Cytokines and anti-cytokines as therapeutics--an update

Molecular modeling and simulation approaches to characterize potential molecular targets for burdock inulin to instigate protection against autoimmune diseases

In the current study, we utilized molecular modeling and simulation approaches to define putative potential molecular targets for Burdock Inulin, including inflammatory proteins such as iNOS, COX-2, TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-1β. Molecular docking results revealed potential interactions and good binding affinity for these targets; however, IL-1β, COX-2, and iNOS were identified as the best targets for Inulin. Molecular simulation-based stability assessment demonstrated that inulin could primarily target iNOS and may also supplementarily target COX-2 and IL-1β during DSS-induced colitis to reduce the role of these inflammatory mechanisms. Furthermore, residual flexibility, hydrogen bonding, and structural packing were reported with uniform trajectories, showing no significant perturbation throughout the simulation. The protein motions within the simulation trajectories were clustered using principal component analysis (PCA). The IL-1β-Inulin complex, approximately 70% of the total motion was attributed to the first three eigenvectors, while the remaining motion was contributed by the remaining eigenvectors. In contrast, for the COX2-Inulin complex, 75% of the total motion was attributed to the eigenvectors. Furthermore, in the iNOS-Inulin complex, the first three eigenvectors contributed to 60% of the total motion. Furthermore, the iNOS-Inulin complex contributed 60% to the total motion through the first three eigenvectors. To explore thermodynamically favorable changes upon mutation, motion mode analysis was carried out. The Free Energy Landscape (FEL) results demonstrated that the IL-1β-Inulin achieved a single conformation with the lowest energy, while COX2-Inulin and iNOS-Inulin exhibited two lowest-energy conformations each. IL-1β-Inulin and COX2-Inulin displayed total binding free energies of - 27.76 kcal/mol and - 37.78 kcal/mol, respectively, while iNOS-Inulin demonstrated the best binding free energy results at - 45.89 kcal/mol. This indicates a stronger pharmacological potential of iNOS than the other two complexes. Thus, further experiments are needed to use inulin to target iNOS and reduce DSS-induced colitis and other autoimmune diseases.

Role of CARD9 in Cell- and Organ-Specific Immune Responses in Various Infections

The caspase recruitment domain-containing protein 9 (CARD9) is an intracellular adaptor protein that is abundantly expressed in cells of the myeloid lineage, such as neutrophils, macrophages, and dendritic cells. CARD9 plays a critical role in host immunity against infections caused by fungi, bacteria, and viruses. A CARD9 deficiency impairs the production of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines as well as migration and infiltration, thereby increasing susceptibility to infections. However, CARD9 signaling varies depending on the pathogen causing the infection. Furthermore, different studies have reported altered CARD9-mediated signaling even with the same pathogen. Therefore, this review focuses on and elucidates the current literature on varied CARD9 signaling in response to various infectious stimuli in humans and experimental mice models.

A Narrative Review of Cytokine Networks: Pathophysiological and Therapeutic Implications for Inflammatory Bowel Disease Pathogenesis

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a lifelong inflammatory immune mediated disorder, encompassing Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC); however, the cause and specific pathogenesis of IBD is yet incompletely understood. Multiple cytokines produced by different immune cell types results in complex functional networks that constitute a highly regulated messaging network of signaling pathways. Applying biological mechanisms underlying IBD at the single omic level, technologies and genetic engineering enable the quantification of the pattern of released cytokines and new insights into the cytokine landscape of IBD. We focus on the existing literature dealing with the biology of pro- or anti-inflammatory cytokines and interactions that facilitate cell-based modulation of the immune system for IBD inflammation. We summarize the main roles of substantial cytokines in IBD related to homeostatic tissue functions and the remodeling of cytokine networks in IBD, which may be specifically valuable for successful cytokine-targeted therapies via marketed products. Cytokines and their receptors are validated targets for multiple therapeutic areas, we review the current strategies for therapeutic intervention and developing cytokine-targeted therapies. New biologics have shown efficacy in the last few decades for the management of IBD; unfortunately, many patients are nonresponsive or develop therapy resistance over time, creating a need for novel therapeutics. Thus, the treatment options for IBD beyond the immune-modifying anti-TNF agents or combination therapies are expanding rapidly. Further studies are needed to fully understand the immune response, networks of cytokines, and the direct pathogenetic relevance regarding individually tailored, safe and efficient targeted-biotherapeutics.

Gut-Brain Crosstalk and the Central Mechanisms of Orofacial Pain

Accumulated evidence has demonstrated that the gut microbiome can contribute to pain modulation through the microbiome-gut-brain axis. Various relevant microbiome metabolites in the gut are involved in the regulation of pain signaling in the central nervous system. In this review, we summarize recent advances in gut-brain interactions by which the microbiome metabolites modulate pain, with a focus on orofacial pain, and we further discuss the role of gut-brain crosstalk in the central mechanisms of orofacial pain whereby the gut microbiome modulates orofacial pain via the vagus nerve-mediated direct pathway and the gut metabolites/molecules-mediated indirect pathway. The direct and indirect pathways both contribute to the central regulation of orofacial pain through different brain structures (such as the nucleus tractus solitarius and the parabrachial nucleus) and signaling transmission across the blood-brain barrier, respectively. Understanding the gut microbiome-regulated pain mechanisms in the brain could help us to develop non-opioid novel therapies for orofacial pain.

The multifaceted nature of IL-10: regulation, role in immunological homeostasis and its relevance to cancer, COVID-19 and post-COVID conditions

Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is a pleiotropic cytokine that has a fundamental role in modulating inflammation and in maintaining cell homeostasis. It primarily acts as an anti-inflammatory cytokine, protecting the body from an uncontrolled immune response, mostly through the Jak1/Tyk2 and STAT3 signaling pathway. On the other hand, IL-10 can also have immunostimulating functions under certain conditions. Given the pivotal role of IL-10 in immune modulation, this cytokine could have relevant implications in pathologies characterized by hyperinflammatory state, such as cancer, or infectious diseases as in the case of COVID-19 and Post-COVID-19 syndrome. Recent evidence proposed IL-10 as a predictor of severity and mortality for patients with acute or post-acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. In this context, IL-10 can act as an endogenous danger signal, released by tissues undergoing damage in an attempt to protect the organism from harmful hyperinflammation. Pharmacological strategies aimed to potentiate or restore IL-10 immunomodulatory action may represent novel promising avenues to counteract cytokine storm arising from hyperinflammation and effectively mitigate severe complications. Natural bioactive compounds, derived from terrestrial or marine photosynthetic organisms and able to increase IL-10 expression, could represent a useful prevention strategy to curb inflammation through IL-10 elevation and will be discussed here. However, the multifaceted nature of IL-10 has to be taken into account in the attempts to modulate its levels.

Oxidative stress mediated immunosuppression caused by ammonia gas via antioxidant/oxidant imbalance in broilers

1. Ammonia is one of major air pollutants in intensive poultry houses, where it causes immunosuppression in broilers. Although previous studies have focused on a particular organ, data on multiple organs have not been reported.2. In the following work, broilers were exposed to environmental ammonia (0, 10, 20, and 40 mg/m³ from 1-21 d old; and 0, 15, 30, and 60 mg/m³ from 22-42 d old).3. Ammonia exposure reduced bird spleen index at 42 d and thymus index at 14, 28, 35 and 42 d, meaning that ammonia caused immunosuppression in birds. Moreover, high ammonia exposure down-regulated the expression of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in lung tissue at 21 d, as well as TLR4 in lung and tracheal mucosa at 42 d when analysed using qRT-PCR. It increased SIgA in saliva at 42 d when analysed by ELISA. Ammonia increased interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1β, interferon-α (IFN-α), and IFN-γ in serum at 28 d from the ELISA assay, which indicated that all of these factors took part in ammonia-immunosuppression in birds.4. Three antioxidants (CAT, SOD, T-AOC) decreased, and one oxidant MDA increased after ammonia exposure in the liver and blood, which indicated that ammonia caused oxidative stress via the imbalance of antioxidants/oxidants in birds.5. Correlation analysis showed that TLR4 and TLR15 in the tracheal mucosa were significantly positively related to IFN-γ and negatively related to IL-6. TLR2 in the lung was significantly positively related to IL-1β, and TLR2 in bird tracheal mucosa was negatively related to IL-6 in serum.6. The results suggested that oxidative stress mediated immunosuppression caused by ammonia gas via antioxidant/oxidant imbalance in broilers.

Therapeutic interventions of acute and chronic liver disorders: A comprehensive review

Liver disorders are one of the most common pathological problems worldwide. It affects more than 1.5 billion worldwide. Many types of hepatic cells have been reported to be involved in the initiation and propagation of both acute and chronic liver diseases, including hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, sinusoidal endothelial cells, and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). In addition, oxidative stress, cytokines, fibrogenic factors, microRNAs, and autophagy are also involved. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of liver diseases leads to discovering new therapeutic interventions that can be used in clinics. Recently, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-HSCs therapy, gene therapy, cell therapy, gut microbiota, and nanoparticles have great potential for preventing and treating liver diseases. Here, we explored the recent possible molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of acute and chronic liver diseases. Besides, we overviewed the recent therapeutic interventions that targeted liver diseases and summarized the recent studies concerning liver disorders therapy.

The Impact of Physical Exercise on Obesity in a Cohort of Southern Italian Obese Children: Improvement in Cardiovascular Risk and Immune System Biomarkers

Background: Childhood obesity (CO) is a serious medical condition affecting approximately 120 million children and adolescents worldwide. It is characterized by a persistent inflammatory state with inflammatory markers overexpressed, which in turn leads to a higher cardiovascular risk. It is well known that physical exercise reduces the inflammatory state in obese children. In the present study, we evaluated various biochemical parameters in obese children performing physical exercise compared to a group of obese sedentary children. Hence, the objective is to identify a panel of biomarkers to prevent numerous obesity-related complications. Methods: We examined two populations: 44 sedentary obese children (OSe), recruited on 5 November 2018 from Santobono−Pausilipon Children’s Hospital, Naples (Italy) of age = 11 ± 3.3 and 30 obese children who practice sport (OSp) of age = 10 ± 2.5. We observed a significant variation in some biochemical parameters such as white blood cells, C-reactive protein (CRP), glycemia and insulinemia. Moreover, we determined the levels of interleukins, chemokines and defensins by ELISA assay. Results: Our results showed a reduction in serum level of glycemia (p-value < 0.001), neutrophils (p-value < 0.05) and CRP (p-value < 0.05), whereas no relevant variations have been reported in insulin levels. Moreover, we found a decrease in serum levels of PDGF-β (p-value < 0.05), IL-9 (p-value < 0.01), IL-6 (p-value < 0.0001), IL-8 (p-value < 0.0001), IP-10 (p-value < 0.01), Eotaxin (p-value < 0.0001) and GM-CSF (p-value < 0.01) in OSp population in comparison to OSe. At the same time, we did not observe any significant variation in serum levels of IL-1ra and IL-17 between the two populations. On the other hand, we found an increase in HNP-1 (p-value < 0.0001) and HBD1 (p-value < 0.01) in OSp if compared to OSe. Conclusions: This study shed light on the role of physical exercise on CO, demonstrating in our population that an early evaluation of some biochemical parameters could be an assumption to prescribe physical exercise in order to monitor and prevent childhood obesity and related disorders.

Cytokine patterns in cystic fibrosis patients with different microbial infections in oropharyngeal samples

BACKGROUND

Cytokines play a crucial role in the immune system's regulation by mediating protective responses to infections. anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory cytokines are in equilibrium. Therefore, any alteration in cytokine production or cytokine receptor expression might result in pathological illnesses and health issues. Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease caused by mutations in the CF transmembrane regulator (CFTR) gene. Lung infection in these patients is related to chronic bacterial airway infection and inflammation, which is triggered by some inflammatory cytokines. Our goal was to compare the cytokine patterns in CF patient's serum and PBMCs caused by microbial pathogens that colonized their airways to controls.

METHODS

ELISA and Real-time PCR were used to determine the levels of IL-10, IFN-γ, IL-4, TGF-β, IL-8, and IL-17 in serum and PBMC cells. Blood parameters in both patients and healthy people were studied.

RESULTS

An increase in IL-10, IFN-γ, IL-4 (p-v = 0.03, 0.024 and 0.003) levels and a decrease in IL-17 (p-v = 0.004) was found in Pseudomonas aeruginosa positive patients. There were no different in TGF-β and IL-8 (p-value = 0.778 and 0.903) in this patients. IL-10, IFN-γ, and IL-4 (p-value = 0.023, 0.001 and 0.002) levels were high in Staphylococcus aureus positive patients and TGF-β, IL-17, and IL-8 (p-value = 0.085, 0.167 and 0.362) were not significantly different in the patient and control groups. IFN-γ and IL-4 levels were higher in patients without infection who had normal microbiota (p-v = 0.002 and 0.024). In patients with P. aeruginosa, WBC and platelets increased, and MCH and MCV decreased. Patients with normal microbiota had less MCV.

CONCLUSION

According to our research, patients with P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, and normal microbiota are exposed to cytokine alterations and changes in blood factors. The link between the CF patient's airway microbiota and the kind of generated cytokines might lead to the modulation of inflammatory cytokines alone or in combination with antibiotics, reducing disease-causing effects while avoiding drug resistance.

Integrative analyses of mRNA and microRNA expression profiles reveal the innate immune mechanism for the resistance to Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection in Epinephelus coioides

Vibrio parahaemolyticus, as one of the main pathogens of marine vibriosis, has brought huge losses to aquaculture. However, the interaction mechanism between V. parahaemolyticus and Epinephelus coioides remains unclear. Moreover, there is a lack of comprehensive multi-omics analysis of the immune response of grouper spleen to V. parahaemolyticus. Herein, E. coioides was artificially injected with V. parahaemolyticus, and it was found that the mortality was 16.7% in the early stage of infection, and accompanied by obvious histopathological lesions in the spleen. Furthermore, 1586 differentially expressed genes were screened by mRNA-seq. KEGG analysis showed that genes were significantly enriched in immune-related pathways, Acute-phase immune response, Apoptosis, Complement system and Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction. As for miRNA-seq analysis, a total of 55 significantly different miRNAs were identified. Further functional annotation analysis indicated that the target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs were enriched in three important pathways (Phosphatidylinositol signaling system, Lysosome and Focal adhesions). Through mRNA-miRNA integrated analysis, 1427 significant miRNA–mRNA pairs were obtained and “p53 signaling pathway”, “Intestinal immune network for IgA production” were considered as two crucial pathways. Finally, miR-144-y, miR-497-x, novel-m0459-5p, miR-7133-y, miR-378-y, novel-m0440-5p and novel-m0084-3p may be as key miRNAs to regulate immune signaling pathways via the miRNA-mRNA interaction network. The above results suggest that the mRNA-miRNA integrated analysis not only sheds new light on the molecular mechanisms underlying the interaction between host and V. parahaemolyticus but also provides valuable and new insights into resistance to vibrio infection.

Cornus officinalis vinegar reduces body weight and attenuates hepatic steatosis in mouse model of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

This study aimed to determine the main bioactive components of Cornus officinalis vinegar (COV) and assess the effects of COV on the body weight (BW) and hepatic steatosis in a nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) mouse model. Seven-week-old KM female mice were divided into five treatment groups: (1) Normal control (NC) group, (2) high fat diet (HFD) group, (3) low concentration treatment group (3.5% COV), (4) medium concentration treatment group (5.0% COV), and (5) high concentration treatment group (6.5% COV). Mice in the NC group were fed with a normal chow diet, and those in the other four groups were fed with a HFD known for causing obesity for 10 weeks. Then, mice in the three COV treatment groups were orally administered with COV once a day for 6 weeks. Results showed that the contents of loganin and morroniside in COV reached 16.82 and 51.17 µg/ml, respectively, and COV also contained multiple organic acids. COV significantly reduced BW, abdominal fat weight, liver weight, and the levels of glucose, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol of serum and increased the levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol of serum (p < 0.05). COV also improved the liver function and anti-oxidant activity of liver (p < 0.05). COV treatments increased the interleukin-10 expression and reduced the tumor necrosis factor-α expression in the liver tissue of NAFLD mice (p < 0.05). Histopathological observation revealed that COV suppressed hepatic lipid accumulation and steatosis. The results suggest that COV may contribute to the alleviation of NAFLD and obesity.

Disruption of Cell-Cell Communication in Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer as an Immunotherapeutic Opportunity

Thyroid cancer incidence is increasing at an alarming rate, almost tripling every decade. About 44,280 new cases of thyroid cancer (12,150 in men and 32,130 in women) are estimated to be diagnosed in 2021, with an estimated death toll of around 2200. Although most thyroid tumors are treatable and associated with a favorable outcome, anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) is extremely aggressive with a grim prognosis of 6-9 months post-diagnosis. A large contributing factor to this aggressive nature is that ATC is completely refractory to mainstream therapies. Analysis of the tumor microenvironment (TME) associated with ATC can relay insight to the pathological realm that encompasses tumors and aids in cancer progression and proliferation. The TME is defined as a complex niche that surrounds a tumor and involves a plethora of cellular components whose secretions can modulate the environment in order to favor tumor progression. The cellular heterogeneity of the TME contributes to its dynamic function due to the presence of both immune and nonimmune resident, infiltrating, and interacting cell types. Associated immune cells discussed in this chapter include macrophages, dendritic cells (DCs), natural killer (NK) cells, and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). Nonimmune cells also play a role in the establishment and proliferation of the TME, including neuroendocrine (NE) cells, adipocytes, endothelial cells (ECs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and fibroblasts. The dynamic nature of the TME contributes greatly to cancer progression.Recent work has found ATC tissues to be defined by a T cell-inflamed "hot" tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) as evidenced by presence of CD3+ and CD8+ T cells. These tumor types are amenable to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy. This therapeutic avenue, as of 2021, has remained unexplored in ATC. New studies should seek to explore the therapeutic feasibility of a combination therapy, through the use of a small molecule inhibitor with ICB in ATC. Screening of in vitro model systems representative of papillary, anaplastic, and follicular thyroid cancer explored the expression of 29 immune checkpoint molecules. There are higher expressions of HVEM, BTLA, and CD160 in ATC cell lines when compared to the other TC subtypes. The expression level of HVEM was more than 30-fold higher in ATC compared to the others, on average. HVEM is a member of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor superfamily, which acts as a bidirectional switch through interaction with BTLA, CD160, and LIGHT, in a cis or trans manner. Given the T cell-inflamed hot TIME in ATC, expression of HVEM on tumor cells was suggestive of a possibility for complex crosstalk of HVEM with inflammatory cytokines. Altogether, there is emerging evidence of a T cell-inflamed TIME in ATC along with the expression of immune checkpoint proteins HVEM, BTLA, and CD160 in ATC. This can open doors for combination therapies using small molecule inhibitors targeting downstream effectors of MAPK pathway and antagonistic antibodies targeting the HVEM/BTLA axis as a potentially viable therapeutic avenue for ATC patients. With this being stated, the development of adaptive resistance to targeted therapies is inevitable; therefore, using a combination therapy that targets the TIME can serve as a preemptive tactic against the characteristic therapeutic resistance that is seen in ATC. The dynamic nature of the TME, including the immune cells, nonimmune cells, and acellular components, can serve as viable targets for combination therapy in ATC. Understanding the complex interactions of these associated cells and the paradigm in which their secretions and components can serve as immunomodulators are critical points of understanding when trying to develop therapeutics specifically tailored for the anaplastic thyroid carcinoma microenvironment.

Diverse Krill Lipid Fractions Differentially Reduce LPS-Induced Inflammatory Markers in RAW264.7 Macrophages In Vitro

Antarctic krill oil is an emerging marine lipid and expected to be a potential functional food due to its diverse nutrients, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), phospholipids, astaxanthin and tocopherols. Although krill oil has been previously proved to have anti-inflammatory activity, there is little information about the relationship between its chemical compositions and anti-inflammatory activity. In this study, the RAW264.7 macrophages model was used to elucidate and compare the anti-inflammatory potential of different krill lipid fractions: KLF-A, KLF-H and KLF-E, which have increasing phospholipids, EPA and DHA contents but decreasing astaxanthin and tocopherols levels. Results showed that all the krill lipid fractions alleviated the inflammatory reaction by inhibition of production of nitric oxide (NO), release of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 and gene expression of proinflammatory mediators including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). In addition, KLF-E with the highest phospholipids, EPA and DHA contents showed the strongest inhibition effect on the LPS-induced proinflammatory mediator release and their gene expressions. The results would be helpful to provide powerful insights into the underlying anti-inflammatory mechanism of krill lipid and guiding the production of krill oil products with tailor-made anti-inflammatory activity.

The inflammatory microenvironment and the urinary microbiome in the initiation and progression of bladder cancer

Accumulating evidence suggests that chronic inflammation may play a critical role in various malignancies, including bladder cancer. This hypothesis stems in part from inflammatory cells observed in the urethral microenvironment. Chronic inflammation may drive neoplastic transformation and the progression of bladder cancer by activating a series of inflammatory molecules and signals. Recently, it has been shown that the microbiome also plays an important role in the development and progression of bladder cancer, which can be mediated through the stimulation of chronic inflammation. In effect, the urinary microbiome can play a role in establishing the inflammatory urethral microenvironment that may facilitate the development and progression of bladder cancer. In other words, chronic inflammation caused by the urinary microbiome may promote the initiation and progression of bladder cancer. Here, we provide a detailed and comprehensive account of the link between chronic inflammation, the microbiome and bladder cancer. Finally, we highlight that targeting the urinary microbiome might enable the development of strategies for bladder cancer prevention and personalized treatment.

Inflammation, It's Regulation and Antiphlogistic Effect of the Cyanogenic Glycoside Amygdalin

The inflammatory reaction accompanies in part or in full any disease process in the vascularized metazoan. This complicated reaction is controlled by regulatory mechanisms, some of which produce unpleasant symptomatic manifestations of inflammation. Therefore, there has been an effort to develop selective drugs aimed at removing pain, fever, or swelling. Gradually, however, serious adverse side effects of such inhibitors became apparent. Scientific research has therefore continued to explore new possibilities, including naturally available substances. Amygdalin is a cyanogenic glycoside present, e.g., in bitter almonds. This glycoside has already sparked many discussions among scientists, especially about its anticancer potential and related toxic cyanides. However, toxicity at different doses made it generally unacceptable. Although amygdalin given at the correct oral dose may not lead to poisoning, it has not yet been accurately quantified, as its action is often affected by different intestinal microbial consortia. Its pharmacological activities have been studied, but its effects on the body's inflammatory response are lacking. This review discusses the chemical structure, toxicity, and current knowledge of the molecular mechanism of amygdalin activity on immune functions, including the anti-inflammatory effect, but also discusses inflammation as such, its mediators with diverse functions, which are usually targeted by drugs.

Therapeutic and Prophylactic Use of Oral, Low-Dose IFNs in Species of Veterinary Interest: Back to the Future

Cytokines are important molecules that orchestrate the immune response. Given their role, cytokines have been explored as drugs in immunotherapy in the fight against different pathological conditions such as bacterial and viral infections, autoimmune diseases, transplantation and cancer. One of the problems related to their administration consists in the definition of the correct dose to avoid severe side effects. In the 70s and 80s different studies demonstrated the efficacy of cytokines in veterinary medicine, but soon the investigations were abandoned in favor of more profitable drugs such as antibiotics. Recently, the World Health Organization has deeply discouraged the use of antibiotics in order to reduce the spread of multi-drug resistant microorganisms. In this respect, the use of cytokines to prevent or ameliorate infectious diseases has been highlighted, and several studies show the potential of their use in therapy and prophylaxis also in the veterinary field. In this review we aim to review the principles of cytokine treatments, mainly IFNs, and to update the experiences encountered in animals.

Serum cytokine profiling in neonates with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy

BACKGROUND

The fetal brain is vulnerable to severe and sustained hypoxia during and after birth, which can lead to hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). HIE is characterized by clinical and laboratory evidence of acute or subacute brain injury. The role of cytokines in the pathogenesis of brain injury and their relation to neurological outcomes of asphyxiated neonates are not fully understood. In this study, we investigated cytokine profile related to cerebral palsy (CP) with neonatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) and HIE severity.

METHODS

Eligible subjects were HIE newborns with a gestational age between 36 and 42 weeks. We included newborns who was born at our NICU and did not admit to NICU as healthy controls. The study comprised 52 newborns, including 13 with mild to severe HIE and 39 healthy control. Serum cytokine profiles were performed using a LUMINEX cytokine kit (R&D Systems).

RESULTS

VEGF, MCP-1, IL-15, IL-12p70, IL-12p40, IL-1Ra, IL-2, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-10, IFN-γ, G-CSF and eotaxin in the HIE patients were significantly increased compared with the healthy neonates. In the subgroup analysis, IL-6 and G-CSF were significantly increased in CP infants (n = 5) compared with non-CP infants (n = 8). Five and eight HIE patients were classified into the mild HIE and moderate-severe HIE groups, respectively. IL-6, 10, 1Ra, and G-CSF in the moderate-severe HIE group were significantly higher than those in the mild HIE group.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated that higher serum IL-6 and G-CSF at birth in HIE patients were associated with CP and moderate-severe HIE.

Synthesis of Eicosapentaenoic acid-enriched Phosphatidylcholine and Its Effect on Pro-inflammatory Cytokine Expression

AIM AND OBJECTIVE

We synthesized eicosapentaenoic acid-enriched phosphatidylcholine (EPA-PC) and investigated its effect on the production of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cytokines in murine splenocytes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The culture supernatants of splenocytes, which was exposed to EPA-PC along with LPS, was harvested to determine the production of cytokines [interleukin (IL)-4 , IL-5, IL-6, interferon (IFN)-γ, IL-2 and IL-12/IL-23(p40)]. Cytokines were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

The co-administration of EPA-PC with LPS resulted in a significantly lower IFN-γ expression than that observed with LPS alone (p < 0.01). Moreover, treatment with EPA-PC and LPS significantly decreased IL-2, IL-6 and IL-12/IL-23(p40) expression (p < 0.01). Co-administration of EPA-PC at a concentration of 0.3 μg/mL with LPS resulted in a higher IL-5 expression after 24 hr of treatment when compared to LPS alone (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that EPA-PC is more effective in decreasing the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines [IL-2, IFN-γ, IL-6 and IL-12/IL-23(p40)] upon induction of inflammation.

Mass spectrometry characterization of Commiphora leptophloeos leaf extract and preclinical evaluation of toxicity and anti-inflammatory potential effect

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Commiphora leptophloeos (Mart.) J.B. Gillett (Burseraceae) is a medicinal plant native from the brazilian northeast caatinga biome, known popularly as "imburana" or "imburana-de-cambão". The leaves of C. leptophloeos are widely used in folk medicine in the treatment of various inflammatory disorders. However, there is no scientific evidence to justify their popular use.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This approach aimed to characterize the phytochemical profile of hydroethanolic leaf extract, as well as evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential activity and to investigate the acute toxicity with pre-clinical in vitro and in vivo methodologies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The phytochemical profile was characterized by UPLC-MS and FIA-ESI-IT-MS/MS. The in vitro anti-inflammatory potential the hydroethanolic extract of C. leptophloeos (1, 10, 100 and 200 μg/mL) was investigated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced nitric oxide assay, in order to analyze the potential decrease of nitric oxide (NO) production. For carrageenan-induced paw edema and zymosan-induced air pouch models, the extract (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) was administrated by intragastric gavage (i.g.) route and used for evaluating the anti-inflammatory effect in vivo. Related to the first animal model, the antiedematogenic activity and myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels could be investigated. In addition, the zymosan-induced air pouch model allowed the analyses of leukocytes migration, total MPO, malondialdehyde (MDA) and cytokines (TNF-α and IL-10) levels. The toxicity in vitro of the extract (1, 10, 100 and 200 μg/mL) was evaluated using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and acute toxicity in vivo was tested using the extract at 2000 mg/kg by i. g. route.

RESULTS

The phytochemical analyses of C. leptophloeos leaf extract pointed the presence of six glycosylated flavonoids, identified as orientin, isoorientin, vitexin and isovitexin, quercetrin and isoquercitrin. A decrease of NO in vitro was noticed by the use of the extract in the LPS-induced nitric oxide assay and an expressive reduction of the paw-edema followed by a decrease of myeloperoxidase activity at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg. The zymosan-induced air pouch model indicated that the extract, in all doses, significantly reduced the leukocytes migration, total protein concentration, MPO and MDA levels. The levels of cytokines were verified by the administration of extract in this model, revealing a lower of TNF-α level and an increase of the IL-10 production. In the toxicity study, the MTT assay evidenced no cytotoxicity of the tested concentrations and acute toxicity in vivo test did not result in any sign of toxicity and mortality or significant changes on the biochemical parameters.

CONCLUSION

Based on these results, is possible suggest that the anti-inflammatory activity revealed in this approach can be related to the modulating the level of cytokine, decrease of TNF-α, increase of IL-10 in vivo and also the inhibition of the production of nitric oxide RAW 264.7 activated by LPS. These results demonstrate the potential anti-inflammatory effect C. leptophloeos leaf extrat in inflammatory in vivo models, supporting its use in folk medicine for treatment of inflammatory diseases. Finally, glycosylated flavonoids can be responsible, at least in part, for this effect.

Altered Cytokine Endotoxin Responses in Neonatal Encephalopathy Predict MRI Outcomes

Background: Neonatal encephalopathy (NE) is associated with adverse neurodevelopmental outcome and is linked with systemic inflammation. Pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines are known to play a role in the pathology of NE by activating innate immune cells. Methods: Eighty-seven infants were enrolled including 53 infants with NE of whom 52 received therapeutic hypothermia (TH) and 34 term infant healthy controls (TC). Whole blood sampling was performed in the first 4 days of life, and a 14-spot ELISA Multiplex Cytokine Array was carried out on baseline samples or after stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) as an additional inflammatory stimulus. The cytokine medians were examined for differences between infants with NE and healthy TC; and then short-term outcomes of Sarnat stage, seizures, and MRI brain were examined within the NE group. The potential of LPS stimulation to predict abnormal MRI was explored using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Results: At baseline, infants with NE had significantly higher levels of erythropoietin (Epo), interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-1ra and significantly lower vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) than had controls. All cytokines were increased after LPS stimulation in infants with NE with an excessive Epo and IL-1ra response than in controls. Infants with NE had lower IL-8, IL-2, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), VEGF, and interferon (IFN)-γ than controls had following LPS. GM-CSF and IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-1ra, and VEGF were higher on days 1-2 in NE infants with abnormal neuroimaging. GM-CSF, IFN-γ, and TNF-α levels with LPS stimulation were different upon stimulation between normal and abnormal neuroimaging. TNF-α is the only strong cytokine predictor both pre- and post-LPS stimulation of abnormal brain imaging. Conclusions: Altered cytokine responses are found in infants with NE vs. controls, and more significant differences are unmasked by the additional stimulus of LPS, which potentially improves the predictive power of these cytokines for the detection of abnormal MRIs. Infants with NE undergoing TH demonstrate both trained immunity and tolerance, and understanding these responses will facilitate adjunctive immunomodulatory treatments.

Administration of L. salivarius expressing 3D8 scFv as a feed additive improved the growth performance, immune homeostasis, and gut microbiota of chickens

Probiotics have been defined as live microorganisms that are administered in an appropriate amount to provide health benefits to the host animal. In this study, we investigated the effect of L. salivarius DJ-sa-01 secreting the 3D8 single-chain variable fragment (3D8 scFv) on the growth performance, cytokine secretion, and intestinal microbial flora of chickens. The experiment was divided into the control group and L. salivarius expressing 3D8 scFv experimental group. Chicken was fed 10⁹ colony-forming units (CFUs) of wild-type (WT) L. salivarius or 3D8 scFv-secreting L. salivarius daily for 35 days. The administration of L. salivarius expressing 3D8 scFv significantly improved the body weight of chickens compared with the administration of WT L. salivarius. A 16S ribosomal RNA metagenomic analysis showed that Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes were the dominant phyla in both experimental groups. At the genus level, Lactobacillus was more abundant (22.82%) in the L. salivarius/3D8 group compared with the WT L. salivarius group. The serum levels of cytokines, such as IL-8, TNF-α, IL-1β, IFN-γ, IL-4, and IGF1, were significantly reduced in the L. salivarius/3D8-treated chickens. In summary, our results suggest that L. salivarius expressing 3D8 scFv could be considered a feed additive for improving the growth performance, immune function, and disease resistance of poultry.

The influence of sex, genotype, and dose on serum and hippocampal cytokine levels in juvenile mice developmentally exposed to a human-relevant mixture of polychlorinated biphenyls

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are pervasive environmental contaminants implicated as risk factors for neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Immune dysregulation is another NDD risk factor, and developmental PCB exposures are associated with early life immune dysregulation. Studies of the immunomodulatory effects of PCBs have focused on the higher-chlorinated congeners found in legacy commercial mixtures. Comparatively little is known about the immune effects of contemporary, lower-chlorinated PCBs. This is a critical data gap given recent reports that lower-chlorinated congeners comprise >70% of the total PCB burden in serum of pregnant women enrolled in the MARBLES study who are at increased risk for having a child with an NDD. To examine the influence of PCBs, sex, and genotype on cytokine levels, mice were exposed throughout gestation and lactation to a PCB mixture in the maternal diet, which was based on the 12 most abundant PCBs in sera from MARBLES subjects. Using multiplex array, cytokines were quantified in the serum and hippocampus of weanling mice expressing either a human gain-of-function mutation in ryanodine receptor 1 (T4826I mice), a human CGG premutation repeat expansion in the fragile X mental retardation gene 1 (CGG mice), or both mutations (DM mice). Congenic wildtype (WT) mice were used as controls. There were dose-dependent effects of PCB exposure on cytokine concentrations in the serum but not hippocampus. Differential effects of genotype were observed in the serum and hippocampus. Hippocampal cytokines were consistently elevated in T4826I mice and also in WT animals for some cytokines compared to CGG and DM mice, while serum cytokines were usually elevated in the mutant genotypes compared to the WT group. Males had elevated levels of 19 cytokines in the serum and 4 in the hippocampus compared to females, but there were also interactions between sex and genotype for 7 hippocampal cytokines. Only the chemokine CCL5 in the serum showed an interaction between PCB dose, genotype, and sex. Collectively, these findings indicate differential influences of PCB exposure and genotype on cytokine levels in serum and hippocampal tissue of weanling mice. These results suggest that developmental PCB exposure has chronic effects on baseline serum, but not hippocampal, cytokine levels in juvenile mice.

Effect of Antimicrobial Peptide Microcin J25 on Growth Performance, Immune Regulation, and Intestinal Microbiota in Broiler Chickens Challenged with Escherichia coli and Salmonella

Simple Summary

Antimicrobial peptides are thought to be ideal candidates, owing to their antimicrobial properties, broad spectrum of activity, and low propensity for development of bacterial resistance. Microcin J25 (MccJ25) is an antimicrobial peptide produced by a fecal strain of Escherichia coli (E. coli) containing 21 Arbor Acres (AA) broilers, and has a strong inhibition on E. coli and Salmonella. This study was performed primarily to evaluate the effects of MccJ25 on growth performance and gut health in broilers challenged with E. coli and Salmonella, as a potential substitute for antibiotics. The results showed that MccJ25 promoted growth performance, improved intestinal morphology, and influenced fecal microbiota composition.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of antimicrobial peptide microcin J25 (MccJ25) on growth performance, immune regulation, and intestinal microbiota in broilers. A total of 3120 one-day-old male Arbor Acres (AA) broilers were randomly allocated to five groups (12 replicates, 52 chickens per replicate). The treatments were control, challenge (0 mg/kg MccJ25), different dosages of antimicrobial peptide (AMP) (0.5 and 1mg/kg MccJ25), and antibiotic groups (20 mg/kg colistin sulfate). The MccJ25 groups increased the body weight gain (starter and overall) that was reduced in the challenge group. The overall (day 1 to day 42) feed-to-gain ratio (G:F) was significantly decreased in AMP groups compared with the challenge group. Birds fed AMP had a decreased population of total anaerobic bacteria (day 21 and day 42) and E. coli (day 21 and day 42) in feces, as well as a lower Salmonella infection rate (day 21 and day 42) compared with birds in the challenge group. The villus height of the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum, as well as the villus height/crypt depth of the duodenum and jejunum were greater in AMP groups than birds in the challenge group. Moreover, MccJ25 linearly improved the villus height of the duodenum and jejunum. The addition of MccJ25 decreased the concentration of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 compared with challenge group. At d 21, MccJ25 linearly reduced the level of IL-6. In conclusion, dietary supplemented MccJ25 effectively improved performance, systematic inflammation, and improved fecal microbiota composition of the broilers.

Cytokine and Chemokine Concentration in the Tear of Patients with Age-Related Cataract

PURPOSE

The present study measured 41 soluble mediators in the tear of 19 patients with age-related cataract and 32 healthy adults as controls.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a prospective, case-control study in which, using multiple immunoassays, we measured in tear samples the following molecules: EGF, FGF-2, Eotaxin, TGF-α, G-CSF, Flt-3L, GM-CSF, Fractalkine, IFN-α2, IFN-γ, GRO, IL-10, MCP-3, IL-12p40, MDC, IL-12p70, PDGF-AA, IL-13, PDGF-AB/BB, IL-15, sCD40L, IL-17a, IL-1ra, IL-1α, IL-9, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IP-10, MCP-1, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, RANTES, TNFα, TNFβ, VEGF. Statistical analyses were done by multiple adjusted models and p values were corrected by the Benjamini and Hochberg method.

RESULTS

We did not find significant differences in the amount of the tested molecules in the tear fluid between cataract patients and controls. Correlation analyses relative to age were carried out for both groups. Analysis of MCP-1 tear levels revealed a direct correlation with age for normal healthy controls as well as for cataract patients. But IL-6 tear levels correlated with age only in the group of cataract patients. In addition, IL1-ra tear levels correlated with cataract nuclear grade; higher grades were associated with higher IL-1ra concentrations.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that ocular aging is accompanied by increased production of IL-6 and MCP-1, which can be measured in tear fluid.

ABBREVIATIONS

AMD: Age-Related Macular Degeneration; EGF: Epidermal growth factor; Eotaxin: Eosinophil chemotactic proteins; FasL: Fas ligand; FGF-2: Basic fibroblast growth factor 2; Flt-3L: Fms related tyrosine kinase 3 ligand; G-CSF: Granulocyte colony stimulating factor; GM-CSF: Granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor; GRO: Growth regulated protein; HGF: Human growth factor; ICAM-1: Intercellular adhesion molecule-1; IFNα2: Interferon alpha 2; IFNγ: Interferon gamma; IL: Interleukin; IL-1ra: Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist; IL-12p40: Interleukin-12 subunit p40; IL-12p70: Interleukin-12 subunit p70; IP-10: Interferon gamma-induced protein 10; MCP-1: Monocyte chemotactic protein 1; MCP-3: Monocyte chemotactic protein 3; MDC: Macrophage derived chemokine; MIG: Monokine induced by gamma interferon; MIP-1α: Macrophage inflammatory proteins 1 alpha; MIP-1β: Macrophage inflammatory proteins 1 beta; MMPs: Matrix metalloproteinases; MMP-9: Matrix metalloproteinase 9; PAI1: Plasminogen activator inhibitor 1; PDGF-AA: Platelet-derived growth factor subunit AA; PDGF-AB/BB: Platelet-derived growth factor subunit AB and BB; PIGF: Placenta growth factor; RANTES: Regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted; SAA: Serum amyloid A; sCD40L: Soluble CD40 ligand; sTNF-RII: Soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor; TBUT Tear breakup time; TGF-α: Transforming growth factor alpha; TGF-β: Transforming growth factor beta; TNFα: Tumor necrosis factor alpha; TNFβ: Tumor necrosis factor beta; VCAM: Vascular cell adhesion molecule; VEGF: Vascular endothelium growth factor.

Clinical and Immunological Metrics During Pediatric Rhesus Macaque Development

Background: Clinical measurements commonly used to evaluate overall health of laboratory animals including complete blood count, serum chemistry, weight, and immunophenotyping, differ with respect to age, development, and environment. This report provides comprehensive clinical and immunological reference ranges for pediatric rhesus macaques over the first year of life. Methods: We collected and analyzed blood samples from 151 healthy rhesus macaques, aged 0-55 weeks, and compared mother-reared infants to two categories of nursery-reared infants; those on an active research protocol and those under derivation for the expanded specific-pathogen-free breeding colony. Hematology was performed on EDTA-anticoagulated blood using a Sysmex XT2000i, and serum clinical chemistry was performed using the Beckman AU480 chemistry analyzer. Immunophenotyping of whole blood was performed with immunofluorescence staining and subsequent flow cytometric analysis on a BD LSRFortessa. Plasma cytokine analysis was performed using a Millipore multiplex Luminex assay. Results: For hematological and chemistry measurements, pediatric reference ranges deviate largely from adults. Comparison of mother-reared and nursery-reared animals revealed that large differences depend on rearing conditions and diet. Significant differences found between two nursery-reared cohorts (research and colony animals) indicate large influences of experimental factors and anesthetic events on these parameters. Immune cells and cytokine responses presented with distinct patterns for infants depending on age, birth location, and rearing conditions. Conclusions: Our results illustrate how the immune system changed over time and that there was variability among pediatric age groups. Reference ranges of results reported here will support interpretations for how infection and treatment may skew common immune correlates used for assessment of pathology or protection in research studies as well as help veterinarians in the clinical care of infant non-human primates. We highlighted the importance of using age-specific reference comparisons for pediatric studies and reiterated the utility of rhesus macaques as a model for human studies. Given the rapid transformation that occurs in multiple tissue compartments after birth and cumulative exposures to antigens as individuals grow, a better understanding of immunological development and how this relates to timing of infection or vaccination will support optimal experimental designs for developing vaccines and treatment interventions.

The Arabian camel, Camelus dromedarius interferon epsilon: Functional expression, in vitro refolding, purification and cytotoxicity on breast cancer cell lines

The current study highlights, for the first time, cloning, overexpression and purification of the novel interferon epsilon (IFNƐ), from the Arabian camel Camelus dromedaries. The study then assesses the cytotoxicity of IFNε against two human breast cancer cell lines MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7. Full-length cDNA encoding interferon epsilon (IFNε) was isolated and cloned from the liver of the Arabian camel, C. dromedarius using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The sequence analysis of the camel IFNε cDNA showed a 582-bp open reading frame encoding a protein of 193 amino acids with an estimated molecular weight of 21.230 kDa. A BLAST search analysis revealed that the C. dromedarius IFNε shared high sequence identity with the IFN genes of other species, such as Camelus ferus, Vicugna pacos, and Homo sapiens. Expression of the camel IFNε cDNA in Escherichia coli gave a fusion protein band of 24.97 kDa after induction with either isopropyl β-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside or lactose for 5 h. Recombinant IFNε protein was overexpressed in the form of inclusion bodies that were easily solubilized and refolded using SDS and KCl. The solubilized inclusion bodies were purified to apparent homogeneity using nickel affinity chromatography. We examined the effect of IFNε on two breast cancer cell lines MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7. In both cell lines, IFNε inhibited cell survival in a dose dependent manner as observed by MTT assay, morphological changes and apoptosis assay. Caspase-3 expression level was found to be increased in MDA-MB-231 treated cells as compared to untreated cells.

Oral administration of Lactobacillus reuteri expressing a 3D8 single-chain variable fragment (scFv) enhances chicken growth and conserves immune homeostasis

The present study was aimed to investigate the effects of 3D8 scFv-secreting Probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) on growth performance, inflammatory responses, and intestinal microbial flora in chickens. To this end, a total of 14 healthy wild-type chickens were divided into two experimental groups. Each group was orally administrated with a daily dose of 10⁹ colony-forming units (CFU) of 3D8 scFv-producing L. reuteri or wild-type (WT) for 35 days. Administration of L. reuteri/3D8 scFv significantly improved the body weight of chickens when compared to L. reuteri/WT group. The bacterial taxonomic composition of the fecal microbiota was determined by pyrosequencing of 16S rRNA gene amplicons. Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, and Proteobacteria were dominant phyla in two experimental groups. However, in 3D8 L. reuteri treatment groups at genus level, the Lactobacillus was highly abundant, being represented by 18.12%. In addition, serum levels of primary cytokines such as IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-4, and IGF1 were markedly reduced in the probiotic L. reuteri 3D8 group. In summary, our results indicate that the administration of L. reuteri expressing 3D8 scFv has a modulatory effect on inflammatory responses, improves weight gain while not affecting the common microbial composition of the chicken intestine.

Effect of dietary supplementation of mannanoligosaccharides on hepatic gene expressions and humoral and cellular immune responses in aflatoxin-contaminated broiler chicks

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of mannanoligosaccharides (MOS) on expression of hepatic immunological genes and immune responses in aflatoxin-contaminated broiler chicks. A total of 336 seven-day-old Ross broiler chicks were randomly allotted to 7 experimental treatments with 4 replicates and 12 birds per replicate. Experimental treatments consisted of 2 aflatoxin levels (0.5 and 2 ppm) and 3 supplemental MOS levels (0, 1 and 2 g/kg) as a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement in comparison with a control group (unchallenged group). The chicks were challenged with a mix of aflatoxins during 7-28 d of age. Results showed that aflatoxin challenge resulted in the lower antibody titers against infectious bronchitis (IBV) and bursal (IBD) diseases viruses. In addition, aflatoxin-contaminated birds had a lower (P < 0.0001) lymphocyte percentage and a decline in (P < 0.01) interleukin-2 (IL-2) mRNA abundance. Likewise, heterophil proportion, heterophil to lymphocyte ratio and gene expressions of hepatic interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C reactive protein (CRP) were raised (P < 0.001) by increasing dietary aflatoxin level. Dietary inclusion of MOS increased (P < 0.05) antibody titers against IBV, IBD and Newcastle disease virus. Lymphocyte proportion and hepatic IL-2 gene expression were greater (P < 0.0001) in MOS-supplemented birds. Furthermore, supplemental MOS decreased hepatic IL-6 and CRP abundances. Additionally, inclusion of 2 g/kg MOS resulted in the upregulation (P < 0.01) of hepatic IL-2 gene expression in birds contaminated with 0.5 ppm aflatoxin. The present results indicate that supplemental MOS could improve cellular immunity via the upregulation of hepatic IL-2 gene expression in birds challenged with aflatoxins.

Effects of prostate cancer and exercise training on left ventricular function and cardiac and skeletal muscle mass

Prostate cancer was found to reduce cardiac and left ventricle (LV) masses in association with diminished exercise capacity in rats. We tested the hypothesis that exercise training will mitigate prostate cancer-induced cardiac and skeletal muscle atrophy and improve LV function versus sedentary tumor-bearing counterparts. Copenhagen rats ( n = 39; ~5 mo old) were randomized into four groups: exercise-trained tumor-bearing (EXTB) or control (EXCON) and sedentary tumor-bearing (SEDTB) or control (SEDCON). Dunning R-3327 prostate cancer cells were injected orthotopically in 19 of the 39 animals. Treadmill exercise training was performed for 60 min/day for ~30 days. Animals underwent echocardiography to examine ventricle dimensions "Pre-" cancer injection or exercise (PRE) and 15 (Post 1) and 32-35 (Post 2) days after cancer cell injection with tissues collected after Post 2. LV TNF-α and IL-6 concentrations were measured post mortem. Cardiac and LV mass of SEDTB animals were lower than all groups ( P < 0.05). Tumor mass was negatively correlated with LV mass in EXTB (-0.75, P < 0.02) and SEDTB animals (-0.72, P < 0.02). EXCON group had higher stroke volume Post 2 assessment compared with both sedentary groups ( P < 0.05) but not EXTB animals. No difference in LV [IL-6] or [TNF-α] was found between the cancer groups. The current investigation demonstrates prostate cancer, independent of anticancer treatment, significantly reduces cardiac mass and LV mass as well as locomotor muscle masses. However, moderate-intensity exercise training can mitigate cardiac and skeletal muscle atrophy with prostate cancer and preserve the cardiac phenotype (i.e., mass and function) to that of the healthy sedentary group. NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study demonstrates the atrophic effects of prostate cancer on cardiac and skeletal muscle mass independent of anticancer treatment(s) that can be mitigated with moderate-intensity exercise. These findings have important implications for potentially improving the quality of life as well as therapeutic outcomes for patients with prostate cancer.

Site-selective protein conjugation at histidine

Site-selective conjugation generally requires both (i) molecular engineering of the protein of interest to introduce a conjugation site at a defined location and (ii) a site-specific conjugation technology. Three N-terminal interferon α2-a (IFN) variants with truncated histidine tags were prepared and conjugation was examined using a bis-alkylation reagent, PEG(10kDa)-mono-sulfone 3. A histidine tag comprised of two histidines separated by a glycine (His2-tag) underwent PEGylation. Two more IFN variants were then prepared with the His2-tag engineered at different locations in IFN. Another IFN variant was prepared with the His-tag introduced in an α-helix, and required three contiguous histidines to ensure that two histidine residues in the correct conformation would be available for conjugation. Since histidine is a natural amino acid, routine methods of site-directed mutagenesis were used to generate the IFN variants from E. coli in soluble form at titres comparable to native IFN. PEGylation conversions ranged from 28-39%. A single step purification process gave essentially the pure PEG-IFN variant (>97% by RP-HPLC) in high recovery with isolated yields ranging from 21-33%. The level of retained bioactivity was strongly dependent on the site of PEG conjugation. The highest biological activity of 74% was retained for the PEG10-106(HGHG)-IFN variant which is unprecedented for a PEGylated IFN. The His2-tag at 106(HGHG)-IFN is engineered at the flexible loop most distant from IFN interaction with its dimeric receptor. The biological activity for the PEG10-5(HGH)-IFN variant was determined to be 17% which is comparable to other PEGylated IFN conjugates achieved at or near the N-terminus that have been previously described. The lowest retained activity (10%) was reported for PEG10-120(HHH)-IFN which was prepared as a negative control targeting a IFN site thought to be involved in receptor binding. The presence of two histidines as a His2-tag to generate a site-selective target for bis-alkylating PEGylation is a feasible approach for achieving site-selective PEGylation. The use of a His2-tag to strategically engineer a conjugation site in a protein location can result in maximising the retention of the biological activity following protein modification.

Prevention of Peritendinous Adhesion Formation After the Flexor Tendon Surgery in Rabbits: A Comparative Study Between Use of Local Interferon-α, Interferon-β, and 5-Fluorouracil

BACKGROUND

Peritendinous adhesion is the most common complication after tendon surgery, particularly in zone II of the hand. Prevention of inflammation around the tendon, which develops after trauma and surgery, can decrease the tendon adhesion formation. This study compares the effect of some anti-inflammatory cytokines with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) on the tensile strength and in prevention of peritendinous adhesion formation.

METHODS

Sixteen rabbits were allocated equally into 4 groups. Tendons of the index and ring fingers in zone II of the right hind paw were cut in all animals and then repaired. Interferon (IFN)-α in group 1, 5-FU in group 2, normal saline in group 3, and IFN-β in group 4 were locally applied to the repaired sites. Three weeks later, tensometric and histopathologic evaluations were performed.

RESULTS

The force required for removing the tendon from the sheath was not different between the groups (P = 0.130), but the time required for removal was significantly shorter in 5-FU group (P = 0.049). The strength of repair was not different between the groups in terms of force and time needed for rupture (P = 0.11 and 0.67, respectively). In histopathologic examination, normal architecture of the tendon and peritendon environment was less disturbed in the IFN groups, especially in IFN-β specimens.

CONCLUSIONS

Local application of 5-FU significantly reduced peritendinous adhesion. Local IFN-α and IFN-β had no significant effect on the prevention of peritendinous adhesion formation. The strength of the repair was not affected by these cytokines and 5-FU.

Oxidative damage in glutaric aciduria type I patients and the protective effects of l-carnitine treatment

The deficiency of the enzyme glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase, known as glutaric acidemia type I (GA-I), leads to the accumulation of glutaric acid (GA) and glutarilcarnitine (C5DC) in the tissues and body fluids, unleashing important neurotoxic effects. l-carnitine (l-car) is recommended for the treatment of GA-I, aiming to induce the excretion of toxic metabolites. l-car has also demonstrated an important role as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory in some neurometabolic diseases. This study evaluated GA-I patients at diagnosis moment and treated the oxidative damage to lipids, proteins, and the inflammatory profile, as well as in vivo and in vitro DNA damage, reactive nitrogen species (RNS), and antioxidant capacity, verifying if the actual treatment with l-car (100 mg kg^-1  day^-1 ) is able to protect the organism against these processes. Significant increases of GA and C5DC were observed in GA-I patients. A deficiency of carnitine in patients before the supplementation was found. GA-I patients presented significantly increased levels of isoprostanes, di-tyrosine, urinary oxidized guanine species, and the RNS, as well as a reduced antioxidant capacity. The l-car supplementation induced beneficial effects reducing these biomarkers levels and increasing the antioxidant capacity. GA, in three different concentrations, significantly induced DNA damage in vitro, and the l-car was able to prevent this damage. Significant increases of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-8, GM-CSF, and TNF-α were shown in patients. Thus, the beneficial effects of l-car presented in the treatment of GA-I are due not only by increasing the excretion of accumulated toxic metabolites, but also by preventing oxidative damage.

In silico mutational analysis and identification of stability centers in human interleukin-4

Interleukin-4 (IL-4) is a multifunctional cytokine that plays a critical role in apoptosis, differentiation and proliferation. The intensity of IL4 response depends upon binding to its receptor, IL-4R. The therapeutic efficiency of interleukins can be increased by generating structural mutants having greater stability. In the present work, attempts were made to increase the stability of human IL-4 using in-silico site directed mutagenesis. Different orthologous sequences of IL4 from Pan troglodytes, Aotusnigriceps, Macacamulatta, Papiohamadryas, Chlorocebusaethiops, Vicugnapacos, Susscrofa and Homo sapiens were aligned using Clustal Omega that revealed the conserved and non-conserved positions. For each non-conserved position, possible favorable and stabilizing mutations were found using CUPSAT with predicted ΔΔG (kcal/mol). The one with highest ΔΔG (kcal/mol) among all possible mutations, for each non-conserved position was selected and introduced manually in human IL-4 sequence resulting in multiple mutants of IL-4. Mutant proteins were modeled using structure of IL4 (PDB ID: 2B8U) as a template by SWISS MODEL. The mutants A49L and Q106T were identified to have stability centre using SCide. Molecular dynamics and docking analysis also confirmed the mutants stability and binding respectively. Mutants A49L and Q106T had -7.580079 kcal/mol and -39.418124 kcal/mol respectively lesser energy value than the wild type IL4. The result suggested that, the stability of human IL-4 has been increased by mutation.

Effects of GandhPaalashi (Hedychium spicatum) on the expression of hepatic genes associated with biotransformation, antioxidant and immune systems in WLH cockerels fed indoxacarb

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of Hedychium spicatum (HSRP) root powder, to ameliorate changes in gene expression in WLH cockerels fed indoxacarb. After 16 weeks of treatment, all birds from different groups were sacrificed humanly and collected the liver pieces in RNA later for expression study by RT-PCR to evaluate changes in the expression of genes involved in antioxidant function [catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST)], biotransformation [cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1)], and the immune system [interleukins 6 (IL-6)]. Changes in gene expression were determined using the quantitative real-time PCR technique. There were significant upregulation of IL-6, CYP1A1 and GPx genes in indoxacarb treated groups. There was significant down regulation of CAT and SOD genes in indoxacarb treated groups in comparison to control. Simultaneous treatments with HSRP produce ameliorative effect and restore the gene activities at par with control. The current study demonstrates protective effects of HSRP on changes in expression of antioxidant, biotransformation, and immune system genes in cockerels fed indoxacarb.

Comparative transcriptomic analysis provides insights into antibacterial mechanisms of Branchiostoma belcheri under Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection

Amphioxus, a basal chordate, is widely considered to be an existing proxy of the invertebrate ancestor of vertebrates, and it exhibits susceptibility to various pathogen infections and pathogenic mimic challenges. Here, in order to understand more clearly its antibacterial mechanisms, we analyzed the ribosomal RNA (rRNA)-depleted transcriptome of Chinese amphioxus (Branchiostoma belcheri) infected with Vibrio parahaemolyticus (V. p.) via next-generation deep sequencing technology (RNA-seq). We identified a total of 3214 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) by comparing V. p.-infected and control transcriptome libraries, including 2219 significantly up-regulated and 995 significantly down-regulated DEGs in V. p.-infected amphioxus. The DEGs with the top 10 most dramatic expression fold changes after V. p. infection, as well as 53 immune-related DEGs (IRDs) belonging to four primary categories of innate immunity were analyzed further. Through gene ontology (GO) and pathway enrichment analysis, DEGs were found to be primarily related to immune processes, apoptosis, catabolic and metabolic processes, binding and enzyme activity, while pathways involving bacterial infection, immune signaling, immune response, cancer, and apoptosis were overrepresented. We validated the RNA-seq results by detecting the expression levels of 10 IRDs using qRT-PCR, and we surveyed the dynamic variation in gene expression for these IRDs at 0, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h after V. p.

TREATMENT

Subsequently, according to the RNA-seq results, the presence of a primitive Toll-like receptor (TLR)-mediated antibacterial immune signaling pathway was predicted in B. belcheri. This study provides valuable information regarding antibacterial immunity for further research into the evolution of immunity in vertebrates and broadens our understanding of the innate immune response against bacterial invasion in amphioxus.

Effects of xylo-oligosaccharide and flavomycin on the immune function of broiler chickens

This study investigated the effects of xylo-oligosaccharide (XOS) and flavomycin (FLA) on the performance and immune function of broiler chickens. A total of 150 ArborAcres broilers were randomly divided into three groups and fed for six weeks from one day of age in cascade cages. The diets of each test group were (1) a basal diet, (2) the basal diet supplemented with 2 mg/kg FLA, and (3) the basal diet supplemented with 2 mg/kg XOS. At 21 and 42 days, the growth performance index values and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations in the cecum were quantified. Furthermore, immunoglobulin G (IgG) and plasma interleukin 2 (IL-2) as well as mRNA expression of LPS-Induced TNF-alpha Factor (LITAF), Toll-like receptor-5 (TLR5) and interferon gamma (IFNγ ) in the jejunum were quantified. The results showed that administration of XOS or FLA to chickens significantly improved the average daily gain. Supplementation with XOS increased acetate and butyrate in the cecum, while FLA supplementation increased propionate in the cecum. An increase in plasma IgG was observed in XOS-fed 21-day-old broilers, but FLA supplementation decreased IgG in the plasma of 42-day-old broilers and increased plasma IL-2. Furthermore, FLA or XOS supplementation downregulated mRNA expression of IFNγ , LITAF and TLR5. The above data suggest that addition of XOS and FLA to the diet could improve the growth performance of broilers and reduce the expression of cytokine genes by stimulating SCFA.

Influence of Graded Levels of l-Theanine Dietary Supplementation on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, Meat Quality, Organs Histomorphometry, Blood Chemistry and Immune Response of Broiler Chickens

l-theanine is a water-soluble non-proteinous amino acid mainly found in green tea leaves. Despite the availability of abundant literature on green tea, studies on the use of l-theanine as a feed additive in animals, and especially broilers are limited. The objective of this study was, therefore, to evaluate the effect of different dietary levels of l-theanine on meat quality, growth performance, immune response, and blood metabolites in broilers. A total of 400 day-old broiler chicks were randomly divided into four treatment groups using a completely randomized design; C-control, basal diet; 100LT-basal diet + 100 mg l-theanine/kg diet; 200LT-basal diet + 200 mg l-theanine/kg diet; and 300LT-basal diet + 300 mg l-theanine/kg diet. Results revealed that the intermediate level of l-theanine (200 mg/kg diet) showed better results in terms of body weight gain (BWG), feed consumed (FC), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) as compared with the other supplemented groups and the control. The live weight eviscerated weight and gizzard weight were higher in all l-theanine levels as compared to those of the control group. Increased weight (p ≤ 0.05) of spleen and bursa were found in group 200LT (200 mg l-theanine/kg diet). Concerning meat color parameters, values for yellowness (b*), and redness (a*) were greater in l-theanine-supplemented groups than the control. Supplementing broiler diet with l-theanine reduced (p = 0.02) total serum cholesterol contents while increased HDL. Further analysis revealed lower relative serum cytokines (IL-2 and INF-γ) and reduced mRNA expression of TNF-α and IL-6 in thymus, and IFN-γ and IL-2 in spleen in the treated group. Moreover, supplementation with 200 mg/kg of l-theanine improved antioxidant status in blood by increasing SOD, GSH-Px, and relative CAT levels. It is concluded that the optimum supplementation level of l-theanine is 200 mg/kg of diet because it resulted in improved performance parameters in broilers. However, higher levels of l-theanine (300 mg/kg diet) may have deleterious effects on performance and health of broiler chickens.

Polyvalent protective immunogens identified from outer membrane proteins of Vibrio parahaemolyticus and their induced innate immune response

Vaccines are the most economic, efficient and environment-friendly agents in protecting host against bacterial infection. In aquaculture, polyvalent vaccines targeting more than one bacterial specie are highly demanded due to the presence of various types of bacterial pathogens in farming environment. Here eighteen genes encoding outer membrane proteins of Vibrio parahaemolyticus were cloned and expressed. The expressed recombinant proteins were used for antiserum preparation. Passive and active immune protection of the antiserum and recombinant proteins was investigated in the zebrafish model. Two recombinant proteins, VP1667 and VP2369, showed effective immune protection against at least two genera of bacteria, Vibrio (V. parahaemolyticus and V. alginolyticus), Pseudomonas (P. fluorescens) or/and Aeromonas (A. hydrophila), and thereby are potential polyvalent vaccine candidates to defend against bacterial infection in fish farming. Furthermore, the mechanisms for the two polyvalent vaccines in triggering immune response were explored. Antiserum to VP1667 or VP2369 was not cross-reacted with P. fluorescens and A. hydrophila, whereas both recombinant proteins induced significant innate immune response. Comparatively, VP1667 stimulates stronger lymphokine and monokine, and VP2369 induces stronger humoral immune response, while both produce similar NF-κB, COX-2, TLR-1 and TLR-3 expression. Our results identify two polyvalent vaccines and demonstrate characteristics features of their cross-protection at the content of the innate immune response.

Marantodes pumilum (Blume) Kuntze Inhibited Secretion of Lipopolysaccharide- and Monosodium Urate Crystal-stimulated Cytokines and Plasma Prostaglandin E2

Background

Marantodes pumilum is traditionally used for dysentery, gonorrhea, and sickness in the bones. Previous studies revealed its antibacterial and xanthine oxidase inhibitory activities.

Objective

To evaluate the inhibitory effects of three M. pumilum varieties on the secretion of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- and monosodium urate crystal (MSU)-induced cytokines and plasma prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) in vitro.

Materials and Methods

The leaves and roots of M. pumilum var. alata (MPA), M. pumilum var. pumila (MPP), and M. pumilum var. lanceolata (MPL) were successively extracted with dichloromethane (DCM), methanol, and water. Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells and ELISA technique were used for the cytokine assay, whereas human plasma and radioimmunoassay technique were used in the PGE₂ assay. Flavonoids content was determined using a reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography.

Results

DCM extract of MPL roots showed the highest inhibition of LPS-stimulated cytokine secretion with IC₅₀ values of 29.87, 7.62, 5.84, 25.33, and 5.40 μg/mL for interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, respectively; while that of plasma PGE₂ secretion was given by DCM extract of MPP roots (IC₅₀ 31.10 μg/mL). Similarly, the DCM extract of MPL roots demonstrated the highest inhibition against MSU-stimulated IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, and PGE₂ secretion with IC₅₀ values of 11.2, 8.92, 12.29, 49.51, 9.60, and 31.58 μg/mL, respectively. Apigenin in DCM extracts of MPL (0.051 mg/g) and MPP (0.064 mg/g) roots could be responsible for the strong inhibitory activity against IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and PGE₂.

Conclusion

The results suggested that DCM extracts of MPL and MPP roots are potential anti-inflammatory agents by inhibiting the secretion of LPS- and MSU-stimulated pro-inflammatory cytokines and PGE₂.

SUMMARY

Amongst 18 tested extracts, DCM extracts of MPL and MPP roots remarkably inhibited LPS- and MSU-stimulated pro-inflammatory cytokines and PGE₂ secretionPhytochemical analysis was performed for the active extracts using RP-HPLC systemThe presence of flavonoids particularly apigenin could be responsible for the anti-inflammatory activity. Abbreviations used: BSA: Bovine serum albumin, COX-2: Cyclooxygenase-2, CPM: Count per minute, DAMP: Danger-associated molecular pattern, DCM: Dichloromethane, DMSO: Dimethyl sulfoxide, ELISA: Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, FBS: Fetal bovine serum, H₂O: Water, HEPES: 4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)piperazine-1-ethanesulfonic acid, HMC-1: Human mast cell-1, HMGB1: High-mobility group box 1, ICAM: Intercellular adhesion molecule, IFN: Interferon, IgG: Immunoglobulin G, IKK: IkB kinase, IL: Interleukin, iNOS: Inducible nitric oxide synthase, LPS: Lipopolysaccharide, MeOH: Methanol, MPA: Marantodes pumilum var. alata, MPL: Marantodes pumilum var. lanceolata, MPP: Marantodes pumilum var. pumila, MSU: Monosodium urate, MTT: Methylthiazole tetrazolium, NF-κB: Nuclear factor-kappa B, NLR: NOD-like receptor, NLRP3: NLR family pyrin domain containing protein 3, NO: Nitric oxide, NOD: Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain, NSAID: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, PAMP: Pathogen-associated molecular pattern, PBMC: Peripheral blood mononuclear cell, PBS: Phosphate buffered saline, PGE₂: Prostaglandin E_2, PMACI: Phorbol-12-myristate 13-acetate and calcium ionosphere A23187, PRR: Pathogen recognition receptor, PTFE: Polytetrafluoroethylene, RIA: Radioimmunoassay, RIG: Retinoic acid-inducible gene I, RLR: RIG I-like receptor, RP-HPLC: Reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography, RPMI-1640: Roswell Park Memorial Institute-1640, TLR: Toll-like receptor, TNF: Tumor necrosis factor, VCAM: Vascular cell adhesion molecule.

Much More than a Cardiotonic Steroid: Modulation of Inflammation by Ouabain

Since the discovery of ouabain as a cardiotonic steroid hormone present in higher mammals, research about it has progressed rapidly and several of its physiological and pharmacological effects have been described. Ouabain can behave as a stress hormone and adrenal cortex is its main source. Direct effects of ouabain are originated due to the binding to its receptor, the Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase, on target cells. This interaction can promote Na⁺ transport blockade or even activation of signaling transduction pathways (e.g., EGFR/Src-Ras-ERK pathway activation), independent of ion transport. Besides the well-known effect of ouabain on the cardiovascular system and blood pressure control, compelling evidence indicates that ouabain regulates a number of immune functions. Inflammation is a tightly coordinated immunological function that is also affected by ouabain. Indeed, this hormone can modulate many inflammatory events such as cell migration, vascular permeability, and cytokine production. Moreover, ouabain also interferes on neuroinflammation. However, it is not clear how ouabain controls these events. In this brief review, we summarize the updates of ouabain effect on several aspects of peripheral and central inflammation, bringing new insights into ouabain functions on the immune system.

Basic/Translational Development of Forthcoming Opioid- and Nonopioid-Targeted Pain Therapeutics

Opioids represent an efficacious therapeutic modality for some, but not all pain states. Singular reliance on opioid therapy for pain management has limitations, and abuse potential has deleterious consequences for patient and society. Our understanding of pain biology has yielded insights and opportunities for alternatives to conventional opioid agonists. The aim is to have efficacious therapies, with acceptable side effect profiles and minimal abuse potential, which is to say an absence of reinforcing activity in the absence of a pain state. The present work provides a nonexclusive overview of current drug targets and potential future directions of research and development. We discuss channel activators and blockers, including sodium channel blockers, potassium channel activators, and calcium channel blockers; glutamate receptor-targeted agents, including N-methyl-D-aspartate, α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid, and metabotropic receptors. Furthermore, we discuss therapeutics targeted at γ-aminobutyric acid, α2-adrenergic, and opioid receptors. We also considered antagonists of angiotensin 2 and Toll receptors and agonists/antagonists of adenosine, purine receptors, and cannabinoids. Novel targets considered are those focusing on lipid mediators and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Of interest is development of novel targeting strategies, which produce long-term alterations in pain signaling, including viral transfection and toxins. We consider issues in the development of druggable molecules, including preclinical screening. While there are examples of successful translation, mechanistically promising preclinical candidates may unexpectedly fail during clinical trials because the preclinical models may not recapitulate the particular human pain condition being addressed. Molecular target characterization can diminish the disconnect between preclinical and humans' targets, which should assist in developing nonaddictive analgesics.