Schisantherin A protects lipopolysaccharide-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome in mice through inhibiting NF-κB and MAPKs signaling pathways

β-Caryophyllene attenuates oxidative stress and inflammatory response in LPS induced acute lung injury by targeting ACE2/MasR and Nrf2/HO-1/NF-κB axis

Acute lung injury (ALI) and its severe form, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), is a clinical syndrome that can cause pulmonary edema, inflammation, oxidative stress, and immunological dysregulations. β-Caryophyllene (BCP), a natural bicyclic sesquiterpene, possesses a variety of pharmacological properties and has the potential to be a therapeutic agent. This study aimed to comprehend the effect of BCP on Nrf2/HO-1/NF-κB and ACE2/MasR axis in a rat model of ALI by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and the underlying mechanisms during this process. The study also examined pulmonary edema, BALF, and cytokine production to investigate inflammation and oxidative stress. In the LPS group, Western blot analysis showed decreased Nrf2/HO-1 and ACE2/MasR, including increased lung edema, elevated vascular permeability, neutrophil infiltration in BALF, increased cytokine levels, and histological changes. In comparison to the LPS group, BCP dramatically reduced lung edema, vascular permeability, and histological changes. Additionally, by lowering malondialdehyde and myeloperoxidase activity in lung tissues, it also reduced oxidative stress. BCP boosted IL-10 production and decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and neutrophil infiltration. BCP administration decreased VEGF-A and SP-D expression, subsequently lowering NF-κB activation and cytokine production. Further, BCP altered ACE2 expression, indicating its involvement by activating the ACE2/Angiotensin (1-7)/MasR axis. In addition, BCP could stimulate the Nrf2/HO-1 anti-oxidant axis to suppress NF-κB and reduce inflammation. BCP modulation of the ACE2/MasR and Nrf2/HO-1/NF-κB axis impedes the course of ALI by influencing immunological response including but not limited to oxidative stress, the influx of neutrophils, and cytokine production. Hence, BCP may act as a potential candidate for management of ALI.

Anti-pneumoconiosis effect of schisantherin A in PMA-induced A549 cells and SiO2/TiO2nanoparticles-induced acute pulmonary injury in mice

There has been significant global interest in respiratory health driven by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and severe environmental pollution. This study explored the potential of schisantherin A (SchA), a compound derived from Schisandra chinensis, to protect against acute pneumoconiosis. We assessed the effects of SchA on phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-stimulated A549 alveolar epithelial cells and SiO2/TiO2-induced pulmonary injury in mice. In A549 cells, SchA significantly decreased pro-inflammatory mediators such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and interleukin (IL)-8 levels. SchA-mediated reduction in inflammatory mediators was associated with the downregulation of PMA-stimulated nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling activation. In SiO2/TiO2-induced lung-injured mice, SchA administration significantly reduced MUC5AC production in lung tissue. SchA administration significantly downregulated the overexpression of NK-κB and the subsequent production of COX-2, iNOS, and NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasomes. It significantly suppressed expected increases in total cell numbers and pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and IL-1β in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) in SiO2/TiO2-stimulated mice. In contrast, the SiO2/TiO2-mediated decrease in IL-10 levels was significantly improved by SchA treatment. These fundamental results can be used to develop potential treatments involving SchA for acute pneumoconiosis.

Advances in the application of traditional Chinese medicine during the COVID-19 recovery period: A review

Since the emergence of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, significant advancements has been made in research, from limited knowledge about the disease to the development of a vaccine. Although the severity of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) appears to be decreasing and the threat of COVID-19 is waning, there have been widespread concerns about persistent symptoms or sequelae experienced by some patients even after recovering from COVID-19. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has shown favorable treatment outcomes during the onset of COVID-19, and extensive studies have been carried out to explore the efficacy of TCM interventions during the COVID-19 recovery period. The purpose of this review is to comprehensively analyze these studies and provide new insights for the prevention and treatment of the post-COVID-19 condition.

Hispidulin exerts a protective effect against oleic acid induced-ARDS in the rat via inhibition of ACE activity and MAPK pathway

This study investigates the protective role of Hispidulin on acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in rats. Rats were divided into three groups: control, ARDS, ARDS+ Hispidulin. The ARDS models were established by injecting rats with oleic acid. Hispidulin (100 mg/kg) was injected i.p. an hour before ARDS. Myeloperoxidase (MPO), Interleukin-8 (IL-8), Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), Lipid Peroxidation (LPO), Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Glutathione (GSH), and Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) were determined by ELISA. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) expression was described by RT-qPCR. Caspase-3 immunostaining was performed to evaluate apoptosis. Compared with the model group, a significant decrease was observed in the MPO, IL-8, MAPK, ACE, LPO levels, and TNF-α expression in the ARDS+ Hispidulin group. Moreover, reduced caspase-3 immunoreactivity and activity of ACE were detected in the Hispidulin+ARDS group. The protective effect of Hispidulin treatment may act through inhibition of the ACE activity and then regulation of inflammatory cytokine level and alteration of apoptosis.

Magnolia kobus DC leaf ethanol extract alleviated lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung inflammation by suppressing NF-κB and Nrf2 signaling

Introduction: Magnolia kobus DC has been used as herbal medicine to treat coughs and is known to exert biological effects such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. We aimed to define the pharmacological effects of M. kobus leaf ethanol extract (MLEE) on acute lung inflammation and explore the underlying mechanisms of action. Methods: For in vitro investigations, RAW 264.7 cells were pretreated with MLEE (1, 10, and 100 μg/mL) and stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). For in vivo investigations, BALB/c mice were intratracheally administered with LPS for 24 hours after injection of MLEE (0.3, 3, and 30 mg/kg). Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used for histopathology analysis of lung tissue. The phytochemical constituents of MLEE were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography. Results: In RAW 264.7 cells, MLEE reduced the activation of the inflammatory mediators (inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2) and the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB and nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). The intraperitoneal injection of MLEE (30 mg/kg) attenuated interstitial edema and immune cell infiltration in LPS-induced acute lung inflammation. MLEE also inhibited the activation of cyclooxygenase-2, NF-κB, and Nrf2 in the lung tissue. Conclusion: Taken together, MLEE exerted an anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting inflammatory and oxidative mediators on acute lung inflammation suggesting that it might be used as a natural drug for treating acute lung inflammatory diseases.

Cardioprotective effects of Schisantherin A against isoproterenol-induced acute myocardial infarction through amelioration of oxidative stress and inflammation via modulation of PI3K-AKT/Nrf2/ARE and TLR4/MAPK/NF-κB pathways in rats

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The scientific community is concerned about cardiovascular disease mortality and morbidity, especially myocardial infarction (MI). Schisantherin A (SCA), a dibenzocyclooctadiene lignan monomer found in S. chinensis fruits has cardiovascular advantages such as increasing NO production in isolated rat thoracic aorta and reducing heart damage caused by ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) through decreasing apoptosis. The present study was undertaken to explore the potential effects of SCA on ISO-induced myocardial infarction in rats.

METHODS

Rats were randomly allocated to four groups: control; ISO-treated, and two additional groups of ISO + SCA (5 or 10 mg/kg body weight). All SCA-treated groups were administered with SCA for 20 days and all ISO groups were challenged with ISO on days 19 and 20.

RESULTS

SCA significantly attenuated ISO-induced rise in heart/body weight ratio, myocardial infarct size, and cardiac functional biomarkers (CK-MB, cTnI and BNP). SCA pre- and co-treatment resulted in a significant reduction in oxidative stress (via MDA, NO and GSH and increased activities of SOD, CAT and GPx) and inflammation (via decreased levels of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β) markers when compared to the same levels in cardiac tissue of ISO-treated rats. This study also showed that SCA protects ISO-induced oxidative stress and inflammation by activating the PI3K-AKT/Nrf2/ARE pathway and suppressing TLR4/MAPK/NF-κB pathways. Furthermore, SCA treatment protected histopathological alterations observed in only ISO-treated cardiac transverse sections of rats.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the findings of this study suggest that SCA protects against cardiac injury in the ISO-induced MI model of rats.

Schisandra henryi-A Rare Species with High Medicinal Potential

Schisandra henryi (Schisandraceae) is a plant species endemic to Yunnan Province in China and is little known in Europe and America. To date, few studies, mainly performed by Chinese researchers, have been conducted on S. henryi. The chemical composition of this plant is dominated by lignans (dibenzocyclooctadiene, aryltetralin, dibenzylbutane), polyphenols (phenolic acids, flavonoids), triterpenoids, and nortriterpenoids. The research on the chemical profile of S. henryi showed a similar chemical composition to S. chinensis-a globally known pharmacopoeial species with valuable medicinal properties whichis the best-known species of the genus Schisandra. The whole genus is characterized by the presence of the aforementioned specific dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans, known as "Schisandra lignans". This paper was intended to provide a comprehensive review of the scientific literature published on the research conducted on S. henryi, with particular emphasis on the chemical composition and biological properties. Recently, a phytochemical, biological, and biotechnological study conducted by our team highlighted the great potential of S. henryi in in vitro cultures. The biotechnological research revealed the possibilities of the use of biomass from S. henryi as an alternative to raw material that cannot be easily obtained from natural sites. Moreover, the characterization of dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans specific to the Schisandraceae family was provided. Except for several scientific studies which have confirmed the most valuable pharmacological properties of these lignans, hepatoprotective and hepatoregenerative, this article also reviews studies that have confirmed the anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anticancer, antiviral, antioxidant, cardioprotective, and anti-osteoporotic effects and their application for treating intestinal dysfunction.

Oral Lingzhi or Reishi Medicinal Mushroom Ganoderma lucidum (Agaricomycetes) Spore Powder Ameliorates Murine Colitis by Inhibiting Key Kinases Phosphorylation in MAPK Pathway

The compound ganoderma lucidum spore powder (GLSP) has emerged as an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative regulator. In this study, we explored the roles of GLSP against dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mouse colitis that can mimic human inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). GLSP was administered by oral gavage at a dosage of 150 mg/kg/day to the acute colitis mice induced by DSS. The DSS-induced mouse weight loss, colonic shortening, diarrhea and bloody stool were observably alleviated after GLSP treatment. The lesion of macroscopic and microscopic signs of the disease was reduced significantly and DSS-induced gut barrier dysfunction was restored via increasing the level of claudin-1, ZO1, Occu, and ZO2 with GLSP. Meanwhile, the levels of IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-18 in the colon were reduced in the GLSP-treated groups. In addition, phosphorylation of the MAPKs ERK1/2, p38, and AKT was suppressed after GLSP treatment. All these results demonstrated that GLSP owned a protective effect on DSS-induced colitis by inhibition of MAPK pathway, which provides a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of colitis.

Anti-asthmatic fraction screening and mechanisms prediction of Schisandrae Sphenantherae Fructus based on a combined approach

Objective: Schisandrae Sphenantherae Fructus (SSF) is a traditional Chinese medicine used to treat coughs and pulmonary inflammatory diseases. However, the pharmacodynamic material basis and mechanisms for SSF in asthma treatment remain unclear. This study aims to screen the anti-asthmatic fraction and verify the pharmacodynamic material basis, predict the potential mechanism, and verify the interaction ability between compounds and core targets.

Methods: First, three fractions from SSF were compared in terms of composition, comparison, and anti-asthmatic effects. Then, the ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole/time-of-flight-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q/TOF-MS/MS) strategy was used to identify the compounds from the active fraction, and the anti-asthmatic efficacy of the active fraction was further studied by the ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma murine model. Finally, network pharmacology and molecular methods were used to study the relationships between active compounds, core targets, and key pathways of PEF in asthma treatments.

Results: The petroleum ether fraction (PEF) of SSF showed better effects and could significantly diminish lung inflammation and mitigate the level of serum immunoglobulin E (IgE), interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-13, and IL-17 in mice. A total of 26 compounds from the PEF were identified, among which the main compounds are lignans and triterpenes. Moreover, 21 active compounds, 129 overlap-ping targets, and 10 pathways were screened by network pharmacology tools. The top five core targets may play a great role in asthma treatment. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis suggested that the PEF can treat asthma by acting on multiple asthma pathological processes, including the IL-17 signaling pathway, T helper (Th) 17 cell differentiation, and the calcium signaling pathway. Molecular docking was performed to evaluate the interactions of the protein–ligand binding, and most docked complexes had a good binding ability.

Conclusion: The present results might contribute to exploring the active compounds with anti-asthmatic activity.

The Role of Nrf2 in Pulmonary Fibrosis: Molecular Mechanisms and Treatment Approaches

Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic, progressive, incurable interstitial lung disease with high mortality after diagnosis and remains a global public health problem. Despite advances and breakthroughs in understanding the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis, there are still no effective methods for the prevention and treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. The existing treatment options are imperfect, expensive, and have considerable limitations in effectiveness and safety. Hence, there is an urgent need to find novel therapeutic targets. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a central regulator of cellular antioxidative responses, inflammation, and restoration of redox balance. Accumulating reports reveal that Nrf2 activators exhibit potent antifibrosis effects and significantly attenuate pulmonary fibrosis in vivo and in vitro. This review summarizes the current Nrf2-related knowledge about the regulatory mechanism and potential therapies in the process of pulmonary fibrosis. Nrf2 orchestrates the activation of multiple protective genes that target inflammation, oxidative stress, fibroblast–myofibroblast differentiation (FMD), and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), and the mechanisms involve Nrf2 and its downstream antioxidant, Nrf2/HO−1/NQO1, Nrf2/NOX4, and Nrf2/GSH signaling pathway. We hope to indicate potential for Nrf2 system as a therapeutic target for pulmonary fibrosis.

Interplay of Environmental, Individual and Genetic Factors in Rheumatoid Arthritis Provocation

In this review, we explore systemization of knowledge about the triggering effects of non-genetic factors in pathogenic mechanisms that contribute to the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Possible mechanisms involving environmental and individual factors in RA pathogenesis were analyzed, namely, infections, mental stress, sleep deprivation ecology, age, perinatal and gender factors, eating habits, obesity and smoking. The non-genetic factors modulate basic processes in the body with the impact of these factors being non-specific, but these common challenges may be decisive for advancement of the disease in the predisposed body at risk for RA. The provocation of this particular disease is associated with the presence of congenital loci minoris resistentia. The more frequent non-genetic factors form tangles of interdependent relationships and, thereby, several interdependent external factors hit one vulnerable basic process at once, either provoking or reinforcing each other. Understanding the specific mechanisms by which environmental and individual factors impact an individual under RA risk in the preclinical stages can contribute to early disease diagnosis and, if the factor is modifiable, might be useful for the prevention or delay of its development.

Research Progress on the Pharmacological Action of Schisantherin A

Schisantherin A (Sch A) is a dibenzocyclooctadiene lignan monomer isolated from the fruit of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. (S. chinensis). At present, many studies have shown that Sch A has a wide range of pharmacological effects, including its anti-Parkinson and anti-inflammatory effects and ability to protect the liver, protect against ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, suppress osteoclast formation, and improve learning and memory. Its mechanism may be related to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties of Sch A through the MAPK, NF-κB, AKT/GSK3β, and PI3K/AKT pathways. This is the first review of the recent studies on the pharmacological mechanism of Sch A.

Prediction the Molecular Mechanism of Shengmai Injection in Acute Treatment of COVID-19 Based on Network Pharmacology

Objective: To predict the mechanism of Shengmai Injection (SMI) in the acute treatment of COVID-19 by network pharmacology and molecular docking. Methods: Search the compounds in the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP), and screen them by Drug-like properties (DL) and Oral bioavailability (OB); Using PharmMapper database and GeneCards database to collect compounds targets and COVID-19 targets, and using UniProt database to standardize the names of target genes; Using DAVID database for KEGG pathway annotation and GO bioinformatics analysis; Using Cytoscape 3.8.2 software and STRING 10.5 database to construct “Component-Target-Pathway” network and Protein-Protein Interaction network (PPI); Using molecular docking to predict the binding ability of key compounds and key proteins. Results: A total of 34 active components, 38 core targets and 180 signaling pathways were screened out. The results of molecular docking showed that Schisantherin A and Moupinamide have strong binding with EGFR and MAPK1. Conclusion: The key active compounds of SMI in the treatment of COVID-19 may be Schisantherin A and Moupinamide, and the molecular mechanism may be related to key targets such as EGFR and MAPK1, and may be involved in the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and MAPK signaling pathway.

Schisandra sphenanthera: A Comprehensive Review of its Botany, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Clinical Applications

Schisandra sphenanthera Rehd. et Wils (S. sphenanthera) is a single species of Schisandra genus, Magnoliaceae family, and it is a famous medicinal herb mostly growing in southern China, China Taiwan and Vietnam. S. sphenanthera is usually used for the treatments of hepatitis, Alzheimer's disease, renal transplantation, osteoporosis, and insomnia. In present studies, approximately 310 natural constituents have been isolated from S. sphenanthera, including lignans, triterpenes, volatile oils, and polysaccharides, which were mainly obtained from the fruits and stems of S. sphenanthera. Pharmocological studies have shown that the extracts and monomeric compounds of S. sphenanthera possessed wide-range bioactivities, such as antitumor, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, osteoblastic, immune regulation, neuroprotective, kidney protection, hepatoprotective, and antiviral activities. However, resource availability, quality control measures, in-depth in vivo pharmacological study, and clinical application are still insufficient and deserve further studies. This review systematically summarized literatures on the botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, development utilization, and clinical application of S. sphenanthera, in hopes of provide a useful reference for researchers for further studies of this plant.

Ameliorative Effects of Oleuropein on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Lung Injury Model in Rats

Acute lung injury (ALI) is one of the most common causes of death in diseases with septic shock. Oleuropein, one of the important components of olive leaf, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of oleuropein on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI in rats. Oleuropein was administered to rats at a dose of 200 mg/kg for 20 days and LPS was given through intratracheal administration to induce ALI. The study was terminated after 12 h. The results showed that in the group treated with oleuropein, inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress decreased in serum, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and lung tissue, and there were significant improvements in the picture of acute interstitial pneumonia (AIP) caused by LPS in histopathological examination. Based on the findings of the present study, oleuropein showed protective effects against LPS-induced ALI.

Pharmacologic Activities of Plant-Derived Natural Products on Respiratory Diseases and Inflammations

Respiratory inflammation is caused by an air-mediated disease induced by polluted air, smoke, bacteria, and viruses. The COVID-19 pandemic is also a kind of respiratory disease, induced by a virus causing a serious effect on the lungs, bronchioles, and pharynges that results in oxygen deficiency. Extensive research has been conducted to find out the potent natural products that help to prevent, treat, and manage respiratory diseases. Traditionally, wider floras were reported to be used, such as Morus alba, Artemisia indica, Azadirachta indica, Calotropis gigantea, but only some of the potent compounds from some of the plants have been scientifically validated. Plant-derived natural products such as colchicine, zingerone, forsythiaside A, mangiferin, glycyrrhizin, curcumin, and many other compounds are found to have a promising effect on treating and managing respiratory inflammation. In this review, current clinically approved drugs along with the efficacy and side effects have been studied. The study also focuses on the traditional uses of medicinal plants on reducing respiratory complications and their bioactive phytoconstituents. The pharmacological evidence of lowering respiratory complications by plant-derived natural products has been critically studied with detailed mechanism and action. However, the scientific validation of such compounds requires clinical study and evidence on animal and human models to replace modern commercial medicine.

Depletion of Fractalkine ameliorates renal injury and Treg cell apoptosis via the p38MAPK pathway in lupus-prone mice

Fractalkine (FKN) is a chemokine with several roles, including chemotaxis; adhesion; and immune damage, which also participates in cell inflammation and apoptosis and responds to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Given the involvement of regulatory T cells (Treg) cells in autoimmune diseases, this study investigated the regulatory mechanism of FKN in renal injury and Treg apoptosis via the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK) signaling pathway in lupus-prone mice. Lupus was induced in BALB/c female mice by injection of pristane, followed by isolation of CD4+CD25+ Treg cells from the spleen of lupus model mice. To deplete FKN, mice received injection of an anti-FKN antibody, and Treg cells were transfected with FKN small-interfering RNA. Lupus mice and Treg cells were treated with the p38MAPK inhibitor SB203580 and activator U-46619, respectively, and urine protein and serum urea nitrogen, creatinine, and autoantibodies were measured and renal histopathological changes analyzed. We determined levels of FKN, phosphorylated p38 (p-p38), and forkhead box P3 (FOXP3) in renal tissue and Treg cells, and analyzed apoptosis rates and levels of key apoptotic factors in Treg cells. The renal FKN and p-p38 levels increased, whereas renal FOXP3 level decreased in lupus-prone mice. Treatment with the anti-FKN antibody and the p38MAPK inhibitor ameliorated proteinuria and renal function, significantly reducing serum autoantibody, renal FKN, and p-p38 levels while increasing renal FOXP3 level in lupus-prone mice. Moreover, FKN knockdown and administration of the p38MAPK inhibitor reduced apoptosis and levels of pro-apoptotic factors, increased levels of anti-apoptotic factors, and suppressed activation of p38MAPK signaling in Treg cells derived from lupus model mice. Furthermore, treatment with the p38MAPK activator U-46619 had the opposite effect on these cells. These data indicated that depletion of FKN ameliorated renal injury and Treg cell apoptosis via inhibition of p38MAPK signaling in lupus nephritis, suggesting that targeting FKN represents a potential therapeutic strategy for treating Lupus nephritis.

Silent information regulator type-1 mediates amelioration of inflammatory response and oxidative stress in lipopolysaccharide-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome

Silent information regulator type-1 (SIRT1) is crucial during the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We aimed to explore whether SIRT1 activation could protect against ARDS. SIRT1 was activated by its agonist SRT1720. ARDS was induced by intraperitoneal injection of 5 mg/kg lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Lung injuries were determined by the lung wet/dry ratio, inflammatory cells in the broncho-alveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and histological analysis. Inflammatory cytokine release was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The accumulation of neutrophils was detected by myeloperoxidase activity. Oxidative stress was evaluated by malondialdehyde, reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities. The protein expression levels were detected using western blot. SIRT1 activation, either by SRT1720 administration or recombinant SIRT1, expression eliminated high-dose LPS-induced mortality in mice, attenuated lung injury, influenced cytokine release in BALF and decreased oxidative stress in the lung tissues of ARDS mice. Mechanically, SRT1720 administration inhibited p65 phosphorylation in the lung tissues of ARDS mice. SIRT1 ameliorates inflammatory response and oxidative stress in LPS-induced ARDS.

Schisantherin A ameliorates liver fibrosis through TGF-β1mediated activation of TAK1/MAPK and NF-κB pathways in vitro and in vivo

BACKGROUD

Schisandra chinensis, a traditional Chinese medicine for liver protection, can significantly improve liver fibrosis. However, it is still unclear which active components in Schisandra chinensis play an anti-fibrosis role.

PURPOSE

The purpose of present study was to observe the anti-fibrosis effect of schisantherin A (SCA) on liver fibrosis and explore its underlying mechanism.

METHODS

The liver fibrosis model of mice was constructed by the progressive intraperitoneal injection of thioacetamide (TAA), and SCA (1, 2, and 4 mg/kg) was administered by gavage for 5 weeks. The biochemical indicators and inflammatory cytokines were measured, changes in the pathology of the mice liver were observed by hematoxylin & eosin (H&E) and Masson stainings for studying the anti-fibrosis effect of SCA. A hepatic stellate cell (HSCs) activation model induced by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) was established, and the effect of SCA on the HSCs proliferation was observed by MTT assay. The expressions of target proteins related to transforming growth factor-β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1)/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathways were evaluated by western blotting, immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence analysis, to explore the potential mechanism of SCA.

RESULTS

SCA could significantly ameliorate the pathological changes of liver tissue induced by TAA, and reduce the serum transaminase level, the hydroxyproline level and the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and collagen 1A1 (COL1A1) proteins in the liver tissue. SCA could significantly lower the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the serum and liver tissue, and down-regulate the expression of target proteins related to TAK1/MAPK and NF-κB pathways in the liver tissue. The in vitro studies demonstrated that SCA significantly inhibited the proliferation and activation of HCS-T6 cells induced by TGF-β1, decreased TNF-α and IL-6 levels, and inhibited the TAK1 activation induced by TGF-β1 and then the expression of MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathway-related proteins.

CONCLUSION

Together, SCA can ameliorate the liver fibrosis induced by TAA and the HSC-T6 cell activation induced by TGF-β1 in mice, and its mechanism may be to inhibit the HSCs activation and inflammatory response by inhibiting TGF-β1 mediated TAK1/MAPK and signal pathways.

Natural product derived phytochemicals in managing acute lung injury by multiple mechanisms

Acute lung injury (ALI) and its more severe form, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) as common life-threatening lung diseases with high mortality rates are mostly associated with acute and severe inflammation in lungs. With increasing in-depth studies of ALI/ARDS, significant breakthroughs have been made, however, there are still no effective pharmacological therapies for treatment of ALI/ARDS. Especially, the novel coronavirus pneumonia (COVID-19) is ravaging the globe, and causes severe respiratory distress syndrome. Therefore, developing new drugs for therapy of ALI/ARDS is in great demand, which might also be helpful for treatment of COVID-19. Natural compounds have always inspired drug development, and numerous natural products have shown potential therapeutic effects on ALI/ARDS. Therefore, this review focuses on the potential therapeutic effects of natural compounds on ALI and the underlying mechanisms. Overall, the review discusses 159 compounds and summarizes more than 400 references to present the protective effects of natural compounds against ALI and the underlying mechanism.

Schisantherin A Inhibits Pulmonary Fibrosis via Regulating ERK Signaling Pathway

There is no effective method for treating pulmonary fibrosis (PF) until now. This study investigated the anti-fibrotic effect of schisantherin A (SCA) extracted from Schisandra chinensis and its potential molecular mechanism in PF. A bleomycin-induced PF mouse model in vivo and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1-induced A549 epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) cell model in vitro were used for assessing the anti-fibrotic effect of SCA. Histopathological examination was conducted after hematoxylin and eosin and Masson staining. The level of TGF-β1 was tested by ELISA. The expression levels of α-smooth muscle actin, E-cadherin, and inflammatory cytokines (COX2, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) were determined by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. The expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) was tested in lung tissues and cells by Western blot. The in vivo experiments revealed that SCA treatment markedly improved body weight and pulmonary index and reformed the destruction of the lung tissue structure. We observed that SCA inhibited the process of TGF-β1-induced EMT in the in vitro experiments. Inflammatory cytokines were reduced greatly in lung tissues and cells by SCA. Our study also indicated that SCA decreased phosphorylated ERK. It was concluded that SCA can attenuate PF by regulating the ERK signaling pathway, which suggests that SCA may be used as a potential therapeutic drug for PF.

Schisantherin A attenuates sepsis-induced acute kidney injury by suppressing inflammation via regulating the NRF2 pathway

AIMS

Tubulointerstitial inflammation is recognized as a key determinant of progressive sepsis-induced acute kidney injury (AKI). Schisantherin A (SchA) has been shown to be capable of regulating inflammatory processes. In the present study, we explored the possibility of SchA in preventing lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced kidney inflammation and injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

AKI was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of LPS in CD1 mice, administration of SchA was used for treatment. The protective effect of SchA on renal function and inflammation were analyzed respectively; the NRK-52E cell line was employed for the in vitro study and relative molecular mechanism was explored.

KEY FINDINGS

Administration with SchA markedly attenuated LPS-induced damage on renal function and histopathological changes of the kidney. Additionally, pretreatment with SchA could inhibit the expression of inflammatory factors in the kidneys. In NRK-52E cells, SchA treatment significantly inhibited LPS-induced NF-κB activation and pro-inflammatory cytokine expression. Moreover, SchA could promote NRF2 pathway activation, and further blockade of NRF2 activation reversed the SchA-induced inhibition of NF-κB activation.

SIGNIFICANCE

These presented results indicated that SchA may have great potential for protecting against sepsis-induced AKI.

Polydeoxyribonucleotide ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury via modulation of the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway in rats

Acute lung injury (ALI) is characterized by disruption of the alveolar-capillary membrane resulting in pulmonary edema and accumulation of associated proteinaceous alveolar exudate. Initiation of ALI upregulates tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), which activates nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) that induce various pro-inflammatory mediators. Polydexyribonucleotide (PDRN) is an adenosine A_2A receptor agonist that exerts anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and apoptosis. We investigated the therapeutic efficiency of PDRN on ALI induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in rats. ALI was induced by intratracheal instillation of LPS (5 mg/kg) in 200 μL saline. The PDRN treatment group received a single intraperitoneal injection of 500 μL saline including PDRN (8 mg/kg) 1 h after ALI induction. To confirm the involvement of the adenosine A_2A receptor in PDRN, 8 mg/kg 7-dimethyl-1-propargylxanthine (DMPX) was applied with PDRN treatment. Rats were then sacrificed 12 h after PDRN and DMPX treatments. Intratracheal administration of LPS caused lung tissue damage and significantly increased the lung injury scores and levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and apoptotic factors. In addition, MAPK/NF-κB signaling factors were increased by ALI initiation. PDRN treatment potently suppressed expressions of MAPK/NF-κB signaling factors compared to the PDRN + DMPX co-treated group. These alterations led to a reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, apoptotic factors, and NF-κB and MAPK signaling, which promoted the recovery of damaged lung tissue. PDRN therapy demonstrated therapeutic effects for LPS-induced ALI compared to the non-treated and DMPX-treated groups. Therefore, PDRN may be used as a therapy for initial treatment of ALI.

Schisantherin A induces cell apoptosis through ROS/JNK signaling pathway in human gastric cancer cells

Gastric cancer is one of the most lethal cancers with unmet clinical treatment and low 5-year survival rate. Schisantherin A is a major compound derived from Fructusschisandrae while its anti-tumor role remains nearly unknown. Here, we reported that schisantherin A had an anti-proliferation effect on gastric cancer cell lines MKN45 and SGC-7901. Schisantherin A induced cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase and cell apoptosis, and inhibited cell migration in gastric cancer MKN45 and SGC7901 cells. Meanwhile, upregulation of cleaved caspase-9, cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved PARP were accompanied with the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Moreover, schisantherin A induced ROS-dependent JNK phosphorylation with higher ROS production. The JNK inhibitor and ROS scavenger NAC rescued the cell apoptosis and cycle inhibition elicited by schisantherin A. Furthermore, the expression level of antioxidant factor Nrf2 was suppressed by schisantherin A. These findings suggest that schisantherin A possesses an anti-tumor activity via activation of ROS/JNK with Nrf2 inhibition, indicating that schisantherin A is a promising chemotherapeutic candidate for gastric cancer.

Protective effects of Rosavin on bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis via suppressing fibrotic and inflammatory signaling pathways in mice

Idiopathic Pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is diagnosed as a life-threatening, progressive and incurable lung disease characterized by accumulation of extracellular matrix and myofibroblasts, resulting in the function degradation and structural alterations in normal lung parenchyma. Notably, Pulmonary Fibrosis has been considering as a difficult problem in clinical with high mortality and effective treatment strategies. Rosavin, a benzylPropylene glycoside, is isolated from Rhodiola rosea L., exhibiting nootropic, anti-depressant, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative activities. In this study, we attended to elucidate the pharmacological activity of Rosavin for treatment of pulmonary fibrosis induced by bleomycin in mice. The results indicated that Rosavin could significantly ameliorate the lung index and Pathological structure of mice with Pulmonary fibrosis by bleomycin-induced. Additionally, Rosavin could evidently decreased inflammatory cells infiltration in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and pro-inflammatory cytokines expression in lung tissue specimens induced by bleomycin. Rosavin could down-regulate the expression of hydroxyproline and malondialdehyde and increased the activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase in lung tissue. The expression of Nrf2 were increased, and the expression of NF-κB p65, TGF-β1 and α-SMA were inhibited. The findings revealed the protective effects and the primary mechanism of rosavin on bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis, which provided a scientific foundation for Rosavin as a promising candidate for Pulmonary fibrosis treatment.

Identification and characterization of chemical constituents in Dengzhan Shengmai Capsule and their metabolites in rat plasma by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry

Dengzhan Shengmai Capsule (DZSMC) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula with remarkable clinical effect in the treatment of stroke sequelae. Exploring the components of DZSMC and detecting the absorbed prototype constituents and metabolites in blood are of great significance to clarify the effective substances of this prescription. Here, a reliable method using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF/MS) was established for the comprehensive analysis of chemical constituents of DZSMC and their metabolites in rat plasma after gastric perfusion. Two acquisition modes, including MS^E mode and Fast DDA mode, were performed for acquiring more precursor ions and cleaner precursor-product ions background during the study of constituents of DZSMC. As a result, a total of 125 constituents were unambiguously characterized or tentatively identified. For the first time, a total of 92 components, including 44 prototype components and 48 metabolites were unambiguously or tentatively identified in rat plasma. The metabolic pathways included phase I reactions (hydration, hydrogenation, oxidation, demethylation and hydroxylation) and phase II reactions (conjugation with glucuronide, sulfate and methyl). Furthermore, the metabolites from caffeic acid and scutellarin were characterized and validated by phase II metabolic reactions in vitro, which could be established as a simulated in vivo environment of metabolites identification and verification of TCM formula. It is the first systematic study on metabolism of DZSMC in vivo and could also provide a valid analytical strategy for characterization of the chemical compounds and metabolites of TCM formula.

Protective Effect and Mechanism of Alprostadil in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Induced by Oleic Acid in Rats

BACKGROUND This study investigated the role and mechanism of alprostadil in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) induced by oleic acid (OA) in rats. MATERIAL AND METHODS Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into control, OA model, and OA + Alprostadil (2.5, 5, and 10 μg/kg, respectively) groups. The ARDS model was induced by femoral vein injection of OA, and alprostadil was administrated immediately. Lung injury was evaluated by lung wet-dry weight ratio (W/D) and histological analyses. Expressions of ACE, inflammatory mediators, apoptotic-related proteins, and proteins in the MAPKs and NF-κB signaling pathways were determined by Western blot or immunohistochemical staining. RESULTS Compared with the control group, the OA model group had significantly increased W/D, lung injury score, and collagen deposition at 3 h after OA injection. However, alprostadil (10 μg/kg) treatment significantly reduced OA-induced elevation of these indicators. Additionally, OA-induced expression of TNF-α and IL-1β were suppressed by alprostadil. The OA-induced activation of nuclear factor (NF) κB p65 was also reduced by alprostadil. Furthermore, we found that Alprostadil had an inhibitory effect on the phosphorylation of JNK, ERK1/2, and p38 MAPKs. Alprostadil inhibited Bax but increased Bcl-2, indicating a suppressive role in apoptosis. Remarkably increased expression of ACE in the OA model group was observed, which was decreased by alprostadil. CONCLUSIONS Alprostadil has a protective effect on ARDS induced by OA in rats, possibly through inhibiting apoptosis, suppressing the activation of MAPKs and NF-κB signaling pathways, and decreasing ACE protein expression. Therefore, the use of alprostadil in clinical ARDS treatment is promising.

Berberine alleviates endothelial glycocalyx degradation and promotes glycocalyx restoration in LPS-induced ARDS

In the pathogenesis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), an increase in vascular endothelial permeability may trigger pulmonary edema and ultimately lead to respiratory failure. Endothelial glycocalyx damage is an important factor that causes an increase in vascular endothelial permeability. Berberine (BBR) is an isoquinoline alkaloid extracted from Coptis chinensis, a plant used in traditional Chinese medicine that exerts multiple pharmacological effects. In this study, pretreatment with BBR inhibited the increase in vascular endothelial permeability in mice with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ARDS. BBR pretreatment inhibited the shedding of syndecan-1 (SDC-1) and heparan sulfate (HS), which are important components of the endothelial glycocalyx that lessen endothelial glycocalyx damage. BBR further significantly inhibited increases in important endothelial glycocalyx damage factors, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), heparanase (HPA), and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) in LPS-induced ARDS mice and in LPS-stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cells. BBR pretreatment also decreased the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and inhibited NF-κB signaling pathway activation in LPS-induced ARDS. In addition, BBR promoted the recovery of SDC-1 and HS content in injured endothelial glycocalyx after LPS treatment and accelerated its restoration. This is the first report of BBR maintaining the integrity of endothelial glycocalyx. These results provide a new theoretical basis for the use of BBR in the treatment of ARDS and other diseases related to endothelial glycocalyx damage.

Mitochondrial peptides cause proinflammatory responses in the alveolar epithelium via FPR-1, MAPKs, and AKT: a potential mechanism involved in acute lung injury

Acute lung injury (ALI) is characterized by alveolar epithelial damage and uncontrolled pulmonary inflammation. Mitochondrial damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), including mitochondrial peptides [ N-formyl peptides (NFPs)], are released during cell injury and death and induce inflammation by unclear mechanisms. In this study, we have investigated the role of mitochondrial DAMPs (MTDs), especially NFPs, in alveolar epithelial injury and lung inflammation. In murine models of ALI, high levels of mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase 1 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were associated with lung injury scores and increased formyl peptide receptor (FPR)-1 expression in the alveolar epithelium. Cyclosporin H (CsH), a specific inhibitor of FPR1, inhibited lung inflammation in the ALI models. Both MTDs and NFPs upon intratracheal challenge caused accumulation of neutrophils into the alveolar space with elevated BALF levels of mouse chemokine KC, interleukin-1β, and nitric oxide and increased pulmonary FPR-1 levels. CsH significantly attenuated MTDs or NFP-induced inflammatory lung injury and activation of MAPK and AKT pathways. FPR1 expression was present in rat primary alveolar epithelial type II cells (AECIIs) and was increased by MTDs. CsH inhibited MTDs or NFP-induced CINC-1/IL-8 release and phosphorylation of p38, JNK, and AKT in rat AECII and human cell line A549. Inhibitors of MAPKs and AKT also suppressed MTD-induced IL-8 release and NF-κB activation. Collectively, our data indicate an important role of the alveolar epithelium in initiating immune responses to MTDs released during ALI. The potential mechanism may involve increase of IL-8 production in MTD-activated AECII through FPR-1 and its downstream MAPKs, AKT, and NF-κB pathways.

BHDPC Is a Novel Neuroprotectant That Provides Anti-neuroinflammatory and Neuroprotective Effects by Inactivating NF-κB and Activating PKA/CREB

Microglia-mediated neuroinflammatory responses are inevitable and important pathological processes in several kinds of disorder of the central nervous system (CNS). Therefore, alleviating activated microglia-induced inflammatory process might be a valuable therapeutic approach to neuroinflammation-related diseases. In the present study, we investigated BHDPC, a novel neuroprotectant discovered in our previous study that had anti-inflammatory effects under neuroinflammatory conditions. First, we found that BHDPC could inhibit neuroinflammatory responses and promote microglial M2 phenotype polarization in both lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated BV-2 microglia l cells. Furthermore, BHDPC provided protective actions against neuroinflammation-induced neurotoxicity in HT22 mouse hippocampal cells co-cultured with activated BV-2 microglia. Further experiments demonstrated that BHDPC could suppress LPS-induced activation of transcription factor nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) via interfering with the degradation of the inhibitor of kappa B (IκB) and phosphorylation of IκB, the IκB kinase (IKK). Moreover, we also found that BHDPC could induce phosphorylation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA) and cAMP-response element-binding protein (CREB) in BV-2 microglial cells. Also, using the PKA-specific inhibitor, we found that BHDPC-induced CREB phosphorylation was dependent on PKA, which also contributed to BHDPC-mediated anti-inflammation and neuroprotection.

Schisantherin A alleviated alcohol-induced liver injury by the regulation of alcohol metabolism and NF-kB pathway

Schisantherin A (SinA), one of the most abundant active ingredients of Schisandra chinensis, was reported to protect and benefit the liver, however, its effect on alcohol-induced liver injury (ALI) was still not clear. In the present study, an ALI mice model was induced by feeding mice an alcohol-containing liquid diet for four weeks. Then, 100 mg/kg or 200 mg/kg SinA was administered to mice every day by gavage for the last two weeks. Histopathological analysis showed that alcohol-induced liver lipid vacuoles were reduced by SinA. The activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST, 61.90 ± 14.65 vs. 93.65 ± 20.50, 50.46 ± 13.21 vs. 93.65 ± 20.50) and alanine transaminase (ALT, 41.29 ± 9.20 vs. 64.04 ± 18.13, 36.52 ± 7.71 vs. 64.04 ± 18.13) in the serum of ALI mice were significantly reduced by 100 mg/kg or 200 mg/kg SinA when compared with control mice. Alcohol-induced oxidative stress and the inflammatory response in the liver were suppressed by SinA in a dose-dependent manner. Meanwhile, treatment with SinA decreased alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) activity and increased acetaldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity in ALI mice. Alcohol-induced upregulation of CYP2E1 and CYP1A2 in the liver was inhibited by SinA. Further, SinA suppressed activation of the NF-kB pathway in ALI mice. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that SinA is able to protect against ALI, and this may be, at least in part, caused by regulation of alcohol metabolism and the NF-kB pathway. Our data suggest a therapeutic potential of SinA in the treatment of ALI.

Asatone Prevents Acute Lung Injury by Reducing Expressions of NF-κB, MAPK and Inflammatory Cytokines

Asatone is an active component extracted from the Chinese herb Radix et Rhizoma Asari. Our preliminary studies have indicated that asatone has an anti-inflammatory effect on RAW 264.7 culture cells challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Acute lung injury (ALI) has high morbidity and mortality rates due to the onset of serious lung inflammation and edema. Whether asatone prevents ALI LPS-induced requires further investigation. In vitro studies revealed that asatone at concentrations of 2.5–20[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/mL drastically prevented cytotoxicity and concentration-dependently reduced NO production in the LPS-challenged macrophages. In an in vivo study, the intratracheal administration of LPS increased the lung wet/dry ratio, myeloperoxidase activity, total cell counts, white blood cell counts, NO, iNOS, COX, TNF-[Formula: see text], IL-1[Formula: see text], and IL-6 in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid as well as mitogen-activated protein kinases in the lung tissues. Pretreatment with asatone could reverse all of these effects. Asatone markedly reduced the levels of TNF-[Formula: see text] and IL-6 in the lung and liver, but not in the kidney of mice. By contrast, LPS reduced anti-oxidative enzymes and inhibited NF-[Formula: see text]B activations, whereas asatone increased anti-oxidative enzymes in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and NF-[Formula: see text]B activations in the lung tissues. Conclusively, asatone can prevent ALI through various anti-inflammatory modalities, including the major anti-inflammatory pathways of NF-[Formula: see text]B and mitogen-activated protein kinases. These findings suggest that asatone can be applied in the treatment of ALI.

Neferine Protects Endothelial Glycocalyx via Mitochondrial ROS in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Damage to the endothelial glycocalyx is a critical factor in increased pulmonary vascular permeability, which is the basic pathological feature of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Neferine (Nef), a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid isolated from green seed embryos of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn, has extensive pharmacological activity. In this study, we showed that Nef reduced lung-capillary permeability, down-regulated the production of cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10) and inhibited the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway in mice with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ARDS. Further analysis indicated that Nef provided protection against endothelial glycocalyx degradation in LPS-induced ARDS mice (in vivo) and in LPS-stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (in vitro). The glycocalyx-protective effect of Nef may be initiated by suppressing the production of mitochondrial ROS (mtROS) and decreasing oxidative damage. Nef was also found to promote glycocalyx restoration by accelerating the removal of mtROS in endothelial cells in LPS-induced ARDS. These results suggested the potential of Nef as a therapeutic agent for ARDS associated with Gram-negative bacterial infections and elucidated the mechanisms underlying the protection and restoration of the endothelial glycocalyx.

Catalpol protects mice against Lipopolysaccharide/D-galactosamine-induced acute liver injury through inhibiting inflammatory and oxidative response

The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective effect of catalpol on Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/D-galactosamine (D-gal)-induced acute liver injury in mice. The mouse model was established by injection of LPS and D-gal. Catalpol (2.5, 5, 10 mg/kg) were pretreated intraperitoneally 1 h before LPS and D-gal. The survival rate, AST, ALT, MDA, MPO activity, hepatic tissue histology, TNF-α level, and NF-κB activation were assayed. The results revealed that catalpol dose-dependently elevated the survival rate. Furthermore, catalpol reduced the activities of AST, ALT, MDA, and MPO. The production of TNF-α was also inhibited by treatment of catalpol. In addition, catalpol inhibited LPS/D-gal-induced NF-κB activation. The expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 were up-regulated by treatment of catalpol. These results indicated that pretreatment with catalpol could attenuate LPS/D-gal-induced acute liver injury in mice and the underlying mechanism may due to the inhibition of NF-κB signaling pathway and the activation of Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Schisantherin A attenuates ischemia/reperfusion-induced neuronal injury in rats via regulation of TLR4 and C5aR1 signaling pathways

Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and C5aR1 (CD88) have been recognized as potential therapeutic targets for the reduction of inflammation and secondary damage and improvement of outcome after ischemia and reperfusion (I/R). The inflammatory responses which induce cell apoptosis and necrosis after I/R brain injury lead to a limited process of neural repair. To further comprehend how these targets function in I/R state, we investigated the pathological changes and TLR4 and C5aR1 signaling pathways in vitro and in vivo models of I/R brain injury in this study. Meanwhile, we explored the roles of schisantherin A on I/R brain injury, and whether it exerted neuroprotective effects by regulating the TLR4 and C5aR1 signaling pathways or not. The results showed that schisantherin A significantly reduced the neuronal apoptosis induced by oxygen and glucose deprivation and reperfusion (OGD/R) injury in primary culture of rat cortical neurons. Also, schisantherin A alleviated neurological deficits, reduced infarct volume, attenuated oxidation stress, inflammation and apoptosis in ischemic parietal cortex of rats after middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion (MCAO/R) injury. Moreover, the activated TLR4 and C5aR1 signaling pathways were inhibited by schisantherin A treatment. In conclusion, TLR4 and C5aR1 played a vital role during I/R brain injury in rats, and schisantherin A exhibited neuroprotective effects by TLR4 and C5aR1 signaling pathways. These findings also provided new insights that would aid in elucidating the effect of schisantherin A against cerebral I/R and support the development of schisantherin A as a potential treatment for ischemic stroke.

Schisandra chinensis Stem Ameliorates 3-Nitropropionic Acid-Induced Striatal Toxicity via Activation of the Nrf2 Pathway and Inhibition of the MAPKs and NF-κB Pathways

The beneficial value of the stems of Schisandra chinensis (SSC) in neurological diseases is unclear. We examined whether SSC aqueous extract (SSCE) alleviates striatal toxicity in a 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NPA)-induced mouse model of Huntington's disease (HD). SSCE (75, 150, or 300 mg/kg/day, p.o.) was given daily before or after 3-NPA treatment. Pre- and onset-treatment with SSCE displayed a significant protective effect and pretreatment was more effective as assessed by neurological scores and survival rate. These effects were related to reductions in mean lesion area, cell death, succinate dehydrogenase activity, microglial activation, and protein expression of inflammatory factors including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and cyclooxygenase-2 in the striatum after 3-NPA treatment. Pretreatment with SSCE stimulated the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 pathway and inhibited phosphorylation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor-kappa B signaling pathways in the striatum after 3-NPA treatment. The gomisin A and schizandrin components of SSCE significantly reduced the neurological impairment and lethality induced by 3-NPA treatment. These results indicate for the first time that SSCE may effectively prevent 3-NPA-induced striatal toxicity during a wide therapeutic time window through anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory activities. SSCE has potential value in preventive and therapeutic strategies for HD-like symptoms.

Lipopolysaccharide-Binding Protein Downregulates Fractalkine through Activation of p38 MAPK and NF-κB

Background

LBP and fractalkine are known to be involved in the pathogenesis of ARDS. This study investigated the relationship between LBP and fractalkine in LPS-induced A549 cells and rat lung tissue in an ARDS rat model.

Methods

A549 cells were transfected with LBP or LBP shRNA plasmid DNA or pretreated with SB203580 or SC-514 following LPS treatment. An ARDS rat model was established using LPS with or without LBPK95A, SB203580, or SC-514 treatment. RT-PCR, western blotting, ELISA, immunofluorescence, coimmunoprecipitation, and immunohistochemical staining were used to study the expression of fractalkine and LBP and p38 MAPK and p65 NF-κB activities.

Results

LPS increased LBP and reduced fractalkine. LBP overexpression further decreased LPS-induced downregulation of fractalkine and p38 MAPK and p65 NF-κB activation; LBP gene silencing, SB203580, and SC-514 suppressed LPS-induced downregulation of fractalkine and p38 MAPK and p65 NF-κB activation in A549 cells. LBP and fractalkine in lung tissue were increased and decreased, respectively, following LPS injection. LBPK95A, SB203580, and SC-514 ameliorated LPS-induced rat lung injury and suppressed LPS-induced downregulation of fractalkine by decreasing phospho-p38 MAPK and p65 NF-κB.

Conclusions

The results indicate that LBP downregulates fractalkine expression in LPS-induced A549 cells and in an ARDS rat model through activation of p38 MAPK and NF-κB.

Therapeutic Potential of Medicinal Plants and Their Constituents on Lung Inflammatory Disorders

Acute bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) are essentially lung inflammatory disorders. Various plant extracts and their constituents showed therapeutic effects on several animal models of lung inflammation. These include coumarins, flavonoids, phenolics, iridoids, monoterpenes, diterpenes and triterpenoids. Some of them exerted inhibitory action mainly by inhibiting the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway and nuclear transcription factor-κB activation. Especially, many flavonoid derivatives distinctly showed effectiveness on lung inflammation. In this review, the experimental data for plant extracts and their constituents showing therapeutic effectiveness on animal models of lung inflammation are summarized.

Nur77 attenuates endothelin-1 expression via downregulation of NF-κB and p38 MAPK in A549 cells and in an ARDS rat model

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is characterized by inflammatory injury to the alveolar and capillary barriers that results in impaired gas exchange and severe acute respiratory failure. Nuclear orphan receptor Nur77 has emerged as a regulator of gene expression in inflammation, and its role in the pathogenesis of ARDS is not clear. The objective of this study is to investigate the potential role of Nur77 and its underlying mechanism in the regulation of endothelin-1 (ET-1) expression in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced A549 cells and an ARDS rat model. We demonstrate that LPS induced Nur77 expression and nuclear export in A549 cells. Overexpression of Nur77 markedly decreased basal and LPS-induced ET-1 expression in A549 cells, whereas knockdown of Nur77 increased the ET-1 expression. LPS-induced phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of NF-κB and p38 MAPK were blocked by Nur77 overexpression and augmented by Nur77 knockdown in A549 cells. In vivo, LPS induced Nur77 expression in lung in ARDS rats. Pharmacological activation of Nur77 by cytosporone B (CsnB) inhibited ET-1 expression in ARDS rats, decreased LPS-induced phosphorylation of NF-κB and p38 MAPK, and relieved lung, liver, and kidney injury. Pharmacological deactivation of Nur77 by 1,1-bis-(3'-indolyl)-1-(p-hydroxyphenyl)methane (DIM-C-pPhOH, C-DIM8) had no effect on ET-1 expression and lung injury. These results indicated that Nur77 decreases ET-1 expression by suppressing NF-κB and p38 MAPK in LPS-stimulated A549 cells in vitro, and, in an LPS-induced ARDS rat model, CsnB reduced ET-1 expression and lung injury in ARDS rats.

Alpinetin attenuates inflammatory responses by suppressing TLR4 and NLRP3 signaling pathways in DSS-induced acute colitis

Alpinetin, a composition of Alpinia katsumadai Hayata, has been reported to have a number of biological properties, such as antibacterial, antitumor and other important therapeutic activities. However, the effect of alpinetin on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has not yet been reported. The purpose of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect and mechanism of alpinetin on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. In vivo, DSS-induced mice colitis model was established by giving mice drinking water containing 5% (w/v) DSS for 7 days. Alpinetin (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg) were administered once a day by intraperitoneal injection 3 days before DSS treatment. In vitro, phorbol myristate acetate (PMA)-differentiated monocytic THP-1 macrophages were treated with alpinetin and stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The results showed that alpinetin significantly attenuated diarrhea, colonic shortening, histological injury, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and the expressions of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and interleukin (IL-1β) production in mice. In vitro, alpinetin markedly inhibited LPS-induced TNF-α and IL-1β production, as well as Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) mediated nuclear transcription factor-kappaB (NF-κB) and NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that alpinetin had protective effects on DSS-induced colitis and may be a promising therapeutic reagent for colitis treatment.

Human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells alleviate lung injury induced by ischemia and reperfusion after cardiopulmonary bypass in dogs

Transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells may inhibit pathological immune processes contributing to ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. This study aimed to assess the capacity of human amniotic MSC (hAMSCs) to ameliorate I/R injury in a dog model of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Dissociated hAMSCs were cultured ex vivo, and their immunophenotypes were assessed by flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. A dog model of CPB was established by surgical blockage of the aorta for 1 h. Dogs either underwent mock surgery (Sham group), CPB (model group), or CPB, followed by femoral injection of 2 × 10(7) hAMSCs (n=6). Anti-human nuclei staining revealed hAMSCs in the lungs 3 h after surgery. Oxygen index (OI) and respiratory index (RI) of arterial blood were measured using a biochemical analyzer. Venous blood TNF-α, IL-8, MMP-9, and IL-10 concentrations were measured by ELISA. Pathological changes in the lung were assessed by light microscopy. Third-generation-cultured hAMSCs expressed high levels of CD29, CD44, CD49D, CD73, and CD166 levels, but low CD34 or CD45 amounts and their cytoplasm contained Vimentin. In CPB model animals, OI was elevated and RI reduced; TNF-α, IL-8, and MMP-9 levels were elevated, and IL-10 levels reduced within 3h (P<0.05), but hAMSC transplantation significantly ameliorated these changes (P<0.05). Pathological changes observed in the hAMSC group were significantly less severe than those in the CPB group. In conclusion, hAMSC transplantation can downregulate proinflammatory factors and reduce MMP-9 levels, whereas upregulating the anti-inflammatory molecule IL-10, thus reducing I/R lung injury in a dog model of CPB.

Schisantherin A suppresses interleukin-1β-induced inflammation in human chondrocytes via inhibition of NF-κB and MAPKs activation

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that is characterized by the inflammation of synovium. Schisantherin A (SchA), a dibenzocyclooctadiene lignan isolated from the fruit of Schisandra sphenanthera, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory activity. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of SchA on interleukin-1β (IL-1β)-stimulated human osteoarthritis chondrocytes. Human osteoarthritis chondrocytes were pretreated with SchA 1h before IL-1β treatment. The effects of SchA on NO, PGE2, iNOS, COX-2, and TNF-α production were detected in this study. The production of MMP-1, MMP3, MMP13 were measured by ELISA. The expression of NF-κB and MAPKs were detected by western blotting. Our results showed that SchA inhibited IL-1β-induced NO, PGE2, and TNF-α production in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, IL-1β-induced MMP1, MMP3, and MMP13 expression were significantly inhibited by treatment of SchA. In addition, SchA significantly inhibited IL-1β-induced NF-κB and MAPKs activation. Taken together, these results suggest that SchA exhibits anti-inflammatory effects against IL-1β-stimulated chondrocytes by blocking NF-κB and MAPKs signaling pathways.

Lobeline improves acute lung injury via nuclear factor-κB-signaling pathway and oxidative stress

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a severe, life-threatening medical condition whose pathogenesis is linked to neutrophil infiltration of the lung. Activation and recruitment of neutrophils to the lung is mostly attributed to the production of chemokines NO, IL-6, for instance. This study aims to investigate lobeline ability in reducing NO production, and nitric oxide synthase (iNOs) expression. Lobeline was tested by inhibiting phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), NF-κB and IκBα in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. When RAW 264.7 macrophages were given lobeline with LPS, a significant concentration-dependent inhibition of NO production was detected. In vivo tests, mice were either treated with normal saline, 10mg/kg dexmethasone or 5, 10, 20mg/kg lobeline intraperitoneally, and after an hour, the administration of 5mg/kg of LPS was given intratracheally. External performance, cytokines, MAPK pathways and antioxidative enzymes (AOEs) were also carried out to evaluate the effects of these drugs. This is the first investigation in which lobeline was found to effectively inhibit acute lung edema, which may provide a potential target for treating ALI. Lobeline may utilize MAPKs pathways as well as AOEs activity to attenuate LPS-induced nonspecific pulmonary inflammation.

Mouse Models of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: A Review of Analytical Approaches, Pathologic Features, and Common Measurements

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a severe pulmonary reaction requiring hospitalization, which is incited by many causes, including bacterial and viral pneumonia as well as near drowning, aspiration of gastric contents, pancreatitis, intravenous drug use, and abdominal trauma. In humans, ARDS is very well defined by a list of clinical parameters. However, until recently no consensus was available regarding the criteria of ARDS that should be evident in an experimental animal model. This lack was rectified by a 2011 workshop report by the American Thoracic Society, which defined the main features proposed to delineate the presence of ARDS in laboratory animals. These should include histological changes in parenchymal tissue, altered integrity of the alveolar capillary barrier, inflammation, and abnormal pulmonary function. Murine ARDS models typically are defined by such features as pulmonary edema and leukocyte infiltration in cytological preparations of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and/or lung sections. Common pathophysiological indicators of ARDS in mice include impaired pulmonary gas exchange and histological evidence of inflammatory infiltrates into the lung. Thus, morphological endpoints remain a vital component of data sets assembled from animal ARDS models.