β-cell damage and the development of T1D in mice by the inhibition of inflammatory and oxidative mediators.

Kaempferol Protects Blood Vessels From Damage Induced by Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Association With the Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathway

Over recent years, an increasing number of studies have confirmed that the occurrence and development of vascular pathological changes are closely related to oxidative stress and the inflammatory response of the vascular endothelium. Kaempferol is the most common flavonoid compound found in fruits and vegetables. Our present research identified that kaempferol had the capability to protect the vascular endothelium in a mouse model of vascular injury and explored the specific mechanisms underlying these effects by investigating oxidative stress, the extent of cardiovascular injury, and inflammatory markers such as NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-6, and the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Analysis showed that kaempferol reduced oxidative stress and inflammation mediated by H₂O₂ and paraquat, respectively, both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, kaempferol suppressed the levels of TNF-α and IL-6, and the activation of NF-κB, in aortic tissues and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Finally, we observed that kaempferol corrected the levels of antioxidants and elevated the protein levels of Nrf2 and HO-1 in aortic tissues and HUVECs. Collectively, our findings prove that kaempferol protects blood vessels from damage induced by oxidative stress and inflammation and that the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway plays a key role in mediating these effects.

Combined signaling of NF-kappaB and IL-17 contributes to Mesenchymal stem cells-mediated protection for Paraquat-induced acute lung injury

BACKGROUND

Paraquat (PQ) is an herbicide widely used in the world. PQ can cause pulmonary toxicity and even acute lung injury. Treatment for PQ poisoning in a timely manner is still a challenge for clinicians. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation has hold potentials for the treatment of several lung diseases including PQ poisoning. The aim of this study is to examine the mechanisms mediated by MSC transplantation to protect PQ-induced lung injury.

METHODS

Here we performed the whole genome sequencing and compared the genes and pathways in the lung that were altered by PQ or PQ together with MSC treatment.

RESULTS

The comparison in transcriptome identified a combined mitigation in NF-kappaB signaling and IL-17 signaling in MSC transplanted samples.

CONCLUSION

This study not only reiterates the important role of NF-kappaB signaling and IL-17 signaling in the pathogenesis of PQ-induced toxicity, but also provides insight into a molecular basis of MSC administration for the treatment of PQ-induced toxicity.

Exploration of therapeutic role of montelukast and dexamethasone combination against paraquat induced inhalational toxicity

OBJECTIVES

To explore the therapeutic role of a single dose combination of montelukast (MON) and dexamethasone (DXM) through intra-peritoneal route against paraquat (PQ)-intoxicated experimental Wistar rats.

METHODS

In vivo the survival rate was investigated following the administration of both MON and DXM in PQ exposed rats. Lungs parameters including enhanced pause (Penh), tidal volume (TV) and breath per minute (BPM) were determined using the whole body plethysmograph (WBP). Further chest imaging and histopathological studies were conducted to evaluate the lungs injury. In vivo the antioxidant activity was carried out by determining the levels of catalase (SOD), superoxide dismutase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). Lungs tissue concentration of different proinflammatory cytokines like IL-1β, IL-6, TGF-β1 and TNF-α was also determined. Finally, expression of NF-kB and p-NF-kB was investigated by western blot.

RESULTS

Results of survival rate and levels of lungs parameters indicated therapeutic potential of combination treatment of MON and DXM. Protective activity on lungs was reflected in chest imaging and histopathological investigations. Moreover, combination treatment exhibited significant increased levels of all anti-oxidant parameters. Significant decrease in the levels of IL-1β; IL-6; TGF-β1 and TNF-α was also observed with the combination treatment of MON and DXM. Evidence of significant down regulation of NF-kB and phospho-NF-kB was also found with the combination treatment of MON and DXM.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the advantage of therapeutic synergism activity of MON and DXM, it may be used in the prophylaxis of PQ-intoxication following clinical trials.

TLR4-Targeting Therapeutics: Structural Basis and Computer-Aided Drug Discovery Approaches

The integration of computational techniques into drug development has led to a substantial increase in the knowledge of structural, chemical, and biological data. These techniques are useful for handling the big data generated by empirical and clinical studies. Over the last few years, computer-aided drug discovery methods such as virtual screening, pharmacophore modeling, quantitative structure-activity relationship analysis, and molecular docking have been employed by pharmaceutical companies and academic researchers for the development of pharmacologically active drugs. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play a vital role in various inflammatory, autoimmune, and neurodegenerative disorders such as sepsis, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, cancer, and systemic lupus erythematosus. TLRs, particularly TLR4, have been identified as potential drug targets for the treatment of these diseases, and several relevant compounds are under preclinical and clinical evaluation. This review covers the reported computational studies and techniques that have provided insights into TLR4-targeting therapeutics. Furthermore, this article provides an overview of the computational methods that can benefit a broad audience in this field and help with the development of novel drugs for TLR-related disorders.

Hydrostatin-SN10 Ameliorates Pancreatitis-Induced Lung Injury by Affecting IL-6-Induced JAK2/STAT3-Associated Inflammation and Oxidative Stress

Hydrostatin-SN1 (peptide sequence, DEQHLETELHTLTSVLTANGFQ), a kind of peptides extracted from snake venom, has been reported to have anti-inflammatory effect, but its truncated mutant hydrostatin-SN10 (peptide sequence, DEQHLETELH) on pancreatitis-induced acute lung injury has not been well documented. Interleukin- (IL-) 6-induced Janus Kinase 2/Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3) pathway is involved with inflammatory and oxidative stress activities and may be associated with the pathogenesis of lung injury, and related molecules were measured. Taurocholate-induced pancreatitis associated with acute lung injury was established and treated with hydrostatin-SN10. Pancreatitis was confirmed by measuring the serum levels of amylase, lipase, and trypsinogen and urinary amylase. Lung injury was determined by histologically assessing acinar cell changes. The related molecules of IL-6-induced JAK2/STAT3-associated inflammation and oxidative stress were quantitated by real time-PCR, Western blot, and/or immunochemical assay. Hydrostatin-SN10 reduced the levels of serum amylase, lipase, and trypsinogen and urinary amylase when compared with the model group (p < 0.05). Hydrostatin-SN10 significantly inhibited the IL-6-stimulated JAK2/STAT3 pathway and reduced the number of apoptotic cells via the downregulation of caspase 3 and BAX (proapoptotic) and upregulation of Bcl2 (antiapoptotic) (p < 0.05). IL-6 induced the increase in the levels of JAK2 and STAT3, which was reversed by hydrostatin-SN10 treatment (p < 0.05). In addition, hydrostatin-SN10 reduced the expression of IL-6 and TNF- (tumor necrosis factor-) α and increased the level of IL-10 (p < 0.05). On the other hand, hydrostatin-SN10 treatment increased the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and reduced glutathione (GSH) and the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (p < 0.05). These results suggest that hydrostatin-SN10 may inhibit pancreatitis-induced acute lung injury by affecting IL-6-mediated JAK2/STAT3 pathway-associated inflammation and oxidative stress.

Astaxanthin Protects OTA-Induced Lung Injury in Mice through the Nrf2/NF-κB Pathway

The aim of this research was to evaluate the potential protective mechanism of astaxanthin (ASTA) against oxidative damage and inflammation caused by ochratoxin (OTA) in mouse lung. We divided mice into a control group (CG), an OTA group (PG), an astaxanthin group (AG), and an OTA+ASTA group (JG). Oxidative indices (malondialdehyde (MDA), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH)) and inflammatory markers (interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α)) were assayed in the lung, and the lung-weight-to-body-weight ratio was calculated. Apoptosis was detected in pathological sections by the TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay. Oxidative damage and inflammation were detected in the lung of mice after exposure to OTA. Besides, Nrf2- and NF-κB-pathway-associated proteins were detected by Western blot. In contrast with OTA, ASTA significantly raised the expression of Nrf2, HO-1, and MnSOD, while the expression of other proteins (Keap1, TLR4, and NF-κB) was significantly decreased. These results indicate that ASTA exerted protective effects against OTA-induced oxidative damage and inflammation in the lung by regulating the Nrf2 and NF-κB pathways.

Febuxostat attenuates ulcerative colitis by the inhibition of NF-κB, proinflammatory cytokines, and oxidative stress in mice

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by oxidative stress and upregulation of proinflammatory mediators in colonic tissue. Febuxostat, a xanthine oxidase inhibitor has been shown to exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effect of febuxostat against ulcerative colitis, and to elucidate the potential mechanisms involved. Experimental colitis was induced in mice by intrarectal administration of 5% acetic acid. Mice were treated with febuxostat (10 and 20 mg/kg/day, orally) for three days. Results showed that body weight loss, colon shortening, macroscopic damage and histopathological changes of colonic mucosa were reduced in mice treated with febuxostat. Treatment of mice with febuxostat significantly increased the levels of glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), and decreased the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), carbonyl protein, xanthine oxidase, nitric oxide (NO) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity of colon tissue compared with those in the acetic acid-induced colitis group. The expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) as a key regulator of inflammation in the colonic tissue was decreased by febuxostat. Furthermore treatment with febuxostat significantly reduced the levels of proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and interferon (IFN)-γ, while increased the levels of IL-10 compared with the colitis group. These results suggest that febuxostat is able to decrease the severity of acetic acid-induced colitis by inhibition of oxidative stress and inflammatory responses through NF-κB pathway.

Monocytes as an Early Predictor for Patients with Acute Paraquat Poisoning: A Retrospective Analysis

BACKGROUND

The predictive values of monocytes in the prognosis of patients with acute paraquat (PQ) poisoning are unclear. This retrospective study investigated the predictive values of monocytes in the prognosis of patients with acute PQ poisoning.

METHODS

Adult patients who suffered from acute PQ poisoning in the emergency care unit of Cangzhou Central Hospital from May 2012 to December 2018 were enrolled. The patients were divided into groups, namely, survival and nonsurvival, according to a 90-day prognosis. Moreover, correlation, logistic regression, receiver-operator characteristic (ROC), and Kaplan-Meier curve analyses were applied to evaluate the monocyte values used to predict the prognosis of patients with acute PQ poisoning.

RESULT

Among the 109 patients, 45 survived within 90 days after the poisoning, resulting in a 41.28% survival rate. The monocyte count of the nonsurvivors was significantly higher than that of the survivors (P< 0.001). Correlation analysis showed that monocyte count positively correlated with plasma PQ concentration (r= 0.413; P< 0.001) and negatively correlated with survival time (r= 0.512; P< 0.001) and 90-day survival (r= 0.503; P< 0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that elevated monocytes were the independent risk factors for the 90-day survival. The area under the ROC curve of the monocyte count used to predict the 90-day survival was 0.826 (95% CI: 0.751-0.904), the optimal cut-off was 0.51×109/L, sensitivity was 73.4%, and specificity was 86.7%.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that elevated monocyte count is a useful early predictor of 90-day survival in patients with acute PQ poisoning. However, further studies are warranted to draw firm conclusions.

Effects of curcumin on artery blood gas index of rats with pulmonary fibrosis caused by paraquat poisoning and the expression of Smad 4, Smurf 2, interleukin-4 and interferon-γ

Effects of curcumin on artery blood gas index of rats with pulmonary fibrosis caused by paraquat poisoning and the expression of Mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 4 (Smad4), Smad ubiquitination regulatory factor 2 (Smurf2), interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) were explored. A total of 54 Wistar rats were randomly selected, of which 36 rats were selected for paraquat poisoning pulmonary fibrosis modeling, and 18 were used in the control group for normal feeding. Then, 18 rats were randomly selected from the modeled groups and injected with curcumin and classified as the curcumin group. The remaining 18 rats were not processed and 17 were successfully modeled as the paraquat group. The expression of SMAD4, Smurf2, IL-4 and INF-γ was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Abdominal aortic blood was taken for determination of pH, arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO₂) and arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO₂). The artery blood PaO₂ and serum INF-γ of the curcumin and paraquat groups were significantly higher on day 1 than those on day 5 (P<0.05). The artery blood PaO₂ and serum INF-γ in the curcumin group were higher than those in the paraquat group (P<0.05). The artery blood PaCO₂, serum Smad4, Smurf2 and IL-4 in the curcumin group were significantly lower on day 1 than those on day 5 (P<0.05). The artery blood PaCO₂, serum Smad4, Smurf2 and IL-4 in the paraquat group were significantly lower on day 1 than those on day 5 (P<0.05). The PaCO₂, serum Smad4, Smurf2 and IL-4 in the curcumin group were lower than those in the paraquat group (P<0.05). In conclusion, curcumin can effectively improve pulmonary fibrosis in rats after treatment with paraquat poisoning. The results show that it is expected to be an effective drug for the treatment of paraquat, and provide effective reference and guidance for clinical treatment.

Effects of paraquat on IL-6 and TNF-α in macrophages

Effects of paraquat (PQ) on interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in macrophages were investigated. Different concentrations of PQ were added to mouse macrophage RAW264.7 for culture. According to different concentrations of PQ, mice were divided into micro concentration (0.01 mmol/l), low concentration (0.1 mmol/l), medium concentration (1 mmol/l), high concentration (10 mmol/l), and control groups without PQ. Trypan blue solution was used for detecting cell viability, a microplate reader for detecting the fluorescence intensity of reactive oxygen species (ROS), ELISA for detecting the expression levels of IL-6 and TNF-α. The medium concentration and the high concentration groups had significantly lower cell viability than the other three groups (P<0.050). The high concentration group had significantly lower cell viability than the medium concentration group (P<0.050). At 1, 4 and 8 h, respectively, the medium and the high concentration groups had significantly higher ROS fluorescence intensity than the other three groups (P<0.050). The high concentration group had significantly higher ROS fluorescence intensity than the medium concentration group (P<0.050). There were significant differences in the expression levels of IL-6 and TNF-α at the 1st, 4th and 8th hour among the five groups (P<0.050). In the micro, the low, the medium and high concentration groups, the expression levels of IL-6 and TNF-α were the lowest at 1 h and the highest at 8 h, which were higher at 4 h than those at 1 h (P<0.050). PQ at a concentration of 1 mmol/l can produce toxicity to macrophages, and greatly increase the ROS fluorescence intensity, the expression levels of IL-6 and TNF-α. PQ poisoning is expected to be treated though IL-6 and TNF-α in the future.

Carvedilol (CAR) combined with carnosic acid (CAA) attenuates doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity by suppressing excessive oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis and autophagy

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a wide spectrum antitumor drug. However, its clinical application is limited due to the cardiotoxicity. Carvedilol (CAR) is a β-blocker used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. Accordingly, supplementation with natural antioxidants or plant extracts exerts protective effects against various injury in vivo. Carnosic acid (CAA), the principal constituent of rosemary, has various biological activities, including antioxidant, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory. Here, heart injury mouse model was established using DOX (20 mg/kg) in vivo. And cardiac muscle cell line of H9C2 was subjected to 0.5 μM of DOX for 24 h in vitro. Then, the protective effects of CAA and CAR alone, or the two in combination on DOX-induced cardiotoxicity in vivo and in vitro were explored. The results indicated that both CAA and CAR, when used alone, were moderately effective in attenuating DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. The combination of two drugs functioned synergistically to ameliorate cardiac injury caused by DOX, as evidenced by the significantly reduced collagen accumulation and improved dysfunction of heart. CAA and CAR exhibited stronger anti-oxidative role in DOX-treated mice partly by augmenting the expression and activities of the anti-oxidative enzymes. In addition, inflammatory response was significantly suppressed by the two in combination, proved by the decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines (COX2, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β and IL-18), which was associated with the inactivation of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB). Furthermore, DOX-stirred apoptosis and autophagy were dramatically attenuated by the co-treatments of CAA and CAR through down-regulating cleaved Caspase-3 and LC3B signaling pathways. The effects of CAA and CAR combination against cardiotoxicity were observed in H9C2 cells with DOX stimulation. Our findings above suggested that the use of CAR and CAA in combination could be expected to have synergistic efficacy and significant potential against cardiotoxicity induced by DOX.

Joint toxicity on hepatic detoxication enzymes in goldfish (Carassius auratus) exposed to binary mixtures of lead and paraquat

Compared to single exposure, chemical mixtures might induce joint toxicity including additive, synergistic and antagonistic effects on both organisms and environment. Owing to the specific toxicity of oxidative stress and binding to proteins, lead (Pb) is generally recognized a non-essential and threatening heavy metal to animals and human. Paraquat (PQ) is a widely used herbicide in agriculture and can trigger oxidative stress as well as Pb. Little information was available about joint effects of the two chemicals on toxicological responses in organisms, especially in fish. In our present study, goldfish (Carassius auratus) were randomly exposed to single and combined experiments with different concentrations of Pb and PQ for 28 days. Activities of four enzyme biomarkers in liver, ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD), 7-benzyloxy-4-trifluoromethyl-coumarin-O-debenzyloxylase (BFCOD), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) were evaluated in each experimental group on day 14 and 28. The results showed four enzyme levels were markedly reduced with the increase of concentrations in mixtures and prolonged exposure. The inhibitory EROD and BFCOD activities were not significantly changed in goldfish following PQ-treated groups with or without 0.5 mg/L Pb, which indicated PQ has more inhibitory toxicity on CYP450 enzymes than Pb in co-exposure groups. However, the reduced values of GST were observed only in the combinations containing high doses of Pb or PQ during experimental periods. Although the responses of UGT activity were similar to GST on 14th day, all combinations of Pb and PQ generated stronger inhibitions on UGT activities compared to individual Pb and PQ-treated group. These results suggested that combined exposure of Pb and PQ have more inhibitory toxicity on phase I enzymes than phase II enzymes.

Angptl2 deficiency attenuates paraquat (PQ)-induced lung injury in mice by altering inflammation, oxidative stress and fibrosis through NF-κB pathway

Paraquat (PQ) is one of the most extensively used herbicides, possessing high toxicity for humans and animals. The lung is the main target organ by the poisoning of PQ resulting in acute lung injury. Nonetheless, molecular mechanisms underlying PQ-induced lung injury remain unclear. Here, we ask if angiopoietin-like protein 2 (Angptl2), a pro-inflammatory protein, contributes to inflammation that accelerates acute lung injury. The results indicated that abundant Angptl2 expression was observed in lung tissues of PQ-treated mice. Histological analysis revealed that PQ-induced histological changes were alleviated by Angptl2 knockout (Angptl2^-/-). Angptl2^-/- in PQ-treated mice attenuated acute lung injury progression by reducing the number of total cells, total leukocytes, neutrophils and macrophages in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and reducing inflammatory response through the inactivation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway. Angptl2^-/- reduced oxidative stress in PQ-treated mice, as evidenced by the enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in serum or lung tissue samples, which was accompanied with increased expressions of nuclear respiratory factor 2 (Nrf-2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO-1). PQ-induced fibrosis was also improved in Angptl2^-/- mice by decreasing pulmonary transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 expressions. In vitro, we found that Angptl2 knockdown-suppressed inflammation, oxidative stress and fibrosis was restored by increasing NF-κB activation in PQ-incubated A549 cells; however, the results above were significantly reversed by inactivating NF-κB using its inhibitor, Bay 11-7085 or LY2409881. Therefore, Angptl2 could provide therapeutic effects on PQ-induced acute lung injury through inhibiting inflammation, oxidative stress and fibrosis by regulating NF-κB pathway.

Identification of potential serum biomarkers of acute paraquat poisoning in humans using an iTRAQ quantitative proteomic

Paraquat (PQ) poisoning has high mortality rates in many countries. Due to it readily being absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and rapidly excreted in the urine, few biomarkers possess satisfactory specificity and sensitivity in diagnostic and forensic practices. To investigate serum biomarkers in patients with PQ poisoning, pooled sera was analyzed using a proteomic approach based on iTRAQ coupled LC-MS/MS. Of the 413 proteins identified with high confidence, 81 were found to be differentially expressed (1.5-fold change) in the sera of patients with PQ poisoning. The differential expression pattern of 4 of these proteins was validated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in clinical samples. A sera sample from a PQ poisoning patient has shown relatively increased abundance of S100A8 and S100A9. The overexpression of S100A8 and S100A9 was further validated in the lung tissue of PQ-treated rat associated with lung damage. Meanwhile, we identified another two down-expressed proteins, transferrin receptor protein 1 (TfR1) and serum amyloid P-component (SAP), which may be also practicable in human clinical samples as PQ poisoning serum biomarkers. Furthermore, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis confirmed that the expression levels of S100 alarmins, TfR1 and SAP in patient serum could provide a discriminatory diagnostic test for predicting PQ poisoning in patients. Therefore, our results suggest that increased serum levels of S100 alarmins and decreased serum levels of TfR1 and SAP may constitute potential biomarkers for the prediction of PQ poisoning in humans, and might be novel therapeutic targets in PQ poisoning.

Fine chalk dust induces inflammatory response via p38 and ERK MAPK pathway in rat lung

Chalk teaching is widely used in the world due to low cost, especially in some developing countries. During teaching with chalks, a large amount of fine chalk dust is produced. Although exposure to chalk dust is associated with respiratory diseases, the mechanism underlying the correlation between chalk dust exposure and adverse effects has not fully been elucidated. In this study, inflammation and its signal pathway in rat lungs exposed to fine chalk dust were examined through histopathology analyses; pro-inflammatory gene transcription; and protein levels measured by HE staining, RT-PCR, and western blot analysis. The results demonstrated that fine chalk dust increased neutrophils and up-regulated inflammatory gene mRNA levels (TNF-α, IL-6, TGF-β1, iNOS, and ICAM-1), and oxidative stress marker (HO-1) level, leading to the increase of inflammatory cell infiltration and inflammatory injury on the lungs. These inflammation responses were mediated, at least in part, via p38 and extracellular regulated proteinase (ERK) mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling mechanisms. In contrast, N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) supplement significantly ameliorated these changes in inflammatory responses. Our results support the hypothesis that fine chalk dust can damage rat lungs and the NAC supplement may attenuate fine chalk dust-associated lung inflammation.

Immunomodulatory basis of antioxidant therapy and its future prospects: an appraisal

Antioxidants are agents which can modulate oxidant-antioxidant profile of body system by neutralizing pro-oxidant molecules. The current scientific knowledge on mechanisms of antioxidant activity of biomolecules was critically reviewed with a special emphasis on immunomodulation. The immuno-oxidative wreckage of animals in various disease conditions and the role of biomodulators in curbing the oxidative stress through immune pathways were analyzed. The critical role of immunomodulatory mechanisms in controlling oxidative damage was identified. Selection of antioxidant therapy considering the immunopharmacology of the drug as well as immunological basis of disease may reduce treatment failure and adverse health effects. Hence, it is suggested that future studies on antioxidants may focus on the immuno-oxidative pathobiology to better understand its clinical effects and effective disease management.

Comparison of Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Flavonoid-Rich Common and Tartary Buckwheat Sprout Extracts in Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW 264.7 and Peritoneal Macrophages

Buckwheat sprouts have been widely consumed all around world due to their great abundance of bioactive compounds. In this study, the anti-inflammatory effects of flavonoid-rich common buckwheat sprout (CBS) and tartary buckwheat sprout (TBS) extracts were evaluated in lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) stimulated RAW 264.7 murine macrophages and primary peritoneal macrophages from male BALB/c mice. Based on the reversed-phase HPLC analysis, the major flavonoids in CBS were determined to be C-glycosylflavones (orientin, isoorientin, vitexin, and isovitexin), quercetin-3-O-robinobioside, and rutin, whereas TBS contained only high amounts of rutin. The TBS extract exhibited higher inhibitory activity as assessed by the production of proinflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide and cytokines including tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin- (IL-) 6, and IL-12 in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages than CBS extract. In addition, TBS extract suppressed nuclear factor-kappa B activation by preventing inhibitor kappa B-alpha degradation and mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Moreover, the TBS extract markedly reduced LPS-induced cytokine production in peritoneal macrophages. Taken together, these findings suggest that TBS extract can be a potential source of anti-inflammatory agents that may influence macrophage-mediated inflammatory disorders.

Carvedilol can attenuate histamine-induced paw edema and formaldehyde-induced arthritis in rats without risk of gastric irritation

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Rheumatoid arthritis treatment aims to control joint damage and any associated complications such as cardiovascular disease. Most anti-inflammatory drugs have a high tendency to cause gastro-intestinal irritation. The present study is designed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of carvedilol and to study its effect on gastric mucosa.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Lornoxicam (1.3mg/kg) or carvedilol (10mg/kg) was administrated orally 1h before histamine injection into animals of a histamine-induced paw edema model and orally daily for 11days into animals of a formaldehyde-induced arthritis model. Tumor necrosis factor-α and prostaglandin E₂ were measured in animals of the formaldehyde-induced arthritis model. The effect of lornoxicam and carvedilol on gastric mucosa was assessed in normal rats and after induction of cold stress ulcer.

RESULTS

Carvedilol succeeded in reducing hind paw edema in both histamine-induced paw edema and formaldehyde-induced arthritis and in reducing the elevated level of tumor necrosis factor-α and prostaglandin E₂ nearly with near equal efficacy compared with lornoxicam. Carvedilol did not show any ulcerative effect on the gastric mucosa of normal rats, and its use was associated with an improvement of both the gross and histopathological pictures of gastric ulcers in animals of the cold stress ulcer model compared with lornoxicam treated rats.

CONCLUSION

The current findings support the use of carvedilol both in the management of inflammation as well as the prevention of cardiovascular complications in rheumatoid arthritis patients. The use of carvedilol was not associated with any gastro-intestinal tract irritation.

Potential Role of Carvedilol in the Cardiac Immune Response Induced by Experimental Infection with Trypanosoma cruzi

Trypanosoma cruzi causes a cardiac infection characterized by an inflammatory imbalance that could become the inciting factor of the illness. To this end, we evaluated the role of carvedilol, a beta-blocker with potential immunomodulatory properties, on the immune response in C57BL/6 mice infected with VL-10 strain of T. cruzi in the acute phase. Animals (n = 40) were grouped: (i) not infected, (ii) infected, (iii) infected + carvedilol, and (iv) not infected + carvedilol. We analyzed parameters related to parasitemia, plasma levels of TNF, IL-10, and CCL2, and cardiac histopathology after the administration of carvedilol for 30 days. We did not observe differences in the maximum peaks of parasitemia in the day of their detection among the groups. The plasma TNF was elevated at 60 days of infection in mice treated or not with carvedilol. However, we observed a decreased CCL2 level and increased IL-10 levels in those infected animals treated with carvedilol, which impacted the reduction of the inflammatory infiltration in cardiac tissue. For this experimental model, carvedilol therapy was not able to alter the levels of circulating parasites but modulates the pattern of CCL2 and IL-10 mediators when the VL10 strain of T. cruzi was used in C57BL6 mice.