Effects of taurochenodeoxycholic acid on adjuvant arthritis in rats

Metabolomic and lipidomic studies on the intervention of taurochenodeoxycholic acid in mice with hyperlipidemia

Bile acids are the main component of animal bile and are directly involved in the metabolic process of lipids in vivo. Taurochenodeoxycholic acid (TCDCA) is the primary biologically active substance in bile acids and has biological functions such as antioxidant, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic activities and improves immunity. In the present study, we assessed the impact of TCDCA on hyperlipidemia development in mouse models. Mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) to induce hyperlipidemia and orally administered different doses of TCDCA orally for 30 days. Then, indicators such as triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in mice were detected. Using HE and ORO staining techniques, the morphology of the mice's liver tissue was detected. Based on metabolomic and lipidomic analyses, we determined the mechanism of TCDCA in treating hyperlipidemia. The results showed that TCDCA had a significant ameliorating effect on dietary hyperlipidemia. In addition, it exerted therapeutic effects through glycerophospholipid metabolism.

Bile acid metabolism regulatory network orchestrates bone homeostasis

Bile acids (BAs), synthesized in the liver and modified by the gut microbiota, have been widely appreciated not only as simple lipid emulsifiers, but also as complex metabolic regulators and momentous signaling molecules, which play prominent roles in the complex interaction among several metabolic systems. Recent studies have drawn us eyes on the diverse physiological functions of BAs, to enlarge the knowledge about the "gut-bone" axis due to the participation about the gut microbiota-derived BAs to modulate bone homeostasis at physiological and pathological stations. In this review, we have summarized the metabolic processes of BAs and highlighted the crucial roles of BAs targeting bile acid-activated receptors, promoting the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts (OBs), inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts (OCs), as well as reducing articular cartilage degradation, thus facilitating bone repair. In addition, we have also focused on the bidirectional effects of BA signaling networks in coordinating the dynamic balance of bone matrix and demonstrated the promising effects of BAs on the development or treatment for pathological bone diseases. In a word, further clinical applications targeting BA metabolism or modulating gut metabolome and related derivatives may be developed as effective therapeutic strategies for bone destruction diseases.

Taurochenodeoxycholic acid reduces astrocytic neuroinflammation and alleviates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in mice

OBJECTIVE

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune regulatory disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS). The main pathological features include demyelination and neurodegeneration, and the pathogenesis is associated with astrocytic neuroinflammation. Taurochenodeoxycholic acid (TCDCA) is one of the conjugated bile acids in animal bile, and it is not clear whether TCDCA could improve MS by inhibiting the activation of astrocytes. This study was aimed to evaluate the effects of TCDCA on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE)-a classical animal model of MS, and to probe its mechanism from the aspect of suppressing astrocytic neuroinflammation. It is expected to prompt the potential application of TCDCA for the treatment of MS.

RESULTS

TCDCA effectively alleviated the progression of EAE and improved the impaired neurobehavior in mice. It mitigated the hyperactivation of astrocytes and down-regulated the mRNA expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-6 in the brain cortex. In the C6 astrocytic cell line induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), TCDCA treatment dose-dependently decreased the production of NO and the protein expression of iNOS and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). TCDCA consistently inhibited the mRNA expressions of COX2, iNOS and other inflammatory mediators. Furthermore, TCDCA decreased the protein expression of phosphorylated serine/threonine kinase (AKT), inhibitor of NFκB α (IκBα) and nuclear factor κB (NFκB). And TCDCA also inhibited the nuclear translocation of NFκB. Conversely, as an inhibitor of the G-protein coupled bile acid receptor Gpbar1 (TGR5), triamterene eliminated the effects of TCDCA in LPS-stimulated C6 cells.

CONCLUSION

TCDCA improves the progress of EAE by inhibiting the astrocytic neuroinflammation, which might be exerted by the regulation of TGR5 mediated AKT/NFκB signaling pathway. These findings may prompt the potential application of TCDCA for MS therapy by suppressing astrocyte inflammation.

Inflammatory and degenerative effects of induced osteoarthritis/rheumatoid arthritis models on temporomandibular joint of rats

OBJECTIVE

The present study compared three models of induction of osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) of rats.

DESIGN

The induction method was by injection of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) + type II bovine collagen (CII). Twenty-four adult male rats were divided into four groups (n = 6): G1: Sham, 50 μL of 0.9% sodium chloride at the base of the tail and in each TMJ; G2: OA, 50 μL CFA+CII in each TMJ; G3: RA+OA, 100 μL of CFA+CII at the base of the tail and 50 μL CFA+CII in each TMJ; G4: RA, 100 μL of CFA+CII at the base of the tail. All injections were repeated 5 days later. Twenty-three days after the first injection, the animals were sacrificed and the TMJs were submitted to histomorphometric analysis and measurement of cytokines. The Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests were used (alpha=0.05).

RESULTS

The total thickness of the condylar cartilage increased in G2 in relation to the other groups, G3 and G4 reduced in relation to G1; and G2 and G4 reduced in relation to G2 and G3. The levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α increased in the three induction models compared to G1. The level of IL-10 increased in G2 compared to the other groups and reduced in G3 and G4 compared to G1.

CONCLUSION

CFA+CII induced inflammation and degeneration compatible with RA (advanced chronic stage) when injected in the tail, and compatible with OA (acute stage or early disease) when injected only in the TMJ.

Clinical study on sequential treatment of severe diarrhea irritable bowel syndrome with precision probiotic strains transplantation capsules, fecal microbiota transplantation capsules and live combined bacillus subtilis and enterococcus faecium capsules

Objective

To study the effect of precision probiotic strains transplantation capsules on diarrhea irritable bowel syndrome compared with fecal microbiota transplantation capsules and live combined bacillus subtilis and enterococcus faecium capsules.

Methods

Two patients with severe irritable bowel syndrome were treated with precision probiotic strains transplantation capsules, fecal microbiota transplantation capsules and live combined bacillus subtilis and enterococcus faecium capsules in sequence. IBS-SSS, IBS-QoL, GSRS, stool frequency, stool character, degree of abdominal pain, GAD-7, and PHQ9 scores of patients at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 weeks of treatment were monitored and recorded, and stool samples were collected for metagenomics and metabolomics.

Results

It was found that the IBS-SSS score of patient case 1 decreased by 175 points and that of patient case 2 decreased by 100 points after treatment of precision probiotic strains transplantation capsules. There was no significant decrease after fecal microbiota transplantation capsules and live combined bacillus subtilis and enterococcus faecium capsules were used. At the same time, compared with fecal microbiota transplantation and live combined bacillus subtilis and enterococcus faecium capsules, the IBS QoL, stool frequency, stool character, degree of abdominal pain and GAD-7 score of patient case 1 improved more significantly by the precision probiotic strains transplantation capsules. And the stool frequency and stool character score of patient case 2 decreased more significantly. Intestinal microbiota also improved more significantly after the precise capsule transplantation treatment. And we found Eubacterium_ Eligens showed the same change trend in the treatment of two patients, which may play a role in the treatment.

Conclusion

precision probiotic strains transplantation capsules is more beneficial to improve the intestinal microbiota of patients than microbiota transplantation capsule and live combined bacillus subtilis and enterococcus faecium capsules, so as to better alleviate clinical symptoms. This study provides a more perfect and convenient therapeutic drugs for the treatment of IBS.

Xanthorrhizol Ameliorates Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Freund's Complete Adjuvant-Induced Rheumatoid Arthritis in Rats

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory disease and a common cause of disability. This study is aimed to ascertain the therapeutic potentials of the xanthorrhizol against Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA)-stimulated RA in rats. The RA was initiated in the rats via injecting FCA (0.1 ml) subcutaneously and then treated with xanthorrhizol (20 mg/kg) for 25 days. The hematological markers were investigated using the automated hematological analyzer. The organ index (spleen and thymus) and paw volume were inspected by standard methods. The ALP, SGOT, and SGPT activities were examined using kits. The levels of inflammatory biomarkers, i.e., IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α, were inspected using assay kits. The status of MDA, SOD, CAT, GSH, COX-2, iNOS, and NF-κB was quantified using respective assay kits. The xanthorrhizol treatment appreciably improved the body weight and hematological parameters and reduced the arthritis score, organ index, and paw volume in the RA rats. The levels of RBCs and Hb were effectively improved, and activities of ALP, SGOT, and SGPT were decreased by the xanthorrhizol in the RA rats. The RA rats treated with 20 mg/kg of xanthorrhizol demonstrated the depleted IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α levels. The antioxidant markers SOD, CAT, and GSH were improved, and inflammatory biomarker levels such as COX-2, iNOS, and NF-κB were decreased by the xanthorrhizol in the RA rats. Overall, these outcomes witnessed that the xanthorrhizol effectively ameliorated the oxidative stress and inflammatory responses and attenuated the RA in rats. Hence, it could be a talented anti-arthritic medication to treat RA.

Structure of type II collagen from sturgeon cartilage and its effect on adjuvant-induced rheumatoid arthritis in rats

The purpose of this paper was to extract and characterize type II collagen of sturgeon cartilage (SC-CII), and to explore the effects of taking SC-CII orally on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in rats. SC-CII showed a triple-helix structure (RPN = 0.12), with d1 of 11.82 Å and d2 of 4.08 Å, which was analyzed by FT-IR, CD, XRD, and MS. It was constructed of the repeating tripeptide unit Gly-X-Y, where X and Y are generally Pro or Hyp, proved by amino acid composition and peptide mass fingerprinting. Furthermore, the effects of SC-CII on RA were evaluated. Ankle thickness was significantly decreased in SC-CII groups, with changes in lymphocyte proliferation also observed. Compared with the model control group, there was an evident decrease in TNF-α, IL-1β, COX-2, MCP-1, and TLR-4 mRNA levels, but no remarkable differences in APF, MMP-3, and MyD88 mRNA levels in the SC-CII groups. In addition, TNF-α, IL-1β, RF, Anti-CII Ab were significantly reduced in the SC-CII groups, proved by ELISA. Therefore, SC-CII showed alleviating effects on RA through the TLR4/MyD88-NFκB pathway.

Metabolomics of Synovial Fluid and Infrapatellar Fat Pad in Patients with Osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid Arthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) and autoimmune-driven rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are inflammatory joint diseases with complex and insufficiently understood pathogeneses. Our objective was to characterize the metabolic fingerprints of synovial fluid (SF) and its adjacent infrapatellar fat pad (IFP) obtained during the same surgical operation from OA and RA knees. Non-targeted metabolite profiling was performed for 5 non-inflammatory trauma controls, 10 primary OA (pOA) patients, and 10 seropositive RA patients with high-resolution mass spectrometry-based techniques, and metabolites were matched with known metabolite identities. Groupwise differences in metabolic features were analyzed with the univariate Welch’s t-test and the multivariate linear discriminant analysis (LDA) and principal component analysis (PCA). Significant discrimination of metabolite profiles was discovered by LDA for both SF and IFP and by PCA for SF based on diagnosis. In addition to a few drug-derived substances, there were 16 and 13 identified metabolites with significant differences between the diagnoses in SF and IFP, respectively. The pathways downregulated in RA included androgen, bile acid, amino acid, and histamine metabolism, and those upregulated included biotin metabolism in pOA and purine metabolism in RA and pOA. The RA-induced downregulation of androgen and bile acid metabolism was observed for both SF and IFP. The levels of 11 lipid metabolites, mostly glycerophospholipids and fatty acid amides, were also altered by these inflammatory conditions. The identified metabolic pathways could be utilized in the future to deepen our understanding of the pathogeneses of OA and RA and to develop not only biomarkers for their early diagnosis but also therapeutic targets.

Bile acids as regulatory molecules and potential targets in metabolic diseases

Bile acids are important hydroxylated steroids that are synthesized in the liver from cholesterol for intestinal absorption of lipids and other fatty-nutrient. They also display remarkable and immense functions such as regulating immune responses, managing the apoptosis of cells, participating in glucose metabolism, and so on. Some bile acids were used for the treatment or prevention of diseases such as gallstones, primary biliary cirrhosis, and colorectal cancer. Meanwhile, the accumulation of toxic bile acids leads to apoptosis, necrosis, and inflammation. Alteration of bile acids metabolism, as well as the gut microbiota that interacted with bile acids, contributes to the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to summarize the current functions and pre-clinical or clinical applications of bile acids, and to further discuss the alteration of bile acids in metabolic disorders as well as the manipulation of bile acids metabolism as potential therapeutic targets.

Taurochenodeoxycholic Acid Increases cAMP Content via Specially Interacting with Bile Acid Receptor TGR5

Taurochenodeoxycholic acid (TCDCA) is one of the main components of bile acids (BAs). TCDCA has been reported as a signaling molecule, exerting anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory functions. However, it is not well known whether those effects are mediated by TGR5. This study aimed to elucidate the interaction between TCDCA and TGR5. To achieve this aim, first, the TGR5 eukaryotic vector was constructed. The expression level of TGR5 in 293T cells was determined by immunofluorescence, real-time quantitative PCR (RT-PCR, qPCR), and Western blot. The luciferase assay, fluorescence microscopy, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were recruited to check the interaction of TCDCA with TGR5. TCDCA treatment in 293T cells resulted in TGR5 internalization coupled with a significant increase in cAMP luciferase expression. Our results demonstrated that TCDCA was able to bind to the TGR5 receptor and activate it. These results provide an excellent potential therapeutic target for TCDCA research. Moreover, these findings also provide theoretical evidence for further TCDCA research.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Aconiti Radix Cocta Improves Rheumatoid Arthritis via Suppressing COX-1 and COX-2

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Aconiti Radix Cocta (AC) is clinically employed to expel wind, remove dampness, and relieve pain. We evaluated the antirheumatoid arthritis (RA) activities and underlying mechanisms of AC. The chemical constituents of AC were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) using three reference compounds (benzoylaconitine, benzoylmesaconine, and benzoylhypacoitine). The anti-RA effects of AC were evaluated in adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) rats by hind paw volume and histopathological analysis. The effects of AC on inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-17A) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The regulation of cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and/or COX-2) was determined by Western blot and real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analyses. AC significantly reduced paw swelling, attenuated the inflammation and bone destruction in joint tissues, and reduced IL-1β and IL-17A in the serum. Moreover, AC downregulated the expression of COX-1 and COX-2 in the synovial tissues. We also identified that AC possesses significant anti-RA activities on AIA, which may be ascribed to the regulation of inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-17, as well as to the inhibition of arachidonic acid signaling pathways. Our findings provide theoretical support for AC as an effective nature-derived therapeutic agent for RA treatment.

Photobiomodulation inhibits inflammation in the temporomandibular joint of rats

Photobiomodulation (PBM) has been applied as a non-invasive technique for treating temporomandibular joint symptoms, especially on painful condition's relief, however the anti-inflammatory mechanism underlying the effect of PBM remains uncertain. This study aims to evaluate the mechanisms of action of PBM (808 nm) in a carrageenan-induced inflammation on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) of rats. In this study male Wistar rats were pre-treated with irradiation of a low-power diode laser for 15 s on TMJ (infra-red 808 nm, 100 mW, 50 J/cm² and 1.5 J) 15 min prior an injection in the temporomandibular joint of carrageenan (100 μg/TMJ). 1 h after the TMJ treatments, the rats were terminally anesthetized for joint cavity wash and periarticular tissues collect. Samples analysis demonstrated that PBM inhibit leukocytes chemotaxis in the TMJ and significantly reduces amounts of TNF-α, IL-1β and CINC-1. In addition, Western blotting analysis demonstrated that PBM significantly decreased the protein levels of P2X3 and P2X7 receptors in the periarticular tissues. On the other hand, PBM was able to increase protein level of IL-10 (anti-inflammatory cytokine). In summary, it is possible to suggest that PBM inhibit inflammatory chemotaxis, modulation the balance of the pro- and anti-inflammatory characteristics of inflammatory cells.

A systematic review of preclinical studies on the efficacy of taurine for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

Due to the undesirable effects of conventional medical therapies prescribed for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), complementary therapies, especially nutritional agents, have recently gained great attention. Recent animal and in vitro researches have shown benefits of taurine (Tau), a sulfur-containing amino acid, in RA and suggest that Tau may be a therapeutic candidate in RA; however, no systematic review exists regarding Tau and RA. Accordingly, this paper systematically reviewed the available researches regarding Tau and RA and plausible underlying mechanisms. We searched electronic databases like Scopus, WOS, PubMed, Embase, ProQuest, Cochrane Library, and a search engine Google Scholar until December 2020 and we have applied search alert services to detect related papers published after the primary search. We did not have any restriction in publication date and/or language. We found no clinical study; thus we considered related animal and in vitro researches. Furthermore, we checked the citations or references of these researches and grey literature to detect possible studies. We did not consider reviews, book chapters, conference abstracts, and articles about Tau in health problems other than RA. Eighteen articles were entered in present systematic review. Animal and in vitro researches showed that Tau either directly or indirectly (via Tau derivatives such as Tau-chloramine, Tau-bromamine, taurochenodeoxycholic acid, and taurolidine) could control RA by different mechanisms such as reducing inflammation, suppressing oxidative stress, and inducing apoptosis. This review serves convincing clues about the efficacy of Tau in RA and explains the importance of additional clinical investigations.

Transcriptome investigation of anti-inflammation and immuno-regulation mechanism of taurochenodeoxycholic acid

BACKGROUND

Taurochenodeoxycholic acid (TCDCA) is one of the major active components in bile acid. It was proven to have inhibitory activities on inflammation and also participate in host immuno-regulation. TCDCA exerts anti-inflammatory and immuno-regulatory effects through the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) mediated genomic signaling pathway and the G protein-coupled bile acid receptor 5 (TGR5) mediated AC-cAMP-PKA signaling pathway. However, it is unclear whether GR or TGR5 plays an important role in the regulatory effects of TCDCA. In order to further investigate this effects mechanism of TCDCA, the research use the transcriptome to identify the major genes and pathway in the anti-inflammatory and immuno-regulatory effects.

METHODS

After the Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) being treated by different concentrations (10- 5, 10- 6 and 10- 7 M) of TCDCA for 12 h, the resulting mRNA was analyzed by RNA-seq. The differentially expressed genes were screened from sequencing results using bioinformatics techniques. In the next step, other published literature were referred in order to find out whether those genes mentioned above are related to inflammation. The final selected differentially expressed genes associated with inflammation were then validated by q-PCR and western blot assays.

RESULTS

Five genes associated with anti-inflammatory and immuno-regulatory effects, include Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), Glutathione peroxidase 3 (GPX3), Serine/arginine-rich splicing factor-9 (SRSF9), Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and Cystatin B (CSTB) were identified. TCDCA at the concentrations of 10- 5, 10- 6 and 10- 7 M significantly (p < 0.05) up-regulate the mRNA and protein expression of SRSF9 and GPX3 and also up-regulate the mRNA expression of CSTB, CTGF and GAPDH. RNA-seq results of GPX3 and SRSF9 expression were consistent with q-PCR results, while q-PCR results of CTGF, GAPDH showed inconsistent with their RNA-seq results. Q-PCR result of CSTB expression also showed inconsistent with the RNA-seq result.

CONCLUSIONS

The anti-inflammatory and immuno-regulatory activities of TCDCA are proven to be related to the up-regulation expression of GPX3, SRSF9 and CSTB.

Transdermal delivery of fluvastatin sodium via tailored spanlastic nanovesicles: mitigated Freund's adjuvant-induced rheumatoid arthritis in rats through suppressing p38 MAPK signaling pathway

The current study aimed to encapsulate fluvastatin sodium (FVS), a member of the statins family possessing pleiotropic effects in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), into spanlastic nanovesicles (SNVs) for transdermal delivery. This novel delivery could surmount FVS associated oral encumbrances such as apparent first-pass effect, poor bioavailability and short elimination half-life, hence, accomplishing platform for management of RA. To consummate this objective, FVS-loaded SNVs were elaborated by thin film hydration method, utilizing either Span 60 or Span 80, together with Tween 80 or Brij 35 as an edge activator according to full factorial design (2⁴). Applying Design-Expert^® software, the influence of formulation variables on SNVs physicochemical properties and the optimized formulation selection were explored. Additionally, the pharmacokinetic studies were scrutinized in rats. Furthermore, in Freund's adjuvant-induced arthritis, rheumatoid markers, TNF-α, IL-10, p38 MAPK, and antioxidant parameters were measured. The optimum SNVs were nano-scaled spherical vesicles (201.54 ± 9.16 nm), having reasonable entrapment efficiency (71.28 ± 2.05%), appropriate release over 8 h (89.45 ± 3.64%) and adequate permeation characteristics across the skin (402.55 ± 27.48 µg/cm²). The pharmacokinetic study disclosed ameliorated bioavailability of the optimum SNVs gel by 2.79- and 4.59-fold as compared to the oral solution as well as the traditional gel, respectively. Moreover, it elicited a significant suppression of p38 MAPK expression and also significant improvement of all other measured biomarkers. Concisely, the foregoing findings proposed that SNVs can be auspicious for augmenting FVS transdermal delivery for management of RA.

Taurochenodeoxycholic Acid Inhibited AP-1 Activation via Stimulating Glucocorticoid Receptor

Taurochenodeoxycholic acid (TCDCA) as a primary bioactive substance of animal bile has been shown to exert good anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory functions in adjuvant arthritis in rats. The anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of TCDCA have exhibited interesting similarities with the effects of glucocorticoids (GCs). To investigate the potential mechanisms of TCDCA in anti-inflammation and immunomodulation, we used a luciferase reporter assay to evaluate the activation of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) stimulated by TCDCA. Our results showed that GR was activated by TCDCA in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, the elevated expressions of c-Fos and phosphorylated c-Jun induced by interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were reversed by TCDCA. The inhibition of TCDCA on the transactivation of activator protein-1 (AP-1) was observed as well. However, the suppression of TCDCA on the phosphorylation of c-Jun was blocked incompletely by GR inhibitor RU486. These results have indicated that the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory functions of TCDCA involve multiple pathways, with contributions from GR and its related AP-1 signaling pathway.

Autotaxin and chronic inflammatory diseases

Autotaxin (ATX) is a secreted glycoprotein, widely present in biological fluids including blood. ATX catalyzes the hydrolysis of lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) to lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), a growth factor-like, signaling phospholipid. LPA exerts pleiotropic effects mediated by its G-protein-coupled receptors that are widely expressed and exhibit overlapping specificities. Although ATX also possesses matricellular properties, the majority of ATX reported functions in adulthood are thought to be mediated through the extracellular production of LPA. ATX-mediated LPA synthesis is likely localized at the cell surface through the possible interaction of ATX with integrins or other molecules, while LPA levels are further controlled by a group of membrane-associated lipid-phosphate phosphatases. ATX expression was shown to be necessary for embryonic development, and ATX deficient embryos exhibit defective vascular homeostasis and aberrant neuronal system development. In adult life, ATX is highly expressed in the adipose tissue and has been implicated in diet-induced obesity and glucose homeostasis with multiple implications in metabolic disorders. Additionally, LPA has been shown to affect multiple cell types, including stromal and immune cells in various ways. Therefore, LPA participates in many processes that are intricately involved in the pathogenesis of different chronic inflammatory diseases such as vascular homeostasis, skeletal and stromal remodeling, lymphocyte trafficking and immune regulation. Accordingly, increased ATX and LPA levels have been detected, locally and/or systemically, in patients with chronic inflammatory diseases, most notably idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), chronic liver diseases, and rheumatoid arthritis. Genetic and pharmacological studies in mice have confirmed a pathogenetic role for ATX expression and LPA signaling in chronic inflammatory diseases, and provided the proof of principle for therapeutic interventions, as exemplified by the ongoing clinical trials for IPF.

Effects of Qingluo Tongbi Decoction on Gut Flora of Rats with Adjuvant-Induced Arthritis and the Underlying Mechanism

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common chronic systemic autoimmune disease. Recent studies show that gut flora plays an important role in regulating the systemic immune response, and gut dysbacteria are linked with systemic chronic inflammation in the development of RA. Our previous results found that Qingluo Tongbi decoction (QLT) can treat RA effectively. The present study explored the effect of QLT on gut flora in an adjuvant-induced arthritis (AA) rat model. Thirty rats were divided randomly into three groups: a control group, a model group, and a treatment group (n = 10 per group). The rats in the model group were injected with complete Freund's adjuvant (FCA), while the treatment group received FCA combined with QLT treatment. After 27 days, the gut flora was profiled by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The levels of cadherin-11, IL-17α, TLR2, and TLR4 proteins in the synovial tissues were detected by western blotting (WB). The results showed that QLT treatment significantly inhibited raw swelling during the 15–27 d period compared with the model group. QLT treatment reversed the ten altered bacterial genera in the model group, and three families (Lachnospiraceae, Eubacteriaceae, and Leuconostocaceae) were closely related to QLT treatment based on linear discriminant analysis (LDA). Functional prediction showed seven types of predicted functions were related to the QLT treatment, and WB results showed that QLT treatment reversed the increased expression levels of cadherin-11, IL-17α, TLR2, and TLR4 in synovial tissues significantly. The expression levels of cadherin-11, IL-17α, and TLR2 correlated negatively with the abundance of Staphylococcus and Candidatus_Saccharimonas. Therefore, RA development was related to gut dysbiosis, and QLT effectively ameliorated RA with decreased inflammatory responses regulated by the gut flora.

Amelioration of adjuvant induced arthritis in Sprague Dawley rats through modulation of inflammatory mediators by Ribes alpestre Decne

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ribes alpestre Decne has been commonly used in the treatment of joint complaints.

AIM OF STUDY

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the antiarthritic potential of ethanolic extract and fractions of Ribes alpestre and to explore its probable mechanism of action.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Complete Freunds adjuvant induced arthritis in Sprague Dawley rats was used to assess antiarthritic activity of aqueous ethanol extract, butanol and aqueous fractions at 200 mg/kg oral dose for 28 days. Paw volume and diameter, arthritic index, body weight, hematological and biochemical parameters, radiographic and histological analysis of ankle joints were carried out. An array of pro-inflammatory mediators (IL-1β, IL-6, NF-Kβ, TNF-α, COX-2, IL-4, IL-10 and PGE2) were estimated by RT-PCR and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Antioxidant capacity was assessed using DPPH and reducing power assays. Qualitative phytochemical screening, total phenolic and flavonoid content and HPLC analysis of aqueous fraction of Ribes alpestre were also carried out.

RESULTS

Significant (p < 0.001) reduction in paw volume and thickness and arthritic score by aqueous ethanolic extract and its fractions has been found. Aqueous ethanolic extract and fractions in particular aqueous fraction considerably prevented decrease in body weight, alterations in hematological parameters. Radiographic and histological examination revealed no significant architectural changes in joints of treated rats. Significant (p < 0.05-0.001) down regulation of pro-inflammatory genes IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, COX-2, PGE2 and NF-Kβ alongwith noteworthy increase in levels of IL-4 and IL-10 was recorded among treated animals. Aqueous ethanol extract and its fractions demonstrated notable and concentration dependent (50-6400 μg/ml) antioxidant potential. Qualitative phytochemical analysis of active fraction (aqueous) displayed presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins and glycosides. Besides total phenolic and flavonoid contents has been found to be 179.3 mg GAE/ml and 389.40 μg QE/ml in aqueous fraction of Ribes alpestre respectively. HPLC profile demonstrated presence of quercitin, chlorogenic acid, vanillic acid and cinamic acid in aqueous fraction.

CONCLUSION

Present communication suggests Ribes alpestre a potent antiarthritic therapy by ameliorating adjuvant arthritis in rats by downregulating proinflammatory mediators with up regulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines.

A UPLC-MS-based metabolomics approach to reveal the attenuation mechanism of Caowu compatibility with Yunnan Baiyao

Yunnan Baiyao (YNBY) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine containing Caowu (Aconiti kusnezoffii radix, CW). However, the application of YNBY is limited by the toxicity of CW. Notably, CW is not used alone in YNBY, but is combined with other herbs in a formula for clinical use. In the present study, the compatibility of the protective effects and mechanism of YNBY with the potential toxicity of CW was investigated. After combining with other compatible herbs, the serum metabolic disorder induced by CW can be regulated. Using UPLC-MS-based metabolomics, 63 endogenous serum metabolites were identified as being associated with the potential toxicity of CW, 17 of which were regulated to normal levels when CW was combined with other compatible herbs in YNBY. These regulated metabolites were closely related to glycerophospholipid metabolism, glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchor biosynthesis, tyrosine metabolism, and primary bile acid biosynthesis metabolic pathways. This study aims to evaluate the attenuation mechanism of CW compatibility with YNBY.

Yunnan Baiyao (YNBY) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine containing Caowu (Aconiti kusnezoffii radix, CW).

Anti-arthritic activities of ethanol extracts of Circaea mollis Sieb. & Zucc. (whole plant) in rodents

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Circaea mollis Sieb. & Zucc., a genus of Circaea that follows Onagraceae, has been used for centuries as a folk herb in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Hani Ethnopharmacy for the treatment of joint swelling and pain in rheumatoid arthritis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was designed to confirm anti-arthritic effects and its underlying mechanism of ethanol extracts of Circaea mollis Sieb. & Zucc. (EEC), which may contribute to provide the pharmacological basis in the treatment of rheumatoid disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Dimethylbenzene (DMB)-induced inflammatory swelling model, hot-plate pain model in mice and Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA)-induced arthritis model in rats were used to evaluate the anti-arthritis effect of EEC. Arthritis severity was done by measuring inflammatory swelling, pain threshol, paw swelling, arthritis index, body weight, spleen index and thymus index. The levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-10 in sera were measured using ELISA. The pathological change of the ankle joint was also done. Phenolic composition of EEC was analyzed.

RESULTS

EEC inhibited inflammatory swelling and increased heat-induced pain threshold in mice. Furthermore, EEC significantly alleviated paw swelling and arthritis index, decreasing the spleen index and thymus index. Besides, EEC down-regulated the serum TNF-α and IL-1β, and increased the production of serum IL-10 in FCA-induced rats. Histopathological examination demonstrated that EEC can effectively relieve synovial hyperplasia, control the infiltration of the inflammatory and protect cartilage from destruction.

CONCLUSION

Our work demonstrated that EEC possessed the potential therapeutic effect against arthritis in rodents which was attributed to modulating proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β and anti-inflammatory factors IL-10. Flavonoids and polyphenols may contribute to the therapeutic effect of EEC on arthritis.

Effect of dietary pristane and other saturated mineral oils (MOSH) on autoimmune arthritis in rats

Pristane and other adjuvants based on mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons (MOSH) may induce autoimmunity in rodents after intradermal injection; however there is a lack of information on immune effects after oral MOSH exposure. The aim of our study was to determine the impact of dietary exposure to pristane and other MOSH on the development of autoimmune arthritis.

Dark Agouti (DA) rats were given feed containing 4000 mg/kg pristane or a broad MOSH mixture in various concentrations (0–4000 mg/kg) for 90 days, or a single intradermal injection of 200 μl pristane (positive control). Arthritis scores, and serum and splenocyte markers previously associated with arthritis development, were determined.

All rats injected with pristane displayed arthritis symptoms and higher levels of certain serum markers. None of the rats fed pristane or MOSH developed arthritis symptoms or demonstrated clear changes in any measured arthritis-associated biological markers in serum or splenocytes.

The absence of clinical arthritis symptoms or any increase in common arthritis-associated biological markers in sera and spleen following dietary exposure to pristane or a broad MOSH mixture in a sub-chronic rat model of arthritis suggest that dietary MOSH have low capacity to promote development of autoimmunity.

Inhibitory effects of Saussurea involucrata (Kar. et Kir.) Sch. -Bip. on adjuvant arthritis in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Saussurea involucrate (Kar. et Kir.) Sch. -Bip is an endangered species of the Compositae family, and this species has long been used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, dysmenorrhea, stomachache, and altitude sickness in Uighur folk and Chinese medicine.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to investigate the different therapeutic efficacy of alcohol infusion (SEI) and water decoction (SWD) of S. involucrata in treating rheumatoid arthritis using complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis (AA) in a rat model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male Wistar rats (160-180g) were immunized by intradermal injection of 0.1mL of CFA into the left hind metatarsal footpad. Aspirin was chosen as the positive drug. Alcohol infusion (SEI, 400 and 800mg/kg) and water decoction (SWD, 443 and 886mg/kg) of S. involucrata aerial parts were orally administered from day 1 and continued for 21 days. Arthritis severity was evaluated by arthritic score, body weight loss, and paw swelling. The levels of TNF-α, IL-β, and IL-6 in the serum of AA rats were detected by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Histological changes in the ankle joint were also analyzed in the AA rats.

RESULTS

Both SEI and SWD significantly ameliorated AA severity, as suggested by the modulatory effects on body weight loss, paw swelling, and arthritic score. Histopathological improvement in the joint architecture was also observed in the SEI- and SWD-treated AA rats. The overproduction of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 was remarkably attenuated in the serum of all treated rats. Furthermore, the therapeutic effect of SWD was more potent than that of SEI in treating rheumatoid arthritis using AA in a rat model, which was reported for the first time.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggested that the extract of S. involucrata significantly attenuated adjuvant arthritis in rats by decreasing the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in the serum. S. involucrata has the potential to be regarded as a candidate for the treatment of human arthritis. Moreover, the therapeutic effect of SWD was much better than alcohol infusion, indicting that active constituents are mainly in the water extract, which is helpful for the clinical treatments to choose the appropriate process.

Anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects of Guge Fengtong Formula: in vitro and in vivo studies

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common inflammatory arthritis and a major cause of disability. Presently, the clinical therapeutic medicines for inflammatory and arthritic diseases are unsatisfactory due to severe adverse effects or ineffectiveness. The Guge Fengtong formula (GGFT), containing the standardized extracts of Dioscoreae Nipponicae Rhizoma, Spatholobi Caulis, and Zingiberis Rhizoma, has long been used for RA treatment by Chinese doctorsin China. However, the detailed anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity of GGFT has not been reported so far. In the present work, we aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects of GGFT using three in vivo animal models, and tried to uncover its preliminarythe underlying mechanism of action mechanism in RAW 264.7 macrophages. The obtained results indicated that GGFT significantly attenuated ear edema, decreased carrageenan-induced paw edema, reduced the arthritis score, and reversed the weight loss of the complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)CFA-injected rats. Additionally, marked decrease of in synovial inflammatory infiltration and synovial lining hyperplasia in the joints and decline of inflammatory factors (TNF-α and IL-1β) in the serum were observed in the GGFT-treated rats. In lipopolysaccharide-activated RAW264.7 macrophages, GGFT reduced the production of NO, PGE2, and IL-6, and inhibited the expression of iNOS, COX-2, and NF-κB expression. Our results demonstrated that GGFT possessed considerable anti-inflammatory activity and have had potential therapeutic effects on adjuvant induced arthritis in rats, which provided providing experimental evidences for its traditional application in the treatment of RA and other inflammatory diseases.

Extracts of Bauhinia championii (Benth.) Benth. inhibit NF-<kappa>B-signaling in a rat model of collagen-induced arthritis and primary synovial cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Bauhinia championii (Benth.) Benth. is used in Chinese traditional medicine to treat arthritis, especially has been used a long time ago on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in She ethnic minority group.

AIM OF THE RESEARCH

To investigate the anti-RA effect of Bauhinia championii (Benth.) Benth ethyl acetate extract (BCBEE) and the molecular bases of it.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

BCBEE was studied on a rat model of RA induced by Ⅱcollagen in vivo, as well as on primary synovial cells in vitro.

RESULTS

After BCBEE treatment, in vivo, it was showed that paw and joint edema was inhibited, pathological joint changes was ameliorated and the levels of interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor-<alpha>(TNF-α) was decreased significantly. The protein and mRNA expressions of nuclear factor-<kappa>B (NF-κB)(p65), IκB, p-IκB and IκB kinase beta (IκKβ) were also down-regulated. Moreover, the in vitro study revealed that BCBEE treatment inhibited primary synovial cells proliferation, and promoted down-regulation of NF-κB(p65), IκB, p-IκB and IκKβ.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, the present study demonstrates that BCBEE produces a protection in a rat model of RA induced by Ⅱcollagen via inhibiting paw and joint edema, ameliorating pathological joint changes and regulating the levels of cytokines and its action mechanism maybe is via down-regulating NF-κB(p65), IκB, p-IκB and IκKβ expression.

Steroid binding to Autotaxin links bile salts and lysophosphatidic acid signalling

Autotaxin (ATX) generates the lipid mediator lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). ATX-LPA signalling is involved in multiple biological and pathophysiological processes, including vasculogenesis, fibrosis, cholestatic pruritus and tumour progression. ATX has a tripartite active site, combining a hydrophilic groove, a hydrophobic lipid-binding pocket and a tunnel of unclear function. We present crystal structures of rat ATX bound to 7α-hydroxycholesterol and the bile salt tauroursodeoxycholate (TUDCA), showing how the tunnel selectively binds steroids. A structure of ATX simultaneously harbouring TUDCA in the tunnel and LPA in the pocket, together with kinetic analysis, reveals that bile salts act as partial non-competitive inhibitors of ATX, thereby attenuating LPA receptor activation. This unexpected interplay between ATX-LPA signalling and select steroids, notably natural bile salts, provides a molecular basis for the emerging association of ATX with disorders associated with increased circulating levels of bile salts. Furthermore, our findings suggest potential clinical implications in the use of steroid drugs.

Autotaxin generates the bioactive lipid lysophosphatidic acid to regulate diverse biological processes. Here, the authors identify a role for bile salts as direct allosteric inhibitors of autotaxin activity, suggesting that steroids may function as regulators of lysophosphatidic acid signalling.

Effects of Naringenin on inflammation in complete freund's adjuvant-induced arthritis by regulating Bax/Bcl-2 balance

Naringin (COG) is a flavanone with various bioactivities including an expectorant effect, antitussive effect, and inhibitory effect on asthma and acute lung injury. The aims of the present study were to investigate the antiarthritis activities of COG and elucidate the underlying mechanisms with regard to its molecular basis of action for the best combination. Arthritis was induced by intradermal injection of complete Freund's adjuvant. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups with 10 rats in each group: (1) control group, (2) AA group, (3) AA + dexamethasone (AA + Dex, 2 mg/kg), (4) AA + COG (20 mg/kg), (5) AA + COG (40 mg/kg). Paw swelling was measured, and the production of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in serum. Pathological changes of joints tissues were observed by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. Apoptosis of synovial tissues was measured by terminal dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay. The expressions of apoptosis-related molecules, including Bcl-2 and Bax, were determined by Western blotting. In both COG and Dex treatments, COG and Dex significantly suppressed paw swelling in AA rats. Moreover, COG and Dex significantly suppressed the production of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in serum. HE staining study demonstrated that COG and Dex significantly suppressed pathological changes of joints tissues; TUNEL assay demonstrated that COG and Dex induced apoptosis of AA via regulation of the protein expression of Bcl-2 and Bax. These data suggest that COG may have therapeutic potential for RA.

Chemical and Metabolic Profiling of Si-Ni Decoction Analogous Formulae by High performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry

Along with an indispensable role in healthcare system of China for centuries, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) shows increasing usages as complementary therapy in western countries. To improve our understanding on their therapeutic effects, it’s critical to unveil chemical compositions of TCM formula, the predominant form of therapy in TCM. However, intrinsic chemical complexity makes it a challenging task to perform analysis on each individual TCM formula even with most current state-of-art analytic techniques available. In this work we approached this question by focusing on analogous formulae, a unique category of TCM formulae grouped together based on shared herbs and/or similar TCM syndromes. Systematic chemical profiling on five Si-Ni decoctions (SNs) for cardiovascular diseases was performed by multistage MS and high-resolution MS (HR-MS) experiments. A total of 83 compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, ginsenosides, bile acids and triterpenoids, were described. Analysis on SNs-treated rats detected 55 prototype compounds and 39 metabolites in the systemic circulation in vivo, which may contribute directly to their observed clinical efficacies. This approach offers great advantage to speed up identification of chemical compositions of formula and reveal the difference among these analogous formulae that may be related to diverse clinical effects.

Effects of simvastatin, ezetimibe, and their combination on histopathologic alterations caused by adjuvant-induced arthritis

The objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of monotherapy with simvastatin or ezetimibe compared with those of an ezetimibe + simvastatin combination on the histopathologic aspects of arthritis induced by Complete Freund's Adjuvant in rats. The characteristics of diarthrosis were analyzed 7 and 28 days after arthritis induction with regard to the regularity and integrity of articular cartilage, the presence of leukocytes in blood vessels at the inflammation site, and the cytokine levels in articular tissue. Monotherapy with simvastatin or ezetimibe and the ezetimibe + simvastatin combination effectively reduced the cytokine levels (interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor) and articular lesions that are characteristic of this experimental disease. Although the results did not reveal significant differences between the monotherapy and the combined therapy, they suggest that these drugs have considerable antiinflammatory properties, as reflected by an attenuation of articular cartilage lesions mediated by a reduction in the levels of proinflammatory cytokines.

Anti-arthritic activity of Xanthium strumarium L. extract on complete Freund׳s adjuvant induced arthritis in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Xanthium strumarium L. fruit (Xanthiu fruit) has been traditionally used as a medicinal herb in China for the treatment of many ailments including rheumatoid arthritis. However, the anti-arthritic activity of Xanthium strumarium fruit has still not been demonstrated. In the present study, we confirmed that the extract of Xanthium strumarium (EXS) prevents rheumatoid arthritis induced by Complete Freund׳s Adjuvant (CFA) in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male Wistar rats (160±10 g) were immunized by intradermal injection of 0.1 mL of CFA into the left hind metatarsal footpad. EXS was administered orally at a dose of 300 and 75 mg/kg once a day after the induction of adjuvant arthritis. Methotrexate (3 mg/kg, twice a week) was used as a positive control. Paw swelling, arthritic score, body weight loss, spleen index, thymus index, serum cytokines, inflammatory mediators and histological change were measured. The chemical profile of EXS was analyzed by HPLC-DAD.

RESULTS

We found that the EXS significantly suppressed paw swelling and arthritic score, increased body weight loss and decreased the thymus index. The overproduction of TNF-α and IL-1β were remarkably suppressed in the serum of all EXS-treated rats, and in contrast IL-10 was markedly increased. The level of COX-2 and 5-LOX was also decreased with EXS treatment. Ten phenolic acid derivatives were identified from 14 detected peaks by HPLC-DAD with the reference substances and verified by LC-MS.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest the potential effect of EXS as an anti-arthritis agent towards CFA-induced arthritis in rats. Xanthium strumarium has the potential to be regarded as a candidate for use in general therapeutics and as an immune-modulatory medicine in rheumatoid arthritis.

Inhibitory effects of the root extract of Litsea cubeba (lour.) pers. on adjuvant arthritis in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The dried root of Litsea cubeba (Lour.) Pers. (Family Lauraceae) has long been used as a folk remedy in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Dai Ethnopharmacy for the treatment of rheumatic diseases in southwestern China.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study investigated the preventive efficacy of Litsea cubeba root in treating rheumatoid arthritis using Freund's complete adjuvant (CFA) induced arthritis (AA) in rat model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Arthritis was induced in male Wistar rats by immunization with CFA. Ethanol extract (EELC) and water extract (WELC) of Litsea cubeba root both at 50mg/kg and 200mg/kg were orally administered from a day after the induction of arthritis. Paw swelling, arthritic score, body weight growth rate, index of thymus and spleen were observed, and the production of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-10 in serum were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The expression levels of inflammatory enzymes like cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase were also measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Moreover, histological changes in the ankle joint were analyzed in AA rats.

RESULTS

Both EELC and WELC significantly suppressed paw swelling and arthritic score, increased the loss in body weight and decreased the index of thymus. Histopathological improvement in joint architecture was also observed in EELC, WELC-treated AA rats. The expression levels of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) were decreased on treatment with EELC and WELC. Furthermore, the overproduction of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 were remarkably attenuated in serum of all Litsea cubeba-treated rats, however, IL-10 was markedly increased at doses of 50mg/kg of EELC and WELC.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that extract of Litsea cubeba root significantly attenuates adjuvant arthritis in rats by decreasing the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 and increasing of IL-10 in serum as well as down-regulate the levels of inflammatory enzymes such as COX-2 and 5-LOX. This suggests that Litsea cubeba root might be used as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of human arthritis.

Taurochenodeoxycholic acid induces apoptosis of fibroblast-like synoviocytes

Recent evidences have suggested that the paucity of the apoptosis of fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) may contribute to the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. Apoptosis induction of rheumatoid arthritis FLS is therefore suggested as a potential therapeutic approach for rheumatoid arthritis. Taurochenodeoxycholic acid (TCDCA), one of the main bioactive substances of animals' bile acid, could favorably ameliorate the progression development and bone destruction of adjuvant arthritis in rat. In this study, we aimed to investigate the possible effect of TCDCA on apoptosis induction of adjuvant arthritis FLS and the mechanisms involved in this process. Apoptosis was determined by flow cytometric analysis. Gene expression levels and the activities of caspase-3 and caspase-8 were evaluated using real time RT-PCR and luminogenic substrates. The activity of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) was measured by ELISA. The results showed TCDCA significantly enhanced the apoptosis of adjuvant arthritis FLS in a dose-dependent manner. Besides, TCDCA treatment markedly increased the gene expression level and activity of both caspase-3 and caspase-8. It could suppress the DNA-biding activity of NF-κB. We concluded TCDCA represented an apoptotic effect on adjuvant arthritis FLS via the activation of caspase cascade and this process may be mediated by NF-κB signaling pathway. It was suggested that TCDCA may be a potential therapeutic agent for rheumatoid arthritis.

Effects of shark cartilage polysaccharides on the secretion of IL-6 and IL-12 in rheumatoid arthritis

CONTEXT

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease caused by inflammation of the synovial membrane, leading to articular cartilage destruction. Shark cartilage polysaccharide (SCP) is a biodegradable, biocompatible, nontoxic, non-immunogenic and non-inflammatory polysaccharide that may be used in treating RA.

OBJECTIVE

The anti-RA activities of SCP given orally to rats are investigated here for the first time.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

SCP treatment group were administered with SCP-1, SCP-2 in the dosage of 9 mg/day for 24 days. The effect of SCP-1 and SCP-2 on the body weight, paw swelling, morphological changes of ankle and IL-6, IL-12 secretion in RA rats are examined.

RESULTS

On day 24, there were no obvious differences in BMI between positive, SCP-1 and SCP-2 group. The swelling degree of SCP-1 and SCP-2 group was less serious than model group. X-ray revealed that SCP-1, SCP-2 group owned normal joint alignment and more smooth and tidy articular surface. The SCP-1 and SCP-2 have inhibitory effect on IL-6 (430.3 ± 25.6 pg/mL, 439.1 ± 35.9 pg/mL) and IL-12 (63.9 ± 20.1 pg/mL, 64.9 ± 14.1 pg/mL) secretion, which showed significant differences with model group (612 ± 72.3 pg/mL, 230.1 ± 29.2 pg/mL), but still higher than normal group (361.8 ± 47.1 pg/mL, 34.2 ± 15.1 pg/mL) and lower than positive group (418.1 ± 42.5 pg/mL, 90.2 ± 17.8 pg/mL). Especially, when the concentration of SCP was 125 μg/mL, the contents of IL-6 (431.1 ± 43.3 pg/mL, 401.7 ± 55.7 pg/mL) and IL-12 (63.2 ± 12.3 pg/mL, 52.3 ± 8.7 pg/mL) were lowest.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

These findings demonstrate that SCP have excellent anti-RA activities and thus have great potential as a drug for treating RA diseases.