NF-κB in acute pancreatitis: Mechanisms and therapeutic potential

Myricetin ameliorates the severity of pancreatitis in mice by regulating cathepsin B activity and inflammatory cytokine production

Cathepsin B (CTSB) and inflammatory cytokines are critical in initiating and developing pancreatitis. Calcineurin, a central calcium (Ca2+)-responsive signaling molecule, mediates acinar cell death and inflammatory responses leading to pancreatitis. However, the detailed mechanisms for regulating CTSB activity and inflammatory cytokine production are unknown. Myricetin (MC) exhibits various biological activities, including anti-inflammatory effects. Here, we aimed to investigate MC effects on pancreatitis and the underlying mechanisms. Prophylactic and therapeutic MC treatment ameliorated the severity of cerulein-, L-arginine-, and PDL-induced acute pancreatitis (AP). The inhibition of CTSB activity by MC was mediated via decreased calcineurin activity and macrophage infiltration, not neutrophils infiltration, into the pancreas. Additionally, calcineurin activity inhibition by MC prevented the phosphorylation of Ca2+/CaM-dependent protein kinase kinase 2 (CaMKK2) during AP, resulting in the inhibition of CaMKIV phosphorylation and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) dephosphorylation. Furthermore, MC reduced nuclear factor-κB activation by modulating the calcineurin-CaMKIV-IKKα/β-Iκ-Bα and calcineurin-AMPK-sirtuin1 axes, resulting in reduced production of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6. Our results showed that MC alleviated AP severity by inhibiting acinar cell death and inflammatory responses, suggesting that MC as a calcineurin and CaMKK2 signaling modulator may be a potential treatment for AP.

Rhei Radix et Rhizoma and its anthraquinone derivatives: Potential candidates for pancreatitis treatment

BACKGROUND

Pancreatitis is a common exocrine inflammatory disease of the pancreas and lacks specific medication currently. Rhei Radix et Rhizoma (RR) and its anthraquinone derivatives (AQs) have been successively reported for their pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms in experimental and clinical pancreatitis. However, an overview of the anti-pancreatitis potential of RR and its AQs is limited.

PURPOSE

To summarize and analyze the pharmacological effects of RR and its AQs on pancreatitis and the underlying mechanisms, and discuss their drug-like properties and future perspectives.

METHODS

The articles related to RR and its AQs were collected from the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang data, PubMed, and the Web of Science using relevant keywords from the study's inception until April first, 2024. Studies involving RR or its AQs in cell or animal pancreatitis models as well as structure-activity relationship, pharmacokinetics, toxicology, and clinical trials were included.

RESULTS

Most experimental studies are based on severe acute pancreatitis rat models and a few on chronic pancreatitis. Several bioactive anthraquinone derivatives of Rhei Radix et Rhizoma (RRAQs) exert local protective effects on the pancreas by maintaining pancreatic acinar cell homeostasis, inhibiting inflammatory signaling, and anti-fibrosis, and they improve systemic organ function by alleviating intestinal and lung injury. Pharmacokinetic and toxicity studies have revealed the low bioavailability and wide distribution of RRAQs, as well as hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. However, there is insufficient research on the clinical application of RRAQs in pancreatitis. Furthermore, we propose effective strategies for subsequent improvement in terms of balancing effectiveness and safety.

CONCLUSION

RRAQs can be developed as either candidate drugs or novel lead structures for pancreatitis treatment. The comprehensive review of RR and its AQs provides references for optimizing drugs, developing therapies, and conducting future studies on pancreatitis.

The role of mitochondrial damage-associated molecular patterns in acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is one of the most common gastrointestinal tract diseases with significant morbidity and mortality. Current treatments remain unspecific and supportive due to the severity and clinical course of AP, which can fluctuate rapidly and unpredictably. Mitochondria, cellular power plant to produce energy, are involved in a variety of physiological or pathological activities in human body. There is a growing evidence indicating that mitochondria damage-associated molecular patterns (mtDAMPs) play an important role in pathogenesis and progression of AP. With the pro-inflammatory properties, released mtDAMPs may damage pancreatic cells by binding with receptors, activating downstream molecules and releasing inflammatory factors. This review focuses on the possible interaction between AP and mtDAMPs, which include cytochrome c (Cyt c), mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM), mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), cardiolipin (CL), adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and succinate, with focus on experimental research and potential therapeutic targets in clinical practice. Preventing or diminishing the release of mtDAMPs or targeting the mtDAMPs receptors might have a role in AP progression.

PD-L1 blockade in mitigating severe acute pancreatitis induced pancreatic damage through modulation of immune cell apoptosis

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder. The immune response plays a crucial role in AP progression. However, the impact of immune regulatory checkpoint PD-L1 on severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) remains uncertain. Hence, this study aimed to examine the influence of PD-L1 on SAP. We assessed PD-L1 expression in neutrophils and monocytes obtained from SAP patients. We induced SAP in C57BL/6J mice, PD-L1 gene-deficient mice, and PD-L1 humanized mice using intraperitoneal injections of cerulein plus lipopolysaccharide. Prior to the initial cerulein injection, a PD-L1 inhibitor was administered. Pancreatic tissues were collected for morphological and immunohistochemical evaluation, and serum levels of amylase, lipase, and cytokines were measured. Flow cytometry analysis was performed using peripheral blood cells. The expression of PD-L1 in neutrophils and monocytes was significantly higher in SAP patients compared to healthy individuals. Likewise, the expression of PD-L1 in inflammatory cells in the peripheral blood of SAP-induced C57BL/6J mice was notably higher than in the control group. In mice with PD-L1 deficiency, SAP model exhibited lower pancreatic pathology scores, amylase, lipase, and cytokine levels compared to wild-type mice. PD-L1 deletion resulted in reduced neutrophil apoptosis, leading to an earlier peak in neutrophil apoptosis. Furthermore, it decreased early monocyte apoptosis and diminished the peak of T lymphocyte apoptosis. Within the SAP model, administration of a PD-L1 inhibitor reduced pancreatic pathology scores, amylase, lipase, and cytokine levels in both C57BL/6J mice and PD-L1 humanized mice. These findings suggest that inhibiting PD-L1 expression can alleviate the severity of SAP.

Pyrazole derivative Z10 ameliorates acute pancreatitis by inhibiting the ERK/Ddt pathway

Acute pancreatitis (AP) can lead to death; however, there is no specific treatment for AP. Screening of drugs for AP treatment is rarely performed. Compounds were screened in a primary pancreatic acinar cell and peritoneal macrophage coculture system. Compounds were used in vitro and in vivo. Compound targets were predicted and validated. Among the 18 nitrogen-containing heterocycles, Z10 was shown to decrease the cerulein plus lipopolysaccharide (CL)-induced secretion of both acinar digestive enzymes and macrophage cytokines. Z10 was also shown to ameliorate CL-induced or sodium taurocholate-induced AP in mice. Proteomics analysis and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) revealed that Z10 decreased the levels of D-dopachrome tautomerase (Ddt) within macrophages and those in the extracellular milieu under CL treatment. Z10 also decreased Ddt expression in AP mice. Moreover, exogenous Ddt induced cytokine and digestive enzyme secretion, which could be inhibited by Z10. Ddt knockdown inhibited CL-induced cytokine secretion. Medium from CL-treated macrophages induced the release of amylase by acinar cells, and Ddt knockdown medium decreased amylase secretion. The target of Z10 was predicted to be ERK2. Z10 increased the thermostability of ERK1/2 but not ERK1 K72A/ERK2 K52A. The docking poses of ERK1 and ERK2 with Z10 were similar. Z10 inhibited ERK1/2 phosphorylation, and Ddt levels and cytokines were regulated by ERK1/2 during AP. Additionally, Z10 could not further inhibit cytokines under ERK1/2 knockdown with CL. Thus, this study revealed that Z10-mediated ERK1/2 inhibition decreased Ddt expression and secretion by macrophages. Ddt inhibition decreased cytokine release and digestive enzyme secretion.

Fabp5 is a common gene between a high-cholesterol diet and acute pancreatitis

Background and aims

Hypercholesterolemia has been identified as risk factor for severe acute pancreatitis (AP). We aimed to identify the common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between a high-cholesterol diet and AP.

Methods

We retrived gene expression profiles from the GEO database. DEGs were assessed using GEO2R. For AP hub genes, we conducted functional enrichment analysis and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis. GeneMANIA and correlation analysis were employed to predict potential DEG mechanisms. Validation was done across various healthy human tissues, pancreatic adenocarcinoma, peripheral blood in AP patients, and Sprague-Dawley rats with AP.

Results

The gene "Fabp5" emerged as the sole common DEG shared by a high-cholesterol diet and AP. Using the 12 topological analysis methods in PPI network analysis, Rela, Actb, Cdh1, and Vcl were identified as hub DEGs. GeneMANIA revealed 77.6% physical interactions among Fabp5, TLR4, and Rela, while genetic correlation analysis indicated moderate associations among them. Peripheral blood analysis yielded area under the ROC curve (AUC) values of 0.71, 0.63, 0.74, 0.64, and 0.91 for Fabp5, TLR4, Actb, Cdh1 genes, and artificial neural network (ANN) model respectively, in predicting severe AP. In vivo immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated higher Fabp5 expression in the hyperlipidemia-associated AP group compared to the AP and control groups.

Conclusion

Fabp5 emerged as the common DEG connecting a high-cholesterol diet and AP. Rela was highlighted as a crucial hub gene in AP. Genetic interactions were observed among Fabp5, TLR4, and Rela. An ANN model consisting of Fabp5, TLR4, Actb, and Cdh1 was helpful in predicting severe AP.

The melatonin receptor agonist agomelatine protects against acute pancreatitis induced by cadmium by attenuating inflammation and oxidative stress and modulating Nrf2/HO-1 pathway

Pancreatitis is a serious effect of the heavy metal cadmium (Cd) and inflammation and oxidative stress (OS) are implicated in Cd-induced pancreatic injury. This study evaluated the effect of the melatonin receptor agonist agomelatine (AGM) on Cd-induced acute pancreatitis (AP), pointing to its modulatory effect on inflammation, OS, and Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Rats were supplemented with AGM orally for 14 days and a single injection of cadmium chloride (CdCl2) on day 7. Cd increased serum amylase and lipase and caused pancreatic endocrine and exocrine tissue injury. Malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were elevated, nuclear factor (NF)-kB p65, inducible NO synthase (iNOS), interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and CD40 were upregulated, and antioxidants were decreased in the pancreas of Cd-administered rats. AGM ameliorated serum amylase and lipase and pancreatic OS, NF-kB p65, CD40, pro-inflammatory mediators and caspase-3, prevented tissue injury and enhanced antioxidants. AGM downregulated Keap1 and enhanced Nrf2 and HO-1 in the pancreas of Cd-administered rats. In silico findings revealed the binding affinity of AGM with Keap1, HO-1, CD40L and caspase-3. In conclusion, AGM protected against AP induced by Cd by preventing inflammation, OS and apoptosis and modulating Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.

A non-human primate derived anti-P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 antibody curtails acute pancreatitis by alleviating the inflammatory responses

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a devastating disease characterized by an inflammatory disorder of the pancreas. P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 (PSGL-1) plays a crucial role in the initial steps of the adhesive at process to inflammatory sites, blockade of PSGL-1 might confer potent anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we generated two non-human primate derived monoclonal antibodies capable of efficiently targeting human PSGL-1, RH001-6 and RH001-22, which were screened from immunized rhesus macaques. We found that RH001-6, can effectively block the binding of P-selectin to PSGL-1, and abolish the adhesion of leukocytes to endothelial cells in vitro. In vivo, we verified that RH001-6 relieved inflammatory responses and pancreatic injury in both caerulein and l-arginine induced AP models. We also evaluated the safety profile after RH001-6 treatment in mice, and verified that RH001-6 did not cause any significant pathological damages in vivo. Taken together, we developed a novel non-human primate derived PSGL-1 blocking antibody with high-specificity, named RH001-6, which can interrupt the binding of PSGL-1 and P-selectin and attenuate inflammatory responses during AP. Therefore, RH001-6 is highly potential to be further developed into therapeutics against acute inflammatory diseases, such as AP.

Protective effects of cardamom aqueous extract against tamoxifen-induced pancreatic injury in female rats

Tamoxifen (TAM) is a commonly used drug for breast cancer treatment. Although effective, TAM has deleterious effects on many organs. The toxic effects of TAM on the pancreas and the underlying mechanisms however, have not fully investigated. In the present study, we investigated the effects of TAM on the pancreatic tissue in female rats. We also examined whether cardamom aqueous extract (CAE) protects against TAM-induced pancreatic injury. TAM-intoxicated rats were injected with 45 mg/kg of TAM for 10 days, whereas rats in the CAE-treated group were administered 10 mL/kg of CAE for 20 days, starting 10 days prior to TAM administration. Treatment with TAM resulted in severe degeneration of the pancreatic acini and marked increases in the serum levels of pancreatic lipase, α-amylase, glucose, fatty acids and triglycerides along with decreased insulin serum levels. TAM led to oxidative stress as evident from a significant increase in the pancreatic levels of lipid peroxides and nitric oxide along with the depletion of reduced glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase. Moreover, inflammation was indicated by a significant increase in tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 levels, enhanced expression of the macrophage recruitment marker; CD68 as well as up-regulated protein levels of toll-like receptor 4 and nuclear factor kappa B and increased p-p38/MAPK ratio; which are important signals in the production of inflammatory cytokines. TAM also markedly increased the pancreatic levels of caspase-3 and BAX reflecting its apoptotic effects. The CAE treatment ameliorated all the biochemical and histological changes induced by TAM. The present study revealed, for the first time, that TAM has toxic effects on the pancreatic tissue through oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptotic effects. The present study also provides evidence that CAE exerts cytoprotective effects against these deleterious effects induced by TAM in the pancreatic tissue.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43188-023-00198-w.

Role of lncRNAs in acute pancreatitis: pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapy

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is one of the most common acute abdominal diseases characterized by an injury and inflammatory disorder of the pancreas with complicated pathological mechanisms. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to play an important role in various physiological and pathological processes in humans, and they have emerged as potential biomarkers of diagnosis and therapeutic targets in various diseases. Recently, accumulating evidence has shown significant alterations in the expression of lncRNAs, which are involved in the pathogenesis of AP, such as premature trypsinogen activation, impaired autophagy, inflammatory response, and acinar cell death. Moreover, lncRNAs can be the direct target of AP treatment and show potential as biomarkers for the diagnosis. Thus, in this review, we focus on the role of lncRNAs in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapy of AP and emphasize the future directions to study lncRNAs in AP, providing new insight into understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms of AP and seeking novel biomarkers for the diagnosis and therapeutic targets to improve clinical management in the future.

Disulfiram reduces the severity of mouse acute pancreatitis by inhibiting RIPK1-dependent acinar cell necrosis

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a frequent abdominal inflammatory disease. Despite the high morbidity and mortality, the management of AP remains unsatisfactory. Disulfiram (DSF) is an FDA-proved drug with potential therapeutic effects on inflammatory diseases. In this study, we aim to investigate the effect of DSF on pancreatic acinar cell necrosis, and to explore the underlying mechanisms. Cell necrosis was induced by sodium taurocholate or caerulein, AP mice model was induced by nine hourly injections of caerulein. Network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation were used to explore the potential targets of DSF in protecting against cell necrosis. The results indicated that DSF significantly inhibited acinar cell necrosis as evidenced by a decreased ratio of necrotic cells in the pancreas. Network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation identified RIPK1 as a potent target of DSF in protecting against acinar cell necrosis. qRT-PCR analysis revealed that DSF decreased the mRNA levels of RIPK1 in freshly isolated pancreatic acinar cells and the pancreas of AP mice. Western blot showed that DSF treatment decreased the expressions of RIPK1 and MLKL proteins. Moreover, DSF inhibited NF-κB activation in acini. It also decreased the protein expression of TLR4 and the formation of neutrophils extracellular traps (NETs) induced by damage-associated molecular patterns released by necrotic acinar cells. Collectively, DSF could ameliorate the severity of mouse acute pancreatitis by inhibiting RIPK-dependent acinar cell necrosis and the following formation of NETs.

Biochanin A ameliorates caerulein-induced acute pancreatitis and associated intestinal injury in mice by inhibiting TLR4 signaling

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an acute inflammatory abdominal disease frequently associated with intestinal barrier dysfunction. Biochanin A (BCA), a dietary isoflavone, has gained increasing interest with its pronounced biological activities. However, its potential beneficial effects on AP have not been demonstrated. Herein, we explored the protective effect of BCA on caerulein-induced AP in BALB/c mice and underlying mechanisms. BCA alleviated AP as evidenced by reduced serum amylase and lipase levels, pancreatic edema, pancreatic myeloperoxidase activity, and improved pancreatic morphology. Amelioration of pancreatic damage by BCA was associated with reduced levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 in both pancreas and colon. Moreover, BCA attenuated AP-associated barrier damage by upregulating the expression of tight junction proteins zonulin occluding (ZO)-1, ZO-2, occludin, and claudin-1. Concomitantly, the translocation of pathogenic bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli) to pancreas was reduced by BCA. More importantly, reduction of E. coli dissemination by BCA inhibited the TLR4-MAPK/NF-κB signaling and NLRP3 inflammasome activation, thereby protecting against AP and related intestinal injury. Consistently, TLR4 inhibition by TAK-242 pre-treatment counteracted the anti-inflammatory effects of BCA in acinar cells. Taken together, our study extends beneficial effects of BCA to AP prevention, and dietary BCA supplement may be a potential strategy to safeguard AP.

Manganese Prussian blue nanozymes with antioxidant capacity prevent acetaminophen-induced acute liver injury

As one of the leading cases of acute liver failure triggered by excessive Acetaminophen (APAP), breakdown of the antioxidant system, inflammatory response, and inescapable apoptosis following overaccumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) play crucial roles in the mechanisms of APAP-induced liver injury (AILI). Therefore, cutting off ROS overproduction at the source is considered promising. Here, manganese Prussian blue nanozymes (MPBZs) with superior antioxidant enzyme-like activity are prepared as an effective strategy for hepatocyte protection, in which MPBZs accumulated in the liver show anti-oxidation properties by scavenging superfluous ROS. Importantly, in addition to alleviating oxidative stress, bioactive MPBZs with abundant variable valence states as a natural antioxidant enzymes mediated the responses of multi-biological signaling pathways in vitro and in vivo, including Nrf2-Keap1, NF-κB, and mitochondrial-induced apoptosis signaling pathways, enhancing tolerance for imminent AILI. Taking nanomedicine, hepatology, and catalytic chemistry into consideration, the revealed superior performance of AILI prevention suggests that MPBZ-based nano-detoxification therapy may offer an effective alternative against AILI.

Preclinical mouse model of a misfolded PNLIP variant develops chronic pancreatitis

OBJECTIVE

Increasing evidence implicates mutation-induced protein misfolding and endoplasm reticulum (ER) stress in the pathophysiology of chronic pancreatitis (CP). The paucity of animal models harbouring genetic risk variants has hampered our understanding of how misfolded proteins trigger CP. We previously showed that pancreatic triglyceride lipase (PNLIP) p.T221M, a variant associated with steatorrhoea and possibly CP in humans, misfolds and elicits ER stress in vitro suggesting proteotoxicity as a potential disease mechanism. Our objective was to create a mouse model to determine if PNLIP p.T221M causes CP and to define the mechanism.

DESIGN

We created a mouse model of Pnlip p.T221M and characterised the structural and biochemical changes in the pancreas aged 1-12 months. We used multiple methods including histochemistry, immunostaining, transmission electron microscopy, biochemical assays, immunoblotting and qPCR.

RESULTS

We demonstrated the hallmarks of human CP in Pnlip p.T221M homozygous mice including progressive pancreatic atrophy, acinar cell loss, fibrosis, fatty change, immune cell infiltration and reduced exocrine function. Heterozygotes also developed CP although at a slower rate. Immunoblot showed that pancreatic PNLIP T221M misfolded as insoluble aggregates. The level of aggregates in homozygotes declined with age and was much lower in heterozygotes at all ages. The Pnlip p.T221M pancreas had increased ER stress evidenced by dilated ER, increased Hspa5 (BiP) mRNA abundance and a maladaptive unfolded protein response leading to upregulation of Ddit3 (CHOP), nuclear factor-κB and cell death.

CONCLUSION

Expression of PNLIP p.T221M in a preclinical mouse model results in CP caused by ER stress and proteotoxicity of misfolded mutant PNLIP.

The Role of MicroRNAs in Pancreatitis Development and Progression

Pancreatitis (acute and chronic) is an inflammatory disease associated with significant morbidity, including a high rate of hospitalization and mortality. MicroRNAs (miRs) are essential post-transcriptional modulators of gene expression. They are crucial in many diseases' development and progression. Recent studies have demonstrated aberrant miRs expression patterns in pancreatic tissues obtained from patients experiencing acute and chronic pancreatitis compared to tissues from unaffected individuals. Increasing evidence showed that miRs regulate multiple aspects of pancreatic acinar biology, such as autophagy, mitophagy, and migration, impact local and systemic inflammation and, thus, are involved in the disease development and progression. Notably, multiple miRs act on pancreatic acinar cells and regulate the transduction of signals between pancreatic acinar cells, pancreatic stellate cells, and immune cells, and provide a complex interaction network between these cells. Importantly, recent studies from various animal models and patients' data combined with advanced detection techniques support their importance in diagnosing and treating pancreatitis. In this review, we plan to provide an up-to-date summary of the role of miRs in the development and progression of pancreatitis.

Phytochemicals with protective effects against acute pancreatitis: a review of recent literature

CONTEXT

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an acute abdominal inflammatory disease with episodes ranging from mild to fulminant symptoms which could include necrosis, systemic inflammation and multiple organ dysfunction. Increasing experimental evidence demonstrates that specific bioactive ingredients from natural plants have a favourable therapeutic effect on AP.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this review is to summarize the protective effects and potential mechanisms of action of phytochemicals on the attenuation of AP.

METHODS

Experimental studies in vivo or in vitro between January 2016 and June 2021 were sought in PubMed and Web of Science using the following search terms: ('phytochemicals' OR 'medicinal plant' OR 'traditional medicine') AND ('pancreatitis' OR 'pancreatic damage' OR 'pancreatic injury'). Data concerning the basic characteristics of phytochemicals, therapeutic dose and potential molecular mechanisms related to AP were extracted in this study.

RESULTS

A total of 30 phytochemicals with potential therapeutic effects were reviewed and summarized systematically. According to their molecular pathways in AP, the underlying mechanisms of the phytochemicals were illustrated in detail.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

The phytochemicals with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant abilities may be efficient candidate drugs for AP treatment. Importantly, more preclinical investigations are needed to illustrate the efficacy of future phytochemicals.

Genistein attenuated oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in L-arginine induced acute pancreatitis in mice

Aim

Acute pancreatitis is a common and potentially serious condition. However, a specific treatment for this condition is still lacking. Genistein, with its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, could possibly be used to tackle the underlying pathophysiology of acute pancreatitis. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of genistein on oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in acute pancreatitis induced by L-arginine in mice.

Methods

Twenty-four male ICR mice were equally divided into 4 groups: Control (Con); Acute pancreatitis (AP) group: Two doses of i.p. 350 mg/100 g body weight (BW) of L-arginine were administered 1 h apart; AP and low-dose genistein (LG) group: mice were given i.p. injection of 10 mg/kg genistein 2 h prior to L-arginine injection followed by once-daily dosing for 3 days; and AP and high-dose genistein (HG) group: mice were given 100 mg/kg genistein with the similar protocol as the LG group. Pancreatic tissue was evaluated for histopathological changes and acinar cell apoptosis, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, immunohistochemical staining for myeloperoxidase (MPO), nuclear factor-kappa beta (NF-kB), and 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE). Serum levels of amylase (AMY), c-reactive protein (CRP), and interleukin (IL)-6 were measured.

Results

Significant increases in the degree of acinar cell apoptosis, pancreatic MDA, serum IL-6 and amylase, MPO, NF-kB and 4-HNE positivity were observed in the AP group. All these parameters declined after low- and high-dose genistein treatment. Severe pancreatic inflammation, edema, and acinar cell necrosis were observed in the AP group. Significant improvement of histopathological changes was seen in both low- and high-dose genistein groups. There were no significant differences in any parameters between low and high doses of genistein.

Conclusion

Genistein could attenuate the severity of histopathological changes in acute pancreatitis through its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-022-03689-9.

USP25 UPREGULATION BOOSTS GSDMD -MEDIATED PYROPTOSIS OF ACINAR CELLS IN ACUTE PANCREATITIS

ABSTRACT

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an inflammation-associated disorder in the digestive system. Ubiquitin-specific peptidase 25 ( USP25 ) can modulate inflammation in diseases. This study expounded on the role of USP25 in pyroptosis of acinar cells in AP. Acinar cells were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and caerulein (CRE) to induce AP. Afterward, the expression patterns of USP25 , microRNA (miR)-10a-5p, and Krüppel-like factor 4 ( KLF4 ) in acinar cells were examined. Then, acinar cell viability and levels of NLR family pyrin-domain containing 3 (NLRP3), cleaved caspase-1, cleaved N -terminal gasdermin D ( GSDMD - N ), interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-18 were determined. We observed that USP25 was highly expressed in AP models, and silencing USP25 increased cell viability and inhibited pyroptosis of AP acinar cells. The bindings of USP25 to KLF4 and miR-10a-5p to KLF4 and the GSDMD 3'UTR sequence were validated. We found that USP25 binding to KLF4 inhibited ubiquitination degradation of KLF4 , KLF4 transcriptionally decreased miR-10a-5p expression, and miR-10a-5p targeted GSDMD expression. Finally, rescue experiments proved that KLF4 overexpression or miR-10a-5p suppression enhanced pyroptosis of AP acinar cells. Overall, USP25 stabilized KLF4 expression through deubiquitination, limited miR-10a-5p expression, and increased GSDMD expression, finally promoting pyroptosis of acinar cells in AP.

Trends and recent developments in pharmacotherapy of acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis (AP), a complex inflammatory disease of the pancreas, is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Currently, no specific therapies are approved for its treatment, and management is primarily based on supportive care. Despite enhanced understanding of AP pathogenesis, patients remain at significant risk owing to a lack of targeted drug treatments. Therefore, there is an urgent need for effective pharmacological therapeutic measures which may inhibit the early systemic inflammation, thereby preventing subsequent organ failure. This narrative review summarizes the available treatment options for AP and highlights the potential drug classes and pharmacologic therapies including those under clinical development. Although, several therapies targeting different aspects of AP pathogenesis have been investigated, some therapies with promising preclinical activity have been rendered ineffective in clinical trials. Other novel drug classes or molecules including dabigatran (anticoagulant), ulinastatin (protease inhibitor), infliximab (monoclonal antibody), spautin-A41 (autophagy inhibitor), and CM4620-Injectible Emulsion (calcium channel inhibitor) await further clinical assessment. Alternative treatment options using stem cells and nanoparticles are also being explored and may hold promise for AP therapy. However, challenges for exploring targeted treatment approaches include disease complexity, timing of therapeutic intervention, and establishing appropriate clinical endpoints. Understanding the role of specific biomarkers may help in identifying appropriate targets for drug discovery and facilitate determining relevant clinical study endpoints to monitor disease severity and progression, thereby aiding in design of more precise therapies with improved clinical outcomes.

Bifidobacterium spp. and their metabolite lactate protect against acute pancreatitis via inhibition of pancreatic and systemic inflammatory responses

Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is a critical illness characterized by a severe systemic inflammatory response resulting in persistent multiple organ failure and sepsis. The intestinal microbiome is increasingly appreciated to play a crucial role in modulation of AP disease outcome, but limited information is available about the identity and mechanism of action for specific commensal bacteria involved in AP-associated inflammation. Here we show that Bifidobacteria, particularly B. animalis, can protect against AP by regulating pancreatic and systemic inflammation in germ-free (GF) and oral antibiotic-treated (Abx) mouse models. Colonization by B. animalis and administration of its metabolite lactate protected Abx and GF mice from AP by reducing serum amylase concentration, ameliorating pancreatic lesions and improving survival rate after retrograde injection of sodium taurocholate. B. animalis relieved macrophage-associated local and systemic inflammation of AP in a TLR4/MyD88- and NLRP3/Caspase1-dependent manner through its metabolite lactate. Supporting our findings from the mouse study, clinical AP patients exhibited a decreased fecal abundance of Bifidobacteria that was inversely correlated with the severity of systemic inflammatory responses. These results may shed light on the heterogeneity of clinical outcomes and drive the development of more efficacious therapeutic interventions for AP, and potentially for other inflammatory disorders.

Paeonol protects against acute pancreatitis by Nrf2 and NF-κB pathways in mice

OBJECTIVES

Paeonol (PAE) is an active ingredient with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This study was designed to investigate the effect of PAE on acute pancreatitis (AP).

METHODS

AP was induced by the intraperitoneal injection of 20% l-arginine (4 g/kg) for 6 h. Mice were pretreated with PAE (25, 50 or 100 mg/kg) intragastrically for 5 days. The histological damage and alterations of biochemical indicators, inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress factors in AP mice were detected. The Nrf2 and NF-κB pathways were examined to illustrate the potential mechanism.

KEY FINDINGS

In AP model, we found that PAE attenuated histological injury of pancreatic tissues, reduced the serum levels of α-amylase and increased Ca2+ contents in a dose-dependent manner. The white blood cell content, and IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α levels in the serum of AP mice were reduced by PAE. Furthermore, PAE caused a reduction of MPO and MDA levels, accompanied by an increase in SOD activity in the pancreas of AP mice. We also demonstrated that the alterations of Nrf2 and NF-κB pathways in AP mice were reversed by PAE.

CONCLUSIONS

PAE attenuates inflammation and oxidative stress in the development of AP by the regulation of Nrf2 and NF-κB pathways.

Acid ceramidase targeting pyruvate kinase affected trypsinogen activation in acute pancreatitis

Background

Acute pancreatitis is the sudden inflammation of the pancreas. Severe cases of acute pancreatitis are potentially fatal and have no specific treatment available. Premature trypsinogen activation could initiate acute pancreatitis. However, the mechanism underlying premature trypsinogen activation is not fully understood.

Methods

In this research, a primary pancreatic acinar cell or mouse acute pancreatitis model was constructed. The effect of acid ceramidase (ASAH1), which is responsible for sphingosine production, was investigated in trypsinogen activation in vitro and in vivo. Meanwhile, the proteins regulating ASAH1 or binding to sphingosine were also detected by co-immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry.

Results

The results showed that ASAH1 increased in acute pancreatitis. Increased ASAH1 promoted the activation of trypsinogen and cathepsin B. On the contrary, ASAH1 downregulation inhibited trypsinogen and cathepsin B. Meanwhile, ASAH1 regulated the activity of trypsin and cathepsin B through sphingosine. Additionally, E3 ligase Mind bomb homolog 1 (MIB1) decreased in acute pancreatitis resulting in the decreased binding between MIB1 and ASAH1. Exogenous MIB1 diminished the elevation in trypsin activity induced by acute pancreatitis inducer. ASAH1 increased owing to the inhibition of the proteasome degradation by MIB1. In acute pancreatitis, sphingosine was found to bind to pyruvate kinase. Pyruvate kinase activation could reduce trypsinogen activation and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production induced by sphingosine.

Conclusions

In conclusion, during the process of acute pancreatitis, MIB1 downregulation led to ASAH1 upregulation, resulting in pyruvate kinase inhibition, followed by trypsinogen activation.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s10020-022-00538-w.

Deoxyarbutin attenuates severe acute pancreatitis via the HtrA2/PGC-1α pathway

Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is an inflammatory disorder of the exocrine pancreas associated with high morbidity and mortality. SAP has been proven to trigger mitochondria dysfunction in the pancreas. We found that Deoxyarbutin (dA) recovered impaired mitochondrial function. High-temperature requirement protein A2 (HtrA2), a mitochondrial serine protease upstream of PGC-1α, is charge of quality control in mitochondrial homeostasis. The molecular docking study indicated that there was a potential interaction between dA and HtrA2. However, whether the protective effect of dA against SAP is regulated by HtrA2/PGC-1α remains unknown. Our study in vitro showed that dA significantly reduced the necrosis of primary acinar cells and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, recovered mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and ATP exhaustion, while UCF-101 (HtrA2 inhibitor), and SR-18292 (PGC-1α inhibitor) eliminated the protective effect of dA. Moreover, HtrA2 siRNA transfection efficiently blocked the protective of dA on HtrA2/PGC-1α pathway in 266-6 acinar cells. Meanwhile, dA also decreased LC3II/I ration, as well as p62, and increased Parkin expression, while UCF-101 and Bafilomycin A1 (autophagy inhibitor) reversed the protective effect of dA. Our study in vivo confirmed that dA effectively alleviated severity of SAP by reducing pancreatic edema, plasma amylase, and lipase levels and improved the HtrA2/PGC-1α pathway. Therefore, this is the first study to identify that dA inhibits pancreatic injury caused by oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and impaired autophagy in a HtrA2/PGC-1α dependent manner.

USP25 Deficiency Exacerbates Acute Pancreatitis via Up-Regulating TBK1-NF-κB Signaling in Macrophages

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Severe acute pancreatitis can easily lead to systemic inflammatory response syndrome and death. Macrophages are known to be involved in the pathophysiology of acute pancreatitis (AP), and macrophage activation correlates with disease severity. In this study, we examined the role of ubiquitin-specific protease 25, a deubiquitinating enzyme and known regulator of macrophages, in the pathogenesis of AP.

METHODS

We used L-arginine, cerulein, and choline-deficient ethionine-supplemented diet-induced models of AP in Usp25^-/- mice and wild-type mice. We also generated bone marrow Usp25^-/- chimeric mice and initiated L-arginine-mediated AP. Primary acinar cells and bone marrow-derived macrophages were isolated from wild-type and Usp25^-/- mice to dissect molecular mechanisms.

RESULTS

Our results show that Usp25 deficiency exacerbates pancreatic and lung injury, neutrophil and macrophage infiltration, and systemic inflammatory responses in L-arginine, cerulein, and choline-deficient ethionine-supplemented diet-induced models of AP. Bone marrow Usp25^-/- chimeric mice challenged with L-arginine show that Usp25 deficiency in macrophages exaggerates AP by up-regulating the TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1)-nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway. Similarly, in vitro data confirm that Usp25 deficiency enhances the TBK1-NF-κB pathway, leading to increased expression of inflammatory cytokines in bone marrow-derived macrophages.

CONCLUSIONS

Usp25 deficiency in macrophages enhances TBK1-NF-κB signaling, and the induction of inflammatory chemokines and type I interferon-related genes exacerbates pancreatic and lung injury in AP.

Tropolone derivative hinokitiol ameliorates cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis in mice

Hinokitiol is a natural bio-active tropolone derivative with promising antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study was conducted to evaluate the ameliorative effects of hinokitiol against acute pancreatitis induced by cerulein. Mice were pre-treated with hinokitiol intraperitoneally for 7 days (50 and 100 mg/kg), and on the final day of study, cerulein (6 × 50 μg/kg) was injected every hour for six times. Six hours after the last dose of cerulein, blood was collected from the mice through retro-orbital plexus for biochemical analysis. After blood collection, mice were euthanized and the pancreas was harvested for studying effects on oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory cytokines, immunohistochemistry and histopathology of tissue sections. Hinokitiol treatment significantly reduced edema of the pancreas and reduced the plasma levels of lipase and amylase in mice with cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis. It also attenuated the oxidative and nitrosative stress related damage as evident from the reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitrite levels, which were significantly increased in the mice with acute pancreatitis. Furthermore, hinokitiol administration significantly reduced the pancreatitis-evoked decrease in the activity of catalase, glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the pancreatic tissue. Pre-treatment with hinokitiol significantly reduced the elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines like interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) as well as increased the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10) in the pancreatic tissue of mice with acute pancreatitis. The immunohistochemical expression of nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), cyclooxygenase (COX-2) and TNF-α were significantly decreased by hinokitiol in mice with cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis. In conclusion, the results of the present study demonstrate that hinokitiol has significant potential to prevent cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis.

Synthesis of Prussian Blue Nanoparticles and Their Antibacterial, Antiinflammation and Antitumor Applications

In recent years, Prussian blue nanoparticles (PBNPs), also named Prussian blue nano-enzymes, have been shown to demonstrate excellent multi-enzyme simulation activity and anti-inflammatory properties, and can be used as reactive oxygen scavengers. Their good biocompatibility and biodegradability mean that they are ideal candidates for in vivo use. PBNPs are highly efficient electron transporters with oxidation and reduction activities. PBNPs also show considerable promise as nano-drug carriers and biological detection sensors owing to their huge specific surface area, good chemical characteristics, and changeable qualities, which might considerably increase the therapeutic impact. More crucially, PBNPs, as therapeutic and diagnostic agents, have made significant advances in biological nanomedicine. This review begins with a brief description of the synthesis methods of PBNPs, then focuses on the applications of PBNPs in tissue regeneration and inflammation according to the different properties of PBNPs. This article will provide a timely reference for further study of PBNPs as therapeutic agents.

Effect of HIV-1 Protease Inhibitor on IL-18 and IL-1β in Rats with Insulinoma

This study is aimed at investigating the treatment effectiveness of HIV-1 protease inhibitor for rats with insulinoma and its effects on interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-18 (IL-18). A total of 40 6-week-old nude mice were included in this study. We randomly assigned 20 rats for insulinoma modeling and divided them into model A and B groups. Another 20 rats were randomly divided into control A and B groups. Rats from the model A and control A groups were given HIV-1 protease inhibitors. The expression profiles of IL-18 and IL-1β, clinical indicators, water maze test results, oxidative stress damage, and changes in neurological functions in rats from each group were recorded. The expression levels of IL-18 and IL-1β, insulin level, the ratio of immunoreactive insulin to plasma glucose (IRI/G), escape latency, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and amyloid β-protein (Aβ) level were lower in the model A group than in the model B group while fasting blood glucose, platform crossing times, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were higher in the model A group than in the model B group. The insulin level and hippocampus Aβ level were lower in the control A group than in the control B group. In contrast, other indicators in the control A group were not significantly different from those in the model B group. HIV-1 protease inhibitor is effective in the treatment of insulinoma in rats. It can significantly reduce IL-18 and IL-1β and protect the neurological functions in rats and has broad prospects for clinical application.

[Role of CaMK II in pancreatic injury in mice with severe acute pancreatitis]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the expression of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMK Ⅱ) in pancreatic tissues of mice with severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) and explore the protective effect of KN93, a CaMK Ⅱ inhibitor, against pancreatic injury in SAP and the possible mechanism.

METHODS

Thirty-six healthy male C57 mice were randomly divided into sham operation group, SAP group, KN93 group and SAP + KN93 group (n=9). Serum and pancreatic tissue samples were collected 24 h after modeling. The pathological changes in the pancreatic tissues were observed using HE staining. Serum lipase and amylase activities and the levels of inflammatory factors were detected using ELISA. Western blotting was used to detect the expressions of CaMK Ⅱ, p-CaMK Ⅱ, p-NF-κB, MAPK and p-MAPK in mouse pancreas.

RESULTS

Compared with those in sham operation group, the expressions of p-CaMK Ⅱ, p-NF-κB and p-MAPK were significantly increased in SAP group (P < 0.05). KN93 treatment obviously alleviated pathological injuries of the pancreas in SAP mice, and significantly lowered serum levels of lipase, amylase and inflammatory factors (TNF-α and IL-6) and phosphorylation levels of NF-κB, ERK and MAPK proteins (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The activity of CaMK Ⅱ is significantly increased in the pancreatic tissue of SAP mice. KN93 can alleviate pancreatic injury and inflammation in SAP mice possibly through the ERK/MAPK signaling pathway.

Influence of extracorporeal cytokine adsorption on hemodynamics in severe acute pancreatitis: Results of the matched cohort pancreatitis cytosorbents inflammatory cytokine removal (PACIFIC) study

BACKGROUND

Outcome of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) highly depends on the degree of systemic inflammation and organ failure. Although treatment approaches targeting the inflammatory cascade have failed in pancreatitis, recent studies suggest that extracorporeal cytokine adsorption effectively reduces concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines and potentially improves the outcome of sepsis.

METHODS

Sixteen patients with SAP, presenting within 7 days upon onset of pain, an APACHE-II score of ≥10 and ≥1 marker of poor prognosis, received 2 consecutive 24-h treatments with CytoSorb® extracorporeal cytokine adsorption (intervention group). Hemodynamics, organ failure, and mortality were compared with an APACHE-II score-matched retrospective control group of 32 patients.

RESULTS

The primary objective (20% decrease in the vasopressor dependency index or 20% increase in the cardiac index) was reached in 68.8% of the intervention and 28.1% of the control patients (p = 0.007), respectively. The cytokine adsorption significantly reduced IL-6 (-1998 pg/ml, p = 0.005) serum levels and resulted in stable CRP (p = 0.101) and decreased PCT (p = 0.003) levels in contrast to increased CRP (p = 0.014) and stable PCT levels (p = 0.695) in the control group. While mortality and improvement of respiratory failure were similar in both groups, renal failure significantly improved (change of KDIGO classification 72 h postcytokine adsorption [-1 vs. 0, p = 0.005]) and the SOFA score significantly decreased (day 5: -1.8 ± 2.0 vs. 1 ± 3.8, p = 0.013) in the intervention group.

CONCLUSION

Cytokine adsorption might be an effective treatment option to stabilize hemodynamics in SAP. It decreases levels of the pro-inflammatory marker IL-6 and stabilizes organ function according to serial SOFA score assessments.

Triptolide Suppresses NF-κB-Mediated Inflammatory Responses and Activates Expression of Nrf2-Mediated Antioxidant Genes to Alleviate Caerulein-Induced Acute Pancreatitis

Triptolide (TP), the main active ingredient of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook.f., displays potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiproliferative activities. In the present study, the effect of TP on acute pancreatitis and the underlying mechanisms of the disease were investigated using a caerulein-induced animal model of acute pancreatitis (AP) and an in vitro cell model. In vivo, pretreatment with TP notably ameliorated pancreatic damage, shown as the improvement in serum amylase and lipase levels and pancreatic morphology. Meanwhile, TP modulated the infiltration of neutrophils and macrophages (Ly6G staining and CD68 staining) and decreased the levels of proinflammatory factors (TNF-α and IL-6) through inhibiting the transactivation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) in caerulein-treated mice. Furthermore, TP reverted changes in oxidative stress markers, including pancreatic glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA), in acute pancreatitis mice. Additionally, TP pretreatment inhibited intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels via upregulated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) expression and Nrf2-regulated redox genes expression (HO-1, SOD1, GPx1 and NQO1) in vitro. Taken together, our data suggest that TP exert protection against pancreatic inflammation and tissue damage by inhibiting NF-κB transactivation, modulating immune cell responses and activating the Nrf2-mediated antioxidative system, thereby alleviating acute pancreatitis.

Interfering hsa_circ_0073748 alleviates caerulein-induced ductal cell injury in acute pancreatitis by inhibiting miR-132-3p/TRAF3/NF-κB pathway

Circular RNA hsa_circ_0073748 (circ_0073748) is upregulated in patients with acute pancreatitis (AP), a clinically common sudden inflammatory response. MicroRNA (miR)-132-3p is a stress-induced factor with high conservation between species. Herein, expression and role of circ_0073748 and miR-132-3p in caerulein-induced pancreatitis were studied. Expression levels of circ_0073748, miR-132-3p, TNF receptor associated factor 3 (TRAF3), Bcl-2 and Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) were examined by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and Western blotting. Cell proliferation was measured by MTS and EdU assays. Flow cytometry and assay kits detected apoptosis, inflammatory, and oxidative responses. Western blotting detected nuclear factor (NF)-κB signaling pathway. Circ_0073748 was upregulated and miR-132-3p was downregulated in AP patients' plasma and human pancreatic ductal HPDE6-C7 cells with caerulein induction. Interfering circ_0073748 and reinforcing miR-132-3p improved cell viability, EdU incorporation, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity of caerulein-treated HPDE6-C7 cells but suppressed malonaldehyde (MDA), IL-6 and TNF-α levels and apoptosis rate. Moreover, TRAF3 downregulation was allied with circ_0073748 silencing and miR-132-3p overexpression in caerulein-induced HPDE6-C7 cells. Mechanically, circ_0073748 was identified as a sponge for miR-132-3p to modulate TRAF3 expression, thus establishing a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulation model. Notably, circ_0073748 blockage could suppress expressions of phosphorylated P65 (p-P65) and p-IκB in caerulein-induced HPDE6-C7 cells by promoting miR-132-3p and inhibiting TRAF3. Silencing circ_0073748 and upregulating miR-132-3p could alleviate caerulein-induced HPDE6-C7 injury and inactivate canonical NF-κB signal by inhibiting TRAF3. Circ_0073748/miR-132-3p/TRAF3 ceRNA pathway might be one underlying mechanism and therapeutic target of caerulein-induced AP.

Mesenteric Lymph Duct Ligation Alleviates Acute Lung Injury Caused by Severe Acute Pancreatitis Through Inhibition of High Mobility Group Box 1-Induced Inflammation in Rats

BACKGROUND

Acute lung injury (ALI) is the most common complication and one of the leading causes of mortality of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). Nevertheless, no effective therapeutic schemes are presently available.

AIMS

To investigate the effect and potential mechanism of mesenteric lymph duct ligation (MLDL) on experimental SAP-induced ALI.

METHODS

Immediately following MLDL, rats were subjected to SAP by retrograde injection of 5% sodium taurocholate into the biliopancreatic duct. At 24 h after modeling, tissues were collected for morphological examination. The levels of TNF-α, IL-6, intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM1), diamine oxidase (DAO), and D-lactic acid (D-LA) in serum, and the myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in lung tissues were determined. Moreover, the expressions of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), receptor of advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE), and NF-κB p65 at the mRNA and protein levels in lung tissues, and the expressions of HMGB1, RAGE, and TNF-α at the mRNA level in intestinal lymphoid tissues were evaluated.

RESULTS

MLDL significantly attenuated the histological injury of the pancreas and lung and reduced the production of TNF-α, IL-6, and ICAM1. Besides, MLDL repressed the activity of MPO in the lung. However, the levels of serum DAO and D-LA were decreased without obvious morphological improvement in intestinal injury. Moreover, MLDL apparently reduced the up-regulation of HMGB1, RAGE, and NF-κB p65 in lung tissues, as well as the expressions of HMGB1, RAGE, and TNF-α in intestinal lymphoid tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

Mesenteric lymph was a source of harmful factors leading to SAP-ALI. MLDL could alleviate SAP-ALI probably by inhibiting HMGB1-induced production of inflammation factors.

Proteomic analysis of early phosphorylated proteins in acute pancreatitis model

Background and Objective:

The exact mechanism of acute pancreatitis (AP), which is an inflammation of the pancreas, still remains unclear. In this study, we examined the protein phosphorylation changes during the early stage of AP in mice using proteomic analysis.

Methods:

AP model in mice was constructed using an intraperitoneal injection of cerulein. Blood samples and pancreas were collected at 1, 3, 6, 9h after the final injection (n=3 at each time point). Samples collected 3h after the final injection were separately mixed and named S (saline group) and C1 (cerulein group); samples collected 6h after the final injection from the cerulein group were mixed and named C2. Proteins from S, C1, and C2 were extracted, digested by trypsin, and subjected to LC-MS/MS analysis, bioinformatics analysis, and Western blotting.

Results:

A total of 549 sites (426 proteins) were upregulated, and 501 sites (367 proteins) were downregulated in C1 compared to S; while 491 phosphorylation sites (377 proteins) were upregulated and 367 sites (274 proteins) were downregulated in C2 compared to S. Motif analysis showed that proline-directed kinase and basophilic kinase had a key role during early AP. During an early AP stage, the cellular distributions of proteins slightly changed. The types of domains changed with the development of AP. Phosphorylation proteins associated with calcium signaling, especially IP3R mediated calcium release, lysosome and autophagosome pathway, pancreatic digestive activation, and secretion, were found to be involved in the development of early AP independent of NF-kB activation. Moreover, the MAPK family was found to have a greater impact at the early stage of AP. We also found differentially expressed phosphorylations of amylase and trypsinogen and increased phosphorylation of MAPK6 S189 in early AP.

Conclusion:

IP3R mediated calcium release and activation of MAPK family are key events promoting the development of early AP.

Chemokine receptor 8 expression may be linked to disease severity and elevated interleukin 6 secretion in acute pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an inflammatory disease, which presents with epigastric pain and is clinically diagnosed by amylase and lipase three times the upper limit of normal. The 2012 Atlanta classification stratifies the severity of AP as one of three risk categories namely, mild AP (MAP), moderately severe AP (MSAP), and severe AP (SAP). Challenges in stratifying AP upon diagnosis suggest that a better understanding of the underlying complex pathophysiology may be beneficial.

AIM

To identify the role of the chemokine receptor 8 (CCR8), expressed by T-helper type-2 Lymphocytes and peritoneal macrophages, and its possible association to Interleukin (IL)-6 and AP stratification.

METHODS

This study was a prospective case-control study. A total of 40 patients were recruited from the Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital and the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital. Bioassays were performed on 29 patients (14 MAP, 11 MSAP, and 4 SAP) and 6 healthy controls as part of a preliminary study. A total of 12 mL of blood samples were collected at Day (D) 1, 3, 5, and 7 post epigastric pain. Using multiplex immunoassay panels, real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) arrays, and multicolour flow cytometry analysis, immune response-related proteins, genes, and cells were profiled respectively. GraphPad Prism™ software and fold change (FC) analysis was used to determine differences between the groups. P<0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

The concentration of IL-6 was significantly different at D3 post epigastric pain in both the MAP group and MSAP group with P = 0.001 and P = 0.013 respectively, in a multiplex assay. When a FC of 2 was applied to identify differentially expressed genes using RT² Profiler, CCR8 was shown to increase steadily with disease severity from MAP (1.33), MSAP (38.28) to SAP (1172.45) median FC. Further verification studies using RT-PCR showed fold change increases of CCR8 in MSAP and SAP ranging from 1000 to 1000000 times when represented as Log₁₀, compared to healthy control respectively at D3. The findings also showed differing lymphocyte and monocyte cell frequency between the groups. With monocyte population frequency as high as 70% in MSAP at D3.

CONCLUSION

The higher levels of CCR8 and IL-6 in the severe patients and immune cell differences compared to MAP and controls provide an avenue for exploring AP stratification to improve management.

The diverse roles of TMEM16A Ca2+-activated Cl- channels in inflammation

Background

Transmembrane protein 16A (TMEM16A) Ca²⁺-activated Cl^- channels have diverse physiological functions, such as epithelial secretion of Cl^- and fluid and sensation of pain. Recent studies have demonstrated that TMEM16A contributes to the pathogenesis of infectious and non-infectious inflammatory diseases. However, the role of TMEM16A in inflammation has not been clearly elucidated.

Aim of review

In this review, we aimed to provide comprehensive information regarding the roles of TMEM16A in inflammation by summarizing the mechanisms underlying TMEM16A expression and activation under inflammatory conditions, in addition to exploring the diverse inflammatory signaling pathways activated by TMEM16A. This review attempts to develop the idea that TMEM16A plays a diverse role in inflammatory processes and contributes to inflammatory diseases in a cellular environment-dependent manner.

Key scientific concepts of review

Multiple inflammatory mediators, including cytokines (e.g., interleukin (IL)-4, IL-13, IL-6), histamine, bradykinin, and ATP/UTP, as well as bacterial and viral infections, promote TMEM16A expression and/or activity under inflammatory conditions. In addition, TMEM16A activates diverse inflammatory signaling pathways, including the IP₃R-mediated Ca²⁺ signaling pathway, the NF-κB signaling pathway, and the ERK signaling pathway, and contributes to the pathogenesis of many inflammatory diseases. These diseases include airway inflammatory diseases, lipopolysaccharide-induced intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction, acute pancreatitis, and steatohepatitis. TMEM16A also plays multiple roles in inflammatory processes by increasing vascular permeability and leukocyte adhesion, promoting inflammatory cytokine release, and sensing inflammation-induced pain. Furthermore, TMEM16A plays its diverse pathological roles in different inflammatory diseases depending on the disease severity, proliferating status of the cells, and its interacting partners. We herein propose cellular environment-dependent mechanisms that explain the diverse roles of TMEM16A in inflammation.

[Pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis]

Acute pancreatitis is characterized by the autodigestion of the pancreas by its own digestive enzymes. The pathophysiological onset of the disease occurs in the acinar cells. The normally inactive precursors of secreted proteases are prematurely activated and as a result digest the cells from within. The activation of trypsinogen to trypsin represents the key event as active trypsin activates further digestive enzymes and can therefore initiate the activation of the complete protease cascade. This premature activation of proteases results in the cell death of acinar cells and in the induction of a strong proinflammatory immune response. Cells of the innate immune system migrate into the damaged organ and potentiate the local damage again via the release of inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor alpha and reactive oxygen species. Concomitant to the local immune reaction, a systemic activation of the immune system also occurs, which can develop into a systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). In the course of the SIRS severe complications such as organ failure can occur. The consequence of this pronounced SIRS in the later course of the disease is a strong immunological counter-regulation, the so-called compensatory anti-inflammatory reaction syndrome (CARS). In the course of this immunosuppression commensal bacteria from the intestines can colonize the pancreatic necrosis. The outcome of the SIRS/CARS balance is decisive for the course and the prognosis of the patient.

Role of Interleukin-17 in Acute Pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a leading cause of death and is commonly accompanied by systemic manifestations that are generally associated with a poor prognosis. Many cytokines contribute to pancreatic tissue damage and cause systemic injury. Interleukin-17 (IL-17) is a cytokine that may play a vital role in AP. Specifically, IL-17 has important effects on the immune response and causes interactions between different inflammatory mediators in the AP-related microenvironment. In this literature review, we will discuss the existing academic understanding of IL-17 and the impacts of IL-17 in different cells (especially in acinar cells and immune system cells) in AP pathogenesis. The clinical significance and potential mechanisms of IL-17 on AP deterioration are emphasized. The evidence suggests that inhibiting the IL-17 cytokine family could alleviate the pathogenic process of AP, and we highlight therapeutic strategies that directly or indirectly target IL-17 cytokines in acute pancreatitis.

Silencing of CREB Inhibits HDAC2/TLR4/NF-κB Cascade to Relieve Severe Acute Pancreatitis-Induced Myocardial Injury

The purpose of the present study is to investigate the role of CREB in cardiomyocytes proliferation in regulation of HDAC2-dependent TLR4/NF-κB pathway in severe acute pancreatitis (SAP)-induced myocardial injury. The SAP rat model was developed by injecting sodium touracholate into SD rats and then infected with lentivirus vectors expressing sh-CREB in the presence/absence of LPS. The pathological alterations of rat pancreatic and cardiac tissues were observed by HE staining. TUNEL assay was used to study apoptosis of cardiomyocytes. Next, the loss- and gain-function assay was conducted in LPS-induced myocardial injury cardiomyocytes to define the roles of CREB, HDAC2, and TLR4 in cardiomyocyte proliferation, apoptosis, inflammation, and myocardial injury in vitro. ChIP assay was used to study the enrichment of CREB bound to HDAC2 promoter. RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis were used to detect the expressions of related mRNA and proteins in the NF-κB pathway, respectively. CREB was found to be overexpressed in both SAP tissues and cells. CREB directly bound to the promoter of HDAC2 and activated its expression. Overexpressed CREB or HDAC2 inhibited proliferation and promoted apoptosis of cardiomyocytes. Suppression of CREB inhibited the HDAC2/TLR4/NF-κB cascade to promote proliferation and inhibit apoptosis of cardiomyocytes. The in vitro results were validated in vivo experiments. Coherently, suppression of CREB can inhibit HDAC2/TLR4/NF-κB cascade to promote cardiomyocyte proliferation, thus ameliorating SAP-induced myocardial injury.

Lure-and-kill macrophage nanoparticles alleviate the severity of experimental acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis is a disease associated with suffering and high lethality. Although the disease mechanism is unclear, phospholipase A2 (PLA2) produced by pancreatic acinar cells is a known pathogenic trigger. Here, we show macrophage membrane-coated nanoparticles with a built-in ‘lure and kill’ mechanism (denoted ‘MΦ-NP(L&K)’) for the treatment of acute pancreatitis. MΦ-NP(L&K) are made with polymeric cores wrapped with natural macrophage membrane doped with melittin and MJ-33. The membrane incorporated melittin and MJ-33 function as a PLA2 attractant and a PLA2 inhibitor, respectively. These molecules, together with membrane lipids, work synergistically to lure and kill PLA2 enzymes. These nanoparticles can neutralize PLA2 activity in the sera of mice and human patients with acute pancreatitis in a dose-dependent manner and suppress PLA2-induced inflammatory response accordingly. In mouse models of both mild and severe acute pancreatitis, MΦ-NP(L&K) confer effective protection against disease-associated inflammation, tissue damage and lethality. Overall, this biomimetic nanotherapeutic strategy offers an anti-PLA2 treatment option that might be applicable to a wide range of PLA2-mediated inflammatory disorders.

Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) inhibitors have been shown to be able to treat acute pancreatitis, but are toxic with systemic application. Here the authors design a nanoparticle with macrophage membrane components to carry PLA2 inhibitor to macrophages and treat pancreatitis in mice, with no evidence of toxicity.

A narrative review of a type of pancreatitis worthy of attention: acute pancreatitis associated with pancreatic tumors-current problems and future thinking

OBJECTIVE

Our purpose is to explain the onset, diagnosis, and treatment of pancreatic tumor-associated pancreatitis (PTP), and inform clinicians about the management of PTP. It is hoped that clinicians can gain some experience and inspiration from this review, so that patients can obtain better treatment results.

BACKGROUND

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an inflammatory disease, and pancreatic tumors are one of the causes of pancreatitis. When pancreatic tumors and pancreatitis exist at the same time, and there is a "connection" between them, this type of pancreatitis is referred to as PTP. The manifestations of PTP can be as follows: (I) AP is the first symptom of pancreatic tumors; (II) pancreatitis is found in patients after pancreatic tumor diagnosis or during pancreatic tumor surgery. Because pancreatic tumors are not one of the most common causes of pancreatitis, PTP has not attracted the attention of researchers and clinicians, and there is no consistent and clear understanding of the diagnosis and treatment of PTP.

METHODS

From the online database PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) and Web of Science (https://webofknowledge.com/), we use specific retrieval strategies to retrieve relevant articles, and we review and discuss them.

CONCLUSIONS

What we need to realize is that PTP is different from ordinary AP. It has its own characteristics in terms of diagnosis and treatment, which requires the attention of clinicians. More importantly, future research should design the best diagnosis and treatment algorithms for PTP.

Betulinic Acid Ameliorates the Severity of Acute Pancreatitis via Inhibition of the NF-κB Signaling Pathway in Mice

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an inflammatory disorder, involving acinar cell death and the release of inflammatory cytokines. Currently, there are limited effective therapeutic agents for AP. Betulinic acid (BA) is a pentacyclic triterpenoid extracted from Betula platyphylla that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of BA on AP and elucidate the potential underlying mechanisms. AP was induced in mice through six intraperitoneal injections of cerulein. After the last cerulein injection, the mice were sacrificed. Our results revealed that pre- and post-treatment with BA significantly reduced the severity of pancreatitis, as evidenced by a decrease in histological damage in the pancreas and lung, serum amylase and lipase activity and pancreatic myeloperoxidase activity. Furthermore, BA pretreatment reduced proinflammatory cytokine production, augmentation of chemokines, and infiltration of macrophages and neutrophils in the pancreas of AP mice. In addition, mice that were pretreated with BA showed a reduction in Iκ-Bα degradation and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) binding activity in the pancreas. Moreover, BA reduced the production of proinflammatory cytokines and NF-κB activation in pancreatic acinar cells (PACs). These findings suggest that BA may have prophylactic and therapeutic effects on AP via inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway.

miR-9 alleviated the inflammatory response and apoptosis in caerulein-induced acute pancreatitis by regulating FGF10 and the NF-κB signaling pathway

MicroRNAs (miRs) have been implicated in the development of acute pancreatitis (AP). However, the role and potential mechanism of miR-9 in AP progression remains unclear. Caerulein-treated AR42J cells were used as a cellular model of AP. Results revealed caerulein triggered an inflammatory response by promoting the secretion of inflammatory cytokines [tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL) 1β and IL-6], as evidenced by ELISA. Furthermore, caerulein-induced apoptosis was reported by flow cytometry and western blot assays. Additionally, miR-9 expression was downregulated by caerulein treatment, as demonstrated by reverse transcription quantitative PCR. However, miR-9 overexpression reduced the inflammatory response and apoptosis in caerulein-treated AR42J cells. miR-9 knockdown resulted in opposite effects. Furthermore, fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 10 was validated to be targeted via miR-9 by luciferase, RNA immunoprecipitation and RNA pull-down assays. Results demonstrated increased FGF10 expression in caerulein-treated AR42J cells and that FGF10 overexpression exacerbated the caerulein-induced inflammatory response and apoptosis, while its knockdown had the opposite effect. Additionally, FGF10 reversed the effect of miR-9 on caerulein-induced injury in AR42J cells. Results demonstrated that miR-9 inhibited the expression of the nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) pathway-related proteins by downregulating FGF10. As a result, miR-9 decreased inflammatory response and apoptosis in caerulein-treated AR42J cells by targeting FGF10 and blocking NF-κB signaling, suggesting that miR-9 may serve as a novel target for AP treatment.

Qing-Yi Decoction in the Treatment of Acute Pancreatitis: An Integrated Approach Based on Chemical Profile, Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking and Experimental Evaluation

Background: Qing-Yi Decoction (QYD) is a classic precompounded prescription with satisfactory clinical efficacy on acute pancreatitis (AP). However, the chemical profile and overall molecular mechanism of QYD in treating AP have not been clarified.

Methods: In the present study, a rapid, simple, sensitive and reliable ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF-MS)-based chemical profile was first established. An integration strategy of network pharmacology analysis and molecular docking based identified ingredients was further performed to screen out the potential targets and pathways involved in the treatment of QYD on AP. Finally, SD rats with acute pancreatitis were constructed to verify the predicted results through a western blot experiment.

Results: A total of 110 compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, alkaloids, monoterpenes, iridoids, triterpenes, phenylethanoid glycosides, anthraquinones and other miscellaneous compounds were identified, respectively. Eleven important components, 47 key targets and 15 related pathways based on network pharmacology analysis were obtained. Molecular docking simulation indicated that ERK1/2, c-Fos and p65 might play an essential role in QYD against AP. Finally, the western blot experiments showed that QYD could up-regulate the expression level of ERK1/2 and c-Fos, while down-regulate the expression level of p65.

Conclusion: This study predicted and validated that QYD may treat AP by inhibiting inflammation and promoting apoptosis, which provides directions for further experimental studies.

[Changes of guanylate cyclase C in colon tissues of rats with intestinal injury associated with severe acute pancreatitis]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the dynamic changes of guanylate cyclase C (GC-C) in the colon tissues of rats with intestinal injury associated with severe acute pancreatitis (SAP).

OBJECTIVE

Thirty-six SD rats were randomized equally into two groups to receive either sham operation or retrograde pumping of 5% sodium taurocholate (0.1 mL/100 g) into the pancreaticobiliary duct following laparotomy to induce SAP. At 12, 24, and 48 h after modeling, 6 rats from each group were euthanized and the colon tissues were collected for Western blotting, immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR to determine the changes in GC-C expression, and the lowest GC-C expression was deemed to indicate the most serious intestinal injury and the time window for intervention. Another 18 SD rats were randomized into 3 groups for sham operation, SAP modeling or intragastric administration of linaclotide (a GC-C agonist) solution once daily at the dose of 10 μg/kg. At 12 h after modeling, the pathological changes in the pancreas and colon were observed with HE staining; the serum level of AMY, DAO, D-Lac and TNF-α were measured with ELISA, and the expressions of GC-C and claudin-1 were detected using Western blotting, immunohistochemical and transmission electron microscopy.

OBJECTIVE

The expression of GC-C was significantly reduced in the colon of rats in SAP group, and its lowest expression occurred at 12 h after modeling (P < 0.05) followed by gradual increase over time. Claudin-1 showed a similar trend in the colon. Compared with the sham-operated rats, the rats in SAP and Linaclotide groups showed significantly increased pathological scores of the colon tissues (P < 0.05) and serum levels of AMY, DAO, D-Lac and TNF-α and decreased expressions of GC-C and claudin-1 in the colon (P < 0.05). Compared with those in SAP group, the rats in linaclotide group had significantly lower colonic histopathological scores, lower serum levels of AMY, DAO, D-Lac and TNF-α, and higher expression levels of GC-C and claudin-1 in the colon tissue.

OBJECTIVE

In rats with SAP-related intestinal injury, the expression of GC-C in the colon tissue decreases to the lowest level at 12 h after SAP onset followed by gradual increase. activating GC-C can increase the expression levels of GC-C and claudin-1 and alleviate intestinal injury, suggesting the role of GC-C in maintaining intestinal barrier integrity by regulating the expression of tight junction proteins.

Downregulating Gasdermin D Reduces Severe Acute Pancreatitis Associated with Pyroptosis

Background

Intestinal injury plays a key role in the pathogenesis of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). In this study, we investigated the protective function of downregulated Gasdermin D (GSDMD) in intestinal damage in a mouse model of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP).

Material/Methods

Twenty-four healthy male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into 4 groups – the NS group, the siRNA-NS group, the SAP group, and the siRNA-SAP group – with 6 mice in each group. SAP was induced in mice by intraperitoneal injection of caerulein and lipopolysaccharide. The pathological changes of pancreatic and the intestinal mucosa and the relative gene and protein expressions in each group were compared, and the levels of GSDMD and serum IL-1β and IL-18 were evaluated after induction of the SAP model.

Results

The mice in the SAP group were in more serious condition than those in the siRNA-SAP group, with various degrees of edema and hemorrhage in the intestinal tract. Under an optical microscope, the pathological changes of pancreatic tissue such as edema, inflammatory cell infiltration, and the damage of lobular structural were gradually increased in the SAP group and the siRNA-NS group. In addition, intestinal mucosal damage and intestinal villus breakage were found in the SAP group and the siRNA-NS group, and the latter was lighter than the former. Compared with the SAP group, the level of GSDMD protein expression in the siRNA-SAP group was lower, and the serum levels of IL-1β and IL-18 were higher in the SAP group and siRNA-SAP group (P<0.05). Immunohistochemical analysis showed the occludin and ZO-1 proteins in the NS group had a strong brown linear signal, while the brown-positive signals were weaker in the siRNA-SAP group and the SAP group.

Conclusions

Downregulating GSDMD protein can reduce pancreatitis associated with pyroptosis.

Sting pathway - A futuristic therapeutic target for acute pancreatitis?

Acute Pancreatitis (AP) refers to the inflammatory state of the pancreatic mass caused by an abnormal release of digestive enzymes characterized by pancreatic acinar cell injury. It is mainly caused by gallstones, which primarily block sphincter of Oddi opening into the duodenum, heavyalcohol use, systemic diseases, etc. Stimulator of interferon genes known as STING uniquely senses the apoptotic and necrotic DNA fragments. Through the expression of TMEM173 (transmembrane protein 173) or STING protein in macrophages, downstream signaling pathways are activated in AP and are responsible for promoting inflammation. STING elicits a cascade of downstream signaling events such as activation of TBK1, IRF-3 phosphorylation, and IFN-β production along with other cytokines, which result in the excessive manufacture of the type-I IFNs and different kinds of proinflammatory cytokines that take part in the immune defense system of the host. Research findings suggest that STING regulates an array of innate immunity pathways, and the absence of proper treatment measures for AP provides the opportunity of evaluating STING as a striking therapeutic target for AP associated inflammation. Although the understanding of STING hyperactivation and its association with inflammation is relative of recent interest among researchers, extensive studies are going on to identify inhibitors that can directly target STING and inhibits the downstream signaling in AP. Therefore, this review aims to collectively compile the available pieces of evidence, which could help to better understand the role of STING signaling in AP and its promising role as a therapeutic target.

Comprehensive Analysis of Differentially Expressed lncRNA, circRNA and mRNA and Their ceRNA Networks in Mice With Severe Acute Pancreatitis

Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is an acute digestive system disease with high morbidity mortality and hospitalization rate worldwide, due to various causes and unknown pathogenesis. In recent years, a large number of studies have confirmed that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play an important role in many cellular processes and disease occurrence. However, the underlying mechanisms based on the function of ncRNAs, including long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) and circular RNA (circRNA), in SAP remain unclear. In this study, we performed high-throughput sequencing on the pancreatic tissues of three normal mice and three SAP mice for the first time to describe and analyze the expression profiles of ncRNAs, including lncRNA and circRNA. Our results identified that 49 lncRNAs, 56 circRNAs and 1,194 mRNAs were differentially expressed in the SAP group, compared with the control group. Furthermore, we performed Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis of differentially expressed lncRNAs and circRNAs, and found that the functions of the parental genes are enriched in the calcium-regulated signaling pathway, NF-κB signaling pathway, autophagy and protein digestion and absorption processes, which are closely related to the central events in pathogenesis of SAP. We also constructed lncRNA/circRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks to further explore their underlying mechanism and possible relationships in SAP. We found that in the competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks, differentially expressed lncRNAs and circRNAs are mainly involved in the apoptosis pathway and calcium signal transduction pathway. In conclusion, we found that lncRNAs and circRNAs play an important role in the pathogenesis of SAP, which may provide new insights in further exploring the pathogenesis of SAP and seek new targets for SAP.