Berberine inhibits LPS-induced TF procoagulant activity and expression through NF-κB/p65, Akt and MAPK pathway in THP-1 cells

Role of inflammatory mediators in intracranial aneurysms: A review

The formation, growth, and rupture of intracranial aneurysms (IAs) involve hemodynamics, blood pressure, external stimuli, and a series of hormonal changes. In addition, inflammatory response causes the release of a series of inflammatory mediators, such as IL, TNF-α, MCP-1, and MMPs, which directly or indirectly promote the development process of IA. However, the specific role of these inflammatory mediators in the pathophysiological process of IA remains unclear. Recently, several anti-inflammatory, lipid-lowering, hormone-regulating drugs have been found to have a potentially protective effect on reducing IA formation and rupture in the population. These therapeutic mechanisms have not been fully elucidated, but we can look for potential therapeutic targets that may interfere with the formation and breakdown of IA by studying the relevant inflammatory response and the mechanism of IA formation and rupture involved in inflammatory mediators.

Recent Advances in Biologically Active Ingredients from Natural Drugs for Sepsis Treatment

Sepsis refers to the dysregulated host response to infection; its incidence and mortality rates are high. It is a worldwide medical problem but there is no specific drug for it. In recent years, clinical and experimental studies have found that many monomer components of traditional Chinese medicine have certain effects on the treatment of sepsis. This paper reviews the advances in research on the active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine involved in the treatment of sepsis in recent years according to their chemical structure; it could provide ideas and references for further research and development in Chinese materia medica for the treatment of sepsis.

Ameliorating effects of berberine on sepsis-associated lung inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide: molecular mechanisms and preclinical evidence

As a life-threatening disorder, sepsis-associated lung injury is a dysregulated inflammatory response to microbial infection, characterized by the infiltration of inflammatory cells into lung tissues and excessive production of pro-inflammatory mediators. Therefore, immunomodulatory/anti-inflammatory agents are a potential treatment for sepsis-associated lung injury. Berberine, one of the well-studied medicinal plant-derived compounds, has shown promising anti-inflammatory potential in inflammatory conditions, through modulating excessive immune responses induced by various immune cells. A systematic literature search in electronic databases indicated several publications that studied the effect of berberine on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced sepsis in preclinical investigations. The current review article aims to provide evidence on the effects of berberine against LPS-induced acute lung injury (ALI), together with underlying molecular mechanisms. The findings reveal that berberine through inhibiting the excessive production of multiple pro-inflammatory cytokines, suppressing the infiltration of immune cells into lung tissues, as well as preventing pulmonary edema and coagulation, can relieve pulmonary histopathological changes from LPS-mediated inflammation, thereby attenuating sepsis-associated lung injury and lethality in the experimental models. In conclusion, berberine shows great potential as a preventing and therapeutic agent for sepsis-associated lung injury, however, further proof-of-concept studies and clinical investigations are warranted for translating these preclinical findings into clinical practices.

Nuciferine alleviates intestinal inflammation by inhibiting MAPK/NF-κB and NLRP3/Caspase 1 pathways in vivo and in vitro

Nuciferine (NCF) is an aporphine alkaloid and a principal bioactive constituent in the lotus plant. Herewith, we investigated the potential anti-inflammatory effect and underlying mechanisms of NCF employing dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis in mice, a predominant intestinal inflammatory disease, and mouse RAW 264.7 cells in vitro. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to generate an inflammatory response in the RAW 264.7 cells. The disease activity index (DAI), colon morphology, colonoscopy, and colon histopathology were performed to assess experimental colitis. The biochemical assays, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and immunoblot analysis were performed to understand the underlying mechanisms. In RAW 264.7 cells, NCF pretreatment significantly decreased the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), the expression and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-18, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interfered with the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), and NOD-like family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) signaling pathways. The oral treatment of NCF substantially alleviated the DSS-induced DAI, increased colon length, and restored colon morphology and histology. Compared to the DSS-induced mice, the proteins involved in the activation of MAPK/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathways and the cytokines were markedly decreased in the NCF-treated mice. Moreover, the tight junction architecture of the colon was well-maintained in NCF treatment groups by regulating the expression of claudin-1 and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) proteins. All these findings suggest that NCF can be a promising molecule to modulate ulcerative colitis.

Berberine in Sepsis: Effects, Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Strategies

Sepsis is defined as a dysregulated immune response to infection that leads to multiple organ dysfunction. To date, though a growing body of knowledge has gained insight into the clinical risk factors, pathobiology, treatment response, and recovery methods, sepsis remains a significant concern and clinical burden. Therefore, further study is urgently needed to alleviate the acute and chronic outcomes. Berberine (BBR), a traditional Chinese medicine with multiple actions and mechanisms, has been investigated in cellular and rodent animal models of sepsis mainly based on its anti-inflammatory effect. However, the practical application of BBR in sepsis is still lacking, and it is imperative to systematically summarize the study of BBR in sepsis. This review summarized its pharmacological activities and mechanisms in septic-related organ injuries and the potential BBR-based therapeutic strategies for sepsis, which will provide comprehensive references for scientific research and clinical application.

Effect of Berberine on Activation of TLR4-NFκB Signaling Pathway and NLRP3 Inflammasome in Patients with Gout

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects of berberine (BBR) on the activation of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), nuclear factor (NF)κB (NF-κB) signaling and NLRP3 inflammasome in patients with gout.

METHODS

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were obtained from 24 acute (AP) and 41 non-acute (NAP) phases of primary gout patients, respectively, as well as 30 healthy controls (HC). TLR4, NF-κB (p65), NLRP3, apoptosis-associated specklike protein containing a CARD (PYCARD), cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase-1 (CASP1), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) mRNA expression levels in PBMCs were measured by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. The protein levels of TLR4, myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), NF-κB (p50/65), inhibitor of kappa B kinase α/β (IKKα/β), NF-κB inhibitor α (IKBα), phospho-IKKα/β (p-IKKα/β), NLRP3, PYCARD, and CASP1 were monitored by Western blotting. Serum IL-1β protein level was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In addition, PBMCs from HC and macrophages derived from a spontaneously immortalized monocyte-like cell line (THP-1) were stimulated using monosodium urate (MSU, 100 µg/mL), 0.1% dimethyl sulfoxide, 25 µmol/L BBR, and 10, 25, and 50 µmol/L BBR+100 µg/mL MSU for different time periods. The protein levels of IL-1β and IL-18 in cell culture supernatants was measured by ELISA, and the protein expressions of TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB (p50/p65), IKKα/β, I κBβ, p-IKKα/β, NLRP3, PYCARD, and CASP1 in macrophages were analyzed by Western blotting.

RESULTS

(1) TLR4, NF-κB (p65), PYCARD, CASP1, and IL-1β mRNA levels in PBMCs were significantly higher in the AP group than in the HC group (P<0.05). The NLRP3 mRNA expression levels in PBMCs were found to be significantly lower in the AP and NAP groups than in the HC group (P<0.05, P<0.01). (2) The protein levels of TLR4, IKKβ, MyD88, NF-κB, p-IKKα/β, PYCARD, and CASP1 in PBMCs were significantly higher, and those of IκBα, IKKα, and NLRP3 were found to be significantly lower in the AP group than in the HC group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). (3) The serum IL-1β protein levels were significantly higher in the AP and NAP groups than in the HC group (P<0.01). (4) The IL-1β protein level was significantly lower in the culture supernatants of the PBMCs stimulated with MSU for 3 and 6 h in the 25 and 50 µmoL/L BBR groups compared with that in the MSU group (P<0.01). (5) The protein levels of IL-1β and IL-18 were also significantly lower in the culture supernatants of macrophages stimulated with MSU for 3 and 6 h in BBR groups compared with those in the MSU group (P<0.01). (6) The protein levels of TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB (p50, p65, p105), IKKα/β, p-IκBα, p-IKKα/β, PYCARD, and CASP1 were significantly differed between the macrophages stimulated with MSU for 0.5 and 6 h in BBR groups compared with those in the MSU group (P<0.05 or P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Activation of TLR4-NFκB signaling and NLRP3 inflammasome by MSU crystals drives the progression of gout inflammation. BBR ameliorates gouty inflammation, which is mechanistically associated with its regulation of TLR4-NF-κB signaling and NLRP3 inflammasome expression.

The role of berberine in Covid-19: potential adjunct therapy

Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) is a global diastrophic disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Covid-19 leads to inflammatory, immunological, and oxidative changes, by which SARS-CoV-2 leads to endothelial dysfunction (ED), acute lung injury (ALI), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and multi-organ failure (MOF). Despite evidence illustrating that some drugs and vaccines effectively manage and prevent Covid-19, complementary herbal medicines are urgently needed to control this pandemic disease. One of the most used herbal medicines is berberine (BBR), which has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, and immune-regulatory effects; thus, BBR may be a prospective candidate against SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review found that BBR has anti-SARS-CoV-2 effects with mitigation of associated inflammatory changes. BBR also reduces the risk of ALI/ARDS in Covid-19 patients by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inflammatory signaling pathways. In conclusion, BBR has potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral effects. Therefore, it can be utilized as a possible anti-SARS-CoV-2 agent. BBR inhibits the proliferation of SARS-CoV-2 and attenuates the associated inflammatory disorders linked by the activation of inflammatory signaling pathways. Indeed, BBR can alleviate ALI/ARDS in patients with severe Covid-19. In this sense, clinical trials and prospective studies are suggested to illustrate the potential role of BBR in treating Covid-19.

Can Isoquinoline Alkaloids Affect Platelet Aggregation in Whole Human Blood?

Isoquinoline alkaloids have multiple biological activities, which might be associated with positive pharmacological effects as well as negative adverse reactions. As bleeding was suggested to be a side effect of the isoquinoline alkaloid berberine, we decided to ascertain if different isoquinoline alkaloids could influence hemocoagulation through the inhibition of either platelet aggregation or blood coagulation. Initially, a total of 14 compounds were screened for antiplatelet activity in whole human blood by impedance aggregometry. Eight of them demonstrated an antiplatelet effect against arachidonic acid-induced aggregation. Papaverine and bulbocapnine were the most potent compounds with biologically relevant IC₅₀ values of 26.9 ± 12.2 μM and 30.7 ± 5.4 μM, respectively. Further testing with the same approach confirmed their antiplatelet effects by employing the most physiologically relevant inducer of platelet aggregation, collagen, and demonstrated that bulbocapnine acted at the level of thromboxane receptors. None of the alkaloids tested had an effect on blood coagulation measured by a mechanical coagulometer. In conclusion, the observed antiplatelet effects of isoquinoline alkaloids were found mostly at quite high concentrations, which means that their clinical impact is most likely low. Bulbocapnine was an exception. It proved to be a promising antiplatelet molecule, which may have biologically relevant effects.

Vascular Protective Effect and Its Possible Mechanism of Action on Selected Active Phytocompounds: A Review

Vascular endothelial dysfunction is characterized by an imbalance of vasodilation and vasoconstriction, deficiency of nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability and elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS), and proinflammatory factors. This dysfunction is a key to the early pathological development of major cardiovascular diseases including hypertension, atherosclerosis, and diabetes. Therefore, modulation of the vascular endothelium is considered an important therapeutic strategy to maintain the health of the cardiovascular system. Epidemiological studies have shown that regular consumption of medicinal plants, fruits, and vegetables promotes vascular health, lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This is mainly attributed to the phytochemical compounds contained in these resources. Various databases, including Google Scholar, MEDLINE, PubMed, and the Directory of Open Access Journals, were searched to identify studies demonstrating the vascular protective effects of phytochemical compounds. The literature had revealed abundant data on phytochemical compounds protecting and improving the vascular system. Of the numerous compounds reported, curcumin, resveratrol, cyanidin-3-glucoside, berberine, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, and quercetin are discussed in this review to provide recent information on their vascular protective mechanisms in vivo and in vitro. Phytochemical compounds are promising therapeutic agents for vascular dysfunction due to their antioxidative mechanisms. However, future human studies will be necessary to confirm the clinical effects of these vascular protective mechanisms.

Berberine Alleviate Cisplatin-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy by Modulating Inflammation Signal via TRPV1

Chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a severe neurodegenerative disorder caused by chemotherapy drugs. Berberine is a natural monomer compound of Coptis chinensis, which has anti-tumor effect and can improve neuropathy through anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV1) can sense noxious thermal and chemical stimuli, which is an important target for the study of pathological pain. In both vivo and in vitro CIPN models, we found that berberine alleviated peripheral neuropathy associated with dorsal root ganglia inflammation induced by cisplatin. We confirmed that berberine mediated the neuroinflammatory reaction induced by cisplatin by inhibiting the overexpression of TRPV1 and NF-κB and activating the JNK/p38 MAPK pathways in early injury, which inhibited the expression of p-JNK and mediated the expression of p38 MAPK/ERK in late injury in vivo. Moreover, genetic deletion of TRPV1 significantly reduced the protective effects of berberine on mechanical and heat hyperalgesia in mice. In TRPV1 knockout mice, the expression of NF-κB increased in late stage, and berberine inhibited the overexpression of NF-κB and p-ERK in late injury. Our results support berberine can reverse neuropathic inflammatory pain response induced by cisplatin, TRPV1 may be involved in this process.

Berberine attenuates septic cardiomyopathy by inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB signalling in rats

CONTEXT

Berberine (Ber) can increase the survival rate of septic mice and inhibit inflammation, but whether it has a protective effect on septic cardiomyopathy (SCM) is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether Ber ameliorates SCM in a rat model and its potential mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male SD rats were randomly divided into three groups: control (Con, n = 6) (DD H₂O, 2 mL/100 g, ig, qd × 3 d, then saline, 10 mg/kg, ip); sepsis [LPS (lipopolysaccharide), n = 18] (LPS 10 mg/kg instead of saline, ip); and berberine intervention (Ber, n = 18) (Ber, 50 mg/kg instead of DD H₂O, ig, qd × 3 d, LPS instead of saline, ip). Hemodynamics, HE staining, ELISA and western blot were performed at 6, 24, and 48 h after intraperitoneal injection of LPS to evaluate the effect of berberine in septic rats.

RESULT

Berberine could recover myocardial injury by partially increased ± dp/dt max (1151, 445 mmHg/s) and LVEDP levels (1.49 mmHg) with LPS-induced rats, as well as an ameliorated increase of cTnT (217.53 pg/mL) in the Ber group compared with that in the LPS group (at 24 h). In addition, HE staining results showed that berberine attenuated the myocardial cell swelling induced by LPS. In contrast to the LPS group, the up-regulation of TLR4, p65 TNF-α, and IL-1β were attenuated in the Ber group.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Berberine showed a protective effect on septic cardiomyopathy rats possibly through inhibiting the activation of TLR4/NF-κB signalling pathway. Whether it improves SCM through other mechanisms is our ongoing research.

Berberine Attenuates Neonatal Sepsis in Mice By Inhibiting FOXA1 and NF-κB Signal Transduction Via the Induction of MiR-132-3p

Neonatal sepsis (NS) is a severe syndrome in newborns that is induced by infections, and the initiation and development of NS are closely associated with the function of miRs. In the current study, the effects of berberine, which is a functional component in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), against NS were assessed by focusing on the interaction of berberine with miR-132-3p-mediated signaling. An NS model was induced using cecal slurry (CS) in vivo and LPS in vitro, and berberine treatment was applies. The changes in survival rate, intestinal structure, and systemic inflammation in mice and the viability, apoptosis, and inflammatory response in intestinal cells were measured. At the molecular level, miR-132-3p levels and the activities of the FOXA1 and NF-κB pathways were analyzed. The data showed that berberine increased the survival rates of CS-induced mice. The intestinal injuries induced by CS were also attenuated by berberine, which was associated with inhibition of the production of systemic IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α. At the molecular level, the expression of miR-132-3p was upregulated, suppressing the expression of FOXA1, p-IκBα, and p65 while inducing the expression of IκBα. The effects of berberine on NS-induced impairments were blocked by the injection of the miR-132-3p antagomir, which exacerbated intestinal injuries, induced systemic inflammation, and reactivated the FOXA1 and NF-κB pathways. The findings in the in vivo model were validated with in vitro assays. Collectively, the findings outlined in the current study indicated that berberine had solid protective effects against NS-induced symptoms in newborn mice, and the effects depended on the upregulation of miR-132-3p.

Berberine improves intestinal barrier function and reduces inflammation, immunosuppression, and oxidative stress by regulating the NF-κB/MAPK signaling pathway in deoxynivalenol-challenged piglets

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of berberine (BBR) on the intestinal health of piglets exposed to deoxynivalenol (DON). A total of 180 weaned piglets were randomly allotted to 1 of 3 treatment groups with 10 replication pens per treatment and 6 piglets per pen. The treatments were basal diet, basal diet +4 mg/kg DON, and basal diet +4 mg/kg DON +40 mg/kg BBR. The experiment lasted for 21 d. BBR improved the growth performance of DON-challenged piglets. BBR could inhibit DON-induced intestinal injury by increasing the expression of serum antioxidant enzymes and T cell surface antigens and reducing the release of proinflammatory cytokines in the small intestine. BBR significantly increased the protein expression levels of zonula occludens 1 (ZO-1), Occludin and Claudin-1 in the ileal and jejunal mucosa and increased the morphological parameters of the jejunum. Moreover, we found that BBR significantly reduced the DON-induced gene and protein expression levels of ERK, JNK, and NF-κB in the jejunum and ileum. In conclusion, BBR can regulate DON-induced intestinal injury, immunosuppression and oxidative stress by regulating the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways and ultimately maintain the intestinal health of piglets.

Research Progress in Chinese Herbal Medicines for Treatment of Sepsis: Pharmacological Action, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacokinetics

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection; the pathophysiology of sepsis is complex. The incidence of sepsis is steadily increasing, with worldwide mortality ranging between 30% and 50%. Current treatment approaches mainly rely on the timely and appropriate administration of antimicrobials and supportive therapies, but the search for pharmacotherapies modulating the host response has been unsuccessful. Chinese herbal medicines, i.e., Chinese patent medicines, Chinese herbal prescriptions, and single Chinese herbs, play an important role in the treatment of sepsis through multicomponent, multipathway, and multitargeting abilities and have been officially recommended for the management of COVID-19. Chinese herbal medicines have therapeutic actions promising for the treatment of sepsis; basic scientific research on these medicines is increasing. However, the material bases of most Chinese herbal medicines and their underlying mechanisms of action have not yet been fully elucidated. This review summarizes the current studies of Chinese herbal medicines used for the treatment of sepsis in terms of clinical efficacy and safety, pharmacological activity, phytochemistry, bioactive constituents, mechanisms of action, and pharmacokinetics, to provide an important foundation for clarifying the pathogenesis of sepsis and developing novel antisepsis drugs based on Chinese herbal medicines.

Berberine, A Phytoalkaloid, Inhibits Inflammatory Response Induced by LPS through NF-Kappaβ Pathway: Possible Involvement of the IKKα

Berberine (BBR), a plant alkaloid, is known for its therapeutic properties of anticancer, cardioprotective, antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective activities. The present study was to determine the molecular mechanism of BBR's pharmacological activity in human monocytic (THP-1) cells induced by arachidonic acid (AA) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The effect of BBR on AA/LPS activated proinflammatory markers including TNF-α, MCP-1, IL-8 and COX-2 was measured by ELISA or quantitative real-time PCR. Furthermore, the effect of BBR on LPS-induced NF-κB translocation was determined by immunoblotting and confocal microscopy. AA/ LPS-induced TNF-α, MCP-1, IL-6, IL-8, and COX-2 markers were markedly attenuated by BBR treatment in THP-1 cells by inhibiting NF-κB translocation into the nucleus. Molecular modeling studies suggested the direct interaction of BBR to IKKα at its ligand binding site, which led to the inhibition of the LPS-induced NF-κB translocation to the nucleus. Thus, the present study demonstrated the anti-inflammatory potential of BBR via NF-κB in activated monocytes, whose interplay is key in health and in the pathophysiology of atherosclerotic development in blood vessel walls. The present study findings suggest that BBR has the potential for treating various chronic inflammatory disorders.

Sepsis induces variation of intestinal barrier function in different phase through nuclear factor kappa B signaling

The intestinal barrier function disrupted in sepsis, while little is known about the variation in different phases of sepsis. In this study, mouse models of sepsis were established by caecal ligation and puncture (CLP). The H&E staining of sections and serum diamine oxidase concentration were evaluated at different timepoint after CLP. TUNEL assay and EdU staining were performed to evaluate the apoptosis and proliferation of intestinal epithelium. Relative protein expression was assessed by Western blotting and serum concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines was measured by ELISA. The disruption of intestinal barrier worsened in the first 24 h after the onset of sepsis and gradually recovered over the next 24 h. The percentage of apoptotic cell increased in the first 24 h and dropped at 48 h, accompanied with the proliferative rate of intestinal epithelium inhibited in the first 6 h and regained in the later period. Furthermore, the activity of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) presented similar trend with the intestinal barrier function, shared positive correction with apoptosis of intestinal epithelium. These findings reveal the conversion process of intestinal barrier function in sepsis and this process is closely correlated with the activity of NF-κB signaling.

Eleven isoquinoline alkaloids on inhibiting tissue factor activity: structure-activity relationships and molecular docking

Tissue factor (TF) which plays a key role in hemostasis and thrombosis appears to be an attractive target and medicinal plants having alkaloids inhibition TF activity benefit to cardiovascular disease (CVD). The aim of study is to explore further knowledge about alkaloids and TF. TF procoagulant activities were determined by the simplified chromogenic assay and their mRNA expression were then examined by reverse transcription and polymerase chain reaction. Besides, the potential of TF/FVIIa binding with four representative alkaloids were analyzed by molecular docking. The results indicated that these isoquinoline alkaloids with various structures had a different effect on suppression of TF activity. Molecular docking showed four alkaloids including l-corydalmine, berberine, jatrorrhizine, and tetrahydropalmatine were stably posed in the active binding pocket of TF/FVIIa. The SARs analysis showed the structural difference including planar, quaternary nitrogen, and the peripheral functional groups at C-8, C-9, C-10, have strong effect on inhibition of TF activity, which provided effective methods to modify isoquinoline alkaloids for inhibiting TF activity. This study provides a further evidence for the cardiovascular protection of isoquinoline alkaloids, and has physiological significance in the clinical challenge to use isoquinoline alkaloids or their potential analogs in the treatment of CVD.

BAY11-7082 inhibits the expression of tissue factor and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 in type-II alveolar epithelial cells following TNF-α stimulation via the NF-κB pathway

Pulmonary inflammation strongly promotes alveolar hypercoagulation and fibrinolytic inhibition. NF-κB signaling regulates the expression of molecules associated with coagulation and fibrinolytic inhibition in type-II alveolar epithelial cells (AECII) stimulated by lipopolysaccharide. However, whether TNF-α-induced alveolar hypercoagulation and fibrinolysis inhibition is also associated with the NF-κB pathway remains to be determined. The aim of the present study was to determine whether BAY11-7082, an inhibitor of the NF-κB pathway, inhibits the expressions of tissue factor (TF) and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) in AECⅡ in response to TNF-α. Rat AECII were treated with BAY11-7082 for 24 h and stimulated with TNF-α for 1 h. The expression of TF and PAI-1 were determined using western blotting and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. The concentrations of TF and PAI-1 in culture supernatant were also measured by ELISA. Moreover, levels of NF-κB p65 (p65), phosphorylated (p)-p65 (p-p65), inhibitor of NF-κB α (IκBα) and p-IκBα were also evaluated. Immunofluorescence was used to detect p65 levels in cell nuclei. TNF-α significantly promoted TF and PAI-1 expression either at the mRNA or protein level in AECII cells. Concentrations of TF and PAI-1 in supernatant also significantly increased upon TNF-α stimulation. Furthermore, TNF-α upregulated the levels of p-IκBα, p65, and p-p65 in the cytoplasm. Immunofluorescence analysis indicated that TNF-α increased p65 translocation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. However, AECII pre-treated with BAY11-7082 expressed lower levels of TF and PAI-1 following TNF-α treatment. Levels of p-IκBα, p65 and p-p65 in the cytoplasm also decreased, and translocation of p65 from cytoplasm into the nucleus was inhibited by BAY11-7082 pretreatment. These findings suggest that BAY11-7082 improves the hypercoagulation and fibrinolytic inhibition induced by TNF-α in alveolar epithelial cells via the NF-κB signaling pathway. BAY11-7082 might represent a therapeutic option for alveolar hypercoagulation and fibrinolytic inhibition in acute respiratory distress syndrome.

GSK3 modulation in acute lung injury, myocarditis and polycystic kidney disease-related aneurysm

GSK3 are involved in different physical and pathological conditions and inflammatory regulated by macrophages contribute to significant mechanism. Infection stimuli may modulate GSK3 activity and influence host cell adaption, immune cells infiltration or cytokine expressions. To further address the role of GSK3 modulation in macrophages, the signal transduction of three major organs challenged by endotoxin, virus and genetic inherited factors are briefly introduced (lung injury, myocarditis and autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease). As a result of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory functions of GSK3 in different microenvironments and stages of macrophages (M1/M2), the rational resolution should be considered by adequately GSK3.

Circadian pharmacological effects of berberine on chronic colitis in mice: Role of the clock component Rev-erbα

Berberine, initially isolated from Rhizoma Coptidis (Huanglian in Chinese), is a drug used to treat gastrointestinal disorders such as colitis. Here we uncovered a time-varying berberine effect on chronic colitis in mice, and investigated a potential role of the clock protein Rev-erbα in this timing effect. Berberine activity toward Rev-erbα was determined by luciferase reporter, Gal4-cotransfection assay and target gene expression analyses. Chronic colitis was induced by feeding mice with dextran sulfate sodium in drinking water. Colitis severity and pharmacological effects of berberine were assessed by measuring myeloperoxidase and malondialdehyde activities as well as the levels of inflammatory factors (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18 and Ccl2). Berberine significantly inhibited Bmal1 (-2000/+100 bp)- and Nlrp3 (-1310/+100 bp)-Luc reporter activities, and dose-dependently decreased cellular expressions of both Bmal1 and Nlrp3. Also, it enhanced the transcriptional repressor activity of Rev-erbα in the Gal4 chimeric assay. These data indicated berberine as a Rev-erbα agonist. As expected, berberine attenuated inflammatory responses in BMDMs (bone marrow-derived macrophages) and in colitis mice. However, the anti-inflammatory effects of berberine were lost in BMDMs derived from Rev-erbα-deficient mice. Furthermore, chronic colitis displayed a diurnal rhythmicity in disease severity and its diurnal pattern was in an opposite phase to that of Rev-erbα expression, supporting a direct control of colitis by Rev-erbα. Moreover, berberine effects on chronic colitis were dosing time-dependent. ZT10 dosing generated a better treatment outcome compared to ZT2. This was because colitis was less severe and Rev-erbα expression was much higher at ZT10 than at ZT2. In conclusion, circadian pharmacological effects of berberine on chronic colitis were mainly contributed by diurnal rhythms of both disease severity and Rev-erbα (as a drug target). The findings may have implications for chronotherapeutic practice on colitis or related diseases.

Berberine ameliorates lipopolysaccharide‑induced inflammatory responses in mouse inner medullary collecting duct‑3 cells by downregulation of NF‑κB pathway

The major role of inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD) cells is to maintain water and sodium homeostasis. In addition to the major role, it also participates in the protection of renal and systemic inflammation. Although IMCD cells could take part in renal and systemic inflammation, investigations on renal inflammation in IMCD cells have rarely been reported. Although berberine (BBR) has been reported to show diverse pharmacological effects, its anti-inflammatory and protective effects on IMCD cells have not been studied. Therefore, in the present study, we examined the anti-inflammatory and protective effects of BBR in mouse IMCD-3 (mIMCD-3) cells against lipopolysaccharide (LPS). An MTT assay was carried out to investigate the toxicity of BBR on mIMCD-3 cells. Reverse transcription quantitative-PCR and western blotting were performed to analysis pro-inflammatory molecules and cytokines. Mechanisms of BBR were examined by western blotting and immunocytochemistry. According to previous studies, pro-inflammatory molecules, such as inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2, and pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α are increased in LPS-exposed mIMCD-3 cells. However, the production of these pro-inflammatory molecules is significantly inhibited by treatment with BBR. In addition, BBR inhibited translocation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB p65 from the cytosol to the nucleus, and degradation of inhibitory κ-Bα in LPS-exposed mIMCD-3 cells. In conclusion, BBR could inhibit renal inflammatory responses via inhibition of NF-κB signaling and ultimately contribute to amelioration of renal injury during systemic inflammation.

IKKβ regulates the expression of coagulation and fibrinolysis factors through the NF-κB canonical pathway in LPS-stimulated alveolar epithelial cells type II

Aim: Hypercoagulation and fibrinolysis inhibition in the alveolar cavity are important characteristics in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Alveolar epithelial cells type II (AEC II) have been confirmed to have significant role in regulating alveolar hypercoagulation and fibrinolysis inhibition, but the mechanism is unknown. Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway has been demonstrated to participate in the pathogenesis of these two abnormalities in ARDS. The purpose of the present study is to explore whether controlling the upstream crucial factor IκB kinase (IKK)β could regulate coagulation and fibrinolysis factors in LPS-stimulated AEC II. Materials and methods: An IKKβ gene regulation model (IKKβ^+/+ and IKKβ^−/−) was prepared using lentiviral vector transfection. The models with wild type cells were all stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or saline for 24 h. Expression of the related proteins were determined by western-blotting, ELISA and revere transcription-PCR respectively. Tissue factor (TF) procoagulant activity and nuclear p65 protein level were also detected. Results: IKKβ increased in IKKβ^+/+ cells but decreased in IKKβ^−/− cells. LPS stimulation promoted the expression of p-IκBα, p65, p-p65 and p-IKKβ as well as TF and plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1, at the mRNA or protein level, and this was significantly enhanced by IKKβ upregulation but weakened by IKKβ downregulation. TF procoagulant activity presented the same changes as the molecules above. ELISAs showed additional increases in the concentrations of as thrombin antithrombin, procollagen III propeptide, thrombomodulin and PAI-1 in IKKβ^+/+ cell supernatant under LPS stimulation, however they decreased in IKKβ^−/−. The level of as antithrombin III however, appeared to show the opposite change to those other factors. Immunofluorescence demonstrated a greatly enhanced expression of p65 in the nucleus by IKKβ upregulation, which was reduced by IKKβ downregulation. Conclusions: IKKβ could regulate the expression and secretion of coagulation and fibrinolysis factors in LPS-stimulated AEC II via the NF-κB p65 signaling pathway. The IKKβ molecule is expected to be a new target for prevention of coagulation and fibrinolysis abnormalities in ARDS.

Role of TLR‑4 in anti‑β2‑glycoprotein I‑induced activation of peritoneal macrophages and vascular endothelial cells in mice

Anti‑phospholipid syndrome (APS) is a systematic autoimmune disease that is associated with presence of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL), recurrent thrombosis, and fetal morbidity in pregnancy. Toll‑like receptor‑4 (TLR‑4), a member of TLR family, is known to have a fundamental role in pathogen recognition and activation of innate immunity. The β2‑glycoprotein I (β2GPI), a protein circulating in the blood at a high concentration, is able of scavenging lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and clear unwanted anionic cellular remnants, such as microparticles, from the circulation. Our previous study demonstrated that TLR‑4 and its signaling pathways contribute to the upregulation of pro‑coagulant factors and pro‑inflammatory cytokines in monocytes induced by anti‑β2GPI in vitro. The present study aimed to define the roles of TLR‑4 in vivo. C3H/HeN mice (TLR‑4 intact) and C3H/HeJ mice (TLR‑4 defective) were stimulated with an intraperitoneal injection with anti‑β2GPI‑immunoglobulin G(IgG), then peritoneal macrophages and vascular endothelial cells (VECs) were extracted from treated mice, and analyses were conducted on the expression profiles of pro‑inflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules. The results demonstrated that the expression of pro‑inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor‑α (TNF‑α), interleukin (IL)‑1β and IL‑6, in the peritoneal macrophages, and adhesion molecules, including intercellular cell adhesion molecule‑1 (ICAM‑1), vascular cell adhesion molecule‑1 (VCAM‑1) and E‑selectin, in VECs of C3H/HeN mice (TLR‑4 intact) were significantly higher than those of C3H/HeJ mice (TLR‑4 defective). The phosphorylation levels of p38 mitogen‑activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor‑κB (NF‑κB) p65 in peritoneal macrophages and VECs from C3H/HeN mice stimulated with anti‑β2GPI‑IgG were significantly increased compared with those from C3H/HeJ mice (TLR‑4 defective). The isotype control antibody (NR‑IgG) had no such effects on peritoneal macrophages and VECs. Furthermore, the inhibitors of TLR‑4, p38 MAPK and NF‑κB may significantly reduce the anti‑β2GPI‑IgG‑induced TNF‑α, IL‑1β and IL‑6 mRNAs expression in the peritoneal macrophages from TLR‑4 intact mice. The results indicated that a TLR‑4 signal transduction pathway is involved in anti‑β2GPI‑IgG‑induced activation of peritoneal macrophages and VECs. This study has provided a basis for subsequent investigations to elucidate the pathological mechanisms underlying anti‑phospholipid syndrome.

Berberine in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases: From Mechanisms to Therapeutics

Cardiovascular and metabolic diseases (CVMD) are the leading causes of death worldwide, underscoring the urgent necessity to develop new pharmacotherapies. Berberine (BBR) is an eminent component of traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for more than 2000 years. Recently, BBR has attracted much interest for its pharmacological actions in treating and/or managing CVMD. Recent discoveries of basic, translational and clinical studies have identified many novel molecular targets of BBR (such as AMPK, SIRT1, LDLR, PCSK9, and PTP1B) and provided novel evidences supporting the promising therapeutic potential of BBR to combat CVMD. Thus, this review provides a timely overview of the pharmacological properties and therapeutic application of BBR in CVMD, and underlines recent pharmacological advances which validate BBR as a promising lead drug against CVMD.

Yiqi-Huoxue Granule (YQHX) Downregulates Prothrombotic Factors by Modulating KLF2 and NF-κB in HUVECs following LPS Stimulation

The Yiqi-Huoxue granule (YQHX) is a traditional Chinese medication widely used in the therapy of the traditional Chinese medicine diagnosis "Qi deficiency" or "blood stasis" in China. Both these symptoms are related to inflammation, but the mechanisms of YQHX against inflammation are largely unknown. Thus, our present study investigated the effects of YQHX on regulating inflammatory responses induced by lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in HUVECs. Our data found that YQHX remarkably inhibits the production of prothrombotic factors, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and tissue factor (TF), while it upregulates the protein expression of Kruppel-like factor 2 (KLF2). The increase in PAI-1 and TF was significantly attenuated through a transgenic knockdown in KLF2 with a Lenti-shKLF2 vector. YQHX also decreases the phosphorylation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) p65 and IκB following LPS stimulation, and it effectively suppresses PAI-1 and TF via a NF-κB-dependent mechanism. Taken together, our results suggest that YQHX provides a notable antithrombotic activity via regulating the KLF2 expression and NF-κB signaling pathway in HUVECs. The KLF2 and NF-κB may be potential therapeutic targets for interventions of inflammation associated with atherosclerosis.

NF-κB p65 Knock-down inhibits TF, PAI-1 and promotes activated protein C production in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated alveolar epithelial cells type II

Purpose/aim: Activated coagulation and reduced fibrinolysis in alveolar compartment are an important characteristics in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Alveolar epithelial cell type II (AECII) participates in regulating the intra-alveolar abnormalities of coagulation and fibrinolysis mainly through adjusting the productions of tissue factor (TF), plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1 and activated protein C (APC) in ARDS. NF-κB signal pathway may be involved in coagulation regulation in sepsis-induced ALI. The purpose of this study was to testify the hypothesis that NF-κB p65 (p65) knock-down would improve the abnormalities of coagulation and fibrinolysis mediated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation in AECII.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

p65 gene knock-down in AECII was achieved by small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection. Rat AECII (RLE-6TN) with or without p65 gene knock-down were stimulated by LPS for 24 hours. And then cytolysate was used for TF, PAI-1 expression examination, and supernatant was collected for TF, PAI-1 and PC concentrations determination. Activation of NF-κB canonical pathway was simultaneously checked by western-blotting, RT-PCR and immunofluorescence respectively.

RESULTS

TF, PAI-1 expressions in normal cells obviously increased under LPS stimulation with NF-κB canonical pathway activation represented by high levels of p65, p-p65, p-IκB with increased nuclear translocation of p-p65. Cells with NF-κB p65 knock-down, however, showed significant decreases in TF, PAI-1, p65, p-p65, p-IκB expressions following LPS stimulation with significant reduction in p-p65 nuclear translocation as compared to normal and siRNA control cells. The high concentrations of TF, PAI-1 and low level of APC in supernatant induced by LPS in normal cells were significantly reversed through p65 knock-down.

CONCLUSIONS

The experimental findings demonstrate that NF-kB signaling pathway is involved in regulating the expressions of coagulation and fibrinolysis factors in LPS-stimulated AECII, which suggest that NF-kB signaling pathway may be a new target to correct intra-alveolar coagulation and fibrinolytic abnormalities in ARDS.

The Cancer Prevention, Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Oxidation of Bioactive Phytochemicals Targeting the TLR4 Signaling Pathway

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are a well-known family of pattern recognition receptors that play an important role in a host immune system. TLR triggering leads to the induction of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, driving the activation of both innate and adaptive immunity. Recently, an increasing number studies have shown the link between TLRs and cancer. Among them, the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling pathway is associated with inflammatory response and cancer progression. Dietary phytochemicals are potential modulators of immunological status with various pharmacological properties including anti-cancer, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory. Curcumin, 6-gingerol, 6-shogaol, 1-dehydro-10-gingerdione, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), luteolin, quercetin, resveratrol, caffeic acid phenethyl ester, xanthohumol, genistein, berberine, and sulforaphane can inhibit TLR4 activation. The aim of the present review is to describe the role of the TLR4 signaling pathway between inflammatory response and cancer progression. We further introduce bioactive phytochemicals with potential anti-inflammation and chemoprevention by inhibiting TLR activation.

Cellular stress response mechanisms of Rhizoma coptidis: a systematic review

Rhizoma coptidis has been used in China for thousands of years with the functions of heating dampness and purging fire detoxification. But the underlying molecular mechanisms of Rhizoma coptidis are still far from being fully elucidated. Alkaloids, especially berberine, coptisine and palmatine, are responsible for multiple pharmacological effects of Rhizoma coptidis. In this review, we studied on the effects and molecular mechanisms of Rhizoma coptidis on NF-κB/MAPK/PI3K–Akt/AMPK/ERS and oxidative stress pathways. Then we summarized the mechanisms of these alkaloid components of Rhizoma coptidis on cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, diabetes and diabetic complications. Evidence presented in this review implicated that Rhizoma coptidis exerted beneficial effects on various diseases by regulation of NF-κB/MAPK/PI3K–Akt/AMPK/ERS and oxidative stress pathways, which support the clinical application of Rhizoma coptidis and offer references for future researches.

Berberine Attenuates Macrophages Infiltration in Intracranial Aneurysms Potentially Through FAK/Grp78/UPR Axis

Background: Inflammatory cells, such as macrophages, play key roles in the pathogenesis of intracranial aneurysms (IAs). Berberine (BBR), an active component of a Chinese herb Coptis chinensis French, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties through suppressing macrophage migration in various inflammation animal model. The goal of this study was to examine BBR’s effect on inflammation and IAs formation in a rodent aneurysm model.

Methods and Results: Human aneurysm tissues were collected by microsurgical clipping and immunostained for phospho-Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and CD68⁺ macrophages. A rodent aneurysm model was induced in 5-week-old male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats by intracranial surgery, then these rats were orally administrated 200 mg/kg/day BBR for 35 days. Immunostaining data showed that BBR inhibited CD68⁺ macrophages accumulation in IAs tissues and suppressed FAK phosphorylation. In lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells, BBR treatment remarkably attenuated macrophages infiltration, suppressed the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and reduced proinflammatory cytokine secretion, including MCP-1, interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-α). Mechanistically, BBR downregulated FAK/Grp78/Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) signaling pathway in RAW264.7 cells.

Conclusion: BBR prevents IAs formation potentially through inhibiting FAK phosphorylation and inactivating UPR pathway in macrophages, which causes less macrophage infiltration and reduced proinflammatory cytokine release.

Lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in monocytes/macrophages is blocked by liposomal delivery of Gi-protein inhibitor

Background

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is widely recognized as a potent activator of monocytes/macrophages, and its effects include an altered production of key mediators, such as inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. The involvement of G_i protein in mediating LPS effects has been demonstrated in murine macrophages and various cell types of human origin.

Purpose

The aim of the present work was to evaluate the potential of a G_i-protein inhibitor encapsulated in liposomes in reducing the inflammatory effects induced by LPS in monocytes/macrophages.

Materials and methods

Guanosine 5′-O-(2-thiodiphosphate) (GOT), a guanosine diphosphate analog that completely inhibits G-protein activation by guanosine triphosphate and its analogs, was encapsulated into liposomes and tested for anti-inflammatory effects in LPS-activated THP1 monocytes or THP1-derived macrophages. The viability of monocytes/macrophages after incubation with different concentrations of free GOT or liposome-encapsulated GOT was assessed by MTT assay. MAPK activation and production of IL1β, TNFα, IL6, and MCP1 were assessed in LPS-activated monocytes/macrophages in the presence or absence of free or encapsulated GOT. In addition, the effect of free or liposome-encapsulated GOT on LPS-stimulated monocyte adhesion to activated endothelium and on monocyte chemotaxis was evaluated.

Results

We report here that GOT-loaded liposomes inhibited activation of MAPK and blocked the production of the cytokines IL1β, TNFα, IL6, and MCP1 induced by LPS in monocytes and macrophages. Moreover, GOT encapsulated in liposomes reduced monocyte adhesion and chemotaxis. All demonstrated events were in contrast with free GOT, which showed reduced or no effect on monocyte/macrophage activation with LPS.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the potential of liposomal GOT in blocking LPS proinflammatory effects in monocytes/macrophages.

Lianqinjiedu decoction attenuates LPS-induced inflammation and acute lung injury in rats via TLR4/NF-κB pathway

Acute lung injury (ALI) and its severe form acute respiratory distress syndrome remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. LianQinJieDu (LQJD), which is a traditional Chinese medicine, has been clinically used for antiviral drug. The present study investigated whether Lianqinjiedu(LQJD) ameliorates lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced acute lung injury in rats and aimed to determine the anti-inflammatory effects of LQJD. Rat model with ALI induced by intraperitoneal injection of LPS was treated by oral administration of LQJD. The recruitment of body temperature and the histopathology of lung tissue from all groups were evaluated to grade the severity of the inflammation. The inflammatory cytokine levels, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)and interleukin-6 (IL-6), were examined by ELISA assay, and the TLR4 and NF-κBp65 expression levels were evaluated by Real time-PCR and western blotting. It was observed that LQJD reduced the LPS-induced body temperature, inflammatory cytokines level, and lung injuries, and blocked the activation of TLR4/NF-κBp65 signaling in lung tissue. This study demonstrates that LQJD has a protective effect on LPS-induced inflammatory rats through the signaling pathway of TLR4 and NF-κBp65.

Rivaroxaban attenuates thrombosis by targeting the NF-κB signaling pathway in a rat model of deep venous thrombus

Anticoagulant therapy is commonly used for the prevention and treatment of patients with deep venous thrombus. Evidence has shown that rivaroxaban is a potential oral anticoagulant drug for the acute treatment of venous thromboembolism. However, the rivaroxaban-mediated molecular mechanism involved in the progression of deep venous thrombosis has not been investigated. In the present study, we investigated the efficacy of rivaroxaban and the underlying signaling pathways in the prevention and treatment of rats with deep venous thrombosis. A rat model with deep vein thrombus formation was established and received treatment with rivaroxaban or PBS as control. The thrombin-activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFI) and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) were analyzed both in vitro and in vivo. The progression of thrombosis and stroke was evaluated after treatment with rivaroxaban or PBS. Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway in venous endothelial cells and in the rat model of deep venous thrombus was assessed. The therapeutic effects of rivaroxaban were evaluated as determined by changes in deep venous thrombosis in the rat model. Our results showed that rivaroxaban markedly inhibited TAFI and PAI-1 expression levels, neutrophils, tissue factor, neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), myeloperoxidase and macrophages in venous endothelial cells and in the rat model of deep venous thrombus. Expression levels of ADP, PAIs, von Willebrand factor (vWF) and thromboxane were downregulated in vein endothelial cells and in serum from the experimental rats. Importantly, the incidences of inferior vena cava filter thrombus were protected by rivaroxaban during heparin-induced thrombolysis deep venous thrombosis in the rat model. We observed that activity of the NF-κB signaling pathway was inhibited by rivaroxaban in vein endothelial cells both in vitro and in vivo. Notably, immunohistology indicated that rivaroxaban attenuated deep venous thrombosis and the accumulation of inflammatory factors in the lesions in venous thrombus. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression and activity were downregulated in rivaroxaban-treated rats with deep venous thrombus. Rivaroxaban inhibited the elasticity of the extracellular matrix and collagen-elastin fibers. On the whole, these results indicate that rivaroxaban attenuates deep venous thrombus through MMP-9-mediated NF-κB signaling pathway.

Extracts of Salvia-Nelumbinis Naturalis Ameliorate Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis via Inhibiting Gut-Derived Endotoxin Mediated TLR4/NF-κB Activation

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is featured by the presence of hepatic steatosis combined with inflammation and hepatocellular injury. Gut-derived endotoxin plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of NASH. Salvia-Nelumbinis naturalis (SNN), a formula of Traditional Chinese Medicine, has been identified to be effective for NASH, but the mechanisms were not thoroughly explored. In the present study, a NASH model was generated using C57BL/6 mice fed a high fat diet (HFD) supplemented periodically with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in drinking water for 12 weeks. Mice fed HFD alone (without DSS) or chow diet were used as controls. The NASH mice were given the SNN extracts in the following 4 weeks, while control mice were provided with saline. Mice fed HFD developed steatosis, and DSS supplementation resulted in NASH. The SNN extracts significantly improved metabolic disorders including obesity, dyslipidemia, and liver steatosis and reduced hepatic inflammation, circulating tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels. The beneficial effect of the SNN extracts was associated with restoration of intestinal conditions (microbiota, integrity of intestinal barrier) and inhibition of TLR4/NF-κB activation. These results suggest that the SNN extracts ameliorate NASH progression, possibly through blocking endotoxin related TLR4/NF-κB activation.

Berberis vulgaris and its constituent berberine as antidotes and protective agents against natural or chemical toxicities

Berberis vulgaris L (B. vulgaris) and its main constituent berberine have been used in traditional medicine for a long time. This medicinal plant and berberine have many properties that have attracted the attention of researchers over the time. According to several studies, B. vulgaris and berberine exhibited anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticonvulsant, antidepressant, anti-Alzheimer, anti-cancer, anti-arrhythmic, antiviral, antibacterial and anti-diabetic effects in both in vitro and invivo experiments. In regard to many reports on protective effects of B. vulgaris and berberine on natural and chemical toxins, in the current review article, the inhibitory effects of these compounds against natural, industrial, environmental and chemical toxicities with focus on cellular mechanism have been categorized. It has been mentioned that berberine could ameliorate toxicity of chemical toxins in brain, heart, kidney, liver and lung in part through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, modulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathways.

Effects of Low-dose Triamcinolone Acetonide on Rat Retinal Progenitor Cells under Hypoxia Condition

BACKGROUND

Retinal degenerative diseases are the leading causes of blindness in developed world. Retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) play a key role in retina restoration. Triamcinolone acetonide (TA) is widely used for the treatment of retinal degenerative diseases. In this study, we investigated the role of TA on RPCs in hypoxia condition.

METHODS

RPCs were primary cultured and identified by immunofluorescence staining. Cells were cultured under normoxia, hypoxia 6 h, and hypoxia 6 h with TA treatment conditions. For the TA treatment groups, after being cultured under hypoxia condition for 6 h, RPCs were treated with different concentrations of TA for 48-72 h. Cell viability was measured by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Cell cycle was detected by flow cytometry. Western blotting was employed to examine the expression of cyclin D1, Akt, p-Akt, nuclear factor (NF)-κB p65, and caspase-3.

RESULTS

CCK-8 assays indicated that the viability of RPCs treated with 0.01 mg/ml TA in hypoxia group was improved after 48 h, comparing with control group (P < 0.05). After 72 h, the cell viability was enhanced in both 0.01 mg/ml and 0.02 mg/ml TA groups compared with control group (all P < 0.05). Flow cytometry revealed that there were more cells in S-phase in hypoxia 6 h group than in normoxia control group (P < 0.05). RPCs in S and G2/M phases decreased in groups given TA, comparing with other groups (all P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the total Akt protein expression among different groups, whereas upregulation of p-Akt and NF-κB p65 protein expression and downregulation of caspase-3 and cyclin D1 protein expression were observed in 0.01 mg/ml TA group, comparing with hypoxia 6 h group and control group (all P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Low-dose TA has anti-apoptosis effect on RPCs while it has no stimulatory effect on cell proliferation.

ERK-dependent mTOR pathway is involved in berberine-induced autophagy in hepatic steatosis

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a burgeoning health problem and is considered as a hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome. Increasing evidence demonstrates that berberine (BBR), a natural plant alkaloid, is beneficial for obesity-associated NAFLD. However, the mechanisms about how BBR improves hepatic steatosis remain uncertain. Recently, some reports revealed that enhanced autophagy could decrease hepatic lipid accumulation. In this study, we first established a high-fed diet (HFD) mice model and oleate-palmitate-induced lipotoxicity hepatocytes to explore the association among BBR, autophagy and hepatic steatosis. Our data demonstrated that BBR had profound effects on improving hepatic lipid accumulation both in vivo and in vitro, and led to high autophagy flux. The molecular alterations proceeding these changes were characterized by inhibition of the ERK/mTOR pathway. These findings suggest an important mechanism for the positive effects of BBR on hepatic steatosis, and may provide new evidence for the clinical use of BBR in NAFLD.

Addition of Berberine to 5-Aminosalicylic Acid for Treatment of Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Chronic Colitis in C57BL/6 Mice

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a common chronic remitting disease but without satisfactory treatment. Alternative medicine berberine has received massive attention for its potential in UC treatment. Conventional therapies with the addition of berberine are becoming attractive as novel therapies in UC. In the present study, we investigated the preclinical activity of a conventional oral 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) therapy plus berberine in experimental colitis. A subclinical dose of 5-ASA (200 mg/kg/day) alone or 5-ASA plus berberine (20 mg/kg/day) was orally administered for 30 days to C57BL/6 mice with colitis induced by three cycles of 2% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). The disease severity, inflammatory responses, drug accumulation and potential toxicity of colitis mice were examined. The results showed that comparing to 5-ASA alone, 5-ASA plus berberine more potently ameliorated DSS-induced disease severity, colon shortening, and colon histological injury. Further, the up-regulation in mRNA level of colonic TNF-α as well as NFκB and JAK2 phosphorylation caused by DSS were more pronouncedly reversed in animals treated with the combination therapy than those treated with 5-ASA alone. Moreover, the addition of berberine to 5-ASA more significantly inhibited lymphocyte TNF-α secretion of DSS mice than 5-ASA alone. In the meanwhile, no extra drug accumulation or potential toxicity to major organs of colitis mice was observed with this combination treatment. In summary, our studies provide preclinical rationale for the addition of berberine to 5-ASA as a promising therapeutic strategy in clinic by reducing dose of standard therapy.

Foeniculum vulgare Mill. Protects against Lipopolysaccharide-induced Acute Lung Injury in Mice through ERK-dependent NF-κB Activation

Foeniculum vulgare Mill. (fennel) is used to flavor food, in cosmetics, as an antioxidant, and to treat microbial, diabetic and common inflammation. No study to date, however, has assessed the anti-inflammatory effects of fennel in experimental models of inflammation. The aims of this study were to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of fennel in model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury. Mice were randomly assigned to seven groups (n=7~10). In five groups, the mice were intraperitoneally injected with 1% Tween 80-saline (vehicle), fennel (125, 250, 500µl/kg), or dexamethasone (1 mg/kg), followed 1 h later by intratracheal instillation of LPS (1.5 mg/kg). In two groups, the mice were intraperitoneally injected with vehicle or fennel (250µl/kg), followed 1 h later by intratracheal instillation of sterile saline. Mice were sacrificed 4 h later, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissues were obtained. Fennel significantly and dose-dependently reduced LDH activity and immune cell numbers in LPS treated mice. In addition fennel effectively suppressed the LPS-induced increases in the production of the inflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, with 500µl/kg fennel showing maximal reduction. Fennel also significantly and dose-dependently reduced the activity of the proinflammatory mediator matrix metalloproteinase 9 and the immune modulator nitric oxide (NO). Assessments of the involvement of the MAPK signaling pathway showed that fennel significantly decreased the LPS-induced phosphorylation of ERK. Fennel effectively blocked the inflammatory processes induced by LPS, by regulating pro-inflammatory cytokine production, transcription factors, and NO.

n-3 Fatty acids as resolvents of inflammation in the A549 cells

BACKGROUND

Fatty acids and their derivatives are one of the most crucial inflammation mediators. The aim of our study was to evaluate the impact of polyunsaturated fatty acids as eicosanoids precursors on the A549 cell line.

METHODS

Cells were incubated with 40 μM of arachidonic, eicosapentaenoic or docosahexaenoic acid for 24h, then activated with LPS. Fatty acids content in the cell membranes were determined using gas chromatography. COX-2, cPGES and FP-receptor quantities were determined by Western blot. 8-Isoprostane F2α concentrations were determined by EIA. Maresin and protectin D1 contents were analyzed by UHPLC/MS-TOF method.

RESULTS

Significant differences in membrane fatty acids and levels of 8-isoPGF2α in the activated cells were detected. Elevated expression of COX-2 and FP-receptor was observed in cells treated with AA and activated with LPS. Moreover, compared to AA and AA+LPS groups, cells incubated with EPA, DHA, EPA+LPS and DHA+LPS showed decreased expression of COX-2, cPGES and FP-receptor. In cells incubated with EPA or DHA and activated with LPS maresin and protectin D1 were detected.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the study have revealed the pro-inflammatory properties of AA, while the EPA and DHA had the opposite, resolving effect. Interestingly, FP-receptor inhibition by EPA and DHA demonstrated the unique role of the FP-receptor as a potential target for antagonists, in the diseases of inflammatory character. This study provides new information about n-3 fatty acids and their pro-resolving mediators, which can be used in the process of developing new anti-inflammatory drugs.

The Rhizome Mixture of Anemarrhena asphodeloides and Coptidis chinensis Ameliorates Acute and Chronic Colitis in Mice by Inhibiting the Binding of Lipopolysaccharide to TLR4 and IRAK1 Phosphorylation

In the previous study, the mixture of the rhizome of Anemarrhena asphodeloides (AA, family Liliaceae) and the rhizome of Coptidis chinensis (CC, family Ranunculaceae) (AC-mix) improved TNBS- or oxazolone-induced colitis in mice. Therefore, to investigate its anticolitic mechanism, we measured its effect in acute and chronic DSS-induced colitic mice and investigated its anti-inflammatory mechanism in peritoneal macrophages. AC-mix potently suppressed DSS-induced body weight loss, colon shortening, myeloperoxidase activity, and TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 expressions in acute or chronic DSS-stimulated colitic mice. Among AC-mix ingredients, AA, CC, and their main constituents mangiferin and berberine potently inhibited the expression of proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β, as well as the activation of NF-κB in LPS-stimulated peritoneal macrophages. AA and mangiferin potently inhibited IRAK phosphorylation, but CC and berberine potently inhibited the binding of LPS to TLR4 on macrophages, as well as the phosphorylation of IRAK1. AC-mix potently inhibited IRAK phosphorylation and LPS binding to TLR4 on macrophages. Based on these findings, AC-mix may ameliorate colitis by the synergistic inhibition of IRAK phosphorylation and LPS binding to TLR4 on macrophages.