Resokaempferol-mediated anti-inflammatory effects on activated macrophages via the inhibition of JAK2/STAT3, NF-κB and JNK/p38 MAPK signaling pathways

Dietary flavonoids modulate the gut microbiota: A new perspective on improving autism spectrum disorder through the gut-brain axis

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with an unknown etiology. It is associated with various factors and causes great inconvenience to the patient's life. The gut-brain axis (GBA), which serves as a bidirectional information channel for exchanging information between the gut microbiota and the brain, is vital in studying many neurodegenerative diseases. Dietary flavonoids provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, as well as regulating the structure and function of the gut microbiota. The occurrence and development of ASD are associated with dysbiosis of the gut microbiota. Modulation of gut microbiota can effectively improve the severity of ASD. This paper reviews the links between gut microbiota, flavonoids, and ASD, focusing on the mechanism of dietary flavonoids in regulating ASD through the GBA.

Bridging the gap: Integrating exercise mimicry into chronic disease management through suppressing chronic inflammation

BACKGROUND

Chronic inflammation is a common hallmark of many chronic diseases. Although exercise holds paramount importance in preventing and managing chronic diseases, adherence to exercise programs can be challenging for some patients. Consequently, there is a pressing need to explore alternative strategies to emulate the anti-inflammatory effects of exercise for chronic diseases.

AIM OF REVIEW

This review explores the emerging role of green tea bioactive components as potential mitigators of chronic inflammation, offering insights into their capacity to mimic the beneficial effects of exercise. We propose that bioactive components in green tea are promising agents for suppressing chronic inflammation, suggesting their unique capability to replicate the health benefits of exercise.

KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW

This review focuses on several key concepts, including chronic inflammation and its role in chronic diseases, the anti-inflammatory effects of regular exercise, and bioactive components in green tea responsible for its health benefits. It elaborates on scientific evidence supporting the anti-inflammatory properties of green tea bioactive components, such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and theorizes how these bioactive components might replicate the effects of exercise at a molecular level. Through a comprehensive analysis of current research, this review proposes a novel perspective on the application of green tea as a potential intervention strategy to suppress chronic inflammation, thereby extending the benefits akin to those achieved through exercise.

Naturally occurring small molecules with dual effect upon inflammatory signaling pathways and endoplasmic reticulum stress response

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is determinant to maintain cellular proteostasis. Upon unresolved ER stress, this organelle activates the unfolded protein response (UPR). Sustained UPR activates is known to occur in inflammatory processes, deeming the ER a potential molecular target for the treatment of inflammation. This work characterizes the inflammatory/UPR-related molecular machinery modulated by an in-house library of natural products, aiming to pave the way for the development of new selective drugs that act upon the ER to counter inflammation-related chronic diseases. Starting from a library of 134 compounds of natural occurrence, mostly occurring in medicinal plants, nontoxic molecules were screened for their inhibitory capacity against LPS-induced nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation in a luciferase-based reporter gene assay. Since several natural products inhibited NF-κB expression in THP-1 macrophages, their effect on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and inflammasome activation was assessed, as well as their transcriptional outcome regarding ER stress. The bioactivities of several natural products are described herein for the first time. We report the anti-inflammatory potential of guaiazulene and describe 5-deoxykaempferol as a novel inhibitor of inflammasome activation. Furthermore, we describe the dual potential of 5-deoxykaempferol, berberine, guaiazulene, luteolin-4'-O-glucoside, myricetin, quercetagetin and sennoside B to modulate inflammatory signaling ER stress. Our results show that natural products are promising molecules for the discovery and pharmaceutical development of chemical entities able to modulate the inflammatory response, as well as proteostasis and the UPR.

Rheumatoid arthritis molecular targets and their importance to flavonoid-based therapy

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a progressive, chronic, autoimmune, inflammatory, and systemic condition that primarily affects the synovial joints and adjacent tissues, including bone, muscle, and tendons. The World Health Organization recognizes RA as one of the most prevalent chronic inflammatory diseases. In the last decade, there was an expansion on the available RA therapeutic options which aimed to improve patient's quality of life. Despite the extensive research and the emergence of new therapeutic approaches and drugs, there are still significant unwanted side effects associated to these drugs and still a vast number of patients that do not respond positively to the existing therapeutic strategies. Over the years, several references to the use of flavonoids in the quest for new treatments for RA have emerged. This review aimed to summarize the existing literature about the flavonoids' effects on the major pathogenic/molecular targets of RA and their potential use as lead compounds for the development of new effective molecules for RA treatment. It is demonstrated that flavonoids can modulate various players in synovial inflammation, regulate immune cell function, decrease synoviocytes proliferation and balance the apoptotic process, decrease angiogenesis, and stop/prevent bone and cartilage degradation, which are all dominant features of RA. Although further investigation is necessary to determine the effectiveness of flavonoids in humans, the available data from in vitro and in vivo models suggest their potential as new disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. This review highlights the use of flavonoids as a promising avenue for future research in the treatment of RA.

Intestinal Inflammation and Regeneration-Interdigitating Processes Controlled by Dietary Lipids in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is a disease of chronic inflammatory conditions of the intestinal tract due to disturbance of the inflammation and immune system. Symptoms of IBD include abdominal pain, diarrhea, bleeding, reduced weight, and fatigue. In IBD, the immune system attacks the intestinal tract's inner wall, causing chronic inflammation and tissue damage. In particular, interlukin-6 and interlukin-17 act on immune cells, including T cells and macrophages, to amplify the immune responses so that tissue damage and morphological changes occur. Of note, excessive calorie intake and obesity also affect the immune system due to inflammation caused by lipotoxicity and changes in lipids supply. Similarly, individuals with IBD have alterations in liver function after sustained high-fat diet feeding. In addition, excess dietary fat intake, along with alterations in primary and secondary bile acids in the colon, can affect the onset and progression of IBD because inflammatory cytokines contribute to insulin resistance; the factors include the release of inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress, and changes in intestinal microflora, which may also contribute to disease progression. However, interfering with de novo fatty acid synthase by deleting the enzyme acetyl-CoA-carboxylase 1 in intestinal epithelial cells (IEC) leads to the deficiency of epithelial crypt structures and tissue regeneration, which seems to be due to Lgr5+ intestinal stem cell function. Thus, conflicting reports exist regarding high-fat diet effects on IBD animal models. This review will focus on the pathological basis of the link between dietary lipids intake and IBD and will cover the currently available pharmacological approaches.

Evaluation of the association of chronic inflammation and cancer: Insights and implications

Among the most extensively researched processes in the development and treatment of cancer is inflammatory condition. Although acute inflammation is essential for the wound healing and reconstruction of tissues that have been damaged, chronic inflammation may contribute to the onset and growth of a number of diseases, including cancer. By disrupting the signaling processes of cells, which result in cancer induction, invasion, and development, a variety of inflammatory molecules are linked to the development of cancer. The microenvironment surrounding the tumor is greatly influenced by inflammatory cells and their subsequent secretions, which also contribute significantly to the tumor's growth, survivability, and potential migration. These inflammatory variables have been mentioned in several publications as prospective diagnostic tools for anticipating the onset of cancer. Targeting inflammation with various therapies can reduce the inflammatory response and potentially limit or block the proliferation of cancer cells. The scientific medical literature from the past three decades has been studied to determine how inflammatory chemicals and cell signaling pathways related to cancer invasion and metastasis are related. The current narrative review updates the relevant literature while highlighting the specifics of inflammatory signaling pathways in cancer and their possible therapeutic possibilities.

Transcriptome analysis reveals immune and metabolic regulation effects of Poria cocos polysaccharides on Bombyx mori larvae

Poria cocos polysaccharides (PS) have been used as Chinese traditional medicine with various pharmacological effects, including antiviral, anti-oxidative, and immunomodulatory activities. Herein Bombyx mori silkworm was used as a model animal to evaluate the immunomodulatory effects of PS via detecting the changes of innate immune parameters and explore the underlying molecular mechanism of the immunoregulatory effect of PS using Illumina HiSeq Xten platform. The results presented here demonstrated that a hemocoel injection of PS significantly enhanced the cellular immunity of silkworm, including hemocyte phagocytosis, microaggregation, and spreading ability. A total of 335 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened, including 214 upregulated genes and 121 downregulated genes by differential expression analysis. Gene annotation and enrichment analyses showed that many DEGs related to immune signal recognition, detoxification, proPO activation, carbohydrate metabolism, and lipid metabolism were significantly upregulated in the treatment group. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes-based Gene Set Enrichment Analysis also revealed that the more highly expressed gene sets in the PS treatment silkworm were mainly related to immune signal transduction pathways and energy metabolism. In addition, the activity of four enzymes related to immunity and energy metabolism—including phenoloxidase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, hexokinase, and fatty acid synthetase—were all significantly increased in the larvae injected with PS. We performed qRT-PCR to examine the expression profile of immune and metabolic-related genes, which further verified the reliability of our transcriptome data and suggested that PS can regulate the immunity of silkworm by enhancing the cellular immunity and modulating the expression levels of genes related to immune responses and physiological metabolism. These findings will lay a scientific foundation for the use of PS as an immunomodulator in disease prevention in human beings or animals.

Viola yedoensis Makino formula alleviates DNCB-induced atopic dermatitis by activating JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway and promoting M2 macrophages polarization

BACKGROUND

Atopic dermatitis (AD), a common inflammatory skin disorder, severely affects the life quality of patients and renders heavy financial burden on patient's family. The Chinese medicine Viola yedoensis Makino formula (VYAC) has been widely used for treating various skin disorders. Previous studies have reported that VYAC is effective in relieving DNCB-induced AD and inflammation. However, the anti-inflammatory mechanism of VYAC is still ill-defined and poorly understood. This study aims to investigate the therapeutic effects of VYAC on DNCB-induced AD and to elucidate the underlying anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

METHODOLOGY

VYAC were extracted with 70% ethanol and lyophilized for use. AD mice were established by DNCB. The therapeutic effects of VYAC were evaluated by oral administration VYAC (150, 300 and 600 mg/kg) daily in vivo. The histopathological and immunohistochemistry were used to analyze skin lesion and macrophages infiltration, RT-qPCR and Elisa were used to analyze the inflammatory factors in skin tissues and serum. To explore the underlying mechanism of VYAC against AD in vitro. RAW264.7 cells and bone-marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) were employed for macrophage polarization analysis. Flow cytometer, immunofluorescence and western blot were used to analyze M2 macrophages markers. STAT3 siRNA were transfected into both cells to validate the effects of VYAC-induced macrophages M2 polarization via JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.

RESULTS

VYAC ameliorated skin lesion of DNCB-induced AD mice by decreased clinical scores and epidermal thickness, decreased the level of pro-inflammatory factors (IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-18) and enhanced IL-10 anti-inflammatory factor level, inhibited macrophages infiltration and promoted M2 macrophages polarization in vivo. VYAC significantly promoted M2 macrophages polarization in vitro. It is observed that VYAC not only inhibited the phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT3 in RAW264.7 cells and BMDMs, but also accelerated the translocation to the nucleus. What's more, VYAC reduced the polarization of M2 macrophage by activating JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway was observed in both cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrate that VYAC significantly ameliorates skin lesion of DNCB-induced AD mice and reduces the levels of inflammatory factors by activating JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway and promoting M2 macrophages polarization.

A non-polar fraction of Saponaria officinalis L. acted as a TLR4/MD2 complex antagonist and inhibited TLR4/MyD88 signaling in vitro and in vivo

Targeting Toll-like receptor 4/myeloid differentiation factor 2 (TLR4/MD2) signaling is regarded as a potential strategy for treating inflammatory diseases. Saponaria officinalis L. is rich in saponin, which include quillaic acid, gypsogenin, saponarin, and hederagenin. We evaluated the pharmacological activity of a Saponaria officinalis extract in THP-1 derived macrophages and RAW264.7 macrophages. TLR4/MyD88 complex formation and downstream signals were investigated by co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP). In silico docking simulation was conducted to predict binding scores and perform 3D modeling of saponarin-TLR4/MD2 complex. A hexane fraction of Saponaria officinalis (SH) and fr.1 (a sub-fraction 1 of SH) inhibited mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling, nuclear factor kappa b (NF-κB) activity, cytokine production, and the expressions of marker genes specific for M1 polarization. The inhibitory effects of fr.1 and saponarin on TLR4/MyD88 complex formation were observed by western blotting TLR4 co-immunoprecipitated proteins. Saponarin and fr.1 markedly attenuated LPS-induced inflammatory cytokines, thus reducing mortality and morphological abnormality in zebrafish larvae. Finally, docking simulation revealed that saponarin can directly interact with TLR4/MD2 complex to inhibit downstream signalings. Our findings suggest that saponarin reduces downstream inflammatory response by disrupting TLR4/MD2 complex and blocking MyD88-dependent inflammatory signaling.

Functional regulations between genetic alteration-driven genes and drug target genes acting as prognostic biomarkers in breast cancer

Differences in genetic molecular features including mutation, copy number alterations and DNA methylation, can explain interindividual variability in response to anti-cancer drugs in cancer patients. However, identifying genetic alteration-driven genes and characterizing their functional mechanisms in different cancer types are still major challenges for cancer studies. Here, we systematically identified functional regulations between genetic alteration-driven genes and drug target genes and their potential prognostic roles in breast cancer. We identified two mutation and copy number-driven gene pairs (PARP1-ACSL1 and PARP1-SRD5A3), three DNA methylation-driven gene pairs (PRLR-CDKN1C, PRLR-PODXL2 and PRLR-SRD5A3), six gene pairs between mutation-driven genes and drug target genes (SLC19A1-SLC47A2, SLC19A1-SRD5A3, AKR1C3-SLC19A1, ABCB1-SRD5A3, NR3C2-SRD5A3 and AKR1C3-SRD5A3), and four copy number-driven gene pairs (ADIPOR2-SRD5A3, CASP12-SRD5A3, SLC39A11-SRD5A3 and GALNT2-SRD5A3) that all served as prognostic biomarkers of breast cancer. In particular, RARP1 was found to be upregulated by simultaneous copy number amplification and gene mutation. Copy number deletion and downregulated expression of ACSL1 and upregulation of SRD5A3 both were observed in breast cancers. Moreover, copy number deletion of ACSL1 was associated with increased resistance to PARP inhibitors. PARP1-ACSL1 pair significantly correlated with poor overall survival in breast cancer owing to the suppression of the MAPK, mTOR and NF-kB signaling pathways, which induces apoptosis, autophagy and prevents inflammatory processes. Loss of SRD5A3 expression was also associated with increased sensitivity to PARP inhibitors. The PARP1-SRD5A3 pair significantly correlated with poor overall survival in breast cancer through regulating androgen receptors to induce cell proliferation. These results demonstrate that genetic alteration-driven gene pairs might serve as potential biomarkers for the prognosis of breast cancer and facilitate the identification of combination therapeutic targets for breast cancers.

Therapeutic benefits of flavonoids against neuroinflammation: a systematic review

Flavonoids are an important class of natural polyphenolic compounds reported to exert beneficial effects in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, cancer, autoimmune and neurological disorders. Flavonoids possess potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic and immuno-modulation properties. Intriguingly, the importance of flavonoids in different neurological disorders is gaining more attention due to the safety, better pharmacokinetic profile and blood-brain barrier penetration, cost-effectiveness and readiness for clinical uses/trials. Many in vitro and in vivo research studies have established the neuroprotective mechanism of flavonoids in the central nervous system (CNS) diseases. The present review summarizes the benefits of various classes of flavonoids (flavones, flavonols, flavanones, anthocyanidins, isoflavones, flavanols), chemical nature, classification, their occurrence and distribution, pharmacokinetics and bioavailability. The manuscript also presents available evidences relating to the role of flavonoids in regulating key signaling pathways such as nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) pathway, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, Janus kinase and signal transducer and activator of transcription proteins (JAK/STAT) pathway, Toll-like receptors (TLR) pathway, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway and cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) pathway involved in neuroinflammation associated with major neurological disorders. Literature search was conducted using electronic databases like Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed central, Springer search and Web of science. Chemical structures used in the present analysis were drawn using Chemdraw Professional 15.0 software. This collective information provides comprehensive knowledge on disease pathways and therapeutic benefits of flavonoids in neurological disorders, druggability and future scope for research.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Heliangin from Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus) Leaves Might Prevent Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is considered the major cause of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, which are the leading causes of death worldwide. Excessive nitric oxide production and inflammation result in dysfunctional vascular endothelial cells, which are critically involved in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. The present study aimed to identify a bioactive compound from Jerusalem artichoke leaves with anti-inflammatory activity that might prevent atherosclerosis. We isolated bioactive heliangin that inhibited NO production in LPS-induced macrophage-like RAW 264.7 cells. Heliangin suppressed ICAM-1, VCAM-1, E-selectin, and MCP-1 expression, as well as NF-κB and IκBα phosphorylation, in vascular endothelial cells stimulated with TNF-α. These results suggested that heliangin suppresses inflammation by inhibiting excessive NO production in macrophages and the expression of the factors leading to the development of atherosclerosis via the NF-κB signaling pathway in vascular endothelial cells. Therefore, heliangin in Jerusalem artichoke leaves could function in the prevention of atherosclerosis that is associated with heart attacks and strokes.

Isolation of cabbage exosome-like nanovesicles and investigation of their biological activities in human cells

There are extensive studies on the applications of extracellular vesicles (EVs) produced in cell culture for therapeutic drug development. However, large quantities of EVs are needed for in vivo applications, which requires high production costs and time. Thus, the development of new EV sources is essential to facilitate their use. Accordingly, plant-derived exosome-like nanovesicles are an emerging alternative for culture-derived EVs. Until now, however, few studies have explored their biological functions and uses. Therefore, it is necessary to elucidate biological activities of plant-derived exosome-like nanovesicles and harness vesicles for biomedical applications. Herein, cabbage and red cabbage were used as nanovesicle sources owing to their easy cultivation. First, an efficient method for nanovesicle isolation from cabbage (Cabex) and red cabbage (Rabex) was developed. Furthermore, isolated nanovesicles were characterized, and their biological functions were assessed. Both Cabex and Rabex promoted mammalian cell proliferation and, interestingly, suppressed inflammation in immune cells and apoptosis in human keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Finally, therapeutic drugs were encapsulated in Cabex or Rabex and successfully delivered to human cells, demonstrating the potential of these vesicles as alternative drug delivery vehicles. Overall, the current results provide strong evidence for the wide application of Cabex and Rabex as novel therapeutic biomaterials.

Pharmacological effects of Picrasma quassioides (D. Don) Benn for inflammation, cancer and neuroprotection (Review)

Picrasma quassioides (D. Don) Benn is an Asian shrub with a considerable history of traditional medicinal use. P. quassioides and its extracts exhibit good therapeutic properties against several diseases, including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anticancer effects. However, the composition of compounds contained in P. quassioides is complex; although various studies have examined mixtures or individual compounds extracted from it, studies on the application of P. quassioides extracts remain limited. In the present review, the structures and functions of the compounds identified from P. quassioides and their utility in anti-inflammatory, anticancer and neuroprotectant therapies was discussed. The present review provided up-to-date information on pharmacological activities and clinical applications for P. quassioides extracts.

Oct4 downregulation-induced inflammation increases the migration and invasion rate of oral squamous cell carcinoma

Inflammatory changes are involved in tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) play important roles in inflammatory regulation during tumor development. Oct4 acts as a transcription factor that modulates inflammatory changes in mesenchymal stem cells. In this study, we explored the role of Oct4 in the invasion and migration of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells. LPS and TNF-α were used to treat the OSCC cell lines HN4 and CAL27 to induce inflammation. The generation of inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6, was evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and real-time quantitative PCR. Western blot analysis was employed to detect the expression and phosphorylation of JNK1, p65, and STAT3, which are key modulators of inflammation. Wound scratch healing and transwell invasion assays were further used to determine the role of inflammation in the invasion and migration of OSCC cells. Robust inflammation was observed in HN4 and CAL27 cells treated with LPS and TNF-α. A marked increase in JNK1, p65, and STAT3 phosphorylation levels in OSCC cells was also detected after LPS and TNF-α treatment. The migration and invasion of HN4 and CAL27 cells were significantly boosted by stimulation with LPS and TNF-α. Furthermore, Oct4 mRNA and protein levels were significantly upregulated by stimulation with LPS and TNF-α. Silencing of Oct4 led to reduced inflammation and decreased levels of phosphorylated JNK1, p65, and STAT3 and impaired invasion and migration in LPS- and TNF-α-stimulated OSCC cells. Overall, LPS- and TNF-α-induced inflammation suppressed the migration and invasion of OSCC cells by upregulating Oct4 expression.

Phenolic compounds as antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer agents and improvement of their bioavailability by liposomes

Phenolic compounds, widespread in plants, are a necessary part of the human regimen due to their antioxidant and pro-oxidative properties. Naturally, phenolics structurally range from a very simple phenolic molecule moiety to an intricate polymer. For decades, phenolic compounds have gained pronounced attention because of their protective effects against degenerative disorders such as inflammation, diabetes and cancer. Physico-chemical properties (eg, solubility) restricted their bioactivity and also limited their usage as nutraceutical ingredients. However, encapsulation technology like liposomal formulations has been developed for the delivery of phenolic compounds without affecting their original aesthetic and organoleptic property. Hence, this review outlines the antioxidant and pro-oxidative properties of phenolic compounds and focuses on biological activity reports of flavonoids and phenolic acids as antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory and anticancer agents. Also, the delivery applications of phenolic compounds as liposomes are discussed with few examples.

Isoleucilactucin Ameliorates Coal Fly Ash-Induced Inflammation through the NF-κB and MAPK Pathways in MH-S Cells

We investigated whether isoleucilactucin, an active constituent of Ixeridium dentatum, reduces inflammation caused by coal fly ash (CFA) in alveolar macrophages (MH-S). The anti-inflammatory effects of isoleucilactucin were assessed by measuring the concentration of nitric oxide (NO) and the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators in MH-S cells exposed to CFA-induced inflammation. We found that isoleucilactucin reduced CFA-induced NO generation dose-dependently in MH-S cells. Moreover, isoleucilactucin suppressed CFA-activated proinflammatory mediators, including cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) and inducible NO synthase (iNOS), and the proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-(IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α). The inhibiting properties of isoleucilactucin on the nuclear translocation of phosphorylated nuclear factor-kappa B (p-NF-κB) were observed. The effects of isoleucilactucin on the NF-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways were also measured in CFA-stimulated MH-S cells. These results indicate that isoleucilactucin suppressed CFA-stimulated inflammation in MH-S cells by inhibiting the NF-κB and MAPK pathways, which suggest it might exert anti-inflammatory properties in the lung.

De novo biosynthesis of garbanzol and fustin in Streptomyces albus based on a potential flavanone 3-hydroxylase with 2-hydroxylase side activity

Flavonoids are important plant secondary metabolites, which were shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory or antiviral activities. Heterologous production of flavonoids in engineered microbial cell factories is an interesting alternative to their purification from plant material representing the natural source. The use of engineered bacteria allows to produce specific compounds, independent of soil, climatic or other plant-associated production parameters. The initial objective of this study was to achieve an engineered production of two interesting flavanonols, garbanzol and fustin, using Streptomyces albus as the production host. Unexpectedly, the engineered strain produced several flavones and flavonols in the absence of the additional expression of a flavone synthase (FNS) or flavonol synthase (FLS) gene. It turned out that the heterologous flavanone 3-hydroxylase (F3H) has a 2-hydroxylase side activity, which explains the observed production of 7,4'-dihydroxyflavone, resokaempferol, kaempferol and apigenin, as well as the biosynthesis of the extremely rare 2-hydroxylated intermediates 2-hydroxyliquiritigenin, 2-hydroxynaringenin and probably licodione. Other related metabolites, such as quercetin, dihydroquercetin and eriodictyol, have also been detected in culture extracts of this recombinant strain. Hence, the enzymatic versatility of S. albus can be conveniently exploited for the heterologous production of a large diversity of plant metabolites of the flavonoid family.

Resveratrol attenuates manganese-induced oxidative stress and neuroinflammation through SIRT1 signaling in mice

Exposure to excess levels of manganese (Mn) leads to neurotoxicity. Increasing evidence demonstrates that oxidative stress and neuroinflammation are important pathological causes of neurotoxicity. Resveratrol (Rsv), a sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) activator, plays an important role in neuroprotection. However, the molecular mechanisms of Rsv alleviating Mn-induced oxidative stress and neuroinflammation are not fully understood. To evaluate whether Rsv treatment relieves the oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in the hippocampus after Mn exposure through SIRT1 signaling, C57BL/6 adult mice were exposed to MnCl2 (200 μmol/kg), Rsv (30 mg/kg), and EX527 (5 mg/kg). Our results showed that administering MnCl2 for 6 weeks caused behavioral impairment and nerve cell injury in hippocampal tissue, which was related to oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. Activating Mn-induced JNK and inhibiting SIRT1 increased the phosphorylated and acetylated levels of NF-κB and STAT3, respectively. However, Rsv reduced the phosphorylated and acetylated levels of NF-κB and STAT3, and attenuated Mn-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines by activating SIRT1 signaling. Most importantly, EX527, a potent SIRT1 inhibitor, inactivated SIRT1, which prevented Rsv from exerting its beneficial effects. Taken together, our findings revealed that Rsv alleviated Mn-induced oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in adult mice by activating SIRT1.

The Influence of Cell Cycle Regulation on Chemotherapy

Cell cycle regulation is orchestrated by a complex network of interactions between proteins, enzymes, cytokines, and cell cycle signaling pathways, and is vital for cell proliferation, growth, and repair. The occurrence, development, and metastasis of tumors are closely related to the cell cycle. Cell cycle regulation can be synergistic with chemotherapy in two aspects: inhibition or promotion. The sensitivity of tumor cells to chemotherapeutic drugs can be improved with the cooperation of cell cycle regulation strategies. This review presented the mechanism of the commonly used chemotherapeutic drugs and the effect of the cell cycle on tumorigenesis and development, and the interaction between chemotherapy and cell cycle regulation in cancer treatment was briefly introduced. The current collaborative strategies of chemotherapy and cell cycle regulation are discussed in detail. Finally, we outline the challenges and perspectives about the improvement of combination strategies for cancer therapy.

Molecular Mechanism of Xixin-Ganjiang Herb Pair Treating Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-Integrated Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by high morbidity, disability, and mortality, which seriously threatens human life and health. Xixin and Ganjiang are classic herb pairs of Zhongjing Zhang, which are often used to treat COPD in China. However, the substance basis and mechanism of action of Xixin-Ganjiang herb pair (XGHP) in the treatment of COPD remain unclear.

Methods

On the website of TCMSP and the DrugBank, effective compounds and targets of XGHP were found. COPD targets were obtained from GeneCards, DisGeNET, and GEO gene chips. Intersecting these databases resulted in a library of drug targets for COPD. Then, intersection targets were used for protein-protein interaction (PPI) and pathway enrichment analysis. Finally, the binding activity between compounds and core genes was evaluated by molecular docking to verify the expression level of PTGS2 and PPARG in rats.

Results

Twelve effective compounds and 104 core genes were found in the intersection library, and kaempferol, sesamin, β-sitosterol, PTGS2, and PPARG were particularly prominent in the network analysis. A total of 113 pathways were obtained and enrichment of the TNF signaling pathway, IL-17 signaling pathway, and C-type lectin receptor signaling pathway was particularly obvious. Molecular docking indicated that kaempferol, sesamin, and β-sitosterol were closely related to PTGS2 and PPARG and were superior to aminophylline. Key compounds in XGHP could restrict the expression of PTGS2 in the lung tissues of COPD rats and promote the expression of PPARG.

Conclusion

Inhibition of the expression of inflammatory factor PTGS2 and promotion of the expression of PPARG may be an effective target of XGHP in the treatment of COPD.

Anti-inflammatory action of physalin A by blocking the activation of NF-κB signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Physalis Calyx seu Fructus is typically used to treat inflammatory diseases such as upper respiratory tract infection and acute tonsillitis in clinical practice of China. Physalin A, a main active ingredient of this traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has been reported for its significant anti-tumor activity. However, most reports focused on the studies of its anti-tumor activity, the anti-inflammatory activity of physalin A and its molecular mechanism are still not elucidated clearly.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of the study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory activities both in vitro and in vivo and molecular mechanism of physalin A.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The potential anti-inflammatory properties of physalin A were evaluated in vitro by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 macrophage cells, and in vivo via two typical acute inflammation murine models. Some important inflammation-related molecules were analyzed by enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blotting.

RESULTS

The results showed that physalin A inhibited carrageenan-induced paw edema of rats and capillary permeability of mice induced by acetic acid in vivo. Furthermore, physalin A also significantly reduced the release of inflammatory mediators nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in RAW 264.7 in vitro. Further investigations indicated that physalin A can down-regulate the high expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in a dose-dependent manner. Physalin A remarkably blocked the degradation of inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa B alpha (IκB-α) and the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) p65 induced by LPS in RAW 264.7 cells. However, physalin A did not significantly inhibit the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) family proteins c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) or extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) or p38.

CONCLUSIONS

All the results clearly illustrated that the anti-inflammatory action of physalin A is due to the inactivation of NF-κB signal pathway, but is irrelevant to the MAPKs pathway.

Curcumin Modulates the Crosstalk Between Macrophages and Bone Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Ameliorate Osteogenesis

Bone healing is thought to be influenced by the cross-talk between bone forming and immune cells. In particular, macrophages play a crucial role in the regulation of osteogenesis. Curcumin, the major bioactive polyphenolic ingredient of turmeric, has been shown to regulate inflammatory response and osteogenic activities. However, whether curcumin could regulate macrophage polarization and subsequently influence osteogenesis remain to be elucidated. In this study, the potential immunomodulatory capability of curcumin on inflammatory response and phenotype switch of macrophages and the subsequent impact on osteogenic differentiation of MSCs are investigated. We demonstrated that curcumin exhibited significant anti-inflammatory effect by polarizing the macrophages toward anti-inflammatory phenotype, with increased expression of IL-4, IL-10, and CD206, and decreased expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, CCR7, and iNOS. In addition, curcumin could improve the osteo-immune microenvironment via promoting osteogenesis-related regenerative cytokine BMP-2 and TGF-β production. Moreover, the co-cultured test of macrophages and BMSCs showed that curcumin-modulated macrophages conditioned medium could promote osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs with increased gene (ALP, Runx-2, OCN, and OPN) and protein (Runx-2 and OCN) expression levels, enhanced ALP activity, and obvious formation of mineralized nodules. Taken together, with the interaction between curcumin-conditioned macrophage and curcumin-stimulated BMSCs, curcumin could remarkably enhance the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs in LPS-activated inflammatory macrophage-BMSCs coculture system.

Inhibitory effects of cynaropicrin and related sesquiterpene lactones from leaves of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) on induction of iNOS in RAW264.7 cells and its high-affinity proteins

The methanolic extract of the leaves of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) was found to inhibit nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Among the constituents of the extract, six sesquiterpene lactones (cynaropicrin, grosheimin, 11β,13-dihydrocynaropicrin, 3β-hydroxy-8α-[(S)-3-hydroxy-2-methylpropionyloxy]guaia-4(15),10(14),11(13)-trien-1α,5α,6βH-12,6-olide, 3β-hydroxy-8α-[2-methoxymethyl-2-propenoyloxy]guaia-4(15),10(14),11(13)-trien-1α,5α,6βH-12,6-olide, and deacylcynaropicrin) inhibited NO production and/or inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) induction. The acyl group having an α,β-unsaturated carbonyl group at the 8-position and the α-methylene-γ-butyrolactone moiety were important for the strong inhibitory activity. Our results suggested that these sesquiterpene lactones inhibited the LPS-induced iNOS expression via the suppression of the JAK-STAT signaling pathway in addition to the κNF-κB signaling pathway. With regard to the target molecules of the sesquiterpene lactones, high-affinity proteins of cynaropicrin were purified from the cell extract. ATP/ADP translocase 2 and tubulin were identified and suggested to be involved in the cytotoxic effects of cynaropicrin, although the target molecules for the inhibition of iNOS expression were not clarified.

Naringin attenuates high glucose-induced injuries and inflammation by modulating the leptin-JAK2/STAT3 pathway in H9c2 cardiac cells

INTRODUCTION

Our previous study showed that naringin (NRG) protects cardiomyocytes against high glucose (HG)-induced injuries by inhibiting p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). Leptin induces hypertrophy in rat cardiomyocytes via p38/MAPK activation. The present study aimed to test the hypothesis that leptin-Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)/signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3), which are responsible for leptin's functions, are involved in HG-induced injuries and cardioprotective effects of NRG in cardiomyocytes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

H9c2 cells were exposed to HG for 24 h to establish a cardiomyocyte injury model. Cells were pretreated with NRG and other drugs before exposure to HG. Protein expression was measured by western blot analysis. Cell viability was detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. Apoptotic cells were assessed by Hoechst 33258 staining assay. Intracellular reactive oxygen species levels were determined by dichlorofluorescein diacetate staining. Mitochondrial membrane potential was evaluated using JC-1. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed to determine the inflammatory cytokines.

RESULTS

NRG significantly attenuated HG-induced increases in leptin and Ob-R expression. Pretreatment with either a leptin antagonist (LA) or NRG markedly ameliorated HG-induced elevation of phosphorylated (p)-JAK2 and p-STAT3, respectively. Pretreatment with NRG, LA, Ob-R antagonist, or AG490 clearly alleviated HG-induced injuries and inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides new evidence of the NRG protective effects of H9c2 cells against HG-induced injuries possibly via modulation of the leptin-JAK2/STAT3 pathway.

Glossogyne tenuifolia Attenuates Proliferation and Migration of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

The proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are essential in the pathogenesis of various vascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis and restenosis. Among the mediators of VSMC during atherosclerosis development, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB is a potent mitogen for VSMCs and greatly contributes to the intimal accumulation of VSMCs. Glossogyne tenuifolia (GT, Xiang-Ru) is a traditional antipyretic and hepatoprotective herb from Penghu Island, Taiwan. This study evaluated the inhibitory effect of GT ethanol extract (GTE) and GT water extract (GTW) on proliferative and migratory activities in PDGF-BB-induced VSMCs. The experimental results demonstrated that GTE significantly inhibited the PDGF-BB-stimulated VSMC proliferation and migration, as shown by MTT, wound healing, and Boyden chamber assays. GTE was found to have a much more potent inhibitory activity than GTW. Based on the Western blot analysis, GTE significantly blocked the PDGF-BB-induced phosphorylation of NF-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, including extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), p38, and JNK, in VSMCs. In addition, GTE retarded the PDGF-BB-mediated migration through the suppression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 expression in VSMCs. Three main ingredients of GT-chlorogenic acid, luteolin-7-glucoside, and luteolin-all showed significant anti-proliferative effects on PDGF-BB-induced VSMCs. As a whole, our findings indicated that GTE has the potential to be a therapeutic agent to prevent or treat restenosis or atherosclerosis.

let7f‑5p attenuates inflammatory injury in in vitro pneumonia models by targeting MAPK6

Pneumonia accounts for ~1.3 million mortalities in children per year worldwide. MicroRNAs are implicated in several diseases, including cancer and pneumonia; however, the role of let7f-5p in pneumonia is not completely understood. In the present study, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to establish an in vitro pneumonia model in A549 and WI-38 cells. The reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and western blotting results demonstrated that let7f-5p expression levels were significantly decreased, whereas MAPK6 expression levels were significantly increased in the peripheral venous blood of patients with pneumonia and in LPS-induced A549 and WI-38 cells compared with healthy volunteers and control cells, respectively. Furthermore, the dual-luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that let7f-5p targeted the 3′-untranslated region of MAPK6. The ELISA and RT-qPCR results demonstrated that let7f-5p mimic ameliorated LPS-induced inflammatory injury in A549 and WI-38 cells, as demonstrated by decreased expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α and IL-6. In addition, the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay results indicated that let7f-5p mimic ameliorated LPS-induced reductions in cell viability, and the western blotting results demonstrated that let7f-5p mimic reversed LPS-induced activation of the STAT3 signaling pathway. Notably, the aforementioned let7f-5p-mediated effects were reversed by MAPK6 overexpression. Collectively, the results of the present study suggested that let7f-5p inhibited inflammation by targeting MAPK6 in the in vitro pneumonia model, thus let7f-5p may serve as a potential novel therapeutic target for pneumonia.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins Via Inhibition of NF-κB and MAPK in LPS-Stimulated MAC-T Cells

Oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), classified as condensed tannins, have significant antioxidation, anti-inflammation and anti-cancer effects. This study was performed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of OPCs and the mechanism underlying these effects in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated bovine mammary epithelial cells (MAC-T). Real-time PCR and ELISA assays indicated that OPC treatment at 1, 3 and 5 μg/ml significantly reduced the mRNA and protein, respectively, of oxidant indicators cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) (p < 0.05) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) (p < 0.01) as well as inflammation cytokines interleukin (IL)-6 (p < 0.01), IL-1β (p < 0.01) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (p < 0.05) in LPS-induced MAC-T cells. Moreover, OPCs downregulated LPSinduced phosphorylation of p65 and inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) (IκB) in the NF-κB signaling pathway (p < 0.01), and they inhibited p65 translocation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus as revealed by immunofluorescence test and western blot. Additionally, OPCs decreased phosphorylation of p38, extracellular signal regulated kinase and c-jun NH₂-terminal kinase in the MAPK signaling pathway (p < 0.01). In conclusion, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of OPCs involve NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways, thus inhibiting expression of pro-inflammatory factors and oxidation indicators. These findings provide novel experimental evidence for the further practical application of OPCs in prevention and treatment of bovine mastitis.

MiR-135a-5p inhibits vascular smooth muscle cells proliferation and migration by inactivating FOXO1 and JAK2 signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

It is reportedly demonstrated that miR-135a-5p plays a critical role in cancer cells, macrophages, and endothelia cells. However, little is known concerning the function of miR-135a-5p in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and atherosclerosis (AS).

METHODS

Human VSMCs and male C57BL/6 mice were used for establishing AS cell models and animal models. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to detect the expressions of miR-135a-5p, forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) mRNA, and Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) mRNA. CCK-8, BrdU, and Transwell assays were used to detect cell migration and proliferation. Cell cycle and apoptosis were analyzed using flow cytometry. The interactions among miR-135a-5p, FOXO1 and JAK2 were validated employing Western blot, qRT-PCR and Luciferase reporter gene assay.

RESULTS

The expression of miR-135a-5p was significantly decreased in serum samples of AS patients, VSMCs treated with ox-LDL and AS mice models. The overexpression of miR-135a-5p induced VSMCs cycle arrest and apoptosis, and inhibited proliferation and migration. Further experiments confirmed that miR-135a-5p could target and repress FOXO1/CyclinD1 and JAK2/STAT3 pathway. Additionally, the associations among miR-135a-5p, FOXO1/Cyclin D1 and JAK2/STAT3 were validated using animal models.

CONCLUSION

MiR-135a-5p suppresses VSMCs proliferation and migration induced by ox-LDL via targeting and activating FOXO1/Cyclin D1 and JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathways.

Fucoidan Isolated from Saccharina japonica Inhibits LPS-Induced Inflammation in Macrophages via Blocking NF-κB, MAPK and JAK-STAT Pathways

Fucoidan has been reported to have a variety of biological activities. However, different algae species, extraction methods, harvesting seasons, and growth regions lead to the structural variation of fucoidan, which would affect the bioactivities of fucoidan. To date, the anti-inflammatory properties and the underlying mechanism of fucoidan from brown alga Saccharina japonica (S. japonica) remain limited. The aims of the present study were to investigate the structure, the anti-inflammatory properties, and the potential molecular mechanisms of fucoidan isolated from S. japonica (SF6) against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated RAW 264.7 macrophages. SF6 was characterized using high performance liquid gel permeation chromatography (HPGPC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), and observed to be rich in fucose, galactose, and sulfate. Additionally, results showed that SF6 remarkably inhibited LPS-induced production of various inflammatory mediators and pro-inflammation cytokines, including nitric oxide (NO), NO synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-β (IL-β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). A mechanism study showed that SF6 could effectively inhibit inflammatory responses through blocking LPS-induced inflammation pathways, including nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and Janus kinase (JAK)-2 and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-1/3 pathways. These results suggested that SF6 has the potential to be developed as an anti-inflammatory agent applied in functional food.

Standardised comparison of limonene-derived monoterpenes identifies structural determinants of anti-inflammatory activity

Mint species are widely used in traditional and conventional medicine as topical analgesics for osteoarthritic pain and for disorders of the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts which are all associated with chronic inflammation. To identify the structural determinants of anti-inflammatory activity and potency which are required for chemical optimization towards development of new anti-inflammatory drugs, a selected group of monoterpenes especially abundant in mint species was screened by measuring bacterial lipopolysacharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO) production in murine macrophages. Nine compounds significantly decreased LPS-induced NO production by more than 30%. IC₅₀ values were calculated showing that the order of potency is: (S)-(+)-carvone > (R)-(−)-carvone > (+)-dihydrocarveol > (S)-8-hydroxycarvotanacetone > (R)-8-hydroxycarvotanacetone > (+)-dihydrocarvone > (−)-carveol > (−)-dihydrocarveol > (S)-(-)-pulegone. Considering the carbon numbering relative to the common precursor, limonene, the presence of an oxygenated group at C6 conjugated to a double bond at C1 and an isopropenyl group and S configuration at C4 are the major chemical features relevant for activity and potency. The most potent compound, (S)-(+)-carvone, significantly decreased the expression of NOS2 and IL-1β in macrophages and in a cell model of osteoarthritis using primary human chondrocytes. (S)-(+)-carvone may be efficient in halting inflammation-related diseases, like osteoarthritis.

Circ_0038467 regulates lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory injury in human bronchial epithelial cells through sponging miR-338-3p

Background

Pneumonia is a common acute lower respiratory infection in children and elders. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have recently been uncovered to play important roles in pneumonia. However, the function and mechanism of circ_0038467 in pneumonia remain elusive.

Methods

Cell viability and apoptosis were determined using the Cell Counting Kit‐8 (CCK‐8) assay and flow cytometry, respectively. The levels of interleukin 6 (IL‐6), IL‐8 and IL‐1β were detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Western blot analysis was performed to assess the expression of related proteins. Circ_0038467 was characterized by Ribonuclease R (RNase) digestion and subcellular localization assays. The levels of circ_0038467 and miR‐338‐3p were evaluated by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). The direct interaction between circ_0038467 and miR‐338‐3p was validated by the dual‐luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays.

Results

Our data indicated that lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced an inflammatory injury in 16HBE cells by repressing cell viability and enhancing cell apoptosis and proinflammatory cytokines production. Circ_0038467 was upregulated and miR‐338‐3p was downregulated in LPS‐treated 16HBE cells. Circ_0038467 knockdown or miR‐338‐3p overexpression attenuated LPS‐induced 16HBE cell inflammatory injury. Moreover, circ_0038467 acted as a sponge of miR‐338‐3p in 16HBE cells. MiR‐338‐3p mediated the alleviated effect of circ_0038467 knockdown on LPS‐induced 16HBE cell inflammatory injury. Additionally, the Janus kinase/ signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK/STAT3) signaling pathway was involved in the circ_0038467/miR‐338‐3p axis‐mediated regulation in LPS‐induced 16HBE cell inflammatory injury.

Conclusions

The current work had led to the identification of circ_0038467 knockdown that alleviated LPS‐induced inflammatory injury in 16HBE cells at least partly through sponging miR‐338‐3p and regulating JAK/STAT3 pathway, highlighting novel molecular targets for the treatment of pneumonia.

TL1A/TNFR2-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction of fibroblast-like synoviocytes increases inflammatory response in patients with rheumatoid arthritis via reactive oxygen species generation

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the major autoimmune destructive disease of joints with a complicated pathogenesis. The contribution of tumor necrosis factor-like ligand 1A (TL1A) in RA pathogenesis, especially on fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS), has been suggested clinically. The present study investigated the role of TL1A in mitochondrial dysfunction, induced oxidative stress in mitochondria, apoptosis resistance and the inflammatory response in FLS obtained from RA patients (RA-FLS). RA-FLS were incubated with TL1A and tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (TNFR2) antagonist. Respiratory function, mitochondrial membrane potential and respiration associated genes of mitochondria were measured in both TL1A stimulated and non-stimulated RA-FLS. Additionally, the effects of TL1A on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in mitochondria, apoptosis and the inflammatory response in RA-FLS were also assessed. The role of TL1A in association between ROS generation, especially mitochondrial type and the inflammatory response, was evaluated by measuring inflammation-related cytokines and signaling pathways using ROS inhibitors, diphenyleneiodonium chloride and Mito-TEMPO (Sigma-Aldrich, Miamisburg, OH, USA). We found that TL1A induced mitochondrial dysfunction by weakening mitochondrial respiration and membrane potential, which was blocked by a TNFR2 antagonist. Increased ROS synthesis in impaired mitochondria was observed with MitoSOX (Invitrogen, CA, USA) immunofluorescence staining in TL1A-stimulated RA-FLS but inhibited by a TNFR2 antagonist. TL1A influenced apoptosis resistance and inflammatory mediators via TNFR2. Inhibition of mitochondria-derived ROS compromised the production of inflammatory factors in TL1A-stimulated RA-FLS, suggesting that mitochondrial dysfunction mediated by the TL1A/TNFR2 axis might amplify the inflammatory response via regulation of mitochondria-derived ROS generation. Collectively, our results reveal that TL1A might be involved in making FLS more aggressive in RA pathogenesis via cell respiration interruption.

Polyphenolic Compounds and Gut Microbiome in Cardiovascular Diseases

The onset of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) is known to be associated with multiple risk factors related to exogenous exposures on predisposed genetic makeup. Diet and lifestyle have a cascade effect on microbiota biodiversity, thus impacting inflammation and heart health. Atherosclerosis is a type of CVD where chronic inflammation contributes to plaque buildup in the arteries resulting in narrowed blood vessels, which obstruct blood flow. Polyphenolic compounds, including flavonoids, most commonly consumed in the form of plants, have been identified to have various mechanisms of action to reduce the inflammatory response in the body. Flavonoids provide a variety of nutraceutical functions including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antiangiogenic, antitumor, and improved pharmacokinetic properties. Therefore, the medicinal use of polyphenolic compounds as an intervention for the inflammatory response, especially relating to the gut microbiome, may significantly reduce the risk of atherosclerotic plaque development and disease onset. This review addresses the role of polyphenolic compounds and gut microbiome in cardiovascular disease. Research studies conducted in cells and animals were reviewed. These studies clearly illustrate that dietary polyphenolic compounds influence resident gut microbiota thus they are associated with the prevention of atherosclerosis progression. Further research in this field is warranted to identify potential gut microbiome mediated therapeutic approaches for CVD.

The Osteoprotective Effects Of Kaempferol: The Evidence From In Vivo And In Vitro Studies

Kaempferol is a dietary bioflavonoid ubiquitously found in various types of plant. It possesses a wide range of medicinal properties suggesting its potential clinical utility that requires further investigation. The present review intends to highlight the efficacy of kaempferol and its molecular mechanisms of action in regulating bone metabolism. Many reports have acknowledged the bone-protecting property of kaempferol and kaempferol-containing plants using in vitro and in vivo experimental models. Kaempferol supplementation showed bone-sparing effects in newborn rats, glucocorticoid-induced and ovariectomy-induced osteoporotic models as well as bone fracture models. It achieves the bone-protective effects by inhibiting adipogenesis, inflammation, oxidative stress, osteoclastic autophagy and osteoblastic apoptosis while activating osteoblastic autophagy. The anti-osteoporotic effects of kaempferol are mediated through regulation of estrogen receptor, bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathways. In summary, kaempferol exhibits beneficial effects on skeleton, thus is potentially effective for the prophylaxis and treatment of osteoporosis.

Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms of Koreanaside A, a Lignan Isolated from the Flower of Forsythia koreana, against LPS-Induced Macrophage Activation and DSS-Induced Colitis Mice: The Crucial Role of AP-1, NF-κB, and JAK/STAT Signaling

The current treatment options for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are unsatisfactory. Therefore, novel and safer therapies are needed. We previously reported that koreanaside A (KA) showed high radical scavenging activity and suppressed vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1) expression in vascular smooth muscle cells. However, the molecular mechanisms involved in its anti-inflammatory effect have not been reported. KA inhibited pro-inflammatory mediators such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), nitric oxide (NO), and prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂). KA inhibited the production and mRNA expression of interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) induced by LPS. KA downregulated the myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88)-dependent inflammatory gene expressions in the MyD88-overexpressed cells. KA suppressed the LPS-induced transcriptional and DNA-binding activities of activator protein-1 (AP-1) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). KA was found to inhibit the phosphorylation of Janus kinase 1/2 (JAK1/2) and signal transducers and activators of transcription 1/3 (STAT1/3). In DSS-induced colitis mice, KA relieved the symptoms of colitis by suppressing inflammatory cell infiltration, restoring tight junction (TJ)- and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related protein expression, and inactivating AP-1, NF-κB, and STAT1/3. Therefore, KA reduced inflammatory responses by downregulating AP-1, NF-κB, and JAK/STAT signaling in LPS-induced macrophages and DSS-induced colitis mice.

Asaronic Acid Attenuates Macrophage Activation toward M1 Phenotype through Inhibition of NF-κB Pathway and JAK-STAT Signaling in Glucose-Loaded Murine Macrophages

Macrophage polarization has been implicated in the pathogenesis of obesity and type 2 diabetes, which are recognized as chronic proinflammatory diseases. This study investigated that high level of glucose, similar to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), activated macrophages toward M1 phenotypes and 1-20 μM asaronic acid (AA) counteracted diabetic macrophage activation. AA reduced the LPS-promoted secretion of proinflammatory interleukin (IL)-6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1. The LPS markedly elevated the macrophage induction of the M1 markers of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), CD36, and CD68, which was attenuated by AA. Also, the LPS significantly enhanced the nuclear factor (NF)-κB transactivation, signal transducers, and activators of transcription 1 (STAT1)/STAT3 activation and suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) induction in macrophages. However, AA highly suppressed the aforementioned effects of LPS. Glucose-stimulated macrophages expressed advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and receptor for AGE (RAGE). Administration of 20 μM AA to macrophages partly but significantly attenuated such effects (1.65 ± 0.12 vs 0.95 ± 0.25 times glucose control for AGE; 2.33 ± 0.31 vs 1.40 ± 0.22 times glucose control for RAGE). Furthermore, glucose enhanced the macrophage induction of TLR4 and inducible nitric oxide synthase and IL-6 production, while it demoted the production of anti-inflammatory arginase-1 and IL-10. In contrast, AA reversed the induction of these markers in glucose-loaded macrophages. AA dose-dependently and significantly encumbered NF-κB transactivation, Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) and STAT1/STAT3 activation, and SOCS3 induction upregulated in glucose-supplemented macrophages. These results demonstrated for the first time that AA may limit diabetic macrophage activation toward the M1 phenotype through the inhibition of TLR4-/IL-6-mediated NF-κB/JAK2-STAT signaling entailing AGE-RAGE interaction.

FM0807 decelerates experimental arthritis progression by inhibiting inflammatory responses and joint destruction via modulating NF-κB and MAPK pathways

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic articular synovial inflammatory disease. The precise etiology underlying the pathogenesis of RA remains unknown. We aimed to investigate the inhibitory effect of curcumin analog FM0807 (curcumin salicylate monoester, 2-hydroxy-, 4-[(1E,6E)-7-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-3,5-dioxo-1,6-heptadien-1-yl]-2-methoxyphenyl ester) on experimental RA and investigate its possible mechanisms of action.

Method: Rats with Freund’s complete adjuvant (FCA)-induced arthritis (AIA) were administered aspirin (0.1 mmol.kg⁻¹), curcumin (0.1 mmol.kg⁻¹), FM0807 (0.1, 0.2 mmol.kg⁻¹) and vehicle via gastric gavage, from days 7 to 21, once daily. The hind paw volume and arthritis index (AI) were measured, and radiographic and histological examinations were performed. Twenty-one days later, the animals were killed and left ankle joints were removed to measure protein expression of the elements of the nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway by Western blot analysis. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was employed to measure synovial fluid levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β and IL-10.

Results: Compared with AIA group, FM0807 reduced the AI and swelling of the injected hind paw in a dose-dependent manner, and inhibited increases in inflammatory cell infiltration, pannus formation and cartilage destruction. FM0807 also potently attenuated the increase in the expression of inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β in synovial fluid, while IL-10 levels were also elevated. FM0807 significantly suppressed phosphorylation of extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 (ERK1/2), c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK) 1/2 (JNK1/2), p38MAPK, inhibitor of NF-κB kinase (IKK), IκB and NF-κB p65 protein, (all P<0.05), which displayed more potential effects compared with those of the aspirin and curcumin groups.

Conclusion: FM0807 exerts its therapeutic effects on RA by inhibiting cartilage degeneration. FM0807 treatment might be an effective therapeutic approach for RA.

Protective Effect of Coptis chinensis Polysaccharide Against Renal Injury by Suppressing Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Diabetic Rats

Our previous studies confirmed that Coptis chinensis polysaccharide (CCPW) had a good antidiabetic activity and could improve insulin resistance. However, whether CCPW has a protective effect against the renal injury caused by diabetes has not been reported. In this study, the protective effect of CCPW against the renal injury of diabetic rats and its underlying mechanisms were investigated. The results showed that in CCPW-treated groups, the body mass of rats increased significantly, while the ratio of kidney weight to body weight decreased significantly; the 24-hour urine protein and the serum BUN and serum creatinine (Scr) levels decreased significantly, and pathological changes of the renal tissue were improved; superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities in the renal tissue were significantly higher, and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents in the renal tissue, and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and hypersensitive c-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels in the serum were significantly lower; the expressions of phosphorylated tyrosine kinase 2 (p-JAK2) and activators of transcription 3 (p-STAT3) decreased significantly. The results indicate that CCPW should have a protective effect against the renal injury in diabetic rats, which may be associated with its inhibition on oxidative stress and inflammation.

Phenolic Compounds and Ginsenosides in Ginseng Shoots and Their Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Capacities in LPS-Induced RAW264.7 Mouse Macrophages

We conducted this study for the first time to evaluate changes in the composition and contents of phenolic compounds and ginsenosides in ginseng shoot extracts (GSEs) prepared with different steaming times (2, 4, and 6 h) at 120 °C, as well as their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 mouse macrophages (RAW264.7 cells). The results show that total phenol and flavonoid contents were both significantly higher in steamed versus raw GSEs, and the same trend was found for 2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•) and 2,2'-azobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS•+) scavenging capacities. Among the 18 ginsenosides quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with the aid of pure standards, polar ginsenosides were abundant in raw GSEs, whereas less-polar or rare ginsenosides appeared after steaming at 120 °C and increased with steaming time. Furthermore, steamed GSEs exhibited a greater ability to inhibit the production of inflammatory mediators and pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as nitric oxide (NO), interleukin (IL)-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells at the same concentration. Relative expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), IL-6, TNF-α, and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) mRNAs were attenuated by the GSEs, probably due to the enrichment of less-polar ginsenosides and enhanced antioxidant activity in steamed GSEs. These findings, combined with correlation analysis, showed that less-polar ginsenosides were major contributors to the inhibition of the overproduction of various inflammatory factors, while the inhibitory effects of total phenols and total flavonoids, and their antioxidant abilities, are also important.

IL-10/STAT3/SOCS3 Axis Is Involved in the Anti-inflammatory Effect of Benznidazole

Anti-parasitic treatment for Chagas disease mainly relies on benznidazole, which is virtually the only drug available in the market. Besides its anti-parasitic effects, benznidazole has anti-inflammatory properties. In this work we studied the mechanisms involved in the latter, demonstrating the participation of the IL-10/STAT3/SOCS3 pathway. To achieve this goal, the anti-inflammatory properties of benznidazole were studied using an in vitro model of cardiomyocyte primary culture stimulated with LPS. LPS increased both SOCS3 expression and STAT3 phosphorylation. The addition of benznidazole increased their expression even further. Specific inhibition of STAT3 precluded this effect, suggesting a role for STAT3 in the increase of SOCS3 expression induced by benznidazole. To assess the participation of SOCS3 in the anti-inflammatory effect of benznidazole, we accomplished specific knockdown of SOCS3 with siRNA. Silencing of SOCS3 in cardiomyocytes precluded the inhibitory effects of benznidazole on TNF-α, IL-6, iNOS expression and NO release. Moreover, in the absence of SOCS3, benznidazole could neither prevent IKK phosphorylation nor IκBα degradation, supporting the notion that SOCS3 is required for the benznidazole-mediated inhibition of the NF-κB pathway. Previously, we demonstrated that IL-10 increases the expression of SOCS3 in cultured cardiomyocytes. Here, we found that benznidazole shows a trend to increased IL-10 expression. To evaluate whether benznidazole increased SOCS3 in an IL-10-dependent manner, cardiomyocytes from IL-10 knockout mice were pre-treated with benznidazole and stimulated with LPS. Benznidazole neither inhibited NO release nor avoid IKK phosphorylation or IκBα degradation, showing that IL-10 is required for benznidazole-mediated inhibition of NF-κB. Moreover, exogenous addition of IL-10 to IL-10 knockout cardiomyocytes restored the inhibitory effect of benznidazole on NO release. The results reported herein show, for the first time, that the IL-10/STAT3/SOCS3 axis is involved in the anti-inflammatory effects of benznidazole. These findings may add up to new therapeutic strategies for chronic Chagas disease given its inflammatory nature.

Polysaccharides from Polygonatum sibiricum Delar. ex Redoute induce an immune response in the RAW264.7 cell line via an NF-κB/MAPK pathway

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of polysaccharides from Polygonatum sibiricum (PSP) on RAW 264.7 cells together with the underlying signaling pathways. Water-soluble polysaccharides were extracted from Polygonatum sibiricum and the immunological activity/mechanism was explored in depth in RAW 264.7 cells. Our results demonstrated that PSP induced dendritic-like morphological changes in RAW 264.7 cells, and increased the production of nitric oxide, TNF-α and IL-6 in a dose-dependent manner. Mechanistic studies revealed that PSP promoted the accumulation of TNF-α and IL-6 mRNA and caused IκB-α degradation and NF-κB p65 translocation into the nucleus at both the transcriptional and translational levels. The expression of iNOS, COX-2, NF-κB and phosphorylated p38 MAPK was upregulated in PSP-treated RAW 264.7 cells. Water-soluble polysaccharides possess immunological activity and the immunostimulatory mechanism may be attributed to the NF-κB and p38 MAPK pathways similar to the mechanism of lipopolysaccharides.

CXCL8(3-72) K11R/G31P protects against sepsis-induced acute kidney injury via NF-κB and JAK2/STAT3 pathway

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI), which is mainly caused by sepsis, has high morbidity and mortality rates. CXCL8_(3–72) K11R/G31P (G31P) can exert therapeutic effect on inflammatory diseases and malignancies. We aimed to investigate the effect and mechanism of G31P on septic AKI.

Methods

An AKI mouse model was established, and kidney injury was assessed by histological analysis. The contents of serum creatinine (SCr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were measured by commercial kits, whereas neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. The expressions of CXCL8 in serum and kidney tissues were determined using ELISA and immunohistochemical analysis, respectively. Apoptosis rate of renal tissue was detected by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transfer-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) analysis. The expressions of inflammatory cytokines were measured by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot, respectively. The apoptosis-related proteins, JAK2, STAT3, NF-κB and IκB were determined by Western blot.

Results

G31P could reduce the levels of SCr, BUN, HGAL and KIM-1 and inhibit the renal tissue injury in AKI mice. G31P was also found to suppress the serum and nephric CXCL8 expressions and attenuated the apoptosis rate. The levels of inflammatory cytokines, pro-apoptotic proteins were decreased, while the anti-apoptotic proteins were increased by G31P in AKI mice. G31P also inhibited the activation of JAK2, STAT3 and NF-κB in AKI mice.

Conclusion

These results suggest that G31P could protect renal function and attenuate the septic AKI. Our findings provide a potential target for the treatment of AKI.

Anti-Colitic Effects of Ethanol Extract of Persea americana Mill. through Suppression of Pro-Inflammatory Mediators via NF-κB/STAT3 Inactivation in Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis Mice

Persea americana Mill, cv. Hass, also known as avocado, has been reported to possess hypolipidemic, anti-diabetic, anti-oxidant, cardioprotective, and photoprotective potencies. However, few studies have reported its anti-colitic effects. In this study, we investigated anti-colitic effects of ethanol extract of P. americana (EEP) in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitic mice and the involved molecular mechanisms. EEP effectively improved clinical signs and histological characteristics of DSS-induced colitis mice. In DSS-exposed colonic tissues, EEP reduced expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. Moreover, EEP suppressed DSS-induced activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3). Consistent with in vivo results, EEP also suppressed protein and mRNA expression levels of iNOS, COX-2, and pro-inflammatory cytokines via NF-κB and STAT3 inactivation in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages. Taken together, our data indicate that ethanol extract of avocado may be used as a promising therapeutic against inflammatory bowel diseases by suppressing the NF-κB and STAT3 signaling pathway.

Novel Liposome Eencapsulated Guanosine Di Phosphate based Therapeutic Target against Anemia of Inflammation

Hepcidin, master regulator of iron homeostasis, causes anemia under infectious and inflammatory conditions by reducing intestinal absorption of iron with decreased release of iron from macrophages and liver despite adequate iron stores leading to Anemia of Inflammation (AI). Many therapeutic trials have been carried out but none have been effective due to its adverse effects. In present study, we discover that Guanosine 5'-diphosphate (GDP) encapsulated in lipid vesicle (NH+) was found to inhibit NF-ҝB activation by limiting phosphorylation and degradation of IҝBα, thus, attenuating IL-6 secretion from macrophage cells. Moreover, the suppressed IL-6 levels down regulated JAK2/STAT3 pathway with decrease inflammation-mediated Hamp mRNA transcription (HepG2) and increase iron absorption (Caco2) in HepG2/Caco2 co-culture model. Analogous results were obtained in acute and chronic AI mice model thus, correcting haemoglobin level. These results proved NH + GDP as novel therapeutic agent to overcome limitations and suggests it as potential drug to ameliorate AI.