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Kim EH, Lee WS, Kwon DR. Microcurrent Therapy Mitigates Neuronal Damage and Cognitive Decline in an Alzheimer's Disease Mouse Model: Insights into Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6088. [PMID: 38892278 PMCID: PMC11173257 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) presents a significant challenge due to its multifaceted nature, characterized by cognitive decline, memory loss, and neuroinflammation. Though AD is an extensively researched topic, effective pharmacological interventions remain elusive, prompting explorations into non-pharmacological approaches. Microcurrent (MC) therapy, which utilizes imperceptible currents, has emerged as a potent clinical protocol. While previous studies have focused on its therapeutic effects, this study investigates the impact of MC on neuronal damage and neuroinflammation in an AD mouse model, specifically addressing potential side effects. Utilizing 5xFAD transgenic mice, we examined the effects of MC therapy on neuronal integrity and inflammation. Our findings suggest that MC therapy attenuates memory impairment and reduces neurodegeneration, as evidenced by improved performance in memory tests and the preservation of the neuronal structure. Additionally, MC therapy significantly decreases amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaque deposition and inhibits apoptosis, indicating its potential to mitigate AD pathology. This study determined that glial activation is effectively reduced by using MC therapy to suppress the TLR4-MyD88-NFκB pathway, which consequently causes the levels of inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 to decrease, thus implicating TLR4 in neurodegenerative disease-related neuroinflammation. Furthermore, while our study did not observe significant adverse effects, a further clinical trial into potential side effects and neuroinflammatory responses associated with MC therapy is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Ho Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Nam-gu, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea; (E.H.K.); (W.S.L.)
| | - Won Seok Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Nam-gu, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea; (E.H.K.); (W.S.L.)
| | - Dong Rak Kwon
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Nam-gu, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea
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Liu X, Gu J, Wang C, Peng M, Zhou J, Fei X, Zhong Z, Li B. Ginsenoside Rg3 attenuates neuroinflammation and hippocampal neuronal damage after traumatic brain injury in mice by inactivating the NF-kB pathway via SIRT1 activation. Cell Cycle 2024; 23:662-681. [PMID: 38796716 PMCID: PMC11229723 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2024.2355008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This investigation examined the potential of ginsenoside Rg3 in addressing traumatic brain injury (TBI). A TBI mouse model underwent treatment with ginsenoside Rg3 and nicotinamide (NAM). Neurological and motor functions were assessed using modified neurological severity score and rotarod tests. Brain water content in mice was detected. Primary mouse microglia were exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), ginsenoside Rg3, and NAM. Nissl and immunofluorescence staining were utilized to investigate hippocampal damage, and localization of P65, Iba1 and INOS in microglia. Hippocampal neurons were grown in a culture medium derived from microglia. CCK-8 and TUNEL assays were employed to evaluate the viability and apoptosis of hippocampal neurons. Proinflammatory factors and proteins were tested using ELISA, western blot and immunofluorescence staining. As a result, ginsenoside Rg3 enhanced neurological and motor functions in mice post-TBI, reduced brain water content, alleviated hippocampal neuronal neuroinflammation and damage, activated SIRT1, and deactivated the NF-kB pathway. In LPS-stimulated microglia, ginsenoside Rg3 diminished inflammation, activated SIRT1, deactivated the NF-kB pathway, and facilitated nuclear localization of P65 and co-localization of Iba1 and INOS. The effects of ginsenoside Rg3 were countered by NAM in both TBI mice and LPS-stimulated microglia. Hippocampal neurons cultured in a medium containing LPS, ginsenoside Rg3, and NAM-treated microglia showed improved viability and reduced apoptosis compared to those cultured in a medium with LPS and ginsenoside Rg3-treated microglia alone. Ginsenoside Rg3 was effective in reducing neuroinflammation and damage in hippocampal neurons following TBI by modulating the SIRT1/NF-kB pathway, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changsha of Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jia Gu
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Brain Tumor Research, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changsha of Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Min Peng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changsha of Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jilin Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changsha of Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiyun Fei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changsha of Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhijun Zhong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changsha of Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Bo Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Changsha of Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
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3
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He Z, Botchway BOA, Zhang Y, Liu X. Triptolide activates the Nrf2 signaling pathway and inhibits the NF-κB signaling pathway to improve Alzheimer disease. Metab Brain Dis 2024; 39:173-182. [PMID: 37624431 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-023-01278-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative disease with pathological features of accumulated amyloid plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and the significant inflammatory environment. These features modify the living microenvironment for nerve cells, causing the damage, dysfunction, and death. Progressive neuronal loss directly leads to cognitive decline in AD patients and is closely related to brain inflammation. Therefore, impairing inflammation via signaling pathways may facilitate either the prevention or delay of the degenerative process. Triptolide has been evidenced to possess potent anti-inflammatory effect. In this review, we elaborate on two signaling pathways (the NF-κB and Nrf2 signaling pathways) that are involved in the anti-inflammatory effect of triptolide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuoting He
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Zhejiang, Zhejiang Province, 312000, China
| | - Benson O A Botchway
- Institute of Neuroscience, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Bupa Cromwell Hospital, Kensington, London, UK
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Zhejiang, Zhejiang Province, 312000, China
| | - Xuehong Liu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Zhejiang, Zhejiang Province, 312000, China.
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Gouda NA, Alshammari SO, Abourehab MAS, Alshammari QA, Elkamhawy A. Therapeutic potential of natural products in inflammation: underlying molecular mechanisms, clinical outcomes, technological advances, and future perspectives. Inflammopharmacology 2023; 31:2857-2883. [PMID: 37950803 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-023-01366-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023]
Abstract
Chronic inflammation is a common underlying factor in many major diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune disorders, and is responsible for up to 60% of all deaths worldwide. Metformin, statins, and corticosteroids, and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are often given as anti-inflammatory pharmaceuticals, however, often have even more debilitating side effects than the illness itself. The natural product-based therapy of inflammation-related diseases has no adverse effects and good beneficial results compared to substitute conventional anti-inflammatory medications. In this review article, we provide a concise overview of present pharmacological treatments, the pathophysiology of inflammation, and the signaling pathways that underlie it. In addition, we focus on the most promising natural products identified as potential anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents. Moreover, preclinical studies and clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of natural products as anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents and their pragmatic applications with promising outcomes are reviewed. In addition, the safety, side effects and technical barriers of natural products are discussed. Furthermore, we also summarized the latest technological advances in the discovery and scientific development of natural products-based medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noha A Gouda
- College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University-Seoul, Goyang, Gyeonggi, 10326, Republic of Korea
| | - Saud O Alshammari
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Alternative Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, Northern Border University, Rafha, 76321, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed A S Abourehab
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Qamar A Alshammari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Northern Border University, Rafha, 76321, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Elkamhawy
- College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University-Seoul, Goyang, Gyeonggi, 10326, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt.
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Zhou L, Huang X, Li H, Wang J, Lu Z. Triptolide improves Alzheimer's disease by regulating the NF‑κB signaling pathway through the lncRNA NEAT1/microRNA 361‑3p/TRAF2 axis. Exp Ther Med 2023; 26:440. [PMID: 37614428 PMCID: PMC10443046 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.12139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia and is a serious social and medical problem threatening human health. The present study investigated the effect and underlying action mechanism of triptolide (Tri) on AD progression. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blotting analysis were used to determine the changes in RNA expression and levels of NF-κB signaling pathway proteins before and after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induction. Nucleocytoplasmic separation experiments determined the intracellular localization of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1). A dual-luciferase assay was used to analyze the binding between NEAT1 and microRNA (miRNA/miR)-361 or tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 2 (TRAF2) and miR-361-3p and RNA pull-down was used to analyze the binding between NEAT1 and miR-361-3p. Cell Counting Kit-8, flow cytometry and ELISA were used to detect the effects of interaction between Tri and NEAT1/miR-361-3p/TRAF2 on cell viability, apoptosis and inflammatory factor levels, respectively. The results showed that LPS-mediated human microglial clone 3 cell line (HMC3) viability decreased and apoptosis and inflammatory factors (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18 and TNF-α) increased. Tri inhibited LPS-mediated effects in a dose-dependent manner by downregulating NEAT1 expression. NEAT1 is highly expressed in the cytoplasm and reduces the transcription and translation of downstream TRAF2 by acting as a competitive endogenous RNA that adsorbs miR-361-3p. LPS-mediated HMC3 cell injury, inflammation and activation of NF-κB signaling were partially reversed in presence of Tri. The miR-361-3p mimic promoted the Tri effect and overexpression of (ov)-NEAT1 partially reversed the Tri-miR-361-3p combined effect. The effects of ov-NEAT1 were partially attenuated by small interfering (si)-TRAF2. Overall, Tri inhibited the LPS-induced decrease in viability, increase in apoptosis and inflammation and activation of NF-κB signaling in HMC3 cells. Tri regulation affected the NEAT1/miR-361-3p/TRAF2 axis. These findings suggested a potential therapeutic role for Tri in the clinical management of AD by modulating this molecular axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhou
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Xuming Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Haiyan Li
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510000, P.R. China
| | - Jihui Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510000, P.R. China
| | - Zhengqi Lu
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510000, P.R. China
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Huffels CFM, Middeldorp J, Hol EM. Aß Pathology and Neuron-Glia Interactions: A Synaptocentric View. Neurochem Res 2023; 48:1026-1046. [PMID: 35976488 PMCID: PMC10030451 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-022-03699-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) causes the majority of dementia cases worldwide. Early pathological hallmarks include the accumulation of amyloid-ß (Aß) and activation of both astrocytes and microglia. Neurons form the building blocks of the central nervous system, and astrocytes and microglia provide essential input for its healthy functioning. Their function integrates at the level of the synapse, which is therefore sometimes referred to as the "quad-partite synapse". Increasing evidence puts AD forward as a disease of the synapse, where pre- and postsynaptic processes, as well as astrocyte and microglia functioning progressively deteriorate. Here, we aim to review the current knowledge on how Aß accumulation functionally affects the individual components of the quad-partite synapse. We highlight a selection of processes that are essential to the healthy functioning of the neuronal synapse, including presynaptic neurotransmitter release and postsynaptic receptor functioning. We further discuss how Aß affects the astrocyte's capacity to recycle neurotransmitters, release gliotransmitters, and maintain ion homeostasis. We additionally review literature on how Aß changes the immunoprotective function of microglia during AD progression and conclude by summarizing our main findings and highlighting the challenges in current studies, as well as the need for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiaan F M Huffels
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jinte Middeldorp
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurobiology & Aging, Biomedical Primate Research Centre, Rijswijk, The Netherlands
| | - Elly M Hol
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Cui Y, Jiang X, Feng J. The therapeutic potential of triptolide and celastrol in neurological diseases. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1024955. [PMID: 36339550 PMCID: PMC9626530 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1024955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurological diseases are complex diseases affecting the brain and spinal cord, with numerous etiologies and pathogenesis not yet fully elucidated. Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. F. (TWHF) is a traditional Chinese medicine with a long history of medicinal use in China and is widely used to treat autoimmune and inflammatory diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. With the rapid development of modern technology, the two main bioactive components of TWHF, triptolide and celastrol, have been found to have anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive and anti-tumor effects and can be used in the treatment of a variety of diseases, including neurological diseases. In this paper, we summarize the preclinical studies of triptolide and celastrol in neurological diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases, brain and spinal cord injury, and epilepsy. In addition, we review the mechanisms of action of triptolide and celastrol in neurological diseases, their toxicity, related derivatives, and nanotechnology-based carrier system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueran Cui
- Department of Neurology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Xuejiao Jiang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Juan Feng
- Department of Neurology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- *Correspondence: Juan Feng,
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Alghamdi SS, Suliman RS, Aljammaz NA, Kahtani KM, Aljatli DA, Albadrani GM. Natural Products as Novel Neuroprotective Agents; Computational Predictions of the Molecular Targets, ADME Properties, and Safety Profile. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:549. [PMID: 35214883 PMCID: PMC8878483 DOI: 10.3390/plants11040549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are one of the most challenging public health issues. Despite tremendous advances in our understanding of NDs, little progress has been made in establishing effective treatments. Natural products may have enormous potential in preventing and treating NDs by targeting microglia; yet, there have been several clinical concerns about their usage, primarily due to a lack of scientific evidence for their efficacy, molecular targets, physicochemical properties, and safety. To solve this problem, the secondary bioactive metabolites derived from neuroprotective medicinal plants were identified and selected for computational predictions for anti-inflammatory activity, possible molecular targets, physicochemical properties, and safety evaluation using PASS online, Molinspiration, SwissADME, and ProTox-II, respectively. Most of the phytochemicals were active as anti-inflammatory agents as predicted using the PASS online webserver. Moreover, the molecular target predictions for some phytochemicals were similar to the reported experimental targets. Moreover, the phytochemicals that did not violate important physicochemical properties, including blood-brain barrier penetration, GI absorption, molecular weight, and lipophilicity, were selected for further safety evaluation. After screening 54 neuroprotective phytochemicals, our findings suggest that Aromatic-turmerone, Apocynin, and Matrine are the most promising compounds that could be considered when designing novel neuroprotective agents to treat neurodegenerative diseases via modulating microglial polarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Saleh Alghamdi
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 11481, Saudi Arabia; (R.S.S.); (N.A.A.); (K.M.K.); (D.A.A.)
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Centre (KAIMRC), Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh 11481, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rasha Saad Suliman
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 11481, Saudi Arabia; (R.S.S.); (N.A.A.); (K.M.K.); (D.A.A.)
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Centre (KAIMRC), Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh 11481, Saudi Arabia
| | - Norah Abdulaziz Aljammaz
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 11481, Saudi Arabia; (R.S.S.); (N.A.A.); (K.M.K.); (D.A.A.)
| | - Khawla Mohammed Kahtani
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 11481, Saudi Arabia; (R.S.S.); (N.A.A.); (K.M.K.); (D.A.A.)
| | - Dimah Abdulqader Aljatli
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 11481, Saudi Arabia; (R.S.S.); (N.A.A.); (K.M.K.); (D.A.A.)
| | - Ghadeer M. Albadrani
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11474, Saudi Arabia;
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Wan YS, You Y, Ding QY, Xu YX, Chen H, Wang RR, Huang YW, Chen Z, Hu WW, Jiang L. Triptolide protects against white matter injury induced by chronic cerebral hypoperfusion in mice. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2022; 43:15-25. [PMID: 33824460 PMCID: PMC8724323 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-021-00637-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
White matter injury is the major pathological alteration of subcortical ischemic vascular dementia (SIVD) caused by chronic cerebral hypoperfusion. It is characterized by progressive demyelination, apoptosis of oligodendrocytes and microglial activation, which leads to impairment of cognitive function. Triptolide exhibits a variety of pharmacological activities including anti-inflammation, immunosuppression and antitumor, etc. In this study, we investigated the effects of triptolide on white matter injury and cognitive impairments in mice with chronic cerebral hypoperfusion induced by the right unilateral common carotid artery occlusion (rUCCAO). We showed that triptolide administration alleviated the demyelination, axonal injury, and oligodendrocyte loss in the mice. Triptolide also improved cognitive function in novel object recognition test and Morris water maze test. In primary oligodendrocytes following oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD), application of triptolide (0.001-0.1 nM) exerted concentration-dependent protection. We revealed that the protective effect of triptolide resulted from its inhibition of oligodendrocyte apoptosis via increasing the phosphorylation of the Src/Akt/GSK3β pathway. Moreover, triptolide suppressed microglial activation and proinflammatory cytokines expression after chronic cerebral hypoperfusion in mice and in BV2 microglial cells following OGD, which also contributing to its alleviation of white matter injury. Importantly, mice received triptolide at the dose of 20 μg·kg-1·d-1 did not show hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity even after chronic treatment. Thus, our results highlight that triptolide alleviates whiter matter injury induced by chronic cerebral hypoperfusion through direct protection against oligodendrocyte apoptosis and indirect protection by inhibition of microglial inflammation. Triptolide may have novel indication in clinic such as the treatment of chronic cerebral hypoperfusion-induced SIVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-shan Wan
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Pharmacology and Department of Pharmacy of the Second Affiliated Hospital, NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058 China
| | - Yi You
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Pharmacology and Department of Pharmacy of the Second Affiliated Hospital, NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058 China
| | - Qian-yun Ding
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Pharmacology and Department of Pharmacy of the Second Affiliated Hospital, NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058 China ,grid.268505.c0000 0000 8744 8924College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053 China
| | - Yi-xin Xu
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Pharmacology and Department of Pharmacy of the Second Affiliated Hospital, NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058 China
| | - Han Chen
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Pharmacology and Department of Pharmacy of the Second Affiliated Hospital, NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058 China
| | - Rong-rong Wang
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003 China
| | - Yu-wen Huang
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Pharmacology and Department of Pharmacy of the Second Affiliated Hospital, NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058 China
| | - Zhong Chen
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Pharmacology and Department of Pharmacy of the Second Affiliated Hospital, NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058 China ,grid.268505.c0000 0000 8744 8924College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053 China
| | - Wei-wei Hu
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Pharmacology and Department of Pharmacy of the Second Affiliated Hospital, NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058 China
| | - Lei Jiang
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Pharmacology and Department of Pharmacy of the Second Affiliated Hospital, NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058 China
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New Insights into the Role of Cysteine Cathepsins in Neuroinflammation. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11121796. [PMID: 34944440 PMCID: PMC8698589 DOI: 10.3390/biom11121796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation, which is mediated by microglia and astrocytes, is associated with the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Increasing evidence shows that activated microglia induce the expression and secretion of various lysosomal cathepsins, particularly during the early stage of neuroinflammation. This trigger signaling cascade that aggravate neurodegeneration. To date, most research on neuroinflammation has focused on the role of cysteine cathepsins, the largest cathepsin family. Cysteine cathepsins are primarily responsible for protein degradation in lysosomes; however, they also play a role in regulating a number of other important physiological and pathological processes. This review focuses on the functional roles of cysteine cathepsins in the central nervous system during neuroinflammation, with an emphasis on their roles in the polarization of microglia and neuroinflammation signaling, which in turn causes neuronal death and thus neurodegeneration.
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11
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Zhao J, Zhang F, Xiao X, Wu Z, Hu Q, Jiang Y, Zhang W, Wei S, Ma X, Zhang X. Tripterygium hypoglaucum (Lévl.) Hutch and Its Main Bioactive Components: Recent Advances in Pharmacological Activity, Pharmacokinetics and Potential Toxicity. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:715359. [PMID: 34887747 PMCID: PMC8650721 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.715359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Tripterygium hypoglaucum (Lévl.) Hutch (THH) is believed to play an important role in health care and disease treatment according to traditional Chinese medicine. Moreover, it is also the representative of medicine with both significant efficacy and potential toxicity. This characteristic causes THH hard for embracing and fearing. In order to verify its prospect for clinic, a wide variety of studies were carried out in the most recent years. However, there has not been any review about THH yet. Therefore, this review summarized its characteristic of components, pharmacological effect, pharmacokinetics and toxicity to comprehensively shed light on the potential clinical application. More than 120 secondary metabolites including terpenoids, alkaloids, glycosides, sugars, organic acids, oleanolic acid, polysaccharides and other components were found in THH based on phytochemical research. All these components might be the pharmacological bases for immunosuppression, anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour effect. In addition, recent studies found that THH and its bioactive compounds also demonstrated remarkable effect on obesity, insulin resistance, fertility and infection of virus. The main mechanism seemed to be closely related to regulation the balance of immune, inflammation, apoptosis and so on in various disease. Furthermore, the study of pharmacokinetics revealed quick elimination of the main component triptolide. The feature of celastrol was also investigated by several models. Finally, the side effect of THH was thought to be the key for its limitation in clinical application. A series of reports indicated that multiple organs or systems including liver, kidney and genital system were involved in the toxicity. Its potential serious problem in liver was paid specific attention in recent years. In summary, considering the significant effect and potential toxicity of THH as well as its components, the combined medication to inhibit the toxicity, maintain effect might be a promising method for clinical conversion. Modern advanced technology such as structure optimization might be another way to reach the efficacy and safety. Thus, THH is still a crucial plant which remains for further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junqi Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Fangling Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaolin Xiao
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Qichao Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yinxiao Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenwen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Shizhang Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaomei Zhang
- Institute of Medicinal Chemistry of Chinese Medicine, Chongqing Academy of Chinese Materia Medica, Chongqing, China
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Lindsay A, Hickman D, Srinivasan M. A nuclear factor-kappa B inhibiting peptide suppresses innate immune receptors and gliosis in a transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 138:111405. [PMID: 33756153 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A disproportionate increase in activated nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) has been shown to drive the Aβ deposition, neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Hence, selective targeting of activated p65 represents an attractive therapeutic approach for AD. Glucocorticoid induced leucine zipper (GILZ) is a NF-κB interactant that binds and sequesters the activated p65 in the cytoplasm. The p65 binding domain of GILZ adopts a polyproline type II helical conformation, a motif that acts as an adaptable glove in the interface with the binding partner and constitutes an excellent template for drug design. Previously, peptide analogs of the p65 binding domain of GILZ, referred to as GA have been shown to suppress pathology in the lipopolysaccharide induced model of neuroinflammation. In this study, we investigated the CNS delivery of labeled GA administered intraperitoneally in adult mice for a period of upto 24 h. Further, we evaluated the suppressive potential of GA in 5xFAD mice, an aggressive model with five genetic mutations closely associated with human AD. Groups of 5xFAD mice administered GA or control peptide intraperitoneally on alternate days for six weeks were evaluated for Aβ deposition, microglia, inflammation and innate immune responses by immunohistochemistry and real time polymerase reaction. GA was observed in proximity with NeuN positive neurons suggesting that the compound crossed the blood brain barrier to reach the brain parenchyma. Further, GA treatment decreased Aβ load, reduced Iba1 + microglia and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)+ astrocytes, inhibited inflammatory cytokines and suppressed toll like receptor (TLR-2, TLR-4) expressions in 5xFAD mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Lindsay
- Department of Oral Pathology, Medicine and Radiology, Indiana University School of Dentistry, United States
| | - Deborah Hickman
- Laboratory of Animal Care and Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, United States
| | - Mythily Srinivasan
- Department of Oral Pathology, Medicine and Radiology, Indiana University School of Dentistry, United States; Provaidya LLC, Indianapolis, IN, United States.
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Wang RX, Zhou M, Ma HL, Qiao YB, Li QS. The Role of Chronic Inflammation in Various Diseases and Anti-inflammatory Therapies Containing Natural Products. ChemMedChem 2021; 16:1576-1592. [PMID: 33528076 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202000996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Chronic inflammation represents a long-term reaction of the body's immune system to noxious stimuli. Such a sustained inflammatory response sometimes results in lasting damage to healthy tissues and organs. In fact, chronic inflammation is implicated in the development and progression of various diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, metabolic diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and even cancers. Targeting nonresolving inflammation thus provides new opportunities for treating relevant diseases. In this review, we will go over several chronic inflammation-associated diseases first with emphasis on the role of inflammation in their pathogenesis. Then, we will summarize a number of natural products that exhibit therapeutic effects against those diseases by acting on different markers in the inflammatory response. We envision that natural products will remain a rich resource for the discovery of new drugs treating diseases associated with chronic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ren-Xiao Wang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Innovative Drugs for the, Treatment of Serious Diseases Based on Chronic Inflammation, College of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030619, P. R. China.,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, P. R. China
| | - Mi Zhou
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, P. R. China
| | - Hui-Lai Ma
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Innovative Drugs for the, Treatment of Serious Diseases Based on Chronic Inflammation, College of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030619, P. R. China
| | - Yuan-Biao Qiao
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Innovative Drugs for the, Treatment of Serious Diseases Based on Chronic Inflammation, College of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030619, P. R. China
| | - Qing-Shan Li
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Innovative Drugs for the, Treatment of Serious Diseases Based on Chronic Inflammation, College of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030619, P. R. China
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Liu L, Zhang Y, Tang L, Zhong H, Danzeng D, Liang C, Liu S. The Neuroprotective Effect of Byu d Mar 25 in LPS-Induced Alzheimer's Disease Mice Model. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2021; 2021:8879014. [PMID: 33727946 PMCID: PMC7936888 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8879014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Inflammatory factors play an important role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Byu d Mar 25 (BM25) has been suggested to have protective effects in the central nervous system. However, the effect of BM25 on AD has not been determined. This study aims to investigate the neuroprotective effect of BM25 in AD. A total of 40 AD model mice were randomly assigned to the following five groups (n = 8 per group): the AD + NS group, the AD + donepezil group, and three AD + BM25 groups treated with either 58.39 mg/kg (AD + BM25-L), 116.77 mg/kg (AD + BM25-M), or 233.54 mg/kg BM25 (AD + BM25-H). The Morris water maze test was performed to assess alterations in spatial learning and memory deficits. Nissl staining was performed to detect Nissl bodies and neuronal damage. The expression of IL-1β and TNF-α was evaluated by ELISA. The protein expression of P-P38, P38, P-IκBα, caspase 1, COX2, and iNOS was determined by western blotting. The expression of Aβ, p-Tau, and CD11b was measured by immunohistochemistry. The mRNA expression levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, COX2, and iNOS were measured by qRT-PCR. Spatial memory significantly improved in the AD + BM25-M and AD + BM25-H groups compared with the AD + NS group (p < 0.05). The expression of Aβ and p-Tau significantly decreased in the AD + BM25-M and AD + BM25-H groups (p < 0.05). The neuron density and hierarchy and number of pyramidal neurons significantly increased in the AD + BM25-M and AD + BM25-H groups (p < 0.05). In addition, the expression levels of CD11b, IL-1β, TNF-α, COX2, iNOS, caspase 1, p-IκBα, and p-P38 significantly decreased in the AD + BM25-M and AD + BM25-H groups (p < 0.05). In conclusion, our findings suggest that BM25 may exert anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects in AD model mice by suppressing the activity of microglia and inhibiting the phosphorylation of IκBα and p38 MAPK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Liu
- Medical College, Tibet University, Lhasa, Tibet 850000, China
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Woman and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yongcang Zhang
- Medical College, Tibet University, Lhasa, Tibet 850000, China
| | - Liang Tang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Institute of Neuroscience, Changsha Medical University, Changsha 410219, China
| | - Hua Zhong
- Department of Anatomy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Dunzhu Danzeng
- Medical College, Tibet University, Lhasa, Tibet 850000, China
| | - Cuiting Liang
- Medical College, Tibet University, Lhasa, Tibet 850000, China
| | - Shanling Liu
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Woman and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Sichuan 610041, China
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Ma L, Yang C, Zheng J, Chen Y, Xiao Y, Huang K. Non-polyphenolic natural inhibitors of amyloid aggregation. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 192:112197. [PMID: 32172082 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Protein misfolding diseases (PMDs) are chronic and progressive, with no effective therapy so far. Aggregation and misfolding of amyloidogenic proteins are closely associated with the onset and progression of PMDs, such as amyloid-β (Aβ) in Alzheimer's disease, α-Synuclein (α-Syn) in Parkinson's disease and human islet amyloid polypeptide (hIAPP) in type 2 diabetes. Inhibiting toxic aggregation of amyloidogenic proteins is regarded as a promising therapeutic approach in PMDs. The past decade has witnessed the rapid progresses of this field, dozens of inhibitors have been screened and verified in vitro and in vivo, demonstrating inhibitory effects against the aggregation and misfolding of amyloidogenic proteins, together with beneficial effects. Natural products are major sources of small molecule amyloid inhibitors, a number of natural derived compounds have been identified with great bioactivities and translational prospects. Here, we review the non-polyphenolic natural inhibitors that potentially applicable for PMDs treatment, along with their working mechanisms. Future directions are proposed for the development and clinical applications of these inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Ma
- Affiliated Wuhan Mental Health Center, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Chen Yang
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Jiaojiao Zheng
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Yuchen Chen
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Yushuo Xiao
- College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430035, China
| | - Kun Huang
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China.
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Hou W, Liu B, Xu H. Triptolide: Medicinal chemistry, chemical biology and clinical progress. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 176:378-392. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 05/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Triptolide Suppressed the Microglia Activation to Improve Spinal Cord Injury Through miR-96/IKKβ/NF-κB Pathway. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2019; 44:E707-E714. [PMID: 31150368 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000002989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN The effect of triptolide on spinal cord injury (SCI) and inflammatory response was observed by establishing SCI rat model. And in vitro experiments were conducted to determine the underlying mechanism of triptolide-mediated in murine microglial cell line BV2. OBJECTIVE To determine the underlying mechanism of triptolide in suppressing the microglia activation to improve SCI. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Triptolide, as a major active ingredient of Chinese herb Tripterygium wilfordii, can promote spinal cord repair through inhibiting microglia activation, but the underlying mechanism is not clear. METHODS Locomotion recovery was accessed by Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan score, the number of footfalls, stride length, and angle of rotation analysis. Expressions of microRNA 96 (miR-96), microglia activation marker Iba-1, and IκB kinase (IKKβ)/nuclear factor (NF)-κB-related proteins were detected by qRT-PCR or western blot. Inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin -1β were measured by enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay. The regulation of miR-96 on IKKβ was confirmed by dual luciferase reporter assay. RESULTS Triptolide promoted locomotion recovery of SCI rats, upregulated the expression of miR-96, decreased microglia activation marker Iba-1 and IKKβ/NF-κB-related proteins, and inhibited inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β levels in spinal cord tissues and lipopolysaccharide -induced microglia. Triptolide suppressed the microglia activation and inflammatory cytokines secretion in BV2 cells through up-regulating miR-96. We confirmed the interaction between miR-96 and IKKβ, and IKKβ expression was negatively regulated by miR-96. Finally, we determined that triptolide suppressed the microglia activation and inflammatory cytokines secretion through miR-96/IKKβ pathway. CONCLUSION Triptolide suppressed microglia activation after SCI through miR-96/IKKβ/NF-κB pathway. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE N/A.
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Zhao Y, Cai J, Liu Z, Li Y, Zheng C, Zheng Y, Chen Q, Chen H, Ma F, An Y, Xiao L, Jiang C, Shi L, Kang C, Liu Y. Nanocomposites Inhibit the Formation, Mitigate the Neurotoxicity, and Facilitate the Removal of β-Amyloid Aggregates in Alzheimer's Disease Mice. NANO LETTERS 2019; 19:674-683. [PMID: 30444372 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.8b03644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive and irreversible brain disorder. Recent studies revealed the pivotal role of β-amyloid (Aβ) in AD. However, there is no conclusive indication that the existing therapeutic strategies exerted any effect on the mitigation of Aβ-induced neurotoxicity and the elimination of Aβ aggregates simultaneously in vivo. Herein, we developed a novel nanocomposite that can eliminate toxic Aβ aggregates and mitigate Aβ-induced neurotoxicity in AD mice. This nanocomposite was designed to be a small-sized particle (14 ± 4 nm) with Aβ-binding peptides (KLVFF) integrated on the surface. The nanocomposite was prepared by wrapping a protein molecule with a cross-linked KLVFF-containing polymer layer synthesized by in situ polymerization. The presence of the nanocomposite remarkably changed the morphology of Aβ aggregates, which led to the formation of Aβ/nanocomposite coassembled nanoclusters instead of Aβ oligomers. With the reduction of the pathological Aβ oligomers, the nanocomposites attenuated the Aβ-induced neuron damages, regained endocranial microglia's capability to phagocytose Aβ, and eventually protected hippocampal neurons against apoptosis. Thus, we anticipate that the small-sized nanocomposite will potentially offer a feasible strategy in the development of novel AD treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jinquan Cai
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Neuroscience Institute , Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences , Harbin 150086 , China
| | | | - Yansheng Li
- Laboratory of Neuro-Oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Department of Neurosurgery , Tianjin Medical University General Hospital and Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma , Variation, and Regeneration, Ministry of Education and Tianjin Municipal Government, Tianjin 300052 , China
| | | | | | - Qun Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Neuroscience Institute , Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences , Harbin 150086 , China
| | - Hongyun Chen
- National Institute for Advanced Materials, School of Material Science and Engineering , Nankai University , Tianjin , 300350 , China
| | | | | | | | - Chuanlu Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Neuroscience Institute , Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences , Harbin 150086 , China
| | | | - Chunsheng Kang
- Laboratory of Neuro-Oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Department of Neurosurgery , Tianjin Medical University General Hospital and Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma , Variation, and Regeneration, Ministry of Education and Tianjin Municipal Government, Tianjin 300052 , China
| | - Yang Liu
- Laboratory of Neuro-Oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Department of Neurosurgery , Tianjin Medical University General Hospital and Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma , Variation, and Regeneration, Ministry of Education and Tianjin Municipal Government, Tianjin 300052 , China
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Activation of Macrophages by Oligomeric Proteins of Different Size and Origin. Mediators Inflamm 2018; 2018:7501985. [PMID: 30581370 PMCID: PMC6276464 DOI: 10.1155/2018/7501985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Activation of macrophages is one of the key processes in generating the immune response against pathogens or misfolded/aggregated otherwise unharmful host's proteins. Antigens and their immune complexes (IC) may shape macrophage phenotype in various directions. Data on the impact of protein structure during inflammation are evident; however, some separate steps of this process involving changes in macrophage phenotype are not fully understood. Our aim was to investigate the phenotype of macrophages after activation with different oligomeric proteins and their IC. We have used amyloid beta (Aβ 1-42) that plays a role in neurodegenerative inflammation as a model of host-associated protein and three oligomeric viral antigens as pathogen-associated proteins. Murine cell lines J774, BV-2, and macrophage primary cell culture were treated with oligomeric proteins and their IC. After 48 h, expression of surface markers F4/80, CD68, CD86, and CD206 and secreted cytokines IL-10, IL-12, IL-23, and TNF-α was analysed. Aβ 1-42 oligomers stimulated expression of both inflammatory and anti-inflammatory molecules; however, fibrils induced less intense expression of markers investigated as compared to small and large oligomers. Two out of three viral oligomeric proteins induced the inflammatory response of macrophages. Data suggest that macrophage activation pattern depends on the origin, size, and structure of oligomeric proteins.
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Lee AY, Lee MH, Lee S, Cho EJ. Neuroprotective Effect of Alpha-Linolenic Acid against Aβ-Mediated Inflammatory Responses in C6 Glial Cell. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2018; 66:4853-4861. [PMID: 29668263 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.8b00836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic approaches for neurodegeneration, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), have been widely studied. One of the critical hallmarks of AD is accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ). Aβ induces neurotoxicity and releases inflammatory mediators or cytokines through activation of glial cell, and these pathological features are observed in AD patient's brain. The purpose of this study is to investigate the protective effect of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) on Aβ25-35-induced neurotoxicity in C6 glial cells. Exposure of C6 glial cells to 50 μM Aβ25-35 caused cell death, overproduction of nitric oxide (NO), and pro-inflammatory cytokines release [interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α], while treatment of ALA increased cell viability and markedly attenuated Aβ25-35-induced excessive production of NO and those inflammatory cytokines. Inhibitory effect of ALA on generation of NO and cytokines was mediated by down-regulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 protein and mRNA expressions. In addition, ALA treatment inhibited reactive oxygen species generation induced by Aβ25-35 through the enhancement of the nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor-2 (Nrf-2) protein levels and subsequent induction of heme-oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression in C6 glial cells dose- and time-dependently. Furthermore, the levels of neprilysin and insulin-degrading enzyme protein expressions, which contribute to degradation of Aβ, were also increased by treatment of ALA compared to Aβ25-35-treated control group. In conclusion, effects of ALA on Aβ degradation were shown to be mediated through inhibition of inflammatory responses and activation of antioxidative system, Nrf-2/HO-1 signaling pathway, in C6 glial cells. Our findings suggest that ALA might have the potential for therapeutics of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ah Young Lee
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition & Kimchi Research Institute , Pusan National University , Busan 46241 , Republic of Korea
| | - Myoung Hee Lee
- Department of Southern Area Crop Science , National Institute of Crop Science, Rural Development Administration , Gyeongnam 50424 , Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghyun Lee
- Department of Integrative Plant Science , Chung-Ang University , Gyeonggi 17546 , Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Ju Cho
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition & Kimchi Research Institute , Pusan National University , Busan 46241 , Republic of Korea
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Sun Z, Du M, Lu Y, Zeng CQ. Effects of triptolide on the expression of MHC II in microglia in kainic acid‑induced epilepsy. Mol Med Rep 2018; 17:8357-8362. [PMID: 29693706 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2018.8891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to determine whether triptolide (T10) had any effect on major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II) expression in kainic acid (KA)‑activated microglia, and to investigate the underlying molecular mechanism. BV‑2 microglia were pretreated with T10 prior to activation with KA. The expression level of MHC II and class II transactivator (CIITA) mRNA was determined via reverse transcription‑polymerase chain reaction. The expression of MHC II, CIITA and the phosphorylation level of c‑Jun and proto‑oncogene c‑Fos (c‑Fos) was determined by western blotting. The protein expression level of MHC II was determined by immunocytochemistry. It was observed that the mRNA and protein levels of MHC II and CIITA were increased in KA‑activated BV‑2 microglia, and that this increase was almost completely eliminated by T10. AP‑1 is a family of homodimers or heterodimers, composed of Jun family and Fos family proteins. Sequence analysis revealed an AP‑1 DNA binding site in the promoter of CIITA. The phosphorylation of c‑Jun and c‑Fos was increased in KA‑activated microglia, while T10 was able to suppress the phosphorylation of c‑Jun and c‑Fos in KA‑activated microglia. These data suggested that T10 may exert suppressive effects on MHC II expression in KA‑activated microglia, and that the mechanism may involve the regulation of AP‑1 activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Sun
- Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning 116622, P.R. China
| | - Meng Du
- Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning 116622, P.R. China
| | - Yao Lu
- Neonatal Screening Center, Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Dalian, Dalian, Liaoning 116033, P.R. China
| | - Chang-Qian Zeng
- Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning 116622, P.R. China
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Yin Y, Zhao Y, Han S, Zhang N, Chen H, Wang X. Autophagy-ERK1/2-Involved Disinhibition of Hippocampal Neurons Contributes to the Pre-Synaptic Toxicity Induced by Aβ42 Exposure. J Alzheimers Dis 2018; 59:851-869. [PMID: 28697568 DOI: 10.3233/jad-170246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease and the most frequent cause of progressive cognitive decline in the elderly population. To date, there is still no effective treatment for AD, requiring more underlying mechanisms. In the present study, we investigated the effects of Aβ42 on the inhibitory synaptic transmission in the cultured hippocampal neurons, and explored the possible mechanism. The frequency, but not amplitude, of miniature inhibitory post-synaptic currents was significantly suppressed by Aβ42, indicating that Aβ42 played its role in inhibitory transmitter release at the pre-synaptic sites. Aβ42 had no effect on miniature excitatory post-synaptic currents, suggesting GABAergic synapses are more susceptible to Aβ42 exposure. However, the number of GABAergic neurons or synapses was not influenced, suggesting the corresponding stage may be a preclinical one. The effect of Aβ42 can be mimicked by PD98059 (an inhibitor of ERK1/2) and blocked by curcumin (an activator of MEK), which reveals Aβ-involved influence is via the decreased phosphorylation of MAPK-ERK1/2. In addition, synaptophysin is confirmed to be a downstream protein of MAPK-ERK1/2 at the pre-synaptic site. At the same time, suppressed autophagy was observed after Aβ42 exposure, and the activation of autophagy increased pERK1/2 level and salvaged the disinhibition of hippocampal neurons. These data suggest that diminished GABAergic tone likely starts from the preclinical stage of AD, so some GABAergic stress test may be effective for identifying cognitively normal elder adults. Strategies against the dysfunction of autophagy should be adopted in the early stage of AD because of its initial effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanling Yin
- Department of Neurobiology and Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhao
- Core Facility Center, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Song Han
- Department of Neurobiology and Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PRChina
| | - Hanyu Chen
- Wyoming Seminary College Preparatory School, Kingston, PA, USA
| | - Xiaomin Wang
- Department of Neurobiology and Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
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Hu Y, Zeng Z, Wang B, Guo S. Trans-caryophyllene inhibits amyloid β (Aβ) oligomer-induced neuroinflammation in BV-2 microglial cells. Int Immunopharmacol 2017; 51:91-98. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2017.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Revised: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Esculentoside A inhibits LPS-induced BV2 microglia activation through activating PPAR-γ. Eur J Pharmacol 2017; 813:61-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2017.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2017] [Revised: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Hu X, Dong Y, Jin X, Zhang C, Zhang T, Zhao J, Shi J, Li J. The novel and potent anti-depressive action of triptolide and its influences on hippocampal neuroinflammation in a rat model of depression comorbidity of chronic pain. Brain Behav Immun 2017; 64:180-194. [PMID: 28300618 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2017.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2016] [Revised: 03/02/2017] [Accepted: 03/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain and depression frequently coexist in clinical setting, and current clinical treatments for this comorbidity have shown limited efficacy. Triptolide (T10), an active component of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F., has been demonstrated to exert strong analgesic activities in experimental pain models, but whether it possesses anti-depressive actions remains unknown. Using a depression comorbidity of chronic pain rat model induced by spinal nerve ligation (SNL), we investigated the potency of T10 for the treatment of comorbid depression in comparison with a widely used antidepressant, fluoxetine (FLX). Concomitant neuroinflammation changes were also examined in the hippocampus. The results showed that prophylactic and reversal treatments with T10 dose-dependently (30, 100, 300μg/kg) inhibited the depression-like behaviors (DLB) assessed by the forced swim test, sucrose preference test and body weight measurement. The anti-depressive efficacy of T10 at 300μg/kg was significantly stronger than that of FLX at 18mg/kg. T10 at all three doses exhibited more efficient analgesic effects than FLX at 18mg/kg. The combined application of T10 with FLX markedly augmented the effects of T10 or FLX per se, with the facilitating effects of T10 at 30μg/kg being most prominent. In addition, nerve injury caused the activation of microglia and p38 MAPK, the upregulation of IL-1β and TNF-α as well as the downregulation of IL-10 in the hippocampus at postoperative week (POW) 3. These neuroinflammatory responses were reversed by subchronic treatment with T10. Taken together, these results demonstrate that T10 possesses potent anti-depressive function, which is correlated with its immunoregulation in the hippocampus. The combination of a low dose of T10 with FLX may become a more effective medication strategy for the treatment of comorbid depression and chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofan Hu
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology & K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Preclinical School of Medicine, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China; Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Yulin Dong
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology & K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Preclinical School of Medicine, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Xiaohang Jin
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology & K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Preclinical School of Medicine, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Chunkui Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology & K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Preclinical School of Medicine, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology & K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Preclinical School of Medicine, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Jie Zhao
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology & K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Preclinical School of Medicine, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Juan Shi
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology & K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Preclinical School of Medicine, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China.
| | - Jinlian Li
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology & K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Preclinical School of Medicine, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China.
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Glucocorticoid-Induced Leucine Zipper in Central Nervous System Health and Disease. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:8063-8070. [PMID: 27889894 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-0277-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 10/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The central nervous system (CNS) is a large network of intercommunicating cells that function to maintain tissue health and homeostasis. Considerable evidence suggests that glucocorticoids exert both neuroprotective and neurodegenerative effects on the CNS. Glucocorticoids act by binding two related receptors in the cytoplasm, the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) and the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). The glucocorticoid receptor complex mediates cellular responses by transactivating target genes and by protein: protein interactions. The paradoxical effects of glucocorticoids on neuronal survival and death have been attributed to the concentration and the ratio of mineralocorticoid to glucocorticoid receptor activation. Glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (GILZ) is a recently identified protein transcriptionally upregulated by glucocorticoids. Constitutively, expressed in many tissues including brain, GILZ mediates many of the actions of glucocorticoids. It mimics the anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effects of glucocorticoids but exerts differential effects on stem cell differentiation and lineage development. Recent experimental data on the effects of GILZ following induced stress or trauma suggest potential roles in CNS diseases. Here, we provide a short overview of the role of GILZ in CNS health and discuss three potential rationales for the role of GILZ in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis.
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Xu P, Wang H, Li Z, Yang Z. Triptolide attenuated injury via inhibiting oxidative stress in Amyloid-Beta25-35-treated differentiated PC12 cells. Life Sci 2015; 145:19-26. [PMID: 26679104 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2015.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2015] [Revised: 11/07/2015] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, an abnormal deposition of Amyloid-Beta (Aβ) was considered the primary cause of the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). And how to inhibit the cytotoxicity is considered an important target for the treatment of AD. Triptolide (TP), a purified diterpenoid from the herb Tripterygium wilfordii Hook.f. (TWHF), has potential neuroprotective effects pertinent to disease of the nervous system. However, whether triptolide and its specific mechanisms have protective functions in differentiated PC12 cells treated with Aβ25-35 remain unclear. AIMS The purpose is to investigate the protective functions of triptolide in Aβ25-35-stimulated differentiated PC12 cells. MAIN METHODS In the study, we use 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay, flow cytometry assay, immunohistochemical staining and Western blot to observe the effects of triptolide on cytotoxicity induced by Aβ25-35 and its mechanism of oxidative stress. KEY FINDINGS The result of MTT and LDH assay indicates that triptolide protected PC12 cells against Aβ25-35-induced cytotoxicity. The flow cytometry assay shows that triptolide attenuated Aβ25-35-induced apoptosis in differentiated PC12 cells. Meanwhile, the results give a clear indication that triptolide could downregulate generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) induced by Aβ25-35. The apoptotic process triggered by triptolide involved the up-regulation of the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD). SIGNIFICANCE The results suggest that triptolide may serve as an important role in the inhibition of the cell apoptosis induced by Aβ and the decreased oxidative stress is a key mechanism in the protective effect of triptolide in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengjuan Xu
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 300193, China.
| | - Hui Wang
- College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Zhigui Li
- College of Medicine, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Neurovascular Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Zhuo Yang
- College of Medicine, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Neurovascular Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
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Yang F, Wang D, Wu L, Li Y. Protective effects of triptolide on retinal ganglion cells in a rat model of chronic glaucoma. Drug Des Devel Ther 2015; 9:6095-107. [PMID: 26604697 PMCID: PMC4655911 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s92022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To study the effects of triptolide, a Chinese herb extract, on retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in a rat model of chronic glaucoma. METHODS Eighty Wistar rats were randomly divided into triptolide group (n=40) and normal saline (NS) group (n=40). Angle photocoagulation was used to establish the model of glaucoma, with right eye as laser treated eye and left eye as control eye. Triptolide group received triptolide intraperitoneally daily, while NS group received NS. Intraocular pressure (IOP), anti-CD11b immunofluorescent stain in retina and optic nerve, RGCs count with Nissel stain and microglia count with anti-CD11b immunofluorescence stain in retina flat mounts, retinal tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α mRNA detection by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and double immunofluorescent labeling with anti-TNF-α and anti-CD11b in retinal frozen section were performed. RESULTS Mean IOP of the laser treated eyes significantly increased 3 weeks after photocoagulation (P<0.05), with no statistical difference between the two groups (P>0.05). RGCs survival in the laser treated eyes was significantly improved in the triptolide group than the NS group (P<0.05). Microglia count in superficial retina of the laser treated eyes was significantly less in the triptolide group (30.40±4.90) than the NS group (35.06±7.59) (P<0.05). TNF-α mRNA expression in the retina of the laser treated eyes in the triptolide group decreased by 60% compared with that in the NS group (P<0.01). The double immunofluorescent labeling showed that TNF-α was mainly distributed around the microglia. CONCLUSION Triptolide improved RGCs survival in this rat model of chronic glaucoma, which did not depend on IOP decrease but might be exerted by inhibiting microglia activities and reducing TNF-α secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Yang
- Ophthalmology Department, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dongmei Wang
- Ophthalmology Department, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lingling Wu
- Ophthalmology Department, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ying Li
- Ophthalmology Department, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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Wang Q, Xiao B, Cui S, Song H, Qian Y, Dong L, An H, Cui Y, Zhang W, He Y, Zhang J, Yang J, Zhang F, Hu G, Gong X, Yan Z, Zheng Y, Wang X. Triptolide treatment reduces Alzheimer's disease (AD)-like pathology through inhibition of BACE1 in a transgenic mouse model of AD. Dis Model Mech 2015; 7:1385-95. [PMID: 25481013 PMCID: PMC4257007 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.018218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The complex pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) involves multiple contributing factors, including amyloid β (Aβ) peptide accumulation, inflammation and oxidative stress. Effective therapeutic strategies for AD are still urgently needed. Triptolide is the major active compound extracted from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook.f., a traditional Chinese medicinal herb that is commonly used to treat inflammatory diseases. The 5-month-old 5XFAD mice, which carry five familial AD mutations in the β-amyloid precursor protein (APP) and presenilin-1 (PS1) genes, were treated with triptolide for 8 weeks. We observed enhanced spatial learning performances, and attenuated Aβ production and deposition in the brain. Triptolide also inhibited the processing of amyloidogenic APP, as well as the expression of βAPP-cleaving enzyme-1 (BACE1) both in vivo and in vitro. In addition, triptolide exerted anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects on the transgenic mouse brain. Triptolide therefore confers protection against the effects of AD in our mouse model and is emerging as a promising therapeutic candidate drug for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Wang
- Department of Physiology, Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disorders of the Ministry of Education, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China. Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Bing Xiao
- Department of Physiology, Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disorders of the Ministry of Education, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China. Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Shuqin Cui
- Department of Medicine, Dezhou University, Dezhou 253023, PR China
| | - Hailong Song
- Department of Physiology, Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disorders of the Ministry of Education, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Yanjing Qian
- Department of Physiology, Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disorders of the Ministry of Education, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China. Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Lin Dong
- Department of Physiology, Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disorders of the Ministry of Education, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China. Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Haiting An
- Department of Physiology, Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disorders of the Ministry of Education, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China. Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Yanqiu Cui
- Capital Medical University Yanjing Medical College, Beijing 101300, PR China
| | - Wenjing Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disorders of the Ministry of Education, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China. Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Yi He
- Department of Physiology, Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disorders of the Ministry of Education, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China. Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Jianliang Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disorders of the Ministry of Education, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China. Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Jian Yang
- Department of Physiology, Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disorders of the Ministry of Education, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China. Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Feilong Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disorders of the Ministry of Education, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China. Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Guanzheng Hu
- Department of Physiology, Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disorders of the Ministry of Education, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China. Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Xiaoli Gong
- Department of Physiology, Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disorders of the Ministry of Education, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China. Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Zhen Yan
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Yan Zheng
- Department of Physiology, Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disorders of the Ministry of Education, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China. Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, PR China.
| | - Xiaomin Wang
- Department of Physiology, Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disorders of the Ministry of Education, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China. Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, PR China.
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Fan K, Li D, Zhang Y, Han C, Liang J, Hou C, Xiao H, Ikenaka K, Ma J. The induction of neuronal death by up-regulated microglial cathepsin H in LPS-induced neuroinflammation. J Neuroinflammation 2015; 12:54. [PMID: 25889123 PMCID: PMC4379721 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-015-0268-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2014] [Accepted: 02/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuroinflammation is a hallmark that leads to selective neuronal loss and/or dysfunction in neurodegenerative disorders. Microglia-derived lysosomal cathepsins are increasingly recognized as important inflammatory mediators to trigger signaling pathways that aggravate neuroinflammation. However, cathepsin H (Cat H), a cysteine protease, has been far less studied in neuroinflammation, compared to cathepsins B, D, L, and S. The expression patterns and functional roles of Cat H in the brain in neuroinflammation remain unknown. METHODS C57BL/6J mice were intraperitoneally injected with either 0.9% saline or lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 5 mg/kg). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and in situ hybridization (ISH) were used to analyze expression and localization of Cat H in the brain. Nitrite assay was used to examine microglial activation in vitro; ELISA was used to determine the release of Cat H and proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ). Cat H activity was analyzed by cellular Cat H assay kit. Flow cytometry and in situ cell death detection were used to investigate neuronal death. Data were evaluated for statistical significance with one-way ANOVA and t test. RESULTS Cat H mRNA was only present in perivascular microglia and non-parenchymal sites under normal conditions. After LPS injection, Cat H mRNA expression in activated microglia in different brain regions was increased. Twenty-four hours after LPS injection, Cat H mRNA expression was maximal in SNr; 72 h later, it peaked in cerebral cortex and hippocampus then decreased and maintained at a low level. The expression of Cat H protein exhibited the similar alterations after LPS injection. In vitro, inflammatory stimulation (LPS, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IFN-γ) increased the release and activity of Cat H in microglia. Conversely, addition of Cat H to microglia promoted the production and release of NO, IL-1β, and IFN-γ which could be prevented by neutralizing antibody. Further, addition of Cat H to Neuro2a cells induced neuronal death. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these data indicate that the up-regulated microglial Cat H expression, release, and activity in the brain lead to neuronal death in neuroinflammation. The functional link of Cat H with microglial activation might contribute to the initiation and maintenance of microglia-driven chronic neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Fan
- Department of Anatomy, Dalian Medical University, West Section No. 9, South Road, Lvshun, Dalian, 116044, , Liaoning, China.
| | - Daobo Li
- Clinical Medicine of Seven-year Education, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, , Liaoning, China.
| | - Yanli Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, Dalian Medical University, West Section No. 9, South Road, Lvshun, Dalian, 116044, , Liaoning, China.
| | - Chao Han
- Regenerative Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, , Liaoning, China.
| | - Junjie Liang
- Graduate School, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, , Liaoning, China.
| | - Changyi Hou
- Graduate School, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, , Liaoning, China.
| | - Hongliang Xiao
- Graduate School, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, , Liaoning, China.
| | - Kazuhiro Ikenaka
- Division of Neurobiology and Bioinformatics, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, 444-8787, , Aichi, Japan.
| | - Jianmei Ma
- Department of Anatomy, Dalian Medical University, West Section No. 9, South Road, Lvshun, Dalian, 116044, , Liaoning, China.
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Ma W, Ding B, Yu H, Yuan L, Xi Y, Xiao R. Genistein alleviates β-amyloid-induced inflammatory damage through regulating Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor κB. J Med Food 2015; 18:273-9. [PMID: 25384233 PMCID: PMC4350449 DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2014.3150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2014] [Accepted: 09/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Genistein (GEN), a major soybean isoflavone (SIF), might possess neuroprotective properties through its anti-inflammatory activity. We hypothesized that GEN could prevent the inflammatory damage detected in C6 cells induced by β-amyloid peptides 25-35 (Aβ25-35). Accordingly, we evaluated the inflammatory damage induced by Aβ25-35 and the protective effect of GEN against Aβ25-35 in C6 cells. In our study, the C6 glial cells (rats glioma cell lines) were preincubated with or without GEN for 2 h following incubation with Aβ25-35 for another 24 h. Then, methylthiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay was used to assess the cell viability. Immunofluorescence staining was used to identify the C6 cells. Inflammatory factors tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1β were analyzed by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Western blot analysis and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis were performed to assess the expression of Toll-like receptors 4 (TLR4), inhibitor of kappaB-alpha (IκB-α). The current results showed that GEN could alleviate Aβ25-35-induced cell apoptosis and prevent Aβ25-35-induced TNF-α and IL-1β release from C6 cells. In addition, GEN prevented Aβ25-35-induced upregulation of the gene and protein expression of TLR4, and GEN significantly upregulated the expression of IκB-α in C6 cells damaged by Aβ25-35. These results suggest that GEN can alleviate the inflammatory stress caused by Aβ25-35 treatment, which might be associated with the neuroprotective effect of GEN regulating the TLR4/NFκB signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Ma
- School of Public Health, Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University , Beijing, People's Republic of China
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Srinivasan M, Lahiri DK. Significance of NF-κB as a pivotal therapeutic target in the neurodegenerative pathologies of Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2015; 19:471-87. [PMID: 25652642 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2014.989834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Advances in molecular pathogenesis suggest that the chronic inflammation is a shared mechanism in the initiation and progression of multiple neurodegenerative diseases with diverse clinical manifestations such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Multiple sclerosis (MS). Restricted cell renewal and regenerative capacity make the neural tissues extremely vulnerable to the uncontrolled inflammatory process leading to irreversible tissue damage. AREAS COVERED A predominant consequence of increased inflammatory signaling is the upregulation of the transcription factor, NF-κB with subsequent neuroprotective or deleterious effects depending on the strength of the signal and the type of NF-κB dimers activated. We discuss the interplay between neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration keeping in focus NF-κB signaling as the point of convergence of multiple pathways associated with the development of the neurodegenerative pathologies, AD and MS. EXPERT OPINION Considerable interest exists in developing efficient NF-κB inhibitors for neurodegenerative diseases. The review includes an overview of natural compounds and rationally designed agents that inhibit NF-κB and mediate neuroprotection in AD and MS. The key chemical moieties of the natural and the synthetic compounds provide efficient leads for the development of effective small molecule inhibitors that selectively target NF-κB activation; this would result in the desired benefit to risk therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mythily Srinivasan
- Indiana University School of Dentistry, Oral Pathology, Radiology and Medicine , Indianapolis, IN , USA +1 317 278 9686 ; +1 317 278 3018 ;
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Liu M, Li J, Dai P, Zhao F, Zheng G, Jing J, Wang J, Luo W, Chen J. Microglia activation regulates GluR1 phosphorylation in chronic unpredictable stress-induced cognitive dysfunction. Stress 2015; 18:96-106. [PMID: 25472821 DOI: 10.3109/10253890.2014.995085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic stress is considered to be a major risk factor in the development of psychopathological syndromes in humans. Cognitive impairments and long-term potentiation (LTP) impairments are increasingly recognized as major components of depression, anxiety disorders and other stress-related chronic psychological illnesses. It seems timely to systematically study the potentially underlying neurobiological mechanisms of altered cognitive and synaptic plasticity in the course of chronic stress. In the present study, a rat model of chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) induced a cognitive impairment in spatial memory in the Morris water maze (MWM) test and a hippocampal LTP impairment. CUS also induced hippocampal microglial activation and attenuated phosphorylation of glutamate receptor 1 (GluR1 or GluA1). Moreover, chronic treatment with the selective microglial activation blocker, minocycline (120 mg/kg per day), beginning 3 d before CUS treatment and continuing through the behavioral testing period, prevented the CUS-induced impairments of spatial memory and LTP induction. Additional studies showed that minocycline-induced inhibition of microglia activation was associated with increased phosphorylation of GluR1. These results suggest that hippocampal microglial activation modulates the level of GluR1 phosphorylation and might play a causal role in CUS-induced cognitive and LTP disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingchao Liu
- Department of Occupational & Environmental Health and the Ministry of Education Key Lab of Hazard Assessment and Control in Special Operational Environment, School of Public Health, Fourth Military Medical University , Xi'an , China and
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Wang B, Chen C, Zhang JT, Song RX, Yu XC. Triptolide (TPL) improves locomotor function recovery in rats and reduces inflammation after spinal cord injury. Neurol Sci 2014; 36:701-5. [PMID: 25547329 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-014-2001-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2014] [Accepted: 11/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we studied the effect of triptolide (TPL) on locomotor function in rats with spinal cord injury. A total of 40 rats were studied after dividing them in two major groups, one was experimental group denoted as TPL group while other was control group denoted as PBS group. Each group was subdivided in four subgroups having five rats each (n = 5). TPL was given intraperitonially at the rate of 5 mg/kg/day in TPL group while PBS was given at the same time interval in the same manner in control group for comparison. A reduction in the cavity area of tissue sections was observed by bright field microscopy from 0.22 ± 0.05 to 0.12 ± 0.05 mm(2) in experimental group after 28 days of treatment while BBB score also improved from 1 to 5 after 14 days of treatment. SPSS software, one way ANOVA, was used for recording statistical analysis and values were expressed as mean ± SEM where P value of <0.01 was considered significant. The expression of I-kBα and NF-kB p65 was also studied using western blotting and after recording optical density (OD) values of western blots. It was observed that treatment with TPL significantly reduced the expression of these factors after 28 days of treatment compared with controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic, The General Hospital of Jinan Military Commanding Region, No. 25 Shifan Road, Tianqiao District, Jinan, 250031, Shandong, China
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Triptolide Attenuates Acute Small-for-Size Liver Graft Injury in Rats by Inhibition of Toll-like Receptor 4. Transplant Proc 2014; 46:3303-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2014.07.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2014] [Revised: 06/19/2014] [Accepted: 07/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Biochanin A Inhibits Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Cytokines and Mediators Production in BV2 Microglia. Neurochem Res 2014; 40:165-71. [DOI: 10.1007/s11064-014-1480-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2014] [Revised: 11/09/2014] [Accepted: 11/15/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Cheng S, LeBlanc KJ, Li L. Triptolide preserves cognitive function and reduces neuropathology in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. PLoS One 2014; 9:e108845. [PMID: 25275487 PMCID: PMC4183525 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0108845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2014] [Accepted: 09/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Triptolide, a major bioactive ingredient of a widely used herbal medicine, has been shown to possess multiple pharmacological functions, including potential neuroprotective effects pertinent to Alzheimer's disease (AD) in vitro. However, the therapeutic potential of triptolide for AD in vivo has not been thoroughly evaluated. In the present study, we investigated the impact of peripherally administered triptolide on AD-related behavior and neuropathology in APPswe/PS1ΔE9 (APP/PS1) mice, an established model of AD. Our results showed that two-month treatment with triptolide rescued cognitive function in APP/PS1 mice. Immunohistochemical analyses indicated that triptolide treatment led to a significant decrease in amyloid-β (Aβ) deposition and neuroinflammation in treated mice. In contrast to previous findings in vitro, biochemical analyses showed that triptolide treatment did not significantly affect the production pathway of Aβ in vivo. Intriguingly, further analyses revealed that triptolide treatment upregulated the level of insulin-degrading enzyme, a major Aβ-degrading enzyme in the brain, indicating that triptolide treatment reduced Aβ pathology by enhancing the proteolytic degradation of Aβ. Our findings demonstrate that triptolide treatment ameliorates key behavioral and neuropathological changes found in AD, suggesting that triptolide may serve as a potential therapeutic agent for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaowu Cheng
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Kyle J. LeBlanc
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Ling Li
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Li XJ, Jiang ZZ, Zhang LY. Triptolide: progress on research in pharmacodynamics and toxicology. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2014; 155:67-79. [PMID: 24933225 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2014.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 279] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2014] [Revised: 06/05/2014] [Accepted: 06/05/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f. (Tripterygium wilfordii), also known as Huangteng and gelsemium elegan, is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been marketed in China as Tripterygium wilfordii glycoside tablets. Triptolide (TP), an active component in Tripterygium wilfordii extracts, has been used to treat various diseases, including lupus, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis and nephritic syndrome. This review summarizes recent developments in the research on the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, pharmacy and toxicology of TP, with a focus on its novel mechanism of reducing toxicity. This review provides insight for future studies on traditional Chinese medicine, a field that is both historically and currently important. MATERIALS AND METHODS We included studies published primarily within the last five years that were available in online academic databases (e.g., PubMed, Google Scholar, CNKI, SciFinder and Web of Science). RESULTS TP has a long history of use in China because it displays multiple pharmacological activities, including anti-rheumatism, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and neuroprotective properties. It has been widely used for the treatment of various diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, nephritic syndrome, lupus, Behcet׳s disease and central nervous system diseases. Recently, numerous breakthroughs have been made in our understanding of the pharmacological efficacy of TP. Although TP has been marketed as a traditional Chinese medicine, its multi-organ toxicity prevents it from being widely used in clinical practice. CONCLUSIONS Triptolide, a biologically active natural product extracted from the root of Tripterygium wilfordii, has shown promising pharmacological effects, particularly as an anti-tumor agent. Currently, in anti-cancer research, more effort should be devoted to investigating effective anti-tumor targets and confirming the anti-tumor spectrum and clinical indications of novel anti-tumor pro-drugs. To apply TP appropriately, with high efficacy and low toxicity, the safety and non-toxic dose range for specific target organs and diseases should be determined, the altered pathways and mechanisms of exposure need to be clarified, and an early warning system for toxicity needs to be established. With further in-depth study of the efficacy and toxicity of TP, we believe that TP will become a promising multi-use drug with improved clinical efficacy and safety in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Jiaoyang Li
- Jiangsu Center of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Zhen-Zhou Jiang
- Jiangsu Center of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Lu-yong Zhang
- Jiangsu Center of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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Zeng KW, Wang S, Dong X, Jiang Y, Tu PF. Sesquiterpene dimer (DSF-52) from Artemisia argyi inhibits microglia-mediated neuroinflammation via suppression of NF-κB, JNK/p38 MAPKs and Jak2/Stat3 signaling pathways. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2014; 21:298-306. [PMID: 24055519 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2013.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2013] [Accepted: 08/09/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Microglia-involved neuroinflammation is thought to promote brain damage in various neurodegenerative disorders. Therefore, novel therapeutics suppressing microglia over-activation could prove useful for neuroprotection in inflammation-mediated neurodegenerative diseases. DSF-52 is a novel sesquiterpene dimer compound isolated from medical plant Artemisia argyi by our group. In this study, we investigated whether DSF-52 inhibited the neuroinflammatory responses in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated microglia. Our findings showed that DSF-52 inhibited the production of nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), as well as mRNA expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and macrophage inflammatory protein-1α (MIP-1α) in LPS-activated BV-2 microglia. Moreover, DSF-52 markedly up-regulated mRNA levels of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Mechanism study indicated that DSF-52 suppressed Akt/IκB/NF-κB inflammation pathway against LPS treatment. Also, DSF-52 down-regulated the phosphorylation levels of JNK and p38 MAPKs, but not ERK. Furthermore, DSF-52 blocked Jak2/Stat3 dependent inflammation pathway through inhibiting Jak2 and Stat3 phosphorylation, as well as Stat3 nuclear translocation. We concluded that the inhibitory ability of DSF-52 on microglia-mediated neuroinflammation may offer a novel neuroprotective modality and could be potentially useful in inflammation-mediated neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Wu Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Shu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Logistics College of Chinese People's Armed Police Forces, Tianjin 300162, China
| | - Xin Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yong Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Peng-Fei Tu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China.
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Yang F, Wu L, Guo X, Wang D, Li Y. Improved retinal ganglion cell survival through retinal microglia suppression by a chinese herb extract, triptolide, in the DBA/2J mouse model of glaucoma. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2013; 21:378-89. [PMID: 23876132 DOI: 10.3109/09273948.2013.806989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the changes in retinal microglia and retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival after long-term administration of a Chinese herb extract, triptolide, in a DBA/2J mice. DBA/2J mice (n = 96) were administered triptolide (n = 48) 25 µg/kg or vehicle (n = 48) and were judged at 7, 9, 11 months of age. Long-term triptolide treatment tended to attenuate the anterior segment pathology in experimental group, though intraocular pressure was not significantly different between the two groups. In the experimental group, RGC survival was improved (7, 9, 11 months: p = 0.035, 0.004, 0.014), and microglia activation was suppressed based on a more ramified appearance (9, 11 months: p = 0.024, 0.013) and a lower total microglial cell count (7, 9, 11 months: p = 0.028, 0.025, 0.014). Double-immunofluorescence staining revealed TNF? localized to microglia, TNFR1 localized to the RGCs and nerve fiber layer. These findings indicate that long-term triptolide administration suppressed microglia activation and improved RGC survival in DBA/2J mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Yang
- Peking university third hospital , Beijing , China
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Effects of triptolide on degeneration of dendritic spines induced by Aβ1-40 injection in rat hippocampus. Neurol Sci 2013; 35:35-40. [PMID: 23715750 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-013-1463-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2013] [Accepted: 05/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Although the exact cause of Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains elusive, mounting evidence continues to support the involvement of neuroinflammation in the development of AD. Triptolide isolated from the herb Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F has anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive activities. In this study, we observed the effects of triptolide on dendritic spines of hippocampal neurons in model rats with AD. Thirty male SD rats were randomly divided into control group, AD model group and triptolide-treated group. The AD model group was made with bilateral microinjection of aggregated beta-amyloid protein (Aβ)1-40 into hippocampus in rats and the control group rats were injected with normal saline in the same way. The triptolide-treated group rats were administered triptolide intraperitoneally for 30 days after microinjection of aggregated Aβ1-40 into hippocampus. Dendritic morphology of hippocampal neurons in each group was analyzed using Golgi staining and ImageJ software. Our data showed that the total number of intersection points of dendrites and spine density in hippocampal neurons in the AD model group were decreased as compared with the control group. However, the total number of intersection points of dendrites and spine density in hippocampal neurons in the triptolide-treated group were increased as compared with the AD model group. Our results indicate that triptolide can alleviate the degeneration of dendritic spines in hippocampal neurons in model rats with AD.
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Ryan TM, Caine J, Mertens HDT, Kirby N, Nigro J, Breheney K, Waddington LJ, Streltsov VA, Curtain C, Masters CL, Roberts BR. Ammonium hydroxide treatment of Aβ produces an aggregate free solution suitable for biophysical and cell culture characterization. PeerJ 2013; 1:e73. [PMID: 23678397 PMCID: PMC3646356 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2012] [Accepted: 04/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is the leading cause of dementia in the elderly. Pathologically it is characterized by the presence of amyloid plaques and neuronal loss within the brain tissue of affected individuals. It is now widely hypothesised that fibrillar structures represent an inert structure. Biophysical and toxicity assays attempting to characterize the formation of both the fibrillar and the intermediate oligomeric structures of Aβ typically involves preparing samples which are largely monomeric; the most common method by which this is achieved is to use the fluorinated organic solvent 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-propanol (HFIP). Recent evidence has suggested that this method is not 100% effective in producing an aggregate free solution. We show, using dynamic light scattering, size exclusion chromatography and small angle X-ray scattering that this is indeed the case, with HFIP pretreated Aβ peptide solutions displaying an increased proportion of oligomeric and aggregated material and an increased propensity to aggregate. Furthermore we show that an alternative technique, involving treatment with strong alkali results in a much more homogenous solution that is largely monomeric. These techniques for solubilising and controlling the oligomeric state of Aβ are valuable starting points for future biophysical and toxicity assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy M Ryan
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne , Parkville, Victoria , Australia
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The Inhibition of Spinal Astrocytic JAK2-STAT3 Pathway Activation Correlates with the Analgesic Effects of Triptolide in the Rat Neuropathic Pain Model. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2012; 2012:185167. [PMID: 23365595 PMCID: PMC3545349 DOI: 10.1155/2012/185167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2012] [Accepted: 11/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain (NP) is an intractable clinical problem without satisfactory treatments. However, certain natural products have been revealed as effective therapeutic agents for the management of pain states. In this study, we used the spinal nerve ligation (SNL) pain model to investigate the antinociceptive effect of triptolide (T10), a major active component of the traditional Chinese herb Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F. Intrathecal T10 inhibited the mechanical nociceptive response induced by SNL without interfering with motor performance. Additionally, the anti-nociceptive effect of T10 was associated with the inhibition of the activation of spinal astrocytes. Furthermore, intrathecal administration of T10 attenuated SNL-induced janus kinase (JAK) signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3) signalling pathway activation and inhibited the upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-6, interleukin-1 beta, and tumour necrosis factor-α, in dorsal horn astrocytes. Moreover, NR2B-containing spinal N-methyl D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) was subsequently inhibited. Above all, T10 can alleviate SNL-induced NP via inhibiting the neuroinflammation in the spinal dorsal horn. The anti-inflammation effect of T10 may be related with the suppression of spinal astrocytic JAK-STAT3 activation. Our results suggest that T10 may be a promising drug for the treatment of NP.
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Lee HF, Lee TS, Kou YR. Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects of triptolide on traumatic brain injury in rats. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2012; 182:1-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2012.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2012] [Revised: 01/16/2012] [Accepted: 01/31/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Effects of triptolide on the synaptophysin expression of hippocampal neurons in the AD cellular model. Int Immunopharmacol 2012; 13:175-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2012.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2012] [Revised: 03/10/2012] [Accepted: 03/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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The biphasic role of microglia in Alzheimer's disease. Int J Alzheimers Dis 2012; 2012:737846. [PMID: 22655214 PMCID: PMC3357927 DOI: 10.1155/2012/737846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2011] [Accepted: 02/29/2012] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Microglia, macrophage-like resident immune cells in the brain, play critical roles in the inflammatory aspects of AD. Microglia may be activated by oligomeric and fibrillar species of amyloid β (Aβ) that are constituents of senile plaques and by molecules derived from degenerated neurons, such as purines and chemokines, which enhance their migration and phagocytosis. The main neurotoxic molecules produced by activated microglia may be reactive oxygen species, glutamate, and inflammatory cytokines such as tumor-necrosis-factor-α and interleukin- (IL-) 1β These molecules differentially induce neurotoxicity. Aβ itself directly damages neurons. In terms of neuroprotective properties, microglia treated with fractalkine or IL-34 attenuate Aβ neurotoxicity by Aβ clearance and the production of antioxidants. Therefore, regulation of the microglial role in neuroprotection may be a useful therapeutic strategy for AD.
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Shukla SM, Sharma SK. Sinomenine inhibits microglial activation by Aβ and confers neuroprotection. J Neuroinflammation 2011; 8:117. [PMID: 21917137 PMCID: PMC3182919 DOI: 10.1186/1742-2094-8-117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2011] [Accepted: 09/14/2011] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neuroinflammation is an important contributor to the development of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease. Thus, there is a keen interest in identifying compounds, especially from herbal sources, that can inhibit neuroinflammation. Amyloid-β (Aβ) is a major component of the amyloid plaques present in the brains of Alzheimer's disease patients. Here, we examined whether sinomenine, present in a Chinese medicinal plant, prevents oligomeric Aβ-induced microglial activation and confers protection against neurotoxicity. Methods Oligomeric amyloid-β was prepared from Aβ(1-42). Intracellular reactive oxygen species production was determined using the dye 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescin diacetate. Nitric oxide level was assessed using the Griess reagent. Flow cytometry was used to examine the levels of inflammatory molecules. BV2-conditioned medium was used to treat hippocampal cell line (HT22) and primary hippocampal cells in indirect toxicity experiments. Toxicity was assessed using MTT reduction and TUNEL assays. Results We found that sinomenine prevents the oligomeric Aβ-induced increase in levels of reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide in BV2 microglial cells. In addition, sinomenine reduces levels of Aβ-induced inflammatory molecules. Furthermore, sinomenine protects hippocampal HT22 cells as well as primary hippocampal cells from indirect toxicity mediated by Aβ-treated microglial cells, but has no effect on Aβ-induced direct toxicity to HT22 cells. Finally, we found that conditioned medium from Aβ-treated BV2 cells contains increased levels of nitric oxide and inflammatory molecules, but the levels of these molecules are reduced by sinomenine. Conclusions Sinomenine prevents oligomeric Aβ-induced microglial activation, and confers protection against indirect neurotoxicity to hippocampal cells. These results raise the possibility that sinomenine may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of Alzheimer's diseases as well as other diseases that involve neuroinflammation.
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Geng Y, Fang M, Wang J, Yu H, Hu Z, Yew DT, Chen W. Triptolide Down-regulates COX-2 Expression and PGE2 Release by Suppressing the Activity of NF-κB and MAP kinases in Lipopolysaccharide-treated PC12 Cells. Phytother Res 2011; 26:337-43. [PMID: 21717513 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.3538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2011] [Revised: 04/03/2011] [Accepted: 04/17/2011] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Geng
- Department of Neurology; Zhejiang Province People's Hospital; Hangzhou China
| | - Marong Fang
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical College; Zhejiang University; Hangzhou China
| | - Jing Wang
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical College; Zhejiang University; Hangzhou China
| | - Haiyan Yu
- Department of Dermatology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Medical College; Zhejiang University; Hangzhou China
| | - Zhiying Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Hangzhou Red Cross Hospital; Hangzhou China
| | - David T. Yew
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine; the Chinese University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Medical College; Zhejiang University; Hangzhou China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of Ministry of Health, Medical College; Zhejiang University; Hangzhou China
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Triptolide suppresses lipopolysaccharide-induced activity of toll-like receptor 4 in mouse macrophage cell line RAW 264.7. Med Chem Res 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/s00044-011-9650-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Adams MN, Ramachandran R, Yau MK, Suen JY, Fairlie DP, Hollenberg MD, Hooper JD. Structure, function and pathophysiology of protease activated receptors. Pharmacol Ther 2011; 130:248-82. [PMID: 21277892 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2011.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 267] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2011] [Accepted: 01/03/2011] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Discovered in the 1990s, protease activated receptors(1) (PARs) are membrane-spanning cell surface proteins that belong to the G protein coupled receptor (GPCR) family. A defining feature of these receptors is their irreversible activation by proteases; mainly serine. Proteolytic agonists remove the PAR extracellular amino terminal pro-domain to expose a new amino terminus, or tethered ligand, that binds intramolecularly to induce intracellular signal transduction via a number of molecular pathways that regulate a variety of cellular responses. By these mechanisms PARs function as cell surface sensors of extracellular and cell surface associated proteases, contributing extensively to regulation of homeostasis, as well as to dysfunctional responses required for progression of a number of diseases. This review examines common and distinguishing structural features of PARs, mechanisms of receptor activation, trafficking and signal termination, and discusses the physiological and pathological roles of these receptors and emerging approaches for modulating PAR-mediated signaling in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark N Adams
- Mater Medical Research Institute, Aubigny Place, Raymond Terrace, South Brisbane Qld 4101, Australia
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