Anti-inflammatory effect of the six compounds isolated from Nauclea officinalis Pierrc ex Pitard, and molecular mechanism of strictosamide via suppressing the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathway in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages

Ethnobotany and phytochemistry of plants used to treat musculoskeletal disorders among Skaw Karen, Thailand

CONTEXT

Musculoskeletal system disorders (MSD) are prevalent around the world affecting the health of people, especially farmers who work hard in the field. Karen farmers use many medicinal plants to treat MSD.

OBJECTIVE

This study collects traditional plant-based remedies used by the Skaw Karen to treat MSD and evaluates their active phytochemical compounds.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The ethnobotanical study was conducted in six Karen villages in Chiang Mai province using semi-structured interviews were of 120 informants. The data were analyzed using ethnobotanical indices including use values (UV), choice value (CV), and informant consensus factor (ICF). Consequently, the 20 most important species, according to the indices, were selected for phytochemical analysis using LC-MS/MS.

RESULTS

A total of 3731 use reports were obtained for 139 species used in MSD treatment. The most common ailments treated with those plants were muscular pain. A total of 172 high-potential active compounds for MSD treatment were identified. Most of them were flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, and steroids. The prevalent phytochemical compounds related to treat MSD were 9-hydroxycalabaxanthone, dihydrovaltrate, morroniside, isoacteoside, lithocholic acid, pomiferin, cucurbitacin E, leonuriside A, liriodendrin, and physalin E. Sambucus javanica Reinw. ex Blume (Adoxaceae), Betula alnoides Buch.-Ham. ex D.Don (Betulaceae), Blumea balsamifera (L.) DC. (Asteraceae), Plantago major L. (Plantaginaceae) and Flacourtia jangomas (Lour.) Raeusch. (Salicaceae) all had high ethnobotanical index values and many active compounds.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

This study provides valuable information, demonstrating low-cost medicine plants that are locally available. It is a choice of treatment for people living in remote areas.

Anti-hypertensive effect and potential mechanism of gastrodia-uncaria granules based on network pharmacology and experimental validation

Hypertension has become a major contributor to the morbidity and mortality of cardiovascular diseases worldwide. Despite the evidence of the anti-hypertensive effect of gastrodia-uncaria granules (GUG) in hypertensive patients, little is known about its potential therapeutic targets as well as the underlying mechanism. GUG components were sourced from TCMSP and HERB, with bioactive ingredients screened. Hypertension-related targets were gathered from DisGeNET, OMIM, GeneCards, CTD, and GEO. The STRING database constructed a protein-protein interaction network, visualized by Cytoscape 3.7.1. Core targets were analyzed via GO and KEGG using R package ClusterProfiler. Molecular docking with AutodockVina 1.2.2 revealed favorable binding affinities. In vivo studies on hypertensive mice and rats validated network pharmacology findings. GUG yielded 228 active ingredients and 1190 targets, intersecting with 373 hypertension-related genes. PPI network analysis identified five core genes: AKT1, TNF-α, GAPDH, IL-6, and ALB. Top enriched GO terms and KEGG pathways associated with the anti-hypertensive properties of GUG were documented. Molecular docking indicated stable binding of core components to targets. In vivo study showed that GUG could improve vascular relaxation, alleviate vascular remodeling, and lower blood pressure in hypertensive animal models possibly through inhibiting inflammatory factors such as AKT1, mTOR, and CCND1. Integrated network pharmacology and in vivo experiment showed that GUG may exert anti-hypertensive effects by inhibiting inflammation response, which provides some clues for understanding the effect and mechanisms of GUG in the treatment of hypertension.

Strictosamide alleviates acute lung injury via regulating T helper 17 cells, regulatory T cells, and gut microbiota

BACKGROUND

Nauclea officinalis (Pierre ex Pit.) Merr. & Chun (Rubiaceae) is widely used to treat respiratory diseases in China. Strictosamide is its main active component and has significant anti-inflammatory activity. However, the effects and molecular mechanisms of strictosamide in the treatment of acute lung injury (ALI) remain largely unknown.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to examine the regulatory effects of strictosamide on T helper 17 cells (Th17 cells)/Regulatory T cells (Treg cells) and gut microbiota in ALI-affected mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The ALI model was induced using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) intraperitoneal injection. Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining, the number of inflammatory cells in broncho-alveolar lavage fluid (BALF), the Wet/Dry (W/D) ratio, and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity were utilized as evaluation indices for the therapeutic efficacy of strictosamide on ALI. Flow cytometry (FCM), enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay (ELISA), quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and western blotting were used to determine the regulation of strictosamide on the Th17/Treg cells and the STAT3/STAT5 signaling pathway. The analysis of gut microbiota was conducted using 16S rDNA sequencing. The verification of the relationship between the gut microbiome and immune function was conducted using Spearman analysis.

RESULTS

Strictosamide attenuated inflammation on ALI induced by LPS, which reduced the levels of Th17-related factors interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-17 and increased Treg-related factors IL-10 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β. In the spleens and whole blood, strictosamide reduced the proportion of Th17 cells and increased the proportion of Treg cells. Furthermore, strictosamide increased Forkhead/winged helix transcription factor 3 (Foxp3) and p-STAT5 protein expression while inhibiting Retinoid-related orphan nuclear receptors-γt (RORγt) and p-STAT3 expression. Moreover, strictosamide reshaped the diversity and structure of the gut microbiota, and influence the associations between immune parameters and gut microbiota in ALI mice.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, the results of the current investigation showed that strictosamide has a therapeutic impact on LPS-induced ALI. The mechanism of action of this effect may be associated with the modulation of Th17 and Treg cells differentiation via the SATA signaling pathway, as well as the impact of the gut microbiota.

Strictosamide promotes wound healing through activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway

Nauclea officinalis, as a Chinese medicine in Hainan province, had the effect of treating lower limb ulcers, burn infections. In this paper, we studied the effect of Strictosamide (STR), the main bioactive compound in Nauclea officinals, on wound healing and explored its internal mechanism. Firstly, the wound healing potential of STR was evaluated in a rat model, demonstrating its ability to expedite wound healing, mitigate inflammatory infiltration, and enhance collagen deposition. Additionally, immunofluorescence analysis revealed that STR up-regulated the expression of CD31 and PCNA. Subsequently, target prediction, protein-protein interaction (PPI), gene ontology (GO), and pathway enrichment analyses were used to obtain potential targets, specific biological processes, and molecular mechanisms of STR for the potential treatment of wound healing. Furthermore, molecular docking was conducted to predict the binding affinity between STR and its associated targets. Additionally, in vivo and in vitro experiments confirmed that STR could increase the expression of P-PI3K, P-AKT and P-mTOR by activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. In summary, this study provided a new explanation for the mechanism by which STR promotes wound healing through network pharmacology, suggesting that STR may be a new candidate for treating wound.

Strictosamide ameliorates LPS-induced acute lung injury by targeting ERK2 and mediating NF-κB signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Acute lung injury (ALI) ranks among the deadliest pulmonary diseases, significantly impacting mortality and morbidity. Presently, the primary treatment for ALI involves supportive therapy; however, its efficacy remains unsatisfactory. Strictosamide (STR), an indole alkaloid found in the Chinese herbal medicine Nauclea officinalis (Pierre ex Pit.) Merr. & Chun (Wutan), has been found to exhibit numerous pharmacological properties, particularly anti-inflammatory effects.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimes to systematically identify and validate the specific binding proteins targeted by STR and elucidate its anti-inflammatory mechanism in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Biotin chemical modification, protein microarray analysis and network pharmacology were conducted to screen for potential STR-binding proteins. The binding affinity was assessed through surface plasmon resonance (SPR), cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) and molecular docking, and the anti-inflammatory mechanism of STR in ALI treatment was assessed through in vivo and in vitro experiments.

RESULTS

Biotin chemical modification, protein microarray and network pharmacology identified extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 2 (ERK2) as the most important binding proteins among 276 candidate STR-interacting proteins and nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) pathway was one of the main inflammatory signal transduction pathways. Using SPR, CETSA, and molecular docking, we confirmed STR's affinity for ERK2. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that STR mitigated inflammation by targeting ERK2 to modulate the NF-κB signaling pathway in LPS-induced ALI.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that STR can inhibit the NF-κB signaling pathway to attenuate LPS-induced inflammation by targeting ERK2 and decreasing phosphorylation of ERK2, which could be a novel strategy for treating ALI.

Measurement of Pharmacokinetics and Tissue Distribution of Four Compounds from Nauclea officinalis in Rat Plasma and Tissues through HPLC-MS/MS

A rapid, sensitive, selective, and accurate HPLC-MS/MS method was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of chlorogenic acid, naucleactonin C, khaephuoside A 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl-1-O-β-apiofuroseyl(1 ⟶ 2)-β-D-glucopyranoside in rat plasma and tissues after oral administration of Nauclea officinalis extracts. Chloramphenicol was used as an internal standard (IS). The plasma and tissue samples were extracted by protein precipitation with methanol-ethyl acetate (1 : 1, v/v) including 0.1% (v/v) formic acid. The chromatographic separation was achieved by using an C18 column with gradient elution using mobile phase, which consisted of 0.1% formic acid water (A) and acetonitrile (B) and the flow rate of 0.8 mL/min. Mass spectrometric detection was performed in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode utilizing electrospray ionization (ESI) in negative mode. The developed method exhibited good linearity (determination coefficients, R ² ≥ 0.9849), and the lower limits of quantification were 2, 5, 5, and 25 ng/mL for chlorogenic acid, naucleactonin C, khaephuoside A, and 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl-1-O-β-apiofuroseyl(1 ⟶ 2)-β-D-glucopyranoside. The intraday and interday precisions (relative standard deviation, RSD) were less than 12.65%, while the accuracy was ranged from 86.31 to 114.17%. The recovery rate were 51.85-97.06%, 75.99-106.68%, 77.46-105.35%, and 68.36-103.75% for chlorogenic acid, naucleactonin C, khaephuoside A, and 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl-1-O-β-apiofuroseyl(1 ⟶ 2)-β-D-glucopyranoside the matrix effects were 50.17-116.62%, 86.75-115.99%, 45.79-87.44%, and 51.60-92.34% for chlorogenic acid, naucleactonin C, khaephuoside A, and 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl-1-O-β-apiofuroseyl(1 ⟶ 2)-β-D-glucopyranoside in different matrix. The developed method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study and tissue distribution of four compounds in rats after oral administration of Nauclea officinalis extracts.

Nauclea officinalis: A Chinese medicinal herb with phytochemical, biological, and pharmacological effects

Nauclea officinalis (N. officinalis), a medicinal plant of the genus Nauclea in the family Rubiaceae, is used in the treatment of fever, pneumonia, pharyngolaryngitis, and enteritis in China. Extracts of N. officinalis include alkaloids, phenolic acids, pentacyclic triterpenoids, and flavonoids, which exert all kinds of pharmacological effects, for instance anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, antibacterial, and antiviral and therefore show good effectiveness. To gain a comprehensive and deep understanding, the medicinal chemistry and chemical biology of N. officinalis are summarized in this review to provide a theoretical basis. The pharmacological effects were reviewed to provide evidence or insights into potential opportunities for further studies and medicinal exploitation of N. officinalis.

Integrated metabolomics, network pharmacology and biological verification to reveal the mechanisms of Nauclea officinalis treatment of LPS-induced acute lung injury

BACKGROUND

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a severe inflammatory disease, underscoring the urgent need for novel treatments. Nauclea officinalis Pierre ex Pitard (Danmu in Chinese, DM) is effective in treating inflammatory respiratory diseases. However, there is still no evidence of its protective effect against ALI.

METHODS

Metabolomics was applied to identify the potential biomarkers and pathways in ALI treated with DM. Further, network pharmacology was introduced to predict the key targets of DM against ALI. Then, the potential pathways and key targets were further verified by immunohistochemistry and western blot assays.

RESULTS

DM significantly improved lung histopathological characteristics and inflammatory response in LPS-induced ALI. Metabolomics analysis showed that 16 and 19 differential metabolites were identified in plasma and lung tissue, respectively, and most of these metabolites tended to recover after DM treatment. Network pharmacology analysis revealed that the PI3K/Akt pathway may be the main signaling pathway of DM against ALI. The integrated analysis of metabolomics and network pharmacology identified 10 key genes. These genes are closely related to inflammatory response and cell apoptosis of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI in mice. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry and western blot verified that DM could regulate inflammatory response and cell apoptosis by affecting the PI3K/Akt pathway, and expression changes in Bax and Bcl-2 were also triggered.

CONCLUSION

This study first integrated metabolomics, network pharmacology and biological verification to investigate the potential mechanism of DM in treating ALI, which is related to the regulation of inflammatory response and cell apoptosis. And the integrated analysis can provide new strategies and ideas for the study of traditional Chinese medicines in the treatment of ALI.

Vincosamide Has a Function for Inhibiting Malignant Behaviors of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells

BACKGROUND

Vincosamide (Vinco) was first identified in the methanolic extract of the leaves of Psychotria leiocarpa, and Vinco has important anti-inflammatory effects and activity against cholinesterase, Vinco also has a trait to anti-tumor. However, whether Vinco can inhibit the malignant behaviors of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells is still unclear. In the present study, we explored the role of Vinco in suppressing the malignant behaviors of HCC cells.

METHODS

MTT (3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide), trypan blue exclusion assay, the Cell Counting Kit (CCK)-8 and flow cytometric analysis were applied to detect the proliferation and apoptosis of HCC cells; electron microscopy was performed to observe the change of cellular mitochondrial morphology; scratch repair and Transwell assays were used to analyze the migration and invasion of HCC cells; expression and localization of proteins were detected by laser confocal microscopy and Western blotting; the growth of the cancer cells in vivo was assessed in a mouse tumorous model.

RESULTS

At a dose of 10 - 80 µg/mL, Vinco inhibited the proliferation, migration, invasion and promoted apoptosis of HCC cells in a dose-dependent manner but had low cytotoxicity effect on normal liver cells. Additionally, 80 µg/mL of Vinco could significantly disrupt the morphology of mitochondria, suppress the migration and invasion of HCC cells. The growth of HCC cells in the animal tumorous model was significantly inhibited after treatment with Vinco (10 mg/kg/day) for 3 days. The results of the present study indicated that Vinco (10 - 80 µg/mL) played a role in activating caspase-3, promoting the expression of phosphate and tension homology deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN), and inhibiting the phosphorylation of AKT (Ser473) and mTOR (Thr2448); Vinco also has a trait for suppressing the expression of CXCR4, Src, MMP9, EpCAM, Ras, Oct4 and cancer stem cell "stemness markers" CD133 and CD44 in HCC cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Vinco has a role in inhibiting the malignant behaviors of HCC cells; the role molecular mechanism of Vinco may be involved in restraining expression of the growth-, metastasis-related factors, such as Src, Ras, MMP9, EpCAM, CXCR4; activating the activity of caspase-3 and blocking PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Thus, Vinco should be considered as a new chemotherapy agent for HCC patients.

Retraction: Structural characterization and anti-inflammatory potency of Mesobuthus martensii Karsch oligopeptides in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 macrophages

Retraction of ‘Structural characterization and anti-inflammatory potency of Mesobuthus martensii Karsch oligopeptides in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 macrophages’ by Man Zheng et al., RSC Adv., 2019, 9, 24822–24832, https://doi.org/10.1039/C9RA01623F.

In vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant activities of Myrciaria plinioides D. Legrand ethanol leaf extract

Myrciaria plinioides D. Legrand (Myrtaceae) is a native plant of Southern Brazil, which have potential in the food industry due to its edible fruits. Many plants belonging to this genus have been used for a variety of illnesses, including inflammatory disorders due to antioxidant properties. However, therapeutic uses of M. plinioides have been poorly studied. The aim of study was to assess the anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant activities of the ethanol leaf extract of M. plinioides. In M. plinioides extract-treated RAW 264.7 cells, assessments of cell viability, TNF-α release and p38 MAPK pathway-dependent protein expression were detected. In addition, rat paw edema models were used to analyze the anti-inflammatory effect of the extract. Macrophages cell line treated with M. plinioides extract showed a slight decrease in cell viability. In LPS-stimulated macrophages treated with different concentrations of the extract for 24 h, TNF-α release was inhibited, while modulation of p38 signaling pathway and inhibition of NF-κB p65 protein expression were dose-dependent. In rats, the extract inhibited the formation of paw edema, while an inhibitory effect on trypsin-like enzymes derived from mast cells was seen. Furthermore, the extract presented anticoagulant activity via extrinsic pathway, being able to block specifically factor Xa and thrombin. The study suggests that extract possess potent anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant effects. M. plinioides present great biological potential as a source for the development of anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant drugs. Additional studies can be proposed to better elucidate the mechanism by which M. plinioides exerts its effects.

Simultaneous determination of 11 alkaloids in rat plasma by LC-ESI-MS/MS and a pharmacokinetic study after oral administration of total alkaloids extracted from Naucleaofficinalis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Nauclea officinalis, a widely used Li medicine, has been used for the treatment of cold, fever, bronchitis, pneumonia, acute tonsillitis, and other ailments. Modern pharmacological studies have demonstrated that the most abundant and active components in N. officinalis are alkaloids, which possess various biological properties such as antibacterial and antitumor activities.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the phytochemical profile of a selected group of alkaloids from the N. officinalis total alkaloids, and to determine the chemical profile of the alkaloids extracted from rat plasma. Further investigation was conducted to determine the pharmacokinetic behaviors of 11 selected major alkaloids, including pumiloside, naucleoxoside A, naucleoxoside B, nauclefine, angustidine, angustoline, (3S,19S)-3,14-dihydroangustoline,[α]_D²⁰: (-)191°, (3S,19R)-3,14-dihydroangustoline, [α]_D²⁰: (-) 294.7°, strictosamide, angustine, and 3,14-dihydroangustine.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

N. officinalis total alkaloids were extracted with 79% ethanol and enriched with AB-8 macroporous resin. The phytochemical profile of alkaloids from the N. officinalis total alkaloids and the chemical profile of the alkaloids extracted from rat plasma were first analyzed by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. A simple, convenient, and sensitive LC-ESI-MS/MS method was subsequently developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of major active alkaloids in rat plasma after oral administration of N. officinalis total alkaloids. After addition of an internal standard (verapamil), plasma samples were pretreated first by protein precipitation with methanol and then underwent liquid-liquid extraction with ethyl acetate. Chromatographic separation was achieved using a Waters BEH C₁₈ column (2.1 mm × 100 mm, 1.7 μm) at 30 °C, with gradient elution using a mobile phase consisting of 0.1% formic acid aqueous solution (A) and acetonitrile (B), a flow rate of 0.2 mL/min, and a total run time of 30 min. The detection was performed using an electrospray ionization triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometer with multiple reaction monitoring and positive ionization mode.

RESULTS

Based on the fragmentation patterns of 11 authentic alkaloids and previous reports, 55 alkaloids were identified or tentatively identified in the N. officinalis total alkaloids. Among them, 25 alkaloids were absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract in rats after administration of the N. officinalis total alkaloids. The 11 alkaloids were selected for quantitative analysis. The established quantitative method was fully validated and proved to be sensitive and specific. Satisfactory linearity of the 11 alkaloids obtained in the respective concentration ranges (r > 0.9931). The lower limits of quantification for strictosamide was 20.86 ng/ml, and the other ten alkaloids were all less than 4.47 ng/ml in rat plasma. The intra-and inter-day precision was less than 15% for all 11 alkaloids in terms of relative standard deviation, and the accuracies ranged from -11.4% to 11.1% in terms of relative error. Extraction recovery, matrix effect, and stability were within the required limits in rat plasma.

CONCLUSION

The validated method was successfully applied to investigate the pharmacokinetics of the 11 alkaloids in rat plasma after oral administration of N. officinalis total alkaloids. Eleven alkaloids were rapidly absorbed to achieve a maximum plasma concentration with T_max from 0.25 h to 1.5 h after oral administration. The pharmacokinetic parameters and plasma concentration-time profiles will prove valuable in pre-clinical and clinical investigations on the disposition of N. officinalis total alkaloids.

The rapid profiling and simultaneous determination of 12 major alkaloids in Nauclea officinalis by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS and HPLC-ESI-MS/MS

For the first time, we determined the phytochemical profile of alkaloids from N. officinalis using ultraperformance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS). A rapid, specific, and sensitive high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method was subsequently developed and fully validated for the simultaneous determination of 12 major alkaloid constituents in N. officinalis: pumiloside; naucleoxoside A; naucleoxoside B; nauclefine; angustidine; angustoline; (3S,19S)-3,14-dihydroangustoline ([α]20D: (-)191°); (3S,19R)-3,14-dihydroangustoline ([α]20D: (-)294.7°); strictosamide; angustine; vincosamide; and 3,14-dihydroangustine. The analytes were detected with an electrospray ionization (ESI) source and multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) using positive scanning mode. Three pairs of epimers (naucleoxoside A and naucleoxoside B; (3S,19S)-3,14-dihydroangustoline ([α]20D: (-)191°) and (3S,19R)-3,14-dihydroangustoline ([α]20D: (-)294.7°); and strictosamide and vincosamide) were successfully separated using an ACQUITY UPLC® BEH C₁₈ column (2.1 mm × 100 mm, 1.7 μm) at 30 °C, with a gradient mobile phase consisting of 0.1% formic acid aqueous solution (A) and acetonitrile (B), a flow rate of 0.2 mL min^-1, and a total run time of 30 min. All calibration curves exhibited excellent linear regression (r > 0.999) within the test range. The precision, repeatability, and stability of the method toward the 12 alkaloid compounds were less than 2.0% in terms of the relative standard deviation (RSD) values. The mean recoveries for all compounds were between 98.7% and 101.1%, with RSD values ranging from 0.55% to 1.7% for N. officinalis samples.

Effect of combined treatment with lobaplatin and osthole on inducing apoptosis and inhibiting proliferation in human breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells

The present study investigates the underlying mechanisms of treatment with osthole (OST) combined with lobaplatin in human triple-negative MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Human triple-negative MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells were treated with different concentrations of OST (0.1, 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 μM) alone or in combination with 10 μM lobaplatin for 48 h. Cell viability was determined and compared between the treatment groups with the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. Transcriptome sequencing (Project Number: M-GSGC0250521) was employed to elucidate the gene expression profile of the control group and the OST treatment group, and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified based on the following criteria: log₂FC > 0, P < 0.05. KEGG enrichment analysis was employed to determine the biological functions of these DEGs and the related signaling pathways. Finally, flow cytometry and western blotting were used to assess differences in the apoptosis rate and protein expression in MDA-MB-231 cells subjected to different treatments. The findings showed that OST inhibited the growth of MDA-MB-231 cells in a concentration-dependent manner and cell proliferation was significantly inhibited (as indicated by a decrease of 40%) at the OST concentration of 50 μM (P < 0.05). Transcriptome sequencing identified 4712 DEGs, including 2169 upregulated DEGs and 2543 downregulated DEGs. Enrichment analysis indicated that the DEGs played a role in apoptosis, p53 signaling, DNA replication, and cell cycle. In vitro experiments showed that OST and lobaplatin could significantly induce apoptosis in the MDA-MB-231 cells (P < 0.05), as indicated by elevation in the translation level of p53/Bax/caspase-3 p17 and downregulation of the Bcl-2 protein. Finally, combined treatment with OST and lobaplatin had an enhanced anti-tumor effect (P < 0.05) on proliferation and apoptosis, as well as more obvious effects on the related proteins (p53, Bax, Bcl-2, and caspase-3 p17). Thus, OST enhanced the apoptosis-mediated growth inhibitory effect of lobaplatin on breast cancer cells and has potential for the treatment of breast cancer in the future.

The Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Smilax china L. Extract on LPS-Stimulated THP-1 via Downregulation of MAPK and NF-κB Signaling Pathway

Background

Traditional Chinese medicine Smilax is the rhizome of liliaceous plant Smilax china L., which is used to treat pelvic inflammatory disease and anxieties.

Purpose

To investigate the mechanism of anti-inflammatory activity of the extract from Smilax china L. (ES).

Methods

The components of ES were identified by UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS. The anti-inflammatory activities were evaluated in xylene-induced ear oedema and egg white-induced plantar swelling test. Cell viability was examined by CCK-8 assay. The inflammatory mediators, proinflammatory cytokines, and MAPK and NF-κB signals in LPS-stimulated THP-1 cells were determined using ELISA, real-time PCR, and Western blot, respectively.

Results

20 compounds of ES were confirmed by comparing with the reference substance. ES displayed more prominent anti-inflammatory activity than the positive control “Jin Gang Teng” capsule in the in vivo acute inflammatory model. ES suppressed the expression of PGE₂ and 6-Keot-PGF₁α, and the ratio of IC₅₀ (COX-1)/IC₅₀ (COX-2) of ES was 3.15, which indicated that ES could selectively inhibit COX-2. ES dose-dependently (12.5, 25, and 50 mg/L) decreased the production and mRNA levels of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Furthermore, ES significantly decreased LPS-induced phosphorylation of p38, JNK, ERK1/2, and p65, inhibiting the expression of IKKα and the degradation of IκBα.

Conclusion

The results suggested that ES could selectively inhibit the activity of COX-2, and the anti-inflammatory effect of ES was associated with the inhibition of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α via negative regulation of MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways in LPS-induced THP-1 cells.

Three-Dimensional RAW264.7 Cell Model on Electrohydrodynamic Printed Poly(ε-Caprolactone) Scaffolds for In Vitro Study of Anti-Inflammatory Compounds

Inflammation plays an essential role in the human immune system, and anti-inflammatory compounds are important to promote health. However, the in vitro screening of these compounds is largely dependent on flat biology. Herein, we report our efforts in establishing a 3D inflammation murine macrophage model. Murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cells were cultured on poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) scaffolds fabricated through an electrohydrodynamic jetting 3D printer and their behavior were examined. Cells on PCL scaffolds showed a 3D shape and morphology with multilayers and a lower proliferation rate. Moreover, macrophages were not activated by scaffold material PCL and 3D microenvironment. The 3D cells showed greater sensitivity to lipopolysaccharide stimulation with higher production activity of nitric oxide (NO), nitric oxide synthases (iNOS), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Additionally, the 3D macrophage model showed lower drug sensitivity to commercial anti-inflammatory drugs including aspirin, ibuprofen, and dexamethasone, and natural flavones apigenin and luteolin with higher IC₅₀ for NO production and lower iNOS and COX-2 inhibition efficacy. Overall, the 3D macrophage model showed promise for higher accurate screening of anti-inflammatory compounds. We developed, for the first time, a 3D macrophage model based on a 3D-printed PCL scaffold that provides an extracellular matrix environment for cells to grow in the 3D dimension. 3D-grown RAW 264.7 cells showed different sensitivities and responses to anti-inflammatory compounds from its 2D model. The 3D cells have lower sensitivity to both commercial and natural anti-inflammatory compounds. Consequently, our 3D macrophage model could be applied to screen anti-inflammatory compounds more accurately and thus holds great potential in next-generation drug screening applications.

Prunetin 4'-O-Phosphate, a Novel Compound, in RAW 264.7 Macrophages Exerts Anti-Inflammatory Activity via Suppression of MAP Kinases and the NFκB Pathway

Biorenovation, a microbial enzyme-assisted degradation process of precursor compounds, is an effective approach to unraveling the potential bioactive properties of the derived compounds. In this study, we obtained a new compound, prunetin 4′-O-phosphate (P4P), through the biorenovation of prunetin (PRN), and investigated its anti-inflammatory effects in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. The anti-inflammatory effect of P4P was evaluated by measuring the production of prostaglandin-E₂ (PGE₂), nitric oxide (NO), which is an inflammation-inducing factor, and related cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), interleukin-1β (IL1β), and interleukin-6 (IL6). The findings demonstrated that P4P was non-toxic to cells, and its inhibition of the secretion of NO—as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines—was concentration-dependent. A simultaneous reduction in the protein expression level of pro-inflammatory proteins such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) was observed. Moreover, the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) such as extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), p38 MAPK (p38), and nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) was downregulated. To conclude, we report that biorenovation-based phosphorylation of PRN improved its anti-inflammatory activity. Cell-based in vitro assays further confirmed that P4P could be applied in the development of anti-inflammatory therapeutics.

Comparative analysis of bioactive constituents and pharmacological activities from different parts of Nauclea officinalis

The stems of Nauclea officinalis have been utilized as a crude drug in China, so other parts of the plant are abandoned, resulting in a waste of traditional Chinese medicine resources. To determine the distribution and content of the alkaloids, phenolic acids and iridoid in different organs (stem, branch, leaf and bark) of this plant, a reliable method has been established using LC-MS/MS. Nine constituents, namely strictosamide, vincosamide, chlorogenic acid, sweroside, naucleamide B, protocatechuic acid, pumiloside, vanillic acid and cryptochlorogenic acid, were simultaneously determined in 6 min. Meanwhile, the antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities were evaluated for comparative analysis of the pharmacological activity of different parts of N. officinalis. The results showed that the content of active components in other organs of N. officinalis was higher than that in stems, and the pharmacological effects of branches and leaves were also better. The established approach could be helpful for the quality control of N. officinalis, and also provide necessary information for the rational utilization of resources.

EGLLGDVF: A Novel Peptide from Green Mussel Perna viridis Foot Exerts Stability and Anti-inflammatory Effects on LPS-Stimulated RAW264.7 Cells

BACKGROUND

Green mussel Perna viridis is a bivalve mollusc which is native to the Indian coast and can be found in the Indo-Pacific as well as Asia-Pacific regions. This study evaluates the P. viridis foot (PVF) as a source of an anti-inflammatory peptide.

OBJECTIVE

To characterize and evaluate the possibility of pro-inflammatory cytokines, nitric oxide (NO) as well as cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 reduction in RAW264.7 cells and to analyze functional aspects of the derived peptide from PVF.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The PVF was hydrolysed with different enzymes and the antiinflammatory activity of hour hydrolysates were evaluated using HRBC Membrane Stabilization (HMS) against hypotonicity induced haemolysis and Albumin Denaturation (AD) inhibition from induced heat assays. Later, the active hour hydrolysate was separated by ultrafiltration and purified using Size-Exclusion Chromatography (SEC). Further, the purified peptide's sequence was identified using LC-MS/MS and functional properties were determined. Also, the peptide was observed for its anti-inflammatory effects in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells for pro-inflammatory cytokines, NO production and COX-2 activation.

RESULTS

Among the four enzymes 6th hour alcalase hydrolysate exhibited potent anti-inflammatory activity and was sequentially fractioned with molecular weight cut-offs; further active fraction (30- 10 kDa) was purified. The active peak-II was identified as EGLLGDVF (849.435 Da) and exhibited decent functional aspects. The peptide successfully reduced the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, NO and COX-2 activation; and down-regulated the iNOS and COX-2 protein expression in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells.

CONCLUSION

Our study indicates that EGLLGDVF derived from PVF has potential antiinflammatory applications applicable in food and pharmaceutical industries.

Alkaloids as Anticancer Agents: A Review of Chinese Patents in Recent 5 Years

BACKGROUND

In recent years, many novel alkaloids with anticancer activity have been found in China, and some of them are promising for developing as anticancer agents.

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the information about alkaloid anticancer agents disclosed in Chinese patents, and discusses their potential to be developed as anticancer drugs used clinically.

METHODS

Anticancer alkaloids disclosed in Chinese patents in recent 5 years were presented according to their mode of actions. Their study results published on PubMed, and SciDirect databases were presented.

RESULTS

More than one hundred anticancer alkaloids were disclosed in Chinese patents and their mode of action referred to arresting cell cycle, inhibiting protein kinases, affecting DNA synthesis and p53 expression, etc. Conclusion: Many newly found alkaloids displayed potent anticancer activity both in vitro and in vivo, and some of the anticancer alkaloids acted as protein kinase inhibitors or CDK inhibitors possess the potential for developing as novel anticancer agents.

Amino Acid- and Growth Factor-Based Multifunctional Nanocapsules for the Modulation of the Local Microenvironment in Tissue Engineering

Oxidative damage to cells from metabolites at a wound site is one of the trickiest factors inhibiting tissue regeneration, especially with bulk damage. In addition, an excessive inflammatory reaction by the body at the wound site can make it even worse. How to scavenge the reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced from metabolism and inflammatory reactions has become a critical issue in tissue engineering. Here, we utilize the natural bioactive small molecules l-arginine and l-phenylalanine and the growth factor inositol to synthesize a branched poly(ester amide) (BPEA) to fabricate BPEA nanocapsules for vitamin E delivery at wound sites. BPEA nanocapsules loaded with vitamin E (BPEA@VE NCs) could protect cells from both extracellular and intracellular damage by scavenging ROS. Simultaneously, the inflammatory reaction could also be downregulated, benefiting from the introduction of l-arginine. Furthermore, the biodegradation products of BPEA are natural metabolites of the body, such as amino acids and growth factors, guaranteeing the biocompatibility of the BPEA@VE NCs. The protective ability of the BPEA@VE NCs was also investigated in vivo for accelerated wound healing. All the results indicate that the BPEA@VE NCs have promising potential for the modulation of the local microenvironment in tissue engineering for excellent antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties.

Discovery of natural anti-inflammatory alkaloids: Potential leads for the drug discovery for the treatment of inflammation

Inflammation is an adaptive response of the immune system to tissue malfunction or homeostatic imbalance. Corticosteroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are frequently applied to treat varieties of inflammatory diseases but are associated with gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and kidney side effects. Developing more effective and less toxic agents remain a challenge for pharmaceutical chemist due to the complexity of the different inflammatory processes. Alkaloids are widely distributed in plants with diverse anti-inflammatory activities, providing various potential lead compounds or candidates for the design and discovery of new anti-inflammatory drug candidates. Therefore, re-examining the anti-inflammatory alkaloid natural products is advisable, bringing more opportunities. In this review, we summarized and described the recent advances of natural alkaloids with anti-inflammatory activities and possible mechanisms in the period from 2009 to 2020. It is hoped that this review of anti-inflammatory alkaloids can provide new ideas for researchers engaged in the related fields and potential lead compounds for the discovery of anti-inflammatory drugs.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Extracts and Pure Compounds Derived from Plants via Modulation of Signaling Pathways, Especially PI3K/AKT in Macrophages

The plant kingdom is a source of important therapeutic agents. Therefore, in this review, we focus on natural compounds that exhibit efficient anti-inflammatory activity via modulation signaling transduction pathways in macrophage cells. Both extracts and pure chemicals from different species and parts of plants such as leaves, roots, flowers, barks, rhizomes, and seeds rich in secondary metabolites from various groups such as terpenes or polyphenols were included. Selected extracts and phytochemicals control macrophages biology via modulation signaling molecules including NF-κB, MAPKs, AP-1, STAT1, STAT6, IRF-4, IRF-5, PPARγ, KLF4 and especially PI3K/AKT. Macrophages are important immune effector cells that take part in antigen presentation, phagocytosis, and immunomodulation. The M1 and M2 phenotypes are related to the production of pro- and anti-inflammatory agents, respectively. The successful resolution of inflammation mediated by M2, or failed resolution mediated by M1, may lead to tissue repair or chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation is strictly related to several disorders. Thus, compounds of plant origin targeting inflammatory response may constitute promising therapeutic strategies.

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.

Vanillin protects lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury by inhibiting ERK1/2, p38 and NF-κB pathway

Aim: Thus far, the anti-inflammatory effect of vanillin in acute lung injury (ALI) has not been studied. This study aimed to investigate the effect of vanillin in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI. Results & methodology: Our study detected the anti-inflammatory effects of vanillin by ELISA and western blot, respectively. Pretreatment of mice with vanillin significantly attenuated LPS-stimulated lung histopathological changes, myeloperoxidase activity and expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines by inhibiting the phosphorylation activities of ERK1/2, p38, AKT and NF-κB p65. In addition, vanillin inhibited LPS-induced TNF-α and IL-6 expression in RAW264.7 cells via ERK1/2, p38 and NF-κB signaling. Conclusion: Vanillin can inhibit macrophage activation and lung inflammation, which suggests new insights for clinical treatment of ALI.

Psychotria leiocarpa Extract and Vincosamide Reduce Chemically-Induced Inflammation in Mice and Inhibit the Acetylcholinesterase Activity

Species from Psychotria are used in folk medicine against inflammatory diseases, respiratory disturbances, and anti-hallucinogenic. In the present study, the compound vincosamide (PL-1) was identified for the first time in methanolic extract of the Psychotria leiocarpa (ME-PL) leaves, as well as the anti-inflammatory and anticholinesteric effects in rodents and molecular docking simulations. The fractionation of the chloroform fraction (CF-PL) through chromatographic methods afforded the known compound PL-1. The anti-inflammatory activity of the ME-PL (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg) and PL-1 (3, 30, and 100 mg/kg) was analyzed using experimental models: paw edema, pleurisy, and mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia induced by carrageenan. The anticholinesterase activity of the ME-PL (30 and 100 mg/kg) and PL-1 (30 mg/kg) was showed by acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory in brain structures. The molecular docking simulations were performed using Molegro Virtual Docker v6.0. Overall, the results indicated that ME-PL and PL-1 demonstrated an anti-edematogenic effect in Cg-induced paw edema, leukocyte migration in the pleurisy model, and significantly reduced mechanical hyperalgesia, cold response to acetone in mice. The samples exhibited maximal inhibition of enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in the frontal cortex. The molecular coupling of PL-1 with the AChE showed significant interactions with the catalytic and peripheral site, corroborating the activity presented in the inhibition assay. The acute administration of ME-PL did not cause signs of toxicity in the treated animals. The results showed that P. leiocarpa inhibited AChE and anti-inflammatory activity, and alkaloid vincosamide could be responsible, at least in part, for the observed effects, supporting the popular use of this genus.

Chromatographic fingerprints analysis and determination of seven components in Danmu preparations by HPLC-DAD/QTOF-MS

Background

Danmu preparations (Danmu Capsule and Danmu Syrup), which are made from Nauclea officinalis stem extracts, have good clinical efficacy in acute tonsillitis, acute pharyngitis and upper respiratory tract infection. However, there is currently no reliable and systematic method to control the quality of these two Danmu preparations.

Methods

Using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with diode array detection (DAD), the fingerprints of the Danmu preparations were established at 250 nm to comprehensively investigate the stability of preparation process. The chemical constituents in the Danmu preparations were separated and identified by HPLC coupled with quadrupole-time-of-flight high-definition mass spectrometry (HPLC–Q-TOF-MS). And seven major components were simultaneously determined at dual wavelengths (250 nm, 326 nm).

Results

The results of HPLC fingerprint similarity evaluation showed that the similarity values of 25 batches of Danmu preparations were more than 0.993. Twenty-three compounds, including 10 alkaloids, 6 phenolic acids, 2 iridoids, and 5 unknown compounds, were identified or tentatively characterized according to the retention times and MS/MS fragment patterns of compounds. The developed assay method of seven components was validated with acceptable linearity, precision, repeatability, stability and recovery. The contents of strictosamide belonging to alkaloids as the most abundant constituent in Danmu Capsule and Danmu Syrup were 43,681.20–99,652.49 μg/g and 1567.83–2427.25 μg/mL respectively. The contents of protocatechuic acid which were the highest in measured phenolic acids were 2633.01–7739.78 μg/g in Danmu Capsule and 192.05–448.71 μg/mL in Danmu Syrup, respectively. As an iridoid, the contents of sweroside in Danmu Capsule and Danmu Syrup were 1573.82–2789.81 μg/g and 70.32–182.81 μg/mL, respectively.

Conclusion

The established qualitative analysis method of fingerprint can be used to attain standardization, uniformity and stability of the preparation process. Meanwhile, the quantitative analysis in this study can be used as an accurate assay method for preparations.

Protopine attenuates inflammation stimulated by carrageenan and LPS via the MAPK/NF-κB pathway

We investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of protopine (PTP) and sought to determine its mechanism of action in LPS-stimulated BV2 cells and a carrageenan (CA)-induced mouse model. Treatment with PTP (5, 10, and 20 μM) significantly suppresses the secretion of NO and PGE₂ in a concentration-dependent manner without affecting cell viability by downregulating iNOS and COX-2 expression in LPS-induced BV2 cells. PTP also attenuates the production of pro-inflammatory chemokines, such as MCP-1, and cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6, and augments the expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. In addition, PTP suppresses the nuclear translocation of NF-κB by hindering the degradation of IκB and downregulating the expression of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), including p38, ERK1/2 and JNK protein. Furthermore, PTP treatment significantly suppresses CA-induced paw oedema in mice compared to that seen in untreated mice. Expression of iNOS and COX-2 proteins is also abrogated by PTP (50 mg/kg) treatment in CA-induced mice. PTP treatment also abolishes IκB phosphorylation, which hinders the activation of NF-κB. Collectively, these results suggest PTP has potential for attenuating CA- and LPS-induced inflammatory symptoms through modulation of MAPKs/NF-κB signaling cascades.

RTA 408 Inhibits Interleukin-1β-Induced MMP-9 Expression via Suppressing Protein Kinase-Dependent NF-κB and AP-1 Activation in Rat Brain Astrocytes

Neuroinflammation is characterized by the elevated expression of various inflammatory proteins, including matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), induced by various pro-inflammatory mediators, which play a critical role in neurodegenerative disorders. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) has been shown to induce the upregulation of MMP-9 through nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase (NOX)-reactive oxygen species (ROS)-dependent signaling pathways. N-(2-cyano-3,12-dioxo-28-noroleana-1,9(11)-dien-17-yl)-2-2-difluoropropanamide (RTA 408), a novel synthetic triterpenoid, has been shown to possess anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in various types of cells. Here, we evaluated the effects of RTA 408 on IL-1β-induced inflammatory responses by suppressing MMP-9 expression in a rat brain astrocyte (RBA-1) line. IL-1β-induced MMP-9 protein and mRNA expression, and promoter activity were attenuated by RTA 408. The increased level of ROS generation in RBA-1 cells exposed to IL-1β was attenuated by RTA 408, as determined by using 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) and CellROX. In addition, the inhibitory effects of RTA 408 on MMP-9 expression resulted from the suppression of the IL-1β-stimulated activation of Pyk2 (proline-rich tyrosine kinase), platelet-derived growth factor receptor β (PDGFRβ), Akt, ROS, and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). Pretreatment with RTA 408 attenuated the IL-1β-induced c-Jun phosphorylation, mRNA expression, and promoter activity. IL-1β-stimulated nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) p65 phosphorylation, translocation, and promoter activity were also attenuated by RTA 408. Furthermore, IL-1β-induced glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) protein and mRNA expression, and cell migration were attenuated by pretreatment with RTA 408. These results provide new insights into the mechanisms by which RTA 408 attenuates IL-1β-mediated inflammatory responses and exerts beneficial effects for the management of brain diseases.

Anti-inflammatory effect of aerial bulblets of Dioscorea japonica Thunb extract through inhibition of NF-κB and MAPK signalling pathway in RAW 264.7

BACKGROUND

Yam (Dioscorea japonica Thunb) is a well-known health food in Korea and is widely distributed in the temperate and tropical regions. Although various medical effects of yam have been demonstrated, there is little current knowledge on the efficacy of Youngyeoja (YYJ; the aerial bulblets of the yam plant), their physiological effects, and their mechanism of action.

METHODS

To investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of YYJ, we examined the level of inflammatory mediators in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells treated with YYJ extract. Nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) were evaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. In addition, activation of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) was detected using western blotting.

RESULTS

Treatment of macrophages with LPS markedly induced the production of NO and PGE2. YYJ treatment inhibited the induction of inflammatory mediators and the expression of iNOS and COX-2. More importantly, LPS-induced phosphorylation of nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells inhibitor (IκB) was suppressed by treatment with YYJ, suggesting YYJ inhibited NF-κB activation. Furthermore, YYJ inhibited the LPS-induced phosphorylation of MAPKs.

CONCLUSION

YYJ was shown to have a potent anti-inflammatory effect in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells, which may be attributed to its inhibitory effect on NF-κB and MAPK activation, consequently blocking the production of inflammatory factors. Therefore, these results suggest that the YYJ extracts could be used as anti-inflammatory agents.

JAX2, an ethanol extract of Hyssopus cuspidatus Boriss, can prevent bronchial asthma by inhibiting MAPK/NF-κB inflammatory signaling

BACKGROUND

Hyssopus cuspidatus Boriss has been used to treat bronchial asthma for many years in Uighur medicine. JAX2, an ethanol extract from this plant, has effectiveness against bronchial asthma. However, the molecular basis for the anti-inflammatory effects of JAX2 remains unclear.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate the mechanism of JAX2 against bronchial asthma.

METHODS

We established an asthma model in rats using ovalbumin (OVA), and an inflammatory model in RAW264.7 cells using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation. To evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of JAX2, the concentrations of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, IL-17, eotaxin and immunoglobulin (Ig)E were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cell viability was investigated by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)2H-tetrazolium, inner salt (MTS) assay. Further, nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were determined using Griess reagent and 2,7-dichlorofluorescein diacetate. The phosphorylation of p-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), p-Jun-NH2-terminal kinase (JNK), p38 kinases (p38) and p-inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa-B kinase (IKK), and nuclear translocation of p-p65 kinases (p-p65) were determined by immunofluorescence to uncover the effects of JAX2 on the Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways.

RESULTS

After JAX2 administration to rats, Interferon (IFN)-γ concentrations in BALF increased significantly. Further, the concentrations of TNF-α, IL-4, IL-6, IL-17 and eotaxin in BALF, and IgE in serum decreased. JAX2 decreased TNF-α, IL-6 and NO in cell supernatant, and reduced ROS intracellularly. Concurrently, IFN-γ concentrations increased in cell supernatant significantly. In LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells, JAX2 inhibited phosphorylation of p-ERK, p-JNK and p-38 MAPK. The subsequent phosphorylation of p-IKK and nuclear translocation of the p-p65 subunit of NF-κB were also suppressed.

CONCLUSION

Based on these findings, we believe that JAX2 has both preventive and treatment effects in bronchial asthma. Furthermore, in the RAW264.7 cell inflammatory model, JAX2 also inhibited NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways.

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.

Farrerol Ameliorates TNBS-Induced Colonic Inflammation by Inhibiting ERK1/2, JNK1/2, and NF-κB Signaling Pathway

Farrerol, a type of 2, 3-dihydro-flavonoid, is obtained from Rhododendron. Previous studies have shown that Farrerol performs multiple biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant activity. In this study, we aim to investigate the effect of Farrerol on colonic inflammation and explore its potential mechanisms. We found that the effect of Farrerol was evaluated via the 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis model in mice and found that Farrerol has a protective effect on TNBS-induced colitis. Farrerol administration significantly improved the weight change, clinical scores, colon length, and intestinal epithelium barrier damage and markedly decreased the inflammatory cytokines production in TNBS-induced mice. The protective effect of Farrerol was also observed in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells. We found that Farrerol observably reduced the production of inflammatory mediators including IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, COX-2, and iNOS in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells via suppressing AKT, ERK1/2, JNK1/2, and NF-κB p65 phosphorylation. In conclusion, the study found that Farrerol has a beneficial effect on TNBS-induced colitis and might be a natural therapeutic agent for IBD treatment.

Asperuloside and Asperulosidic Acid Exert an Anti-Inflammatory Effect via Suppression of the NF-κB and MAPK Signaling Pathways in LPS-Induced RAW 264.7 Macrophages

Hedyotis diffusa is a folk herb that is used for treating inflammation-related diseases in Asia. Previous studies have found that iridoids in H. diffusa play an important role in its anti-inflammatory activity. This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect and potential mechanism of five iridoids (asperuloside (ASP), asperulosidic acid (ASPA), desacetyl asperulosidic acid (DAA), scandoside methyl ester (SME), and E-6-O-p-coumaroyl scandoside methyl ester (CSME)) that are presented in H. diffusa using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 cells. ASP and ASPA significantly decreased the production of nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in parallel with the inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), TNF-α, and IL-6 mRNA expression in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells. ASP treatment suppressed the phosphorylation of the inhibitors of nuclear factor-kappaB alpha (IκB-α), p38, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). The inhibitory effect of ASPA was similar to that of ASP, except for p38 phosphorylation. In summary, the anti-inflammatory effects of ASP and ASPA are related to the inhibition of inflammatory cytokines and mediators via suppression of the NF-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways, which provides scientific evidence for the potential application of H. diffusa.

A New Compound Isolated from the Reduced Ribose-Tryptophan Maillard Reaction Products Exhibits Distinct Anti-inflammatory Activity

In this study, a compound of 532.24 Da named BF-4 was separated from the ribose-tryptophan Maillard reaction products by solvent extraction and purified through reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography. The purified compound BF-4 was identified as 3-((1 H-indol-3-yl)methyl)-8-(5-((1 H-indol-3-yl)methyl)-6-oxomorpholin-2-yl)-9-hydroxy-1,7,4-dioxazecan-2-one in accordance with 1D- and 2D-NMR spectra and LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis. BF-4 significantly reduced the production of nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. It inhibited nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) activation and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation through suppressing phosphorylation of IκBα, P65, P38 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). The anti-inflammatory activity of BF-4 was comparable to dexamethasone, and more importantly, BF-4 showed less cytotoxicity than dexamethasone on the normal human liver cell LO2. The results indicate that BF-4 is a promising anti-inflammatory agent with pharmaceutical potential.

Alkaloids from Tetrastigma hemsleyanum and Their Anti-Inflammatory Effects on LPS-Induced RAW264.7 Cells

Alkaloids 1–10 were isolated from the aerial parts of Tetrastigma hemsleyanum (APTH) and obtained from species of the genus Tetrastigma for the first time. The chemical structures of the isolated compounds were identified by NMR, UV, and MS analyses. Their anti-inflammatory activities were investigated by measuring nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 macrophages. Among all the isolates, compounds 6, 7 and 10 showed potent inhibitory activity against LPS-stimulated NO production in RAW264.7 cells (IC₅₀: 31.9, 25.2 and 6.3 μM, respectively). Furthermore, APTH and S-(−)-trolline (10) inhibited induction of inflammatory cytokines or mediators such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) via suppression of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) translocation into the nucleus. In addition, 10 suppressed extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation in a dose-dependent manner. These results conclusively demonstrated that compound 10 displays anti-inflammatory activity via suppression of NF-κB activation and the ERK-MAPK signaling pathway in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells.

Matrine inhibits the metastatic properties of human cervical cancer cells via downregulating the p38 signaling pathway

Matrine is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine that shows antitumor efficacy for many types of cancer. The present study evaluated the antitumor efficacy of matrine on cervical cancer and to investigate the underlying mechanisms. We performed MTT assays, and in vitro invasion and migration assays, and P1 L6 found that matrine significantly inhibited cervical cancer cell growth by inducing apoptosis, and suppressed the invasion and migration ability of cervical cancer cells in vitro in a concentration-dependent manner. Mechanistically, we found that matrine decreased the expression and activity of the extracellular matrix factors, matrix metalloproteinases-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9 via the suppression of p38 signaling pathway. In addition, when cervical cancer cells were grown as xenografts in nude mice, intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of matrine induced a significant dose-dependent decrease in tumor growth. Taken together, these findings suggest that a potential mechanism by which matrine inhibits the growth and metastasis of cervical cancer through downregulating the p38 signaling pathway.

Optimized incubation regime for nitric oxide measurements in murine macrophages using the Griess assay

The Griess assay is used to measure nitric oxide concentrations in liquid solutions after reaction into nitrite. The assay is challenging when applied to cell culture supernatants. During optimization, we focused on the anti-inflammatory potential of test compounds in murine RAW264.7 macrophages. This led to (i) the required inductivity of cells by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and allowed (ii) the characterization of putative anti-inflammatory test compounds with high sensitivity. The modifications reported here prominently improved resolution and efficiency of the widely used Griess assay and are of broad interest for studies on the pharmacological modulation of macrophages activation.

Resveratrol inhibits LPS-induced mice mastitis through attenuating the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathway

Resveratrol is a natural polyphenol extracted from mangy plants. It has been reported that resveratrol show multitudinous positive role in biology such as anti-oxidant, anti-nociception and anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, the present study devotes to test the effect of resveratrol on LPS-induced mastitis in mice. Resveratrol was administered intraperitoneally 1 h before LPS treatment. And the anti-inflammatory effect of resveratrol was measured by histopathological examination, MPO assay, real-time PCR and western blotting analysis. The results showed that resveratrol significantly reduced the LPS-induced mammary histopathological changes. Meanwhile, it sharply attenuated the activity of MPO. The result also indicated that the resveratrol can decrease the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β. From the results of western blotting, resveratrol suppressed the expression of phosphorylation of p65 and IκB from NF-κB signal pathway and phosphorylation of p38 and ERK from MAPK signal pathway. These findings suggested that resveratrol may inhibit the inflammatory response in the mastitis.

Vanillin Protects Dopaminergic Neurons against Inflammation-Mediated Cell Death by Inhibiting ERK1/2, P38 and the NF-κB Signaling Pathway

Neuroinflammation plays a very important role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD). After activation, microglia produce pro-inflammatory mediators that damage surrounding neurons. Consequently, the inhibition of microglial activation might represent a new therapeutic approach of PD. Vanillin has been shown to protect dopaminergic neurons, but the mechanism is still unclear. Herein, we further study the underlying mechanisms in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced PD models. In vivo, we firstly established rat models of PD by unilateral injection of LPS into substantia nigra (SN), and then examined the role of vanillin in motor dysfunction, microglial activation and degeneration of dopaminergic neurons. In vitro, murine microglial BV-2 cells were treated with vanillin prior to the incubation of LPS, and then the inflammatory responses and the related signaling pathways were analyzed. The in vivo results showed that vanillin markedly improved the motor dysfunction, suppressed degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and inhibited microglial over-activation induced by LPS intranigral injection. The in vitro studies demonstrated that vanillin reduces LPS-induced expression of inducible nitric oxide (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), IL-1β, and IL-6 through regulating ERK1/2, p38 and NF-κB signaling. Collectively, these data indicated that vanillin has a role in protecting dopaminergic neurons via inhibiting inflammatory activation.