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Yan S, Xie LY, Duan XX, Tan JX, Yang S, Meng L, Zhong QH, Lin WD, Yang JN, Xiao YY, Jiang X. Electroacupuncture improves apoptosis of nucleus pulposus cells via the IL-22/JAK2-STAT3 signaling pathway in a rat model of cervical intervertebral disk degeneration. Acupunct Med 2024:9645284241248465. [PMID: 38702866 DOI: 10.1177/09645284241248465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical spondylosis (CS) is a prevalent disorder that can have a major negative impact on quality of life. Traditional conservative treatment has limited efficacy, and electroacupuncture (EA) is a novel treatment option. We investigated the application and molecular mechanism of EA treatment in a rat model of cervical intervertebral disk degeneration (CIDD). METHODS The CIDD rat model was established, following which rats in the electroacupuncture (EA) group received EA. For overexpression of IL-22 or inhibition of JAK2-STAT3 signaling, the rats were injected intraperitoneally with recombinant IL-22 protein (p-IL-22) or the JAK2-STAT3 (Janus kinase 2-signal transducer and activator of transcription protein 3) inhibitor AG490 after model establishment. Rat nucleus pulposus (NP) cells were isolated and cultured. Cell counting kit-8 and flow cytometry were used to analyze the viability and apoptosis of the NP cells. Expression of IL-22, JAK2 and STAT3 was determined using RT-qPCR. Expression of IL-22/JAK2-STAT3 pathway and apoptosis related proteins was detected by Western blotting (WB). RESULTS EA protected the NP tissues of CIDD rats by regulating the IL-22/JAK2-STAT3 pathway. Overexpression of IL-22 significantly promoted the expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-6, IL-1β, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)3 and MMP13 compared with the EA group. WB demonstrated that the expression of IL-22, p-JAK2, p-STAT3, caspase-3 and Bax in NP cells of the EA group was significantly reduced and Bcl-2 elevated compared with the model group. EA regulated cytokines and MMP through activation of IL-22/JAK2-STAT3 signaling in CIDD rat NP cells. CONCLUSION We demonstrated that EA affected apoptosis by regulating the IL-22/JAK2-STAT3 pathway in NP cells and reducing inflammatory factors in the CIDD rat model. The results extend our knowledge of the mechanisms of action underlying the effects of EA as a potential treatment approach for CS in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sen Yan
- Acupuncture Department II, Yueyang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yueyang, China
| | - Ling-Yao Xie
- Acupuncture Department II, Yueyang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yueyang, China
| | - Xia-Xia Duan
- Acupuncture Department II, Yueyang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yueyang, China
| | - Jia-Xuan Tan
- Acupuncture Department II, Yueyang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yueyang, China
| | - Song Yang
- Acupuncture Department II, Yueyang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yueyang, China
| | - Ling Meng
- Acupuncture Department II, Yueyang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yueyang, China
| | - Qing-Hua Zhong
- Acupuncture Department II, Yueyang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yueyang, China
| | - Wei-Di Lin
- Acupuncture Department II, Yueyang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yueyang, China
| | - Jia-Ni Yang
- Acupuncture Department II, Yueyang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yueyang, China
| | - Yao-Yao Xiao
- Acupuncture Department II, Yueyang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yueyang, China
| | - Xueyu Jiang
- Acupuncture Department II, Yueyang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yueyang, China
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Sun F, Xu K, Zhou J, Zhang W, Duan G, Lei M. Allicin protects against LPS-induced cardiomyocyte injury by activating Nrf2-HO-1 and inhibiting NLRP3 pathways. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2023; 23:410. [PMID: 37596540 PMCID: PMC10439633 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-023-03442-1] [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: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allicin is a bioactive compound with potent antioxidative activity and plays a protective effect in myocardial damage and fibrosis. The role and mechanism of Allicin in septic cardiomyopathy are unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects and underlying mechanisms of Allicin on lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced injury in H9c2 cardiomyocytes. METHODS H9c2 cardiomyocyte cells were pretreated with Allicin (0, 25, 50, and 100 µM) for 2 h, followed by incubation with LPS (10 µg/mL) for 24 h at 37 °C. Cell viability (cell counting kit-8 [CCK-8]), apoptosis (TUNEL staining), oxidative stress (malondialdehyde [MDA] and superoxide dismutase [SOD]), and cytokines release (Interleukin beta [IL-β], Interleukin 6 [IL-6], and tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α]) were determined. The mRNA and protein expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) signaling pathway molecules were quantified by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and western blot, respectively. RESULTS Allicin had no effect on H9c2 cell viability but attenuated LPS-induced injury, with increased cell viability, reduction in inflammatory cytokines release, apoptosis, reduced MDA, and increased SOD (P < 0.05). Additionally, Allicin increased Nrf2 and cellular HO-1 expressions in LPS-treated H9c2 cells. Moreover, Allicin modulated the NLRP3 inflammasome, increased the cleaved caspase-1 (p10) protein, and attenuated the LPS-induced increase in NLRP3, pro-IL-1β, and IL-1β proteins. Silencing of Nrf2 by siRNA (siNrf2) significantly attenuated Allicin-induced increase in cell viability and HO-1 and decrease in NLRP3 protein in LPS-stimulated H9c2 cells. CONCLUSIONS Allicin protects cardiomyocytes against LPS‑induced injury through activation of Nrf2/HO-1 and inhibition of NLRP3 signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangyuan Sun
- Trauma emergency center, The Seventh People's Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.358, Datong Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, 200137, China
| | - Kailiang Xu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Seventh People's Hospital of Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai, 200137, China
| | - Jiayi Zhou
- Trauma emergency center, The Seventh People's Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.358, Datong Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, 200137, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Trauma emergency center, The Seventh People's Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.358, Datong Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, 200137, China
| | - Guihe Duan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Shache County People's Hospital of Xinjiang Kashgar Prefecture, Xinjiang, 844710, China
| | - Ming Lei
- Trauma emergency center, The Seventh People's Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.358, Datong Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, 200137, China.
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Nguyen THV, Chiu KC, Shih YH, Liu CJ, Bao Quach TV, Hsia SM, Chen YH, Shieh TM. Protective Effect of Electroacupuncture on Chemotherapy-Induced Salivary Gland Hypofunction in a Mouse Model. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11654. [PMID: 37511411 PMCID: PMC10380826 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy and chemotherapy can impair salivary gland (SG) function, which causes xerostomia and exacerbate other side effects of chemotherapy and oral infection, reducing patients' quality of life. This animal study aimed to assess the efficacy of electroacupuncture (EA) as a means of preventing xerostomia induced by 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). A xerostomia mouse model was induced via four tail vein injections of 5-FU (80 mg/kg/dose). EA was performed at LI4 and LI11 for 7 days. The pilocarpine-stimulated salivary flow rate (SFR) and salivary glands weight (SGW) were recorded. Salivary immunoglobulin A (SIgA) and lysozyme were determined via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). SG was collected for hematoxylin and eosin staining to measure acini number and acinar cell size. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and aquaporin 5 (AQP5) mRNA expressions in SG were quantified via RT-qPCR. 5-FU caused significant decreases in SFR, SGW, SIgA, lysozyme, AQP5 expression, and acini number, while TNF-α and IL-1β expressions and acinar cell size were significantly increased. EA treatment can prevent 5-FU damage to the salivary gland, while pilocarpine treatment can only elevate SFR and AQP5 expression. These findings provide significant evidence to support the use of EA as an alternative treatment for chemotherapy-induced salivary gland hypofunction and xerostomia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanh-Hien Vu Nguyen
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
- School of Dentistry, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Chou Chiu
- Division of Oral Diagnosis and Family Dentistry, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
| | - Yin-Hwa Shih
- Department of Healthcare Administration, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Ji Liu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 10449, Taiwan
| | | | - Shih-Min Hsia
- School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110301, Taiwan
- Nutrition Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 110301, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hung Chen
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
- Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
- Department of Photonics and Communication Engineering, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan
| | - Tzong-Ming Shieh
- School of Dentistry, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
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4
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Xu L, Zhu Y, Li C, Wang Q, Ma L, Wang J, Zhang S. Small extracellular vesicles derived from Nrf2-overexpressing human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells protect against lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury by inhibiting NLRP3. Biol Direct 2022; 17:35. [PMID: 36447296 PMCID: PMC9706911 DOI: 10.1186/s13062-022-00351-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute lung injury (ALI) is a major cause of respiratory failure in critically ill patients that results in significant morbidity and mortality. Recent studies indicate that cell-based therapies may be beneficial in the treatment of ALI. We recently demonstrated that Nrf2-overexpressing human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) reduce lung injury, fibrosis and inflammation in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-challenged mice. Here we tested whether small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) derived from Nrf2-overexpressing hAMSCs (Nrf2-sEVs) could protect against ALI. sEVs were isolated from hAMSCs that overexpressed (Nrf2-sEVs) or silenced (siNrf2-sEVs) Nrf2. We examined the effects of sEVs treatment on lung inflammation in a mouse model of ALI, where LPS was administered intratracheally to mice, and lung tissues and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were analyzed 24 h later. METHODS Histological analysis, immunofluorescence microscopy, western blotting, RT-PCR and ELISA were used to measure the inflammatory response in the lungs and BALF. RESULTS We found that sEVs from hAMSCs are protective in ALI and that Nrf2 overexpression promotes protection against lung disease. Nrf2-sEVs significantly reduced lung injury in LPS-challenged mice, which was associated with decreased apoptosis, reduced infiltration of neutrophils and macrophages, and inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokine expression. We further show that Nrf2-sEVs act by inhibiting the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and promoting the polarization of M2 macrophages. CONCLUSION Our data show that overexpression of Nrf2 protects against LPS-induced lung injury, and indicate that a novel therapeutic strategy using Nrf2-sEVs may be beneficial against ALI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Xu
- grid.24516.340000000123704535Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 7th Floor, Building 1, No. 301 Middle Yanchang Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai, 200072 China
| | - Yunlou Zhu
- grid.24516.340000000123704535Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 7th Floor, Building 1, No. 301 Middle Yanchang Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai, 200072 China
| | - Congye Li
- grid.24516.340000000123704535Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 7th Floor, Building 1, No. 301 Middle Yanchang Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai, 200072 China
| | - Qixing Wang
- grid.24516.340000000123704535Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 7th Floor, Building 1, No. 301 Middle Yanchang Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai, 200072 China
| | - Lijie Ma
- grid.24516.340000000123704535Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 7th Floor, Building 1, No. 301 Middle Yanchang Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai, 200072 China
| | - Junjie Wang
- grid.24516.340000000123704535Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 7th Floor, Building 1, No. 301 Middle Yanchang Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai, 200072 China
| | - Shouqin Zhang
- grid.24516.340000000123704535Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 7th Floor, Building 1, No. 301 Middle Yanchang Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai, 200072 China
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Electroacupuncture Preconditioning Alleviates Lipopolysaccharides-Induced Acute Lung Injury by Downregulating LC3-II/I and Beclin 1 Expression. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:8997173. [PMID: 36310624 PMCID: PMC9613389 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8997173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Our study aimed to investigate the effect of electroacupuncture pretreatment on the inflammatory response and expression levels of LC3-II/I and Beclin 1 using a model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI). Eighteen male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into three groups: normal control group (NC, n = 6), LSP modeling group (LM, n = 6), and electroacupuncture group (EA, n = 6). Rats in the EA group received electroacupuncture pretreatment at bilateral Zusanli (ST36) and Chize (LU5) points for five days (30 min each time daily, frequency; 3 Hz/15 Hz, intensity; 1 mA). Rats in the EA and LM groups were then injected with 5 mg/kg LPS (Beijing, Solarbio Company, concentration; 5 mg/mL) through the tail vein, while those in the NC group were injected with 5 mg/kg saline. The animals were sacrificed six hours after LPS or saline injection through cervical vertebrae by dislocation under deep anesthesia. Orbital blood was collected for the analysis of serum inflammatory factors including interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). The lower left lung was excised, stained with hematoxylin-eosin (HE), and subjected to histopathological analysis. The mRNA and protein expression of Beclin 1 and LC3 II/I in the lower right lung tissues were detected via RT-qPCR and Western blot analyses, respectively. The results showed that lung injury score was significantly higher in the LM group than that of the NC group (P < 0.01) and EA group (P < 0.01). The IL-1β contents were significantly decreased in the EA group (P < 0.01) than in the LM group. In contrast, the GF-β contents were increased in the EA group significantly when compared with the LM group (P < 0.01). RT-qPCR and Western blot detection showed that the relative gene expression of LC3-II/I and Beclin 1 was significantly lower in the EA group than in the LM group (P < 0.01). However, the relative protein expression level of LC3-II/I and Beclin 1 was slightly lower in the EA group than the in LM group (P > 0.05). These results show that electroacupuncture pretreatment reduces the inflammatory response in ALI and can protect lung tissue by inhibiting the gene and protein expression levels of LC3-II/I and Beclin 1.
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6
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Lee S, Kim SN. The Effect of Acupuncture on Modulating Inflammatory Cytokines in Rodent Animal Models of Respiratory Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:878463. [PMID: 35784312 PMCID: PMC9241441 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.878463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PurposeAlthough respiratory diseases (RD) are rapidly becoming a global health issue due to their high mortality and prevalence, there are limitations to the currently available treatments. Acupuncture has been recognized to mitigate many diseases by reducing inflammation and modulating cytokines. However, no systematic analysis has been performed to examine the effects of acupuncture on RD. We aimed to evaluate the effects of acupuncture on rodent animal models of RD.MethodsPubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and the Research Information Service System were searched to retrieve studies that met our inclusion/exclusion criteria. The quality of each included study was evaluated using a 10-item checklist modified from the Collaborative Approach to Meta-Analysis and Review of Animal Data from Experimental Studies. With adequate data extracted, meta-analysis was performed using RevMan software.ResultsA total of 18 studies were included, and the mean quality assessment was 5.7. The meta-analysis revealed that acupuncture had a significant effect on changing the cytokine levels, including pro-/anti-inflammatory, Th1-, Th2- and Th17- specific cytokines.ConclusionAlthough there were limitations in the number of included studies, the results suggest that acupuncture can be a possible treatment for RD through its modulation of various cytokines, leading to reduced inflammation.
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7
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NLRP3 Knockout Protects against Lung Injury Induced by Cerebral Ischemia–Reperfusion. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:6260102. [PMID: 35432726 PMCID: PMC9012655 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6260102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background and Purpose. Stroke-associated pneumonia (SAP) is a common complication after stroke that increases the mortality of patients. Although there have been many studies suggesting that stroke can increase patient susceptibility to pneumonia, it is still unknown whether the treatment of stroke can also improve lung injury. We used NLRP3-knockout (NLRP3-KO) mice to verify that an improvement in brain injury would also be beneficial to lung injury and further confirm the relationship between stroke and pneumonia. Methods. C57/BL6 wild-type (WT) and NLRP3-KO mice were used to construct middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) models. 2,3,5-Triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) was used to evaluate brain damage, and neurological deficits were assessed. Then, lung tissue injury was examined in the different groups of mice by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Inflammation (macrophage and neutrophil infiltration, NLRP3-associated inflammatory molecules) and oxidative stress (reactive oxygen species, ROS) in the lungs were comprehensively examined by immunofluorescence staining and Western blotting. Results. First, our findings demonstrated that NLRP3 knockout had a protective effect against cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury after MCAO. Second, by reducing brain damage after MCAO, lung inflammation was also alleviated. Immunofluorescence staining showed that NLRP3-KO-MCAO mice had reduced inflammatory effector molecule (caspase-1 and IL-1β) expression and macrophage and neutrophil infiltration in the lung, as well as remissive oxidative stress state in the lung, compared with WT-MCAO mice. We also observed a decrease in phosphorylated p65 (p-p65) (an NF-κB factor) in NLRP3-KO-MCAO mice, suggesting that the NF-κB pathway was involved in the protective effect of NLRP3 gene knockout on stroke-induced lung injury. Conclusions. NLRP3 inflammasome knockout not only is beneficial for cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury but also reduces the severity of poststroke lung injury by reducing brain damage. It has been confirmed that there is a relationship between central insult and peripheral organ injury, and protecting the brain can prevent peripheral organ damage.
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Li N, Guo Y, Gong Y, Zhang Y, Fan W, Yao K, Chen Z, Dou B, Lin X, Chen B, Chen Z, Xu Z, Lyu Z. The Anti-Inflammatory Actions and Mechanisms of Acupuncture from Acupoint to Target Organs via Neuro-Immune Regulation. J Inflamm Res 2022; 14:7191-7224. [PMID: 34992414 PMCID: PMC8710088 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s341581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation plays a significant role in the occurrence and development of multiple diseases. This study comprehensively reviews and presents literature from the last five years, showing that acupuncture indeed exerts strong anti-inflammatory effects in multiple biological systems, namely, the immune, digestive, respiratory, nervous, locomotory, circulatory, endocrine, and genitourinary systems. It is well known that localized acupuncture-mediated anti-inflammatory effects involve the regulation of multiple populations and functions of immune cells, including macrophages, granulocytes, mast cells, and T cells. In acupuncture stimulation, macrophages transform from the M1 to the M2 phenotype and the negative TLR4 regulator PPARγ is activated to inhibit the intracellular TLR/MyD88 and NOD signaling pathways. The downstream IκBα/NF-κB and P38 MAPK pathways are subsequently inhibited by acupuncture, followed by suppressed production of inflammasome and proinflammatory mediators. Acupuncture also modulates the balance of helper T cell populations. Furthermore, it inhibits oxidative stress by enhancing SOD activity via the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and eliminates the generation of oxygen free radicals, thereby preventing inflammatory cell infiltration. The anti-inflammatory effects of acupuncture on different biological systems are also specific to individual organ microenvironments. As part of its anti-inflammatory action, acupuncture deforms connective tissue and upregulates the secretion of various molecules in acupoints, further activating the NF-κB, MAPK, and ERK pathways in mast cells, fibroblasts, keratinocytes, and monocytes/macrophages. The somatic afferents present in acupuncture-activated acupoints also convey sensory signals to the spinal cord, brainstem, and hypothalamic neurons. Upon information integration in the brain, acupuncture further stimulates multiple neuro-immune pathways, including the cholinergic anti-inflammatory, vagus-adrenal medulla-dopamine, and sympathetic pathways, as well as the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, ultimately acting immune cells via the release of crucial neurotransmitters and hormones. This review provides a scientific and reliable basis and viewpoints for the clinical application of acupuncture in various inflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningcen Li
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Guo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China
| | - Yinan Gong
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen Fan
- Suzuka University of Medical Science, Suzuka City, Japan
| | - Kaifang Yao
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhihan Chen
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China
| | - Baomin Dou
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaowei Lin
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Chen
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China
| | - Zelin Chen
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhifang Xu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhongxi Lyu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China
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9
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Dhar R, Rana MN, Zhang L, Li Y, Li N, Hu Z, Yan C, Wang X, Zheng X, Liu H, Cui H, Li Z, Tang H. Phosphodiesterase 4B is required for NLRP3 inflammasome activation by positive feedback with Nrf2 in the early phase of LPS- induced acute lung injury. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 176:378-391. [PMID: 34644617 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Acute lung injury (ALI) is associated with overproduction of inflammatory mediators in lung tissue. Previous studies have revealed that inflammation induces activation of phosphodiesterase 4B (PDE4B) accompanied by the production of inflammatory mediators, but the detailed mechanism remains unclear. Here, we focused on the NOD-, LRR- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3(NLRP3) inflammasome complexes to study the crosstalk between PDE4B and NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). We used global knockout PDE4B or Nrf2 mice to prepare LPS induced acute lung injury model by intratracheally administration, and LPS primed bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs), following overexpression of PDE4B or Nrf2, luciferase activity analysis, and chIP-qPCR analyses. We found that deficiency of PDE4B could potently attenuate the lung histopathological changes, suppress the secretion of pro-inflammatory mediators such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-18, and cleaved caspase-1, 8, and GSDMD accompanied with defective activation of the ROS/Nrf2/NLRP3. Meanwhile deficiency of Nrf2 showed the similar results. Furtherly, overexpression by PDE4B or Nrf2 plasmid transfection in MH-S cells could enhance the Nrf2 or PDE4B expression. Luciferase analysis suggested that Nrf2 activated PDE4B promoter activity, while PDE4B could increase Nrf2 substrate ARE activity in MH-S cells in dose dependent manners. ChIP-qPCR analyses showed that Nrf2 bound to the PDE4B promoter region at ̴ 1532 to ̴1199 position in macrophages. Altogether, deficiency of PDE4B inhibit the inflammasome activation and pyroptosis in LPS stimulated lung injury model and macrophages by regulating ROS/Nrf2/NLRP3 activation. The study provides new insight that PDE4B is required for NLRP3 inflammasome activation by positive feedback with Nrf2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana Dhar
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang Respiratory Drugs Research Laboratory, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, China
| | - Mohammad Nasiruddin Rana
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang Respiratory Drugs Research Laboratory, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, China
| | - Lejun Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang Respiratory Drugs Research Laboratory, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, China
| | - Yajun Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang Respiratory Drugs Research Laboratory, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, China
| | - Ning Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang Respiratory Drugs Research Laboratory, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, China
| | - Zhengqiang Hu
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang Respiratory Drugs Research Laboratory, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, China
| | - Chungunag Yan
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xuefeng Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310005, China
| | - Xuyang Zheng
- Department of Pediatrics, The Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Hongyun Liu
- Institute of Dairy Science, MoE Key Laboratory of Molecular Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, China
| | - Huashun Cui
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200021, China.
| | - Zigang Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang University, China.
| | - Huifang Tang
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang Respiratory Drugs Research Laboratory, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, China.
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10
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Emanuele S, Celesia A, D’Anneo A, Lauricella M, Carlisi D, De Blasio A, Giuliano M. The Good and Bad of Nrf2: An Update in Cancer and New Perspectives in COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7963. [PMID: 34360732 PMCID: PMC8348506 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a well-known transcription factor best recognised as one of the main regulators of the oxidative stress response. Beyond playing a crucial role in cell defence by transactivating cytoprotective genes encoding antioxidant and detoxifying enzymes, Nrf2 is also implicated in a wide network regulating anti-inflammatory response and metabolic reprogramming. Such a broad spectrum of actions renders the factor a key regulator of cell fate and a strategic player in the control of cell transformation and response to viral infections. The Nrf2 protective roles in normal cells account for its anti-tumour and anti-viral functions. However, Nrf2 overstimulation often occurs in tumour cells and a complex correlation of Nrf2 with cancer initiation and progression has been widely described. Therefore, if on one hand, Nrf2 has a dual role in cancer, on the other hand, the factor seems to display a univocal function in preventing inflammation and cytokine storm that occur under viral infections, specifically in coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19). In such a variegate context, the present review aims to dissect the roles of Nrf2 in both cancer and COVID-19, two widespread diseases that represent a cause of major concern today. In particular, the review describes the molecular aspects of Nrf2 signalling in both pathological situations and the most recent findings about the advantages of Nrf2 inhibition or activation as possible strategies for cancer and COVID-19 treatment respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Emanuele
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.C.); (M.L.); (D.C.)
| | - Adriana Celesia
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.C.); (M.L.); (D.C.)
| | - Antonella D’Anneo
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), Biochemistry Building, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.D.); (A.D.B.); (M.G.)
| | - Marianna Lauricella
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.C.); (M.L.); (D.C.)
| | - Daniela Carlisi
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.C.); (M.L.); (D.C.)
| | - Anna De Blasio
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), Biochemistry Building, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.D.); (A.D.B.); (M.G.)
| | - Michela Giuliano
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), Biochemistry Building, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.D.); (A.D.B.); (M.G.)
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11
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Zou Y, Bhat OM, Yuan X, Li G, Huang D, Guo Y, Zhou D, Li PL. Release and Actions of Inflammatory Exosomes in Pulmonary Emphysema: Potential Therapeutic Target of Acupuncture. J Inflamm Res 2021; 14:3501-3521. [PMID: 34335040 PMCID: PMC8318722 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s312385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exosomes have been reported to mediate activation of the inflammatory response by secretion of inflammasome products such as IL-1β or IL-18 and that changes in exosomes production or secretion may be a therapeutic target for treatment of a variety of different chronic diseases. The present study tested the hypothesis that exosome-mediated release of NLRP3 inflammasome products instigates the inflammatory response in the lung during emphysema, a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and that electroacupuncture (EA) may attenuate emphysema by inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation and consequent inflammation. METHODS The COPD mice model was developed by injecting porcine pancreatic elastase (PPE) via puncture tracheotomy and instillation. EA (4 Hz/20 Hz, 1 to 3 mA) was applied to the bilateral BL13 and ST36 for 30 min, once every other day for 2 weeks. Micro computed tomography (micro-CT) was performed to measure lung function. Histopathological changes in the lungs were displayed by HE staining. RESULTS In a mouse model of porcine pancreatic elastase (PPE)-induced emphysema, the lung tissue was found to display several key features of emphysema, including alveolar septal thickening, enlarged alveoli, interstitial edema, and inflammatory cells infiltration. Lungs of mice receiving PPE exhibited substantially increased low attenuation area (LAA) in micro-CT images. The colocalization of NLRP3 vs ASC or caspase-1 detected by confocal microscopy was shown to increase in both bronchial and alveolar walls, indicating the increased formation of NLRP3 inflammasomes. IL-1β, a prototype NLRP3 inflammasome activating product, was also found to have increased in the lung during emphysema, which was colocalized with CD63 (an exosome marker), an indicative of inflammatory exosome formation. By nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), IL-1β-containing exosomes were shown to significantly increase in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) from mice with emphysema. Therapeutically, IL-1β production in the lung during emphysema was significantly reduced by EA at the acupoint Feishu (BL13) and Zusanli (ST36), accompanied by decreased colocalization of NLRP3 vs ASC or caspase-1. Increased exosome release into BAL during emphysema was shown to be significantly attenuated in EA-treated mice compared to their controls. However, EA of non-specific BL23 together with ST36 acupoint had no effects on NLRP3 inflammasome activation, exosome release and associated lung pathology during emphysema. CONCLUSION NLRP3 inflammasome activation in concert with increased release of exosomes containing IL-1β or other inflammasome products contributes to the development of lung inflammation and injury during PPE-induced emphysema and that EA of lung-specific acupoints attenuates inflammasome activation and exosome release, thereby reducing inflammatory response in the lung of mice with emphysema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Zou
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Owais M Bhat
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Xinxu Yuan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Guangbi Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Dandan Huang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Yi Guo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dan Zhou
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Pin-Lan Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
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12
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de Souza DV, Pappis L, Bandeira TT, Sangoi GG, Fontana T, Rissi VB, Sagrillo MR, Duarte MM, Duarte T, Bodenstein DF, Andreazza AC, Cruz IBMD, Ribeiro EE, Antoniazzi A, Ourique AF, Machado AK. Açaí ( Euterpe oleracea Mart.) presents anti-neuroinflammatory capacity in LPS-activated microglia cells. Nutr Neurosci 2020; 25:1188-1199. [PMID: 33170113 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2020.1842044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neuropsychiatric diseases are responsible for one of the highest burden of morbidity and mortality worldwide. These illnesses include schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression. Individuals affected by these diseases may present mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. Additionally, patients also have increased peripheral and neural chronic inflammation. The Brazilian fruit, açaí, has been demonstrated to be a neuroprotective agent through its recovery of mitochondrial complex I activity. This extract has previously shown anti-inflammatory effects in inflammatory cells. However, there is a lack of understanding of potential anti-neuroinflammatory mechanisms, such as cell cycle involvement. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study is to evaluate the anti-neuroinflammatory potential of an açaí extract in lipopolysaccharide-activated BV-2 microglia cells. METHODS Açaí extract was produced and characterized through high performance liquid chromatography. Following açaí extraction and characterization, BV-2 microglia cells were activated with LPS and a dose-response curve was generated to select the most effective açaí dose to reduce cellular proliferation. This dose was then used to assess reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, double-strand DNA release, cell cycle modulation, and cytokine and caspase protein expression. RESULTS Characterization of the açaí extract revealed 10 bioactive molecules. The extract reduced cellular proliferation, ROS production, and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines and caspase 1 protein expression under 1 μg/mL in LPS-activated BV-2 microglia cells but had no effect on double strand DNA release. Additionally, açaí treatment caused cell cycle arrest, specifically within synthesis and G2/Mitosis phases. CONCLUSION These results suggest that the freeze-dried hydroalcoholic açaí extract presents high anti-neuroinflammatory potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diulie Valente de Souza
- Graduate Program in Nanoscience, Franciscan University, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.,Laboratory of Cell Culture and Genetics, Franciscan University, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Lauren Pappis
- Graduate Program of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | | | | | - Tuyla Fontana
- Laboratory of Cell Culture and Genetics, Franciscan University, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Vitor Braga Rissi
- Department of Agriculture, Biodiversity and Forests, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Curitibanos, SC, Brazil
| | - Michele Rorato Sagrillo
- Graduate Program in Nanoscience, Franciscan University, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.,Laboratory of Cell Culture and Genetics, Franciscan University, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Marta Maria Duarte
- Graduate Program in Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Thiago Duarte
- Graduate Program in Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Ana Cristina Andreazza
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | | | - Alfredo Antoniazzi
- Graduate Program in Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Alencar Kolinski Machado
- Graduate Program in Nanoscience, Franciscan University, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.,Laboratory of Cell Culture and Genetics, Franciscan University, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
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13
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Liu Z, Li Y, Yu L, Chang Y, Yu J. Penehyclidine hydrochloride inhibits renal ischemia/reperfusion-induced acute lung injury by activating the Nrf2 pathway. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:13400-13421. [PMID: 32652517 PMCID: PMC7377887 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The nuclear factor (NF)-κB and NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) pathways promote inflammatory signaling that injures the kidneys, whereas the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway promotes anti-inflammatory signaling that inhibits oxidative damage. Penehyclidine hydrochloride (PHC) inhibits NF-κB and activates Nrf2 signaling. We investigated whether PHC induces communication between the Nrf2 and NF-κB/NLRP3 pathways, thereby protecting against renal ischemia/reperfusion (rI/R)-induced lung inflammation. Rat alveolar macrophages (NR8383 cells) were stimulated for 24 h with PHC with or without brusatol (a Nrf2 antagonist), after which they were treated for 4 h with tert-butyl hydroperoxide (10 mM). PHC Nrf2-dependently alleviated tert-butyl hydroperoxide-induced reactive oxygen species production in alveolar macrophages. Additionally, wild-type and Nrf2-/- rats were each divided into four groups: (1) sham, (2) PHC (1 mg/kg), (3) rI/R and (4) rI/R + PHC (1 mg/kg). PHC markedly induced the Nrf2 and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase pathways and suppressed rI/R-induced NF-κB and NLRP3 activation in the lungs. Nrf2 deficiency diminished the ability of PHC to ameliorate rI/R-induced histopathological alterations and reactive oxygen species release in the lungs; however, PHC inhibited NLRP3 signaling Nrf2-dependently, while it inhibited NF-κB signaling Nrf2-independently. Our findings demonstrate the beneficial effects of PHC on rI/R-induced lung inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, Cangzhou Central Hospital, Cangzhou, Hebei, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cangzhou Central Hospital, Cangzhou, Hebei, China
| | - Lili Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cangzhou Central Hospital, Cangzhou, Hebei, China
| | - Yulin Chang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cangzhou Central Hospital, Cangzhou, Hebei, China
| | - Jingui Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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