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Drago G, Aloi N, Ruggieri S, Longo A, Contrino ML, Contarino FM, Cibella F, Colombo P, Longo V. Guardians under Siege: Exploring Pollution's Effects on Human Immunity. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7788. [PMID: 39063030 PMCID: PMC11277414 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemical pollution poses a significant threat to human health, with detrimental effects on various physiological systems, including the respiratory, cardiovascular, mental, and perinatal domains. While the impact of pollution on these systems has been extensively studied, the intricate relationship between chemical pollution and immunity remains a critical area of investigation. The focus of this study is to elucidate the relationship between chemical pollution and human immunity. To accomplish this task, this study presents a comprehensive review that encompasses in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo studies, shedding light on the ways in which chemical pollution can modulate human immunity. Our aim is to unveil the complex mechanisms by which environmental contaminants compromise the delicate balance of the body's defense systems going beyond the well-established associations with defense systems and delving into the less-explored link between chemical exposure and various immune disorders, adding urgency to our understanding of the underlying mechanisms and their implications for public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaspare Drago
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council of Italy (IRIB-CNR), Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (G.D.); (N.A.); (S.R.); (A.L.); (F.C.); (V.L.)
| | - Noemi Aloi
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council of Italy (IRIB-CNR), Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (G.D.); (N.A.); (S.R.); (A.L.); (F.C.); (V.L.)
| | - Silvia Ruggieri
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council of Italy (IRIB-CNR), Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (G.D.); (N.A.); (S.R.); (A.L.); (F.C.); (V.L.)
| | - Alessandra Longo
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council of Italy (IRIB-CNR), Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (G.D.); (N.A.); (S.R.); (A.L.); (F.C.); (V.L.)
| | - Maria Lia Contrino
- Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale di Siracusa, Corso Gelone 17, 96100 Siracusa, Italy; (M.L.C.); (F.M.C.)
| | - Fabio Massimo Contarino
- Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale di Siracusa, Corso Gelone 17, 96100 Siracusa, Italy; (M.L.C.); (F.M.C.)
| | - Fabio Cibella
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council of Italy (IRIB-CNR), Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (G.D.); (N.A.); (S.R.); (A.L.); (F.C.); (V.L.)
| | - Paolo Colombo
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council of Italy (IRIB-CNR), Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (G.D.); (N.A.); (S.R.); (A.L.); (F.C.); (V.L.)
| | - Valeria Longo
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council of Italy (IRIB-CNR), Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (G.D.); (N.A.); (S.R.); (A.L.); (F.C.); (V.L.)
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Xiang L, Wang Y, Liu S, Ying L, Zhang K, Liang N, Li H, Luo G, Xiao L. Quercetin Attenuates KLF4-Mediated Phenotypic Switch of VSMCs to Macrophage-like Cells in Atherosclerosis: A Critical Role for the JAK2/STAT3 Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7755. [PMID: 39062998 PMCID: PMC11277168 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to elucidate the protective role of quercetin in atherosclerosis by examining its effect on the phenotypic switch of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) to macrophage-like cells and the underlying regulatory pathways. Aorta tissues from apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE KO) mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD), treated with or without 100 mg/kg/day quercetin, were analyzed for histopathological changes and molecular mechanisms. Quercetin was found to decrease the size of atherosclerotic lesions and mitigate lipid accumulation induced by HFD. Fluorescence co-localization analysis revealed a higher presence of macrophage-like vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) co-localizing with phospho-Janus kinase 2 (p-JAK2), phospho-signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (p-STAT3), and Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) in regions of foam cell aggregation within aortic plaques. However, this co-localization was reduced following treatment with quercetin. Quercetin treatment effectively inhibited the KLF4-mediated phenotypic switch in oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-loaded mouse aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (MOVAS), as indicated by decreased expressions of KLF4, LGALS3, CD68, and F4/80, increased expression of alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), reduced intracellular fluorescence Dil-ox-LDL uptake, and decreased lipid accumulation. In contrast, APTO-253, a KLF4 activator, was found to reverse the effects of quercetin. Furthermore, AG490, a JAK2 inhibitor, effectively counteracted the ox-LDL-induced JAK2/STAT3 pathway-dependent switch to a macrophage-like phenotype and lipid accumulation in MOVAS cells. These effects were significantly mitigated by quercetin but exacerbated by coumermycin A1, a JAK2 activator. Our research illustrates that quercetin inhibits the KLF4-mediated phenotypic switch of VSMCs to macrophage-like cells and reduces atherosclerosis by suppressing the JAK2/STAT3 pathway.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Quercetin/pharmacology
- Janus Kinase 2/metabolism
- Kruppel-Like Factor 4/metabolism
- STAT3 Transcription Factor/metabolism
- Atherosclerosis/metabolism
- Atherosclerosis/drug therapy
- Atherosclerosis/pathology
- Kruppel-Like Transcription Factors/metabolism
- Kruppel-Like Transcription Factors/genetics
- Mice
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/drug effects
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Macrophages/metabolism
- Macrophages/drug effects
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/metabolism
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/drug effects
- Male
- Phenotype
- Lipoproteins, LDL/metabolism
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Diet, High-Fat/adverse effects
- Aorta/metabolism
- Aorta/drug effects
- Aorta/pathology
- Apolipoproteins E/metabolism
- Apolipoproteins E/genetics
- Mice, Knockout
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Gang Luo
- Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China; (L.X.); (Y.W.); (S.L.); (L.Y.); (K.Z.); (N.L.); (H.L.)
| | - Lin Xiao
- Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China; (L.X.); (Y.W.); (S.L.); (L.Y.); (K.Z.); (N.L.); (H.L.)
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Zhu X, Wang B, Yu H, Li C, Zhao Y, Zhong Y, Tang W, Zhou Y, Huang X, Zhu H, Wu Y, Yang K, Wei Y, Gao Z, Dong J. Icariin attenuates asthmatic airway inflammation via modulating alveolar macrophage activation based on network pharmacology and in vivo experiments. J Gene Med 2024; 26:e3718. [PMID: 38979822 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Icariin (ICA) inhibits inflammatory response in various diseases, but the mechanism underlying ICA treating airway inflammation in asthma needs further understood. We aimed to predict and validate the potential targets of ICA against asthma-associated airway inflammation using network pharmacology and experiments. METHODS The ovalbumin-induced asthma-associated airway inflammation mice model was established. The effects of ICA were evaluated by behavioral, airway hyperresponsiveness, lung pathological changes, inflammatory cell and cytokines counts. Next, the corresponding targets of ICA were mined via the SEA, CTD, HERB, PharmMapper, Symmap database and the literature. Pubmed-Gene and GeneCards databases were used to screen asthma and airway inflammation-related targets. The overlapping targets were used to build an interaction network, analyze gene ontology and enrich pathways. Subsequently, flow cytometry, quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting were employed for validation. RESULTS ICA alleviated the airway inflammation of asthma; 402 targets of ICA, 5136 targets of asthma and 4531 targets of airway inflammation were screened; 216 overlapping targets were matched and predicted ICA possesses the potential to modulate asthmatic airway inflammation by macrophage activation/polarization. Additionally, ICA decreased M1 but elevated M2. Potential targets that were disrupted by asthma inflammation were restored by ICA treatment. CONCLUSIONS ICA alleviates airway inflammation in asthma by inhibiting the M1 polarization of alveolar macrophages, which is related to metabolic reprogramming. Jun, Jak2, Syk, Tnf, Aldh2, Aldh9a1, Nos1, Nos2 and Nos3 represent potential targets of therapeutic intervention. The present study enhances understanding of the anti-airway inflammation effects of ICA, especially in asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofei Zhu
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hang Yu
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Congcong Li
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuhang Zhao
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhong
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weifeng Tang
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yaolong Zhou
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Huang
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huahe Zhu
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yueren Wu
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Yang
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Wei
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen Gao
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingcheng Dong
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Milanković V, Tasić T, Leskovac A, Petrović S, Mitić M, Lazarević-Pašti T, Novković M, Potkonjak N. Metals on the Menu-Analyzing the Presence, Importance, and Consequences. Foods 2024; 13:1890. [PMID: 38928831 PMCID: PMC11203375 DOI: 10.3390/foods13121890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Metals are integral components of the natural environment, and their presence in the food supply is inevitable and complex. While essential metals such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, and copper are crucial for various physiological functions and must be consumed through the diet, others, like lead, mercury, and cadmium, are toxic even at low concentrations and pose serious health risks. This study comprehensively analyzes the presence, importance, and consequences of metals in the food chain. We explore the pathways through which metals enter the food supply, their distribution across different food types, and the associated health implications. By examining current regulatory standards for maximum allowable levels of various metals, we highlight the importance of ensuring food safety and protecting public health. Furthermore, this research underscores the need for continuous monitoring and management of metal content in food, especially as global agricultural and food production practices evolve. Our findings aim to inform dietary recommendations, food fortification strategies, and regulatory policies, ultimately contributing to safer and more nutritionally balanced diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vedran Milanković
- VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Mike Petrovica Alasa 12-14, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.M.); (T.T.); (A.L.); (S.P.); (M.M.); (T.L.-P.)
| | - Tamara Tasić
- VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Mike Petrovica Alasa 12-14, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.M.); (T.T.); (A.L.); (S.P.); (M.M.); (T.L.-P.)
| | - Andreja Leskovac
- VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Mike Petrovica Alasa 12-14, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.M.); (T.T.); (A.L.); (S.P.); (M.M.); (T.L.-P.)
| | - Sandra Petrović
- VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Mike Petrovica Alasa 12-14, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.M.); (T.T.); (A.L.); (S.P.); (M.M.); (T.L.-P.)
| | - Miloš Mitić
- VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Mike Petrovica Alasa 12-14, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.M.); (T.T.); (A.L.); (S.P.); (M.M.); (T.L.-P.)
| | - Tamara Lazarević-Pašti
- VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Mike Petrovica Alasa 12-14, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.M.); (T.T.); (A.L.); (S.P.); (M.M.); (T.L.-P.)
| | - Mirjana Novković
- Group for Muscle Cellular and Molecular Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Nebojša Potkonjak
- VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Mike Petrovica Alasa 12-14, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.M.); (T.T.); (A.L.); (S.P.); (M.M.); (T.L.-P.)
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Xing Y, Wang X, Liu J, Zhang Y, Tianran H, Dong L, Tian J, Liu J. Low-dose cadmium induces lymphangiogenesis through activation of the STAT3 signaling pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116741. [PMID: 38744218 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a widespread environmental toxicant that poses significant threat to public health. After intake, Cd is distributed throughout the body via blood and lymphatic circulation. However, the effect of Cd on lymphatic vessels has not been revealed. In this study, mice were exposed to 10 μM cadmium chloride through drinking water immediately after corneal alkali burn. In vivo analyses showed that Cd treatment enhances the alkali burn-induced corneal lymphangiogenesis, which is characterized by increased expression of lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor 1 (LYVE-1), prospero-related homeobox 1 (PROX-1) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 (VEGFR3). In vitro, the proliferation and migration of human dermal lymphatic endothelial cells (HDLECs) are increased by 1 μM Cd treatment, while inhibited by 10 μM Cd treatment. At a concentration of 1 μM, Cd specifically induces phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), but has no effect on the MAPK, AKT, or NF-κB signaling pathway. In the presence of the STAT3 inhibitor STATTIC, Cd fails to induce HDLECs proliferation and migration. In addition, Cd upregulates VEGFR3 expression and its gene promoter activity in a STAT3-dependent manner. Our study suggests that low-dose Cd promotes lymphangiogenesis through activation of the STAT3 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Xing
- Department of Respiratory and Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Jinan, 250014, China; Institute of Microvascular Medicine, Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan 250014, China; School of Public Health and Health Management, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Xia Wang
- Institute of Microvascular Medicine, Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Institute of Microvascular Medicine, Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Yuanqing Zhang
- Institute of Microvascular Medicine, Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan 250014, China; School of Public Health and Health Management, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Huai Tianran
- Institute of Microvascular Medicine, Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan 250014, China; School of Public Health and Health Management, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Liang Dong
- Department of Respiratory and Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Jinghui Tian
- School of Public Health and Health Management, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan 250014, China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Taian 271000, China.
| | - Ju Liu
- Institute of Microvascular Medicine, Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan 250014, China.
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Guo B, Yu Y, Wang M, Li R, He X, Tang S, Liu Q, Mao Y. Targeting the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway with natural plants and phytochemical ingredients: A novel therapeutic method for combatting cardiovascular diseases. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 172:116313. [PMID: 38377736 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this article is to introduce the roles and mechanisms of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway in various cardiovascular diseases, such as myocardial fibrosis, cardiac hypertrophy, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and myocardial ischemiareperfusion. In addition, the effects of phytochemical ingredients and different natural plants, mainly traditional Chinese medicines, on the regulation of different cardiovascular diseases via the JAK2/STAT3 pathway are discussed. Surprisingly, the JAK2 pathway has dual roles in different cardiovascular diseases. Future research should focus on the dual regulatory effects of different phytochemical ingredients and natural plants on JAK2 to pave the way for their use in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Guo
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410005, China
| | - Yunfeng Yu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410007, China
| | - Min Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410007, China
| | - Ronghui Li
- College of Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Xuan He
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410005, China
| | - Siqin Tang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410005, China
| | - Qili Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410007, China
| | - Yilin Mao
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410005, China.
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Li H, Yang W, Cao W, Yu Z, Zhang G, Long L, Guo H, Qu H, Fu C, Chen K. Effects and mechanism of Kedaling tablets for atherosclerosis treatment based on network pharmacology, molecular docking and experimental study. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 319:117108. [PMID: 37657772 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Kedaling tablets (KDL) are a Chinese patented medicine derived from Corydalis yanhusuo (Y.H. Chou & Chun C.Hsu) W.T. Wang ex Z.Y. Su & C.Y. Wu (Papaveraceae). They are prescribed for the prevention of atherosclerosis (AS). AIMS OF THIS STUDY We sought to evaluate the effects of KDL treating AS, based on which we screen out the active components of KDL tablets, analyse the serum parameters of rats fed with KDL, and explore the possible mechanisms of action of KDL tablets in the treatment of AS. MATERIALS AND METHODS ApoE knockout (ApoE-/-) mice fed a high-fat diet were used to establish an AS model. After KDL and atorvastatin tablets (ATV) treatment for 4 weeks, Movat and haematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining were used to evaluate aortic plaques. Further, we measured total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglycerides (TG) in serum. Through ELISA, we measured the levels of proinflammatory factors in serum. The components of KDL were comprehensively analysed using UPLC-Q/TOF-MS. Mechanisms of action were investigated via protein-protein interaction network analysis, Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis and molecular docking. The expression of predicted targets in serum and aorta were then verified by ELISA. RESULTS Animal experiments confirmed that KDL could decrease the plaque area and the proportion of foam cells and collagenous fibres within the plaques of ApoE-/- mice. In addition, KDL regulated the levels of TC, TG, HDL-C, LDL-C and proinflammatory factors (interleukin [IL]-1β, IL-17) associated with AS. UPLC-Q/TOF-MS analysis revealed 50 and 21 major components in the KDL tablets and serum of rats fed with KDL, respectively. A total of 255 potential core therapeutic targets were obtained, and the top eight key targets were screened out according to network pharmacology analysis. GO analysis revealed 883 biological processes, 136 cellular components and 202 molecular functions. KEGG analysis indicated that 177 signalling pathways, including lipid and AS, TNF, IL-17, TGF-β and other signalling pathways might be associated with AS. Molecular docking results showed that the main active components canadine, stylopine, tetrahydropalmatine and dehydrocorydaline had higher affinities for TNFA, TGFB1, and TGFB2. Furthermore, the favourable effects of KDL were mediated through the regulation of serum TGF-β and TNF-α levels in the serum and aorta of experimental animals. CONCLUSIONS KDL attenuated AS in ApoE-/- mice, which was associated with a suppression of inflammatory signalling through the TNF and TGF-β pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongzheng Li
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100091, China; Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Wenwen Yang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100091, China
| | - Weiyi Cao
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100091, China
| | - Zikai Yu
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100091, China
| | - Guoyuan Zhang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100091, China
| | - Linzi Long
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100091, China
| | - Hao Guo
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100091, China
| | - Hua Qu
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100091, China.
| | - Changgeng Fu
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100091, China.
| | - Keji Chen
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100091, China.
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Martins AC, Ferrer B, Tinkov AA, Caito S, Deza-Ponzio R, Skalny AV, Bowman AB, Aschner M. Association between Heavy Metals, Metalloids and Metabolic Syndrome: New Insights and Approaches. TOXICS 2023; 11:670. [PMID: 37624175 PMCID: PMC10459190 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11080670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is an important public health issue that affects millions of people around the world and is growing to pandemic-like proportions. This syndrome is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a pathologic condition characterized by abdominal obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. Moreover, the etiology of MetS is multifactorial, involving many environmental factors, including toxicant exposures. Several studies have associated MetS with heavy metals exposure, which is the focus of this review. Environmental and/or occupational exposure to heavy metals are a major risk, contributing to the development of chronic diseases. Of particular note, toxic metals such as mercury, lead, and cadmium may contribute to the development of MetS by altering oxidative stress, IL-6 signaling, apoptosis, altered lipoprotein metabolism, fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis, and other mechanisms. In this review, we discuss the known and potential roles of heavy metals in MetS etiology as well as potential targeted pathways that are associated with MetS. Furthermore, we describe how new approaches involving proteomic and transcriptome analysis, as well as bioinformatic tools, may help bring about an understanding of the involvement of heavy metals and metalloids in MetS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Airton C. Martins
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA; (A.C.M.)
| | - Beatriz Ferrer
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA; (A.C.M.)
| | - Alexey A. Tinkov
- Laboratory of Ecobiomonitoring and Quality Control, Yaroslavl State University, 150003 Yaroslavl, Russia; (A.A.T.)
- IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119435 Moscow, Russia
| | - Samuel Caito
- School of Pharmacy, Husson University, Bangor, ME 04401, USA
| | - Romina Deza-Ponzio
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA; (A.C.M.)
| | - Anatoly V. Skalny
- Laboratory of Ecobiomonitoring and Quality Control, Yaroslavl State University, 150003 Yaroslavl, Russia; (A.A.T.)
- IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119435 Moscow, Russia
| | - Aaron B. Bowman
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2051, USA;
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA; (A.C.M.)
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Disturbed Ratios between Essential and Toxic Trace Elements as Potential Biomarkers of Acute Ischemic Stroke. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15061434. [PMID: 36986164 PMCID: PMC10058587 DOI: 10.3390/nu15061434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) are known to be two of the metal contaminants that pose the greatest potential threat to human health. The purpose of this research study was to compare the levels of toxic metals (Cd, Pb) in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS), with a control group in Podlaskie Voivodeship, Poland. The study also aimed to assess the correlations between toxic metals and clinical data in AIS patients, and to assess the potential effect of smoking. Materials and methods: The levels of mineral components in the collected blood samples were assessed by means of atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). Results: The Cd blood concentration was significantly higher in AIS patients as compared to the control group. We found that the molar ratios of Cd/Zn and Cd/Pb were significantly higher (p < 0.001; p < 0.001, respectively), when the molar ratios of Se/Pb, Se/Cd, and Cu/Cd were significantly lower (p = 0.01; p < 0.001; p < 0.001, respectively), in AIS patients as compared to control subjects. However, there were no considerable fluctuations in relation to the blood Pb concentration or molar ratios of Zn/Pb and Cu/Pb between our AIS patients and the control group. We also found that patients with internal carotid artery (ICA) atherosclerosis, particularly those with 20–50% ICA stenosis, had higher concentrations of Cd and Cd/Zn, but lower Cu/Cd and Se/Cd molar ratios. In the course of our analysis, we observed that current smokers among AIS patients had significantly higher blood-Cd concentrations, Cd/Zn and Cd/Pb molar ratios, and hemoglobin levels, but significantly lower HDL-C concentrations, Se/Cd, and Cu/Cd molar ratios. Conclusions: Our research has shown that the disruption of the metal balance plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of AIS. Furthermore, our results broaden those of previous studies on the exposure to Cd and Pb as risk factors for AIS. Further investigations are necessary to examine the probable mechanisms of Cd and Pb in the onset of ischemic stroke. The Cd/Zn molar ratio may be a useful biomarker of atherosclerosis in AIS patients. An accurate assessment of changes in the molar ratios of essential and toxic trace elements could serve as a valuable indicator of the nutritional status and levels of oxidative stress in AIS patients. It is critical to investigate the potential role of exposure to metal mixtures in AIS, due to its public health implications.
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