Alpha-linolenic acid protects against lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury through anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative pathways

Functional foods lipids: unraveling their role in the immune response in obesity

Functional lipids are lipids that are found in food matrices and play an important role in influencing human health as their role goes beyond energy storage and structural components. Ongoing research into functional lipids has highlighted their potential to modulate immune responses and other mechanisms associated with obesity, along with its comorbidities. These lipids represent a new field that may offer new therapeutic and preventive strategies for these diseases by understanding their contribution to health. In this review, we discussed in-depth the potential food sources of functional lipids and their reported potential benefit of the major lipid classification: based on their composition such as simple, compound, and derived lipids, and based on their function such as storage and structural, by investigating the intricate mechanisms through which these lipids interact in the human body. We summarize the key insights into the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of the most studied functional lipids. Furthermore, we review the main immunomodulatory mechanisms reported in the literature in the past years. Finally, we discuss the perspectives and challenges faced in the food industry related to functional lipids.

Antioxidant, anti-amylase, anti-lipase, and efficiency of Satureja fatty acid on the anti-inflammatory parameters in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophage through Nrf2/NF-kB/NADH oxidase pathway

Satureja is an aromatic plant that is used for flavoring, perfume, and food manufacturing due to its pleasant essential oil. Modern medicine research revealed several biological activities of Satureja essential oil, including antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory. However, the functional properties of Satureja fatty acid have not been explored. This study examined the fatty acid profile, lipid nutritional quality, antioxidant, anti-amylase, and anti-lipase capacities of Satureja. The efficiency of Satureja fatty acid on the anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory parameters in LPS-induced macrophage through the Nrf2/NF-kB/NADH oxidase pathway was examined. The whole lipid extract was prepared with chloroform/methanol/water solution. Fatty acids methyl ester from whole lipid extract were prepared with methanol/sulfuric acid reagent. The fatty acid profile was analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Total antioxidant was determined by ABTS decolorization. Lipase and amylase activities were determined by monitoring the decomposition of p-nitrophenyl butyrate and starch. The macrophage cell line was grown in DMEM media in the presence of fatty acid. The hydrogen peroxide production in treated cells was monitored using the FOX reagent. NADH oxidase activity was measured by monitoring NADH breakdown. The expression of NOX, NF-kB, and NRF2, were tested in the treated cells by real-time PCR. The main components of the Satureja fatty acid were linolenic acid (24.67-37.32%), palmitic acid (10.65-20.29%), linoleic acid (8.31-13.39%), oleic acid (4.42-14.35%), stearic acid (2.76-8.77%) and palmitoleic acid (1.77-4.95%). Given the nutritional quality, omega-3 PUFA (23.58-37.32%), SFA (21.53-26.70%), omega-6 PUFA (10.86-16.14%), omega-9 MUFA (4.42-14.35%), and omega-7 MUFA (1.77-4.95%) comprise the majority of fatty acids. Satureja fatty acid has a promising unsaturation index (120.77-164.27), PUFA/MUFA (2.07-6.41), hypocholesterolemic index (2.44-3.47), health-promoting index (2.03-2.42), PUFA/SFA (1.37-1.94), nutritive value index (0.53-1.71), MUFA/SFA (0.30-0.80) omega-6/omega-3 (0.34-0.65), atherogenicity index (0.41-0.49), and thrombogenicity index (0.17-0.27). Satureja fatty acid displayed strong antioxidant capacity (with IC50 ranging from 354 to 428 µg/mL), anti-lipase capacity (with IC50 ranging from 354 to 428 µg/mL), and anti-amylase capacity (with IC50 ranging from 370 to 390 µg/mL). LPS induced the expression of NOX, NRF2, and NF-kB and the synthesis of hydrogen peroxide in macrophage cells. In LPS-stimulated macrophages, Satureja fatty acid reduced NOX expression, hydrogen peroxide, and NF-kB expression and increased NRF2 at 0.04 mg/mL. In conclusion, Satureja fatty acids have potent antioxidant, anti-amylase, anti-lipase, and anti-inflammatory activities. The mechanisms in lowering oxidative stress markers depended on down-regulating superoxide-producing enzymes at gene and protein levels. Satureja polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids could be recommended for healthy products combined with dietary therapy to treat obesity, diabetes, and oxidative stress.

The role of fatty acid metabolism in acute lung injury: a special focus on immunometabolism

Reputable evidence from multiple studies suggests that excessive and uncontrolled inflammation plays an indispensable role in mediating, amplifying, and protracting acute lung injury (ALI). Traditionally, immunity and energy metabolism are regarded as separate functions regulated by distinct mechanisms, but recently, more and more evidence show that immunity and energy metabolism exhibit a strong interaction which has given rise to an emerging field of immunometabolism. Mammalian lungs are organs with active fatty acid metabolism, however, during ALI, inflammation and oxidative stress lead to a series metabolic reprogramming such as impaired fatty acid oxidation, increased expression of proteins involved in fatty acid uptake and transport, enhanced synthesis of fatty acids, and accumulation of lipid droplets. In addition, obesity represents a significant risk factor for ALI/ARDS. Thus, we have further elucidated the mechanisms of obesity exacerbating ALI from the perspective of fatty acid metabolism. To sum up, this paper presents a systematical review of the relationship between extensive fatty acid metabolic pathways and acute lung injury and summarizes recent advances in understanding the involvement of fatty acid metabolism-related pathways in ALI. We hold an optimistic believe that targeting fatty acid metabolism pathway is a promising lung protection strategy, but the specific regulatory mechanisms are way too complex, necessitating further extensive and in-depth investigations in future studies.

Paralemmin-3 augments lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury with M1 macrophage polarization via the notch signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Acute lung injury (ALI) involves severe lung damage and respiratory failure, which are accompanied by alveolar macrophage (AM) activation. The aim of this article is to verify the influence of paralemmin-3 (PALM3) on alveolar macrophage (AM) polarization in ALI and the underlying mechanism of action.

METHODS

An ALI rat model was established by successive lipopolysaccharide (LPS) inhalations. The influence of PALM3 on the survival rate, severity of lung injury, and macrophage polarization was analyzed. Furthermore, we explored the underlying mechanism of PALM3 in regulating macrophage polarization.

RESULTS

PALM3 overexpression increased mortality of ALI rats, augmented lung pathological damage, and promoted AM polarization toward M1 cells. Conversely, PALM3 knockdown had the opposite effects. Mechanistically, PALM3 might promote M1 polarization by acting as an adaptor to facilitate transduction of Notch signaling.

CONCLUSION

PALM3 aggravates lung injury and induces macrophage polarization toward M1 cells by activating the Notch signaling pathway in LPS-induced ALI, which may shed light on ALI/ARDS treatments.

1H NMR-based metabolomics study of the lipid profile of omega-3 fatty acid supplements and some vegetable oils

Omega-3 fatty acids, which consist of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), are a type of polyunsaturated fatty acids that are crucial for enhancing human health. These three omega-3s are regarded as vital dietary nutrients because it cannot synthesize them on its own. Therefore, they must be obtained through dietary sources. On the other hands, there are concerns regarding the quality and quantity of omega-3 in dietary sources and supplements. In this study, 1H NMR spectroscopy and multivariate analysis were harnessed for non-destructive profiling of fatty acids in commercially available omega-3 supplements and plant-based oils. Results disclosed substantial disparities in omega-3 content from 8 to over 50 %, with some revealing unexpected adulteration. Notably, in one fish oil sample DHA could not be detected indicating the possibility of adulteration. Additionally, the research delineated the fatty acid composition of plant-based oils, emphasizing variations in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and linoleic acid (LA) content among flaxseed, chia seed, and walnut oils. Chia seeds emerged as a rich source of ALA (57-65 %mol), while walnuts contained considerable LA (44-53 % mol). The findings emphasize the power of metabolomics as a rapid and affordable tool for finding omega-3 fatty acids content and adulteration in commercial dietary products.

Fatty Oil of Descurainia Sophia Nanoparticles Improve Monocrotaline-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension in Rats Through PLC/IP3R/Ca2+ Signaling Pathway

Purpose

Fatty oil of Descurainia Sophia (OIL) has poor stability and low solubility, which limits its pharmacological effects. We hypothesized that fatty oil nanoparticles (OIL-NPs) could overcome this limitation. The protective effect of OIL-NPs against monocrotaline-induced lung injury in rats was studied.

Methods

We prepared OIL-NPs by wrapping fatty oil with polylactic-polyglycolide nanoparticles (PLGA-NPs) and conducted in vivo and in vitro experiments to explore its anti-pulmonary hypertension (PH) effect. In vitro, we induced malignant proliferation of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (RPASMC) using anoxic chambers, and studied the effects of OIL-NPs on the malignant proliferation of RPASMC cells and phospholipase C (PLC)/inositol triphosphate receptor (IP3R)/Ca2+ signal pathways. In vivo, we used small animal echocardiography, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, western blotting (WB), polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and metabolomics to explore the effects of OIL-NPs on the heart and lung pathological damage and PLC/IP3R/Ca2+ signal pathway of pulmonary hypertension rats.

Results

We prepared fatty into OIL-NPs. In vitro, OIL-NPs could improve the mitochondrial function and inhibit the malignant proliferation of RPASMC cells by inhibiting the PLC/IP3R/Ca2+signal pathway. In vivo, OIL-NPs could reduce the pulmonary artery pressure of rats and alleviate the pathological injury and inflammatory reaction of heart and lung by inhibiting the PLC/IP3R/Ca2+ signal pathway.

Conclusion

OIL-NPs have anti-pulmonary hypertension effect, and the mechanism may be related to the inhibition of PLC/IP3R/Ca2+signal pathway.

Nasal application of sesame oil-based Anu taila as 'biological mask' for respiratory health during COVID-19

This article narrates the potential role of sesame oil-based Anu taila for respiratory health and the prevention of COVID-19. Ayurveda recommends the use of sesame oil and A. taila as a part of daily routine (dinacharya) for oral gargling and transnasal application (Nasya) for preventing upper respiratory tract infections. Recent studies on COVID-19 have elucidated the activity of certain fatty acids in restricting viral binding. Based on the evidence gathered from in-silico, pre-clinical, and pharmacological studies as well as references from classical textbooks of Ayurveda, this article infers that the transnasal application of sesame oil and/or A. taila could provide resilience/protection to the respiratory system. It can act as a 'biological mask' to prevent respiratory infections like COVID-19. Detailed pharmacological study can give fuller confirmation of our informed "inference" that A. taila offers a cost-effective intervention for the prevention of COVID-19 like infections of the upper respiratory tract.

Periplaneta Americana Extract Ameliorates LPS-induced Acute Lung Injury Via Reducing Inflammation and Oxidative Stress

OBJECTIVE

Acute lung injury (ALI) is an acute clinical syndrome characterized by uncontrolled inflammation response, which causes high mortality and poor prognosis. The present study determined the protective effect and underlying mechanism of Periplaneta americana extract (PAE) against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI.

METHODS

The viability of MH-S cells was measured by MTT. ALI was induced in BALB/c mice by intranasal administration of LPS (5 mg/kg), and the pathological changes, oxidative stress, myeloperoxidase activity, lactate dehydrogenase activity, inflammatory cytokine expression, edema formation, and signal pathway activation in lung tissues and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were examined by H&E staining, MDA, SOD and CAT assays, MPO assay, ELISA, wet/dry analysis, immunofluorescence staining and Western blotting, respectively.

RESULTS

The results revealed that PAE obviously inhibited the release of proinflammatory TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β by suppressing the activation of MAPK/Akt/NF-κB signaling pathways in LPS-treated MH-S cells. Furthermore, PAE suppressed the neutrophil infiltration, permeability increase, pathological changes, cellular damage and death, pro-inflammatory cytokines expression, and oxidative stress upregulation, which was associated with its blockage of the MAPK/Akt/NF-κB pathway in lung tissues of ALI mice.

CONCLUSION

PAE may serve as a potential agent for ALI treatment due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties, which correlate to the blockage of the MAPK/NF-κB and AKT signaling pathways.

Alpha-linolenic acid pretreatment alleviates NETs-induced alveolar macrophage pyroptosis by inhibiting pyrin inflammasome activation in a mouse model of sepsis-induced ALI/ARDS

Background

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) can cause acute lung injury (ALI)/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) by inducing macrophage pyroptosis. The purpose of this study was to find out whether pretreatment of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) could inhibit NETs-induced macrophage pyroptosis in sepsis-induced ALI/ARDS, as well as to identify which inflammasome is involved in this process.

Methods

LPS was instilled into the trachea to establish sepsis-induced ALI/ARDS in a mouse model. ​Lung injury was assessed by microscopic examination of lung tissue after hematoxylin and eosin staining, pathology score, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) total protein concentration. The level of NETs in lung tissue was detected by MPO-DNA ELISA. Purified NETs, extracted from peritoneal neutrophils, induced macrophage pyroptosis in vitro. Expression of pyroptosis-related proteins (Cl-caspase-1, Cl-GSDMD, ASC) and IL-1β in the lung tissue and bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) were determined by western blotting or ELISA. Specks of Pyrin/ASC were examined by confocal immunofluorescence microscopy. Mefv (Pyrin)-/- mice were used to study the role of Pyrin in the process of sepsis-induced ALI/ARDS.

Results

ALA alleviated LPS-induced lung injury. ALA reduced the level of NETs, pyroptosis-related proteins (Cl-caspase-1, Cl-GSDMD, ASC), and IL-1β in the lung tissue of sepsis mice. In vitro, NETs increased the expression of pyroptosis-related proteins (Cl-caspase-1, Cl-GSDMD, ASC) and IL-1β significantly in BMDMs. Pyrin protein was found to be higher and form the inflammasome with ASC in NETs challenged-BMDMs. Knockout of Mefv (Pyrin) gene fully restored the increased expression of pyroptosis-related proteins (Cl-caspase-1, Cl-GSDMD, ASC) and IL-1β in vitro and in vivo. Lung injury was alleviated significantly in Mefv (Pyrin)-/- mice as well.​ ALA suppresses all the NETs-induced changes as mentioned above.

Conclusion

Our study is the first to demonstrate Pyrin inflammasome driving NETs-induced macrophage pyroptosis, and ALA may reduce ALI/ARDS by inhibiting the activation of the Pyrin inflammasome-driven macrophage pyroptosis.

Integration of transcriptomics and metabolomics to reveal the effect of ginsenoside Rg3 on allergic rhinitis in mice

Increasing studies have demonstrated that ginsenoside Rg3 (Rg3) plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of various diseases, including allergic lower airway inflammation such as asthma. To investigate the role of Rg3 in allergic upper airway disease, the effect and therapeutic mechanism of Rg3 in allergic rhinitis (AR) were studied. Ovalbumin-induced AR model mice were intragastrically administered with Rg3. Nasal symptoms, levels of IgE, IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, SOD and MDA in serum, and histopathological analysis of nasal mucosa were used to evaluate the effect of Rg3 on ameliorating AR in mice. Moreover, nasal mucosa samples from the normal control group, AR model group and high dosage of Rg3 were collected to perform omics analysis. The differentially expressed genes and significantly changed metabolites were screened based on transcriptomics and metabolomics analyses, respectively. Integrative analysis was further performed to confirm the hub genes, metabolites and pathways. After Rg3 intervention, the nasal symptoms and inflammatory infiltration were effectively improved, the levels of IgE, IL-4, IL-5, IL-13 and MDA were significantly reduced, and the level of SOD was obviously increased. The results of the qRT-PCR assay complemented the transcriptomic findings. Integrated analysis showed that Rg3 played an anti-AR role mainly by regulating the interaction network, which was constructed by 12 genes, 8 metabolites and 4 pathways. Our findings suggested that Rg3 had a therapeutic effect on ovalbumin-induced AR in mice by inhibiting inflammation development and reducing oxidative stress. The present study could provide a potential natural agent for the treatment of AR.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids ameliorate PM2.5 exposure induced lung injury in mice through remodeling the gut microbiota and modulating the lung metabolism

Short-term or long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is related to increased incidences of respiratory diseases. This study aimed to investigate the influences of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs) supplementation on oxidative stress, inflammation, lung metabolic profile, and gut microbiota in PM2.5-induced lung injury mice. Mice were divided into four groups (n = 15, per group): two unsupplemented groups, control group and PM2.5 group, and two supplemented groups with ω-3 PUFAs, ω-3 PUFAs group, and ω-3 PUFAs + PM2.5 group. Mice in the supplemented groups were placed on an ω-3 PUFAs-enriched diet (ω-3 PUFAs, 21 g/kg). During the 5th to 6th week of dietary supplementation, mice were exposed to PM2.5 by intra-tracheal instillation. ω-3 PUFAs ameliorate lung histopathological injury, reduce inflammatory responses and oxidative stress, affect lung metabolite profile, and modulate gut microbiota in PM2.5-induced lung injury mice. Thus, supplementary ω-3 PUFAs showed effectiveness in attenuation of PM2.5-induced lung injury, indicating that the interventions exhibited preventive and therapeutic potential.

Regulation of semen quality by fatty acids in diets, extender, and semen

Fatty acids (FAs) are classified into different types according to the degree of hydrocarbon chain saturation, including saturated fatty acids (SFAs), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 PUFAs) and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-6 PUFAs), which play an important role in maintaining semen quality. This review focuses on the regulation of FAs in semen, diet and extender on semen quality, and expounds its effects on sperm motility, plasma membrane integrity, DNA integrity, hormone content, and antioxidant capacity. It can be concluded that there are species differences in the FAs profile and requirements in sperm, and their ability to regulate semen quality is also affected by the addition methods or dosages. Future research directions should focus on analyzing the FAs profiles of different species or different periods of the same species and exploring suitable addition methods, doses and mechanism of regulating semen quality.

Influence of foods and nutrients on COVID-19 recovery: A multivariate analysis of data from 170 countries using a generalized linear model

BACKGROUND & AIMS

COVID-19 is an emergency public health problem of global importance. This study aimed to investigate the effect of foods and nutrients as complementary approaches on the recovery from COVID-19 in 170 countries, especially considering the complexity of the disease and the current scarcity of active treatments.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed using the Kaggle database, which links the consumption of various foods with recovery from COVID-19 in 170 countries, using multivariate analysis based on a generalized linear model.

RESULTS

The results showed that certain foods had a positive effect on recovery from COVID-19: eggs, fish and seafood, fruits, meat, milk, starchy roots, stimulants, vegetable products, nuts, vegetable oil and vegetables. In general, consumption of higher levels of proteins and lipids had a positive effect on COVID-19 recovery, whereas high consumption of alcoholic beverages had a negative effect. In developed countries, where hunger had been eradicated, the effect of food on recovery from COVID-19 had a greater magnitude than in countries with a higher global hunger index (GHI), where there was almost no identifiable effect.

CONCLUSION

Several foods had a positive effect on COVID-19 recovery in developed countries, especially food groups with a higher content of lipids, proteins, antioxidants and micronutrients (e.g., selenium and zinc). In countries with extreme poverty (high GHI), foods presented little effect on recovery from COVID-19.

Influence of foods and nutrients on COVID-19 recovery: A multivariate analysis of data from 170 countries using a generalized linear model

BACKGROUND & AIMS

COVID-19 is an emergency public health problem of global importance. This study aimed to investigate the effect of foods and nutrients as complementary approaches on the recovery from COVID-19 in 170 countries, especially considering the complexity of the disease and the current scarcity of active treatments.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed using the Kaggle database, which links the consumption of various foods with recovery from COVID-19 in 170 countries, using multivariate analysis based on a generalized linear model.

RESULTS

The results showed that certain foods had a positive effect on recovery from COVID-19: eggs, fish and seafood, fruits, meat, milk, starchy roots, stimulants, vegetable products, nuts, vegetable oil and vegetables. In general, consumption of higher levels of proteins and lipids had a positive effect on COVID-19 recovery, whereas high consumption of alcoholic beverages had a negative effect. In developed countries, where hunger had been eradicated, the effect of food on recovery from COVID-19 had a greater magnitude than in countries with a higher global hunger index (GHI), where there was almost no identifiable effect.

CONCLUSION

Several foods had a positive effect on COVID-19 recovery in developed countries, especially food groups with a higher content of lipids, proteins, antioxidants and micronutrients (e.g., selenium and zinc). In countries with extreme poverty (high GHI), foods presented little effect on recovery from COVID-19.

N-phenethyl-5-phenylpicolinamide alleviates inflammation in acute lung injury by inhibiting HIF-1α/glycolysis/ASIC1a pathway

AIMS

Acute lung injury (ALI) is triggered by an acute inflammatory response. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is recognized as an important participant in the pathogenesis of sepsis, which may induce ALI. N-phenethyl-5-phenylpicolinamide (N5P) is a newly synthesized HIF-1α inhibitor. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the potential protective effects of N5P on LPS-induced ALI and the underlying mechanisms.

MAIN METHODS

In vivo experiment, the ALI rat model was induced by intratracheal injection of LPS, and various concentrations of N5P were injected intraperitoneally before LPS administration. In vitro experiment, RAW264.7 macrophages were administrated LPS and N5P to detect inflammatory cytokine changes. HIF-1α overexpression plasmid (HIF1α-OE) and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), a glycolysis agonist, were used to examine the relationship between the HIF-1α/glycolysis/ASIC1a pathway.

KEY FINDINGS

Pretreatment with N5P inhibited not only the histopathological changes that occurred in the lungs but also lung dysfunction in LPS-induced ALI. N5P also decreased the levels of lactic acid in lung tissue and arterial blood, and inflammatory factors IL-1β and IL-6 levels in serum. LPS increased HIF-1α, glycolysis proteins GLUT1, HK2, ASIC1a, IL-1β, IL-6, and these changes were reversed by N5P in primary alveolar macrophages and RAW264.7 macrophages. Overexpression of HIF-1α significantly increased glycolysis genes and ASIC1a as well as inflammatory cytokines. Excessive glycolysis levels weaken the ability of N5P to inhibit inflammation.

SIGNIFICANCE

N5P may alleviate inflammation in ALI through the HIF-1α/glycolysis/ASIC1a signaling pathway. The present findings have provided pertinent information in the assessment of N5P as a potential, future therapeutic drug for ALI.

ApoA2-256T > C polymorphism interacts with Healthy Eating Index, Dietary Quality Index-International and Dietary Phytochemical Index to affect biochemical markers among type 2 diabetic patients

Several investigations revealed the association between ApoA2 concentration and lipid profile, inflammation and oxidative stress markers. Dietary habits also play a major role in the health status of individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study aimed to investigate the interaction of ApoA2-256T > C with dietary indexes on ghrelin and leptin hormones together with biochemical markers among individuals with T2DM. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 726 randomly selected individuals with T2DM. A validated FFQ was used to evaluate Healthy Eating Index, Dietary Quality Index-International (DQI-I) and Dietary Phytochemical Index (DPI). ApoA2-256T > C genotypes were detected by real-time-PCR. Ghrelin, leptin and biochemical markers were also assessed. ANCOVA was used for the interaction between the polymorphism and dietary indexes. A significant interaction was observed between ApoA2-256T > C and DQI-I on high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) level and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Besides, the interaction of the SNP and DPI significantly affected hs-CRP and 8-isoprostane F2α (PGF2α) levels. CC in the second tertile of DPI had the lowest hs-CRP level, and it was elevated due to adhering to DQI-I (P_interaction = 0·01 and 0·04, respectively). Moreover, T-allele (protective allele) carriers with the highest level of PGF2α and SOD activity were those in the second tertile of DPI and DQI-I, respectively (P_interaction = 0·03 and 0·007, respectively). SOD activity, hs-CRP and PGF2α concentration may be modified in T-allele carriers and CC by the adherence to DPI and DQI-I, though additional studies are required to confirm these findings.

Quantum dots bind nanosheet to promote nanomaterial stability and resist endotoxin-induced fibrosis and PM2.5-induced pneumonia

Endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a harmful substance commonly found in various environments that causes lung fibrosis. Exposure to PM2.5 also increases the risk of respiratory diseases. Through sulfur-carbon bonds and the edge S effect, GOQDs were used to bind in single-layer molybdenum disulfide (SLMoS2) nanosheets to synthesize SLMoS2@GOQDs heterojunction structures. GOQDs doping greatly increased the water solubility and stabilized of SLMoS2. SLMoS2@GOQDs with catalase-like activity protected cells from ultrastructural and cytomembrane damage and apoptosis induced by LPS. Moreover, the doping of GOQDs enhanced the escape of SLMoS2@GOQDs from cellular uptake and suppressed the release of Mo ions. Nanosheet-cell interface interactions that were regulated by quantum dots supported these positive effects. Immunofluorescence analysis and cell imaging confirmed that the nanomaterial protected against cell injury by regulating the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway and the secretion of relevant cytokines, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Moreover, SLMoS2@GOQDs also mitigated pneumonia caused by PM2.5 in vivo. Collectively, our findings not only provide a simple and effective approach to control lung diseases (caused by LPS or PM2.5), but also reveal the potential value of heterojunction materials in the fields of toxicology and human health, boosting the application of nanotechnology in the fields of ecotoxicology and environmental safety.

Exploration of the Specific Pathology of HXMM Tablet Against Retinal Injury Based on Drug Attack Model to Network Robustness

Retinal degenerative diseases are related to retinal injury because of the activation of the complement cascade, oxidative stress-induced cell death mechanisms, dysfunctional mitochondria, chronic neuroinflammation, and production of the vascular endothelial growth factor. Anti-VEGF therapy demonstrates remarkable clinical effects and benefits in retinal degenerative disease patients. Hence, new drug development is necessary to treat patients with severe visual loss. He xue ming mu (HXMM) tablet is a CFDA-approved traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for retinal degenerative diseases, which can alleviate the symptoms of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) alone or in combination with anti-VEGF agents. To elucidate the mechanisms of HXMM, a quantitative evaluation algorithm for the prediction of the effect of multi-target drugs on the disturbance of the disease network has been used for exploring the specific pathology of HXMM and TCM precision positioning. Compared with anti-VEGF agents, the drug disturbance of HXMM on the functional subnetwork shows that HXMM reduces the network robustness on the oxidative stress subnetwork and inflammatory subnetwork to exhibit the anti-oxidation and anti-inflammation activity. HXMM provides better protection to ARPE-19 cells against retinal injury after H₂O₂ treatment. HXMM can elevate GSH and reduce LDH levels to exhibit antioxidant activity and suppress the expression of IL-6 and TNF-α for anti-inflammatory activity, which is different from the anti-VEGF agent with strong anti-VEGF activity. The experimental result confirmed the accuracy of the computational prediction. The combination of bioinformatics prediction based on the drug attack on network robustness and experimental validation provides a new strategy for precision application of TCM.

Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory roles of vitamins in COVID-19 therapy

oxidative stress is caused by an abundant generation of reactive oxygen species, associated to a diminished capacity of the endogenous systems of the organism to counteract them. Activation of pro-oxidative pathways and boosting of inflammatory cytokines are always encountered in viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2. So, the importance of counteracting cytokine storm in COVID-19 pathology is highly important, to hamper the immunogenic damage of the endothelium and alveolar membranes. Antioxidants prevent oxidative processes, by impeding radical species generation. It has been proved that vitamin intake lowers oxidative stress markers, alleviates cytokine storm and has a potential role in reducing disease severity, by lowering pro-inflammatory cytokines, hampering hyperinflammation and organ failure. For the approached compounds, direct antiviral roles are also discussed in this review, as these activities encompass secretion of antiviral peptides, modulation of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor expression and interaction with spike protein, inactivation of furin protease, or inhibition of pathogen replication by nucleic acid impairment induction. Vitamin administration results in beneficial effects. Nevertheless, timing, dosage and mutual influences of these micronutrients should be carefullly regarded.

The review of alpha-linolenic acid: Sources, metabolism, and pharmacology

α-linolenic acid (ALA, 18:3n-3) is a carboxylic acid composed of 18 carbon atoms and three cis double bonds, and is an essential fatty acid indispensable to the human body. This study aims to systematically review related studies on the dietary sources, metabolism, and pharmacological effects of ALA. Information on ALA was collected from the internet database PubMed, Elsevier, ResearchGate, Web of Science, Wiley Online Library, and Europe PMC using a combination of keywords including "pharmacology," "metabolism," "sources." The following findings are mainly contained. (a) ALA can only be ingested from food and then converted into eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid in the body. (b) This conversion process is relatively limited and affected by many factors such as dose, gender, and disease. (c) Pharmacological research shows that ALA has the anti-metabolic syndrome, anticancer, antiinflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-obesity, neuroprotection, and regulation of the intestinal flora properties. (d) There are the most studies that prove ALA has anti-metabolic syndrome effects, including experimental studies and clinical trials. (e) The therapeutic effect of ALA will be affected by the dosage. In short, ALA is expected to treat many diseases, but further high quality studies are needed to firmly establish the clinical efficacy of ALA.

Metabolic Evidence Rather Than Amounts of Red or Processed Meat as a Risk on Korean Colorectal Cancer

The incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) has increased in Korea, a newly-industrialized Asian country, with the dramatic increase of meat intake. To assess the risks of red or processed meat consumption on CRC, we performed a case-control study with biological monitoring of urinary1-OHP, PhIP, and MeIQx for the meat exposure; dG-C8 MeIQx and dG-C8 PhIP for HCA-induced DNA adducts; and homocysteine and C-reactive protein (CRP) in blood as well as malondialdehyde (MDA) and 31fatty acids in urine for inflammation and lipid alteration. We further analyzed global DNA methylation and expression of 15 CRC-related genes. As a result, the consumption of red or processed meat was not higher in the cases than in the controls. However, urinary MeIQx and PhIP were associated with the intake of red meat and urinary 1-OHP. MDA and multiple fatty acids were related to the exposure biomarkers. Most of the 31 fatty acids and multiple saturated fatty acids were higher in the cases than in the controls. Finally, the cases showed upregulation of PTGS2, which is related to pro-inflammatory fatty acids. This study describes indirect mechanisms of CRC via lipid alteration with a series of processes including exposure to red meat, alteration of fatty acids, and relevant gene expression.

Effect-directed profiling of Ficus religiosa leaf extracts for multipotent compounds via 12 effect-directed assays

The interest in the therapeutic values of natural compounds from plants is growing worldwide because the development of modern synthetic drugs has not lived up to expectations. The tree Ficus religiosa native to India, China and Southeast Asia is traditionally used for curing almost 50 ailments, although the majority of the individual active compounds are not known. Hence, a hyphenated high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) method was newly developed. It allowed a physicochemical, but especially effect-directed profiling of individual compounds present in Ficus religiosa leaves obtained from four locations (in India and Germany). Extracts of different polarities were screened for bioactivity responses and most bioactivities were found in the ethyl acetate extracts. A multi-imaging via 26 different detection modes was performed, i. e. UV/Vis/FLD, 11 microchemical derivatizations and 12 effect-directed assays (EDA). By HPTLC-UV/Vis/FLD-EDA, antibiotics against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well as acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, tyrosinase, α-amylase, α-glucosidase and β-glucosidase inhibitors and radical scavenging compounds were detected. Estrogen-like or gentotoxic compounds were not detected at higher extract amounts of even 5 mg/band applied. For further characterization of three most important, multipotent, bioactive compound zones, HPTLC was hyphenated with heated electrospray ionization high-resolution mass spectrometry including fragmentation (HPTLC-HESI-HRMS/MS). Multipotent bioactive compounds discovered in the extracts were equivalently calculated in reference to well-known reference inhibitors.

The active GLP-1 analogue liraglutide alleviates H9N2 influenza virus-induced acute lung injury in mice

Influenza virus is responsible for significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Acute lung injury (ALI)/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is the major cause of death in influenza virus infected patients. Recent studies indicated that active glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) encoded by glucagon (GCG) gene exerts anti-inflammatory functions. The aim of this study was to determine the potential role of active GLP-1 in H9N2 influenza virus-induced ALI/ARDS in mice. First, we uncovered that GCG mRNA expression levels and GCG precursor protein levels were significantly increased, but total GLP-1 and active GLP-1 levels were decreased in the lungs of H9N2-infected mice. Next, liraglutide, an active GLP-1 analogue, was used to treat infected mice and to observe its effects on H9N2 virus-induced ALI. Liraglutide treatment ameliorated the declined body weight, decreased food intake and mortality observed in infected mice. It also alleviated the severity of lung injury, including lowering lung index, decreasing inflammatory cell infiltration and lowing total protein levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). In addition, liraglutide did not influence viral titers in infected lungs, but decreased the levels of interleukin-1β, interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α in BALF. These results indicated that liraglutide alleviated H9N2 virus-induced ALI in mice most likely due to lower levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

The Important Role of Volatile Components From a Traditional Chinese Medicine Dayuan-Yin Against the COVID-19 Pandemic

Aromatic Chinese herbs have been used to prevent plagues since ancient times. Traditional Chinese medicine has unique advantages in the prevention and treatment of epidemic diseases. According to the traditional Chinese medicine treatment plan in the National COVID-19 Diagnosis and Treatment Plan (Trial Seventh Edition) of the National Health Commission, Chinese patent medicines or prescriptions rich in aromatic Chinese herbs are selected for prevention and treatment during the period of medical observation, clinical treatment, and recovery of confirmed COVID-19 patients. Some local health committees or traditional Chinese medicine administrations recommend a variety of other ways of using traditional aromatic Chinese herbs to prevent and cure COVID-19. These involve external fumigation, use of moxibustion, and wearing of sachet. The efficacy of aromatic Chinese herbs plays a decisive role in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. The unique properties, chemical composition, and mechanism of action of aromatic Chinese herbs are worthy of extensive and in-depth experimental and clinical research. The findings are expected to provide a reference for follow-up treatment of novel coronavirus and the development of corresponding drugs. In 2003, Dayuan-Yin produced excellent results in the treatment of the SARS virus. Individually, 112 confirmed cases were administered this drug between January and April 2003, and more than 93.7% of the patients showed noticeable mitigation of the symptoms, as well as recovery. Dayuan-Yin also was selected as one of the nationally recommended prescriptions for the COVID-19. Based on the national recommendation of Dayuan-Yin prescription, this review discusses the role of volatile components in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19, and speculates the possible mechanism of action, so as to provide a basis for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19.

MicroRNA-377-3p released by mesenchymal stem cell exosomes ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury by targeting RPTOR to induce autophagy

Acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are the severe lung damage and respiratory failure without effective therapy. However, there was a lack of understanding of the mechanism by which exosomes regulate autophagy during ALI/ARDS. Here, we found lipopolysaccharide (LPS) significantly increased inflammatory factors, administration of exosomes released by human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hucMSCs) successfully improved lung morphometry. Further studies showed that miR-377-3p in the exosomes played a pivotal role in regulating autophagy, leading to protect LPS induced ALI. Compared to exosomes released by human fetal lung fibroblast cells (HFL-1), hucMSCs-exosomes overexpressing miR-377-3p more effectively suppressed the bronchoalveolar lavage (BALF) and inflammatory factors and induced autophagy, causing recoveration of ALI. Administration of miR-377-3p expressing hucMSCs-exosomes or its target regulatory-associated protein of mTOR (RPTOR) knockdown significantly reduced ALI. In summary, miR-377-3p released by hucMSCs-exosomes ameliorated Lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury by targeting RPTOR to induce autophagy in vivo and in vitro.

Protective effect of Alpha-Linolenic acid on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Orchitis in mice

Previous studies have demonstrated that polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have anti-inflammatory effects. One specific PUFA, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), shows both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In the testes, inflammatory mediators are known to increase when orchitis is induced by bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS). This study aimed to determine whether the anti-inflammatory properties of ALA could have a protective effect against LPS-induced orchitis in mice. The mice were divided into untreated control, orchitis and ALA-treated orchitis groups. Orchitis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of LPS. The ALA-treated group was administered ALA by gavage three days before intraperitoneal LPS injection. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) enzymes and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) in the testes, as well as serum interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), were analysed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests. LPS administration increased the expression of several inflammatory mediators, including IL-6, TNF-α and NF-κB, as well as the COX-2, cPLA2 and iNOS enzymes. ALA administration significantly prevented the LPS-induced increases in these inflammatory mediators and enzymes (p < .05). The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of ALA may make it a useful candidate for the treatment of orchitis caused by bacterial LPS.