Alveolar type II cell abnormalities and peroxide formation in lungs of rats given IL-1 intratracheally

Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) Inhibition Plays a Key Role in Counteracting Acute Lung Injury

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a group of lung illnesses characterized by severe inflammation, with no treatment. The fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) enzyme is an integral membrane protein responsible for the hydrolysis of the main endocannabinoids, such as anandamide (AEA). In pre-clinical pain and inflammation models, increasing the endogenous levels of AEA and other bioactive fatty acid amides (FAAs) via genetic deletion or the pharmacological inhibition of FAAH produces many analgesic benefits in several different experimental models. To date, nobody has investigated the role of FAAH inhibition on an ALI mouse model. Mice were subjected to a carrageenan injection and treated orally 1 h after with the FAAH inhibitor URB878 dissolved in a vehicle consisting of 10% PEG-400, 10% Tween-80 and 80% saline at different doses: The inhibition of FAAH activity was able to counteract not only the CAR-induced histological alteration, but also the cascade of related inflammatory events. URB878 clears the way for further studies based on FAAH inhibition in acute lung pathologies.

Emodin Attenuates LPS-Induced Acute Lung Injury by Inhibiting NLRP3 Inflammasome-Dependent Pyroptosis Signaling Pathway In vitro and In vivo

Emodin, the effective component of the traditional Chinese medicine Dahuang, has anti-inflammatory effects. However, the protective effects and potential mechanisms of emodin are not clear. This study investigated the protective effects and potential mechanisms of emodin on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI) in vitro and in vivo. In vivo, we designed an LPS-induced ALI rat model. In vitro, we chose the J774A.1 cell line to establish an inflammatory cellular model, and knocked down NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) using small interfering RNA. The mRNA and protein expression of NLRP3, a C-terminal caspase recruitment domain (ASC), caspase 1 (CASP1), and gasdermin D (GSDMD) in cells and lung tissues were detected by western blot and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The expression levels of interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) and IL-18 in the serum and supernatant were determined by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The degree of pathological injury in lung tissue was evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. In vitro, we demonstrated that emodin could inhibit NLRP3 and then inhibit the expression of ASC, CASP1, GSDMD, IL-1β, and IL-18. In vivo, we confirmed that emodin had protective effects on LPS-induced ALI and inhibitory effects on NLRP3 inflammasome -dependent pyroptosis. Emodin showed excellent protective effects against LPS-induced ALI by regulating the NLRP3 inflammasome-dependent pyroptosis signaling pathway.

Mesna ameliorates acute lung injury induced by intestinal ischemia-reperfusion in rats

The lung is severely affected by intestinal ischemia-reperfusion (I-R) injury. Mesna, a thiol compound, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. We aimed in the present work to explore the potential beneficial effects of Mesna on the acute lung damage mediated by intestinal I-R in a rat model. Forty male adult albino rats were randomly separated into; control, intestinal I-R, Mesna I and Mesna II groups. Mesna was administered by intraperitoneal injection at a dose of 100 mg/kg, 60 min before ischemia (Mesna I) and after reperfusion (Mesna II). Arterial blood gases and total proteins in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) were measured. Lung tissue homogenates were utilized for biochemical assays of proinflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers. Lung specimens were managed for examination by light and electron microscopy. Our results revealed that Mesna attenuated the histopathological changes and apoptosis of the lung following intestinal I-R. Mesna also recovered systemic oxygenation. Mesna suppressed neutrophil infiltration (as endorsed by the reduction in MPO level), reduced ICAM-1 mRNA expression, inhibited NF-κB pathway and reduced the proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6) in the lung tissues. Mesna maintained the antioxidant profile as evidenced by the elevation of the tissue GPx and SOD and down-regulation of HSP70 immune-expressions. Accordingly, Mesna treatment can be a promising way to counteract remote injury of the lung resulted from intestinal I-R.

GYY4137 alleviates sepsis-induced acute lung injury in mice by inhibiting the PDGFRβ/Akt/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway

AIMS

GYY4137 [GYY, morpholin-4-ium-4-methoxyphenyl (morpholino) phosphinodithioate] is a novel and perfect hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) donor that is stable in vivo and in vitro. H₂S, along with CO and NO, has been recognized as the third physiological gas signaling molecule that plays an active role in fighting various lung infections. However, the mechanism by which GYY4137 affects cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced acute lung injury (ALI) is not understood. This study aimed to investigate whether GYY4137 inhibits the activation of the pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome by inhibiting the PDGFRβ/Akt/NF-κB pathway.

MAIN METHODS

The model of CLP-induced ALI was established in vivo. The mice were subsequently treated with GYY4137 (25 μg/g and 50 μg/g) to simulate the realistic conditions of pathogenesis. Western blotting and immunohistochemical staining were used to examine protein expression, hematoxylin and eosin staining was used for the histopathological analysis, and the levels of inflammatory factors were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs).

KEY FINDINGS

GYY4137 significantly increased the 7-day survival of mice with septic peritonitis and protected against CLP-induced ALI, including decreasing neutrophil infiltration, improving sepsis-induced lung histopathological changes, diminishing lung tissue damage, and attenuating the severity of lung injury in mice. The protective effect of GYY4137 was undoubtedly dose-dependent. We discovered that GYY4137 reduced the levels of the p-PDGFRβ, p-NF-κB, ASC, NLRP3, caspase-1, and p-Akt proteins in septic mouse lung tissue. Akt regulates the generation of proinflammatory cytokines in endotoxemia-associated ALI by enhancing the nuclear translocation of NF-κB.

SIGNIFICANCE

These results indicate a new molecular mechanism explaining the effect of GYY4137 on the treatment of CLP-induced ALI in mice.

Thymoquinone treatment modulates the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway and abrogates the inflammatory response in an animal model of lung fibrosis

The present study investigates the therapeutic potential of thymoquinone (TQ) in bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis (BMILF) and elucidates the target-signaling pathway for its effect. Lung fibrosis was induced in rats by a single intra-tracheal instillation of bleomycin (BM) (6.5 U/kg) followed by thymoquinone treatment (10 and 20 mg/kg p.o.) for 28 days. Control rats received saline instead of TQ. Changes in body weight, inflammatory cells count, cytokines levels, and biochemical parameters of the broncho-alveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were recorded. In addition, a histopathology examination and western blotting were performed on lung tissues. BM administration resulted in a significant weight loss, which was ameliorated by TQ treatment. BMILF was associated with a reduction in the antioxidant mechanisms and increased lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines, MMP-7 expression, apoptotic markers (caspase 3, Bax, and Bcl-2), and fibrotic changes including TGF-β and hydroxyproline levels in lung tissues were evident. These abnormalities were diminished with TQ treatment. Likewise, altered total and differential cell count in BALF was significantly improved in rats treated with TQ. TQ also produced a dose-dependent reduction in the expressions of Nrf2, Ho-1 and TGF-β. These results propose that the Nrf2/Ho-1 signaling pathway is a principal target for TQ protective effect against BMILF in rats. Furthermore, TQ decreases inflammatory oxidative stress possibly through the modulation of nuclear factor Kappa-B (NF-κB) and thereby minimization of collagen deposition in the lung. Therefore, TQ can be developed as a potential therapeutic modularity in BMILF for human use.

Dihydromyricetin Alleviates Sepsis-Induced Acute Lung Injury through Inhibiting NLRP3 Inflammasome-Dependent Pyroptosis in Mice Model

Increasing evidence demonstrates that pyroptosis, pro-inflammatory programmed cell death, is linked to acute lung injury (ALI). Dihydromyricetin (DHM) has been reported to exert anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation in vascular endothelial cells. However, the effects of DHM on NLRP3 inflammasome-induced pyroptosis in ALI remain elusive. In the present study, male BALB/c mice were subjected to cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), and DHM (50, 100, 150 mg/kg) was orally administered (once per day, for 3 days) 2 h after CLP. After 72 h, lung histopathology was examined, and the wet/dry (W/D) ratio, inflammatory infiltration, total protein concentration, total cell, and neutrophil counts were detected. Myeloperoxidase (MPO), interleukin (IL)-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-18 levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were measured by ELISA. Additionally, the expression of NLRP3 signaling pathway proteins were detected by Western blotting. The results revealed that in BALF, DHM (150 mg/kg) treatment significantly reduced the CLP-induced lung histopathological injury, inflammatory cell infiltration, total cell and neutrophil number, and total protein and albumin concentration. DHM treatment significantly inhibited the CLP-induced NLRP3 inflammasome pathway (NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, gasdermin D (Gsdmd), IL-1β, and IL-18). In conclusion, these results demonstrate that DHM protects against CLP-induced ALI by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation and subsequent pyroptosis.

Attenuation of hyperoxic acute lung injury by Lycium barbarum polysaccharide via inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome

Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP), an active component from Goji berry which is a traditional Chinese medicine, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant features. The aim of our study was to investigate whether LBP has any role in hyperoxia-induced acute lung injury (ALI). Using a murine model of hyperoxia-induced ALI, we investigate the effect of LBP on pulmonary pathological changes as well as Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and the nucleotide binding domain and leucine-rich repeat pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. Exposure to 100% oxygen for 72 h in male C57BL/6 mice resulted in increased protein levels of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β in lung tissues, and aggravated lung histological alterations. These hyperoxia-induced changes and mortality were improved by LBP. LBP markedly suppressed the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome both in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, LBP upregulated SIRT1 expression compared with vehicle-treated group. Importantly, knockdown of SIRT1 reversed the inhibitory effect of LBP on NLRP3 inflammasome activation in vitro. LBP meliorated hyperoxia-induced ALI in mice by SIRT1-dependent inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation.

Protective Effects of Chymostatin on Paraquat-Induced Acute Lung Injury in Mice

This study aims to evaluate the role of chymostatin in paraquat-induced acute lung injury. Institute of Cancer Research mice were randomly distributed into the NS, DMSO, chymostatin, paraquat or chymostatin treatment groups. Six mice from each group were intraperitoneally injected with chloral hydrate at 0, 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 24 and 48 h after treatment administration. Blood samples were collected through cardiac puncture. Lung tissues were stained with haematoxylin and eosin for the observation of lung histology. The degree of pulmonary oedema was determined on the basis of lung wet-to-dry ratio (W/D). The serum activity of cathepsin G was determined through substrate fluorescence assay. The serum levels of endothelial cell-specific molecule-1 (endocan), tumour necrosis factor-a (TNF-a), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6 and high-mobility group box protein 1 (HMGB1) were determined through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The expression levels of endocan and nuclear NF-κBp65 in the lung were quantified through Western blot. Chymostatin alleviated the pathological changes associated with acute alveolitis in mice; decreased the lung W/D ratio, the activity of cathepsin G and the serum concentrations of TNF-a, IL-1β, IL-6 and HMGB1; and increased the serum concentration of endocan. Western blot results revealed that chymostatin up-regulated endocan expression and down-regulated nuclear NF-κBp65 expression in the lung. Chymostatin reversed the inflammatory effects of paraquat-induced lung injury by inhibiting cathepsin G activity to up-regulate endocan expression and indirectly inhibit NF-κBp65 activity.

Vitexin attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury by controlling the Nrf2 pathway

BACKGROUND

A major feature of acute lung injury (ALI) is excessive inflammation in the lung. Vitexin is an active component from medicinal plants which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Oxidative stress and inflammation play important roles in the pathophysiological processes in ALI. In the current study, we investigate the effect and potential mechanisms of Vitexin on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI.

METHODS

ALI was induced by LPS intratracheal instillation in C57BL/6 wild-type mice and Nrf2 gene knocked down (Nrf2-/-) mice. One hour before LPS challenge, Vitexin or vehicle intraperitoneal injection was performed. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lung tissues were examined for lung inflammation and injury at 24 h after LPS challenge.

RESULTS

Our animal study's results showed that LPS-induced recruitment of neutrophils and elevation of proinflammatory cytokine levels were attenuated by Vitexin treatment. Vitexin decreased lung edema and alveolar protein content. Moreover, Vitexin activated nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and increased the activity of its target gene heme oxygenase (HO)-1. The LPS-induced reactive oxygen species were inhibited by Vitexin. In addition, the activation of the nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat PYD-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome was suppressed by Vitexin. However, these effects of Vitexin were abolished in the Nrf2-/- mice. Our cell studies showed that Vitexin enhanced the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 activity. Moreover, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and IL-1β productions were reduced in Vitexin-treated cells. However, knockdown of Nrf2 by siRNA in RAW cells reversed the benefit of Vitexin.

CONCLUSIONS

Vitexin suppresses LPS-induced ALI by controlling Nrf2 pathway.

Cytokine-Ion Channel Interactions in Pulmonary Inflammation

The lungs conceptually represent a sponge that is interposed in series in the bodies’ systemic circulation to take up oxygen and eliminate carbon dioxide. As such, it matches the huge surface areas of the alveolar epithelium to the pulmonary blood capillaries. The lung’s constant exposure to the exterior necessitates a competent immune system, as evidenced by the association of clinical immunodeficiencies with pulmonary infections. From the in utero to the postnatal and adult situation, there is an inherent vital need to manage alveolar fluid reabsorption, be it postnatally, or in case of hydrostatic or permeability edema. Whereas a wealth of literature exists on the physiological basis of fluid and solute reabsorption by ion channels and water pores, only sparse knowledge is available so far on pathological situations, such as in microbial infection, acute lung injury or acute respiratory distress syndrome, and in the pulmonary reimplantation response in transplanted lungs. The aim of this review is to discuss alveolar liquid clearance in a selection of lung injury models, thereby especially focusing on cytokines and mediators that modulate ion channels. Inflammation is characterized by complex and probably time-dependent co-signaling, interactions between the involved cell types, as well as by cell demise and barrier dysfunction, which may not uniquely determine a clinical picture. This review, therefore, aims to give integrative thoughts and wants to foster the unraveling of unmet needs in future research.

Regulation of Lung Epithelial Sodium Channels by Cytokines and Chemokines

Acute lung injury leading to acute respiratory distress (ARDS) is a global health concern. ARDS patients have significant pulmonary inflammation leading to flooding of the pulmonary alveoli. This prevents normal gas exchange with consequent hypoxemia and causes mortality. A thin fluid layer in the alveoli is normal. The maintenance of this thin layer results from fluid movement out of the pulmonary capillaries into the alveolar interstitium driven by vascular hydrostatic pressure and then through alveolar tight junctions. This is then balanced by fluid reabsorption from the alveolar space mediated by transepithelial salt and water transport through alveolar cells. Reabsorption is a two-step process: first, sodium enters via sodium-permeable channels in the apical membranes of alveolar type 1 and 2 cells followed by active extrusion of sodium into the interstitium by the basolateral Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase. Anions follow the cationic charge gradient and water follows the salt-induced osmotic gradient. The proximate cause of alveolar flooding is the result of a failure to reabsorb sufficient salt and water or a failure of the tight junctions to prevent excessive movement of fluid from the interstitium to alveolar lumen. Cytokine- and chemokine-induced inflammation can have a particularly profound effect on lung sodium transport since they can alter both ion channel and barrier function. Cytokines and chemokines affect alveolar amiloride-sensitive epithelial sodium channels (ENaCs), which play a crucial role in sodium transport and fluid reabsorption in the lung. This review discusses the regulation of ENaC via local and systemic cytokines during inflammatory disease and the effect on lung fluid balance.

Interleukin 1β and interleukin 1 receptor antagonist gene polymorphisms and cervical cancer: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Previous studies investigating the association between interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and its receptor antagonist (IL-1RN) polymorphism and cervical cancer risk have reported controversial results. Thus, we examined these associations by performing meta-analyses.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Fourteen studies testing the association between IL-1β and/or IL-1RN gene polymorphisms and cervical cancer were examined: 5 studies of IL-1β-511C/T, 3 studies of IL-1β-31T/C, and 6 studies of IL-1RN. Overall and ethnicity-specific summary odds ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for cervical cancer associated with these polymorphisms were estimated using fixed- and random-effects models. Heterogeneity and publication bias were evaluated.

RESULTS

Meta-analysis of all 6 studies showed variant genotypes of IL-1RN to be associated with an elevated cervical cancer risk (RN2/RN2 vs RN1/RN1: OR, 2.64; 95% CI, 1.29-5.40; recessive: OR, 2.15; 95% CI, 1.06-4.38; dominant: OR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.07-2.38). Combined analysis indicated that IL-1β-511C/T polymorphism was also associated with increased risk of cervical cancer (TT vs CC: OR, 1.56; 95% CI, 1.22-1.99; CT vs CC: OR, 1.61; 95% CI, 1.31-1.99; dominant: OR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.31-1.95). No significant association of IL-1β-31T/C and cervical cancer risk was detected. There was no evidence of publication bias.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis suggested that the IL-1RN and IL-1β-511C/T polymorphisms may contribute to genetic susceptibility of cervical cancer. More studies are needed to further evaluate the role of the IL-1β-31T/C polymorphism in the etiology of cancer.

CB2 receptor activation ameliorates the proinflammatory activity in acute lung injury induced by paraquat

Paraquat, a widely used herbicide, is well known to exhibit oxidative stress and lung injury. In the present study, we investigated the possible underlying mechanisms of cannabinoid receptor-2 (CB2) activation to ameliorate the proinflammatory activity induced by PQ in rats. JWH133, a CB2 agonist, was administered by intraperitoneal injection 1 h prior to PQ exposure. After PQ exposure for 4, 8, 24, and 72 h, the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was collected to determine levels of TNF-α and IL-1β, and the arterial blood samples were collected for detection of PaO₂ level. At 72 h after PQ exposure, lung tissues were collected to determine the lung wet-to-dry weight ratios, myeloperoxidase activity, lung histopathology, the protein expression level of CB2, MAPKs (ERK1/2, p38MAPK, and JNK1/2), and NF-κBp65. After rats were pretreated with JWH133, PQ-induced lung edema and lung histopathological changes were significantly attenuated. PQ-induced TNF-α and IL-1β secretion in BALF, increases of PaO₂ in arterial blood, and MPO levels in the lung tissue were significantly reduced. JWH133 could efficiently activate CB2, while inhibiting MAPKs and NF-κB activation. The results suggested that activating CB2 receptor exerted protective activity against PQ-induced ALI, and it potentially contributed to the suppression of the activation of MAPKs and NF-κB pathways.

Inhibitory effects of rosiglitazone on paraquat-induced acute lung injury in rats

AIM

To investigate the effects of the PPAR-γ agonist rosiglitazone on acute lung injury induced by the herbicide paraquat (PQ) and the underlying mechanisms of action.

METHODS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with PQ (20 mg/kg, ip). Rosiglitazone (3 or 10 mg/kg, ip) was administered 1 h before PQ exposure. Peripheral blood was collected at 4, 8, 24 and 72 h after PQ exposure for measuring the levels of MDA, TNF-α and IL-1β, and the SOD activity. Lung tissues were collected at 72 h after PQ exposure to determine the wet-to-dry (W/D) ratios and lung injury scores, as well as the protein levels of NF-κBp65, PPAR-γ, Nrf2, IκBα and pIκBα.

RESULTS

At 72 h after PQ exposure, the untreated rats showed a 100% cumulative mortality, whereas no death was observed in rosiglitazone-pretreated rats. Moreover, rosiglitazone pretreatment dose-dependently attenuated PQ-induced lung edema and lung histopathological changes. The pretreatment significantly reduced the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and MDA, increased SOD activity in the peripheral blood of PQ-treated rats. The pretreatment also efficiently activated PPAR-γ, induced Nrf2 expression and inhibited NF-κB activation in the lung tissues of PQ-treated rats. Furthermore, the pretreatment dose-dependently inhibited IκB-α degradation and phosphorylation, thus inhibiting NF-κB activation.

CONCLUSION

Pretreatment with rosiglitazone protects rats against PQ-induced acute lung injury by activating PPAR-γ, inducing Nrf2 expression and inhibiting NF-κB activation.

NLRP3 deletion protects from hyperoxia-induced acute lung injury

Inspiration of a high concentration of oxygen, a therapy for acute lung injury (ALI), could unexpectedly lead to reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and hyperoxia-induced acute lung injury (HALI). Nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat PYD-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) senses the ROS, triggering inflammasome activation and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) production and secretion. However, the role of NLRP3 inflammasome in HALI is unclear. The main aim of this study is to determine the effect of NLRP3 gene deletion on inflammatory response and lung epithelial cell death. Wild-type (WT) and NLRP3(-/-) mice were exposed to 100% O2 for 48-72 h. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lung tissues were examined for proinflammatory cytokine production and lung inflammation. Hyperoxia-induced lung pathological score was suppressed in NLRP3(-/-) mice compared with WT mice. Hyperoxia-induced recruitment of inflammatory cells and elevation of IL-1β, TNFα, macrophage inflammatory protein-2, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 were attenuated in NLRP3(-/-) mice. NLRP3 deletion decreased lung epithelial cell death and caspase-3 levels and a suppressed NF-κB levels compared with WT controls. Taken together, this research demonstrates for the first time that NLRP3-deficient mice have suppressed inflammatory response and blunted lung epithelial cell apoptosis to HALI.

Contribution by polymorphonucleate granulocytes to elevated gamma-glutamyltransferase in cystic fibrosis sputum

BACKGROUND

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by a chronic neutrophilic airways inflammation, increasing levels of oxidative stress and reduced levels of antioxidants such as glutathione (GSH). Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), an enzyme induced by oxidative stress and involved in the catabolism of GSH and its derivatives, is increased in the airways of CF patients with inflammation, but the possible implications of its increase have not yet been investigated in detail.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

The present study was aimed to evaluate the origin and the biochemical characteristics of the GGT detectable in CF sputum. We found GGT activity both in neutrophils and in the fluid, the latter significantly correlating with myeloperoxidase expression. In neutrophils, GGT was associated with intracellular granules. In the fluid, gel-filtration chromatography showed the presence of two distinct GGT fractions, the first corresponding to the human plasma b-GGT fraction, the other to the free enzyme. The same fractions were also observed in the supernatant of ionomycin and fMLP-activated neutrophils. Western blot analysis confirmed the presence of a single band of GGT immunoreactive peptide in the CF sputum samples and in isolated neutrophils.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, our data indicate that neutrophils are able to transport and release GGT, thus increasing GGT activity in CF sputum. The prompt release of GGT may have consequences on all GGT substrates, including major inflammatory mediators such as S-nitrosoglutathione and leukotrienes, and could participate in early modulation of inflammatory response.

Association between circulating interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) levels and IL-1β C-511T polymorphism with cervical cancer risk in Egyptian women

Cancer cervix is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality among women worldwide. It is believed that the host genetic factors such as inflammation-induced cytokines may play a role in cervical carcinogenesis. The interleukin-1β (IL-1β) gene contains several single nucleotide polymorphisms. One of them, C-511T, which in the promoter region has been associated with increased IL-1β production and with increased risk of developing cancers. We assessed the association between the IL-1β C-511T polymorphism and cervical cancer risk in a case-control study among 100 histopathologically confirmed Egyptian women with cervical cancer and 50 age-matched, cervical cytology negative, healthy controls by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Plasma levels of IL-1β were assayed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. There was significant increase in the mean plasma IL-1β level in cervical cancer cases (43.40 ± 25.95 pg/ml) when compared with controls (30.51 ± 18.28 pg/ml, P = 0.002). The plasma levels above the 75th percentile of controls (IL-1β ≥ 45.74 pg/ml) were significantly associated with a 2.49-fold increased risk of cervical cancer. The significant increase in IL-1β concentration in cervical cancer cases was observed only among cervical cancer cases carrying C-511T variant genotypes. T/T genotype of IL-1β polymorphism was significantly higher in cervical cancer cases compared with controls (57 vs. 38%; OR = 2.16; P = 0.028) and the T allele carriage was significantly associated with cervical cancer risk (OR = 2.00, 95% CI = 1.19-3.38, and P = 0.008). In conclusion, plasma IL-1β level and IL-1β C-511T polymorphism may be considered as candidate biomarkers for cervical cancer in Egyptian women.

Inhibitory effects of flavonoids extracted from licorice on lipopolysaccharide-induced acute pulmonary inflammation in mice

Airway inflammation plays important roles in the pathogenesis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and anti-inflammatory treatment effectively improves the symptoms of these diseases. To develop the potentially therapeutic compounds for the treatment of pulmonary inflammation, we investigated the effects of licorice flavonoids (LF) extracted from the roots of Glycyrrhiza uralensis (licorice) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute pulmonary inflammation in mice. Acute pulmonary inflammation was induced by intracheal instillation with LPS, treatment with LF at dosages of 3, 10 and 30 mg/kg significantly reduced the LPS-induced inflammatory cells, including neutrophils, macrophages and lymphocytes accumulation in bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALF), among these inflammatory cells, LF predominately inhibited neutrophil infiltration, and the maximal effect (30 mg/kg) was as comparable as dexamethasone treatment at 1 mg/kg. Consistent with its effects on neutrophil infiltration, LF treatment significantly increased LPS-induced BALF superoxide dismutase activity, and significantly decreased lung myeloperoxidase activity as well. Furthermore, treatment with LF at 30 mg/kg significantly reduced LPS-induced lung TNFalpha and IL-1beta mRNA expression at 6 h and 24 h after LPS instillation, respectively. Finally, LF at different dosages not only significantly decreased the elevation of lung water content, but also markedly attenuated LPS-induced histological alteration. Therefore, we suggest that LF effectively attenuates LPS-induced pulmonary inflammation through inhibition of inflammatory cells infiltration and inflammatory mediator release which subsequently reduces neutrophil recruitment into lung and neutrophil-mediated oxidative injury, and this study provides with the potential rationale for development of anti-inflammatory compounds from flavonoid extracts of licorice.

Interleukin-1beta causes acute lung injury via alphavbeta5 and alphavbeta6 integrin-dependent mechanisms

Interleukin (IL)-1beta has previously been shown to be among the most biologically active cytokines in the lungs of patients with acute lung injury (ALI). Furthermore, there is experimental evidence that lung vascular permeability increases after short-term exposure to IL-1 protein, although the exact mechanism is unknown. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the mechanisms of IL-1beta-mediated increase in lung vascular permeability and pulmonary edema following transient overexpression of this cytokine in the lungs by adenoviral gene transfer. Lung vascular permeability increased with intrapulmonary IL-1beta production with a maximal effect 7 days after instillation of the adenovirus. Furthermore, inhibition of the alphavbeta6 integrin and/or transforming growth factor-beta attenuated the IL-1beta-induced ALI. The results of in vitro studies indicated that IL-1beta caused the activation of transforming growth factor-beta via RhoA/alphavbeta6 integrin-dependent mechanisms and the inhibition of the alphavbeta6 integrin and/or transforming growth factor-beta signaling completely blocked the IL-1beta-mediated protein permeability across alveolar epithelial cell monolayers. In addition, IL-1beta increased protein permeability across lung endothelial cell monolayers via RhoA- and alphavbeta5 integrin-dependent mechanisms. The final series of in vivo experiments demonstrated that pretreatment with blocking antibodies to both the alphavbeta5 and alphavbeta6 integrins had an additive protective effect against IL-1beta-induced ALI. In summary, these results demonstrate a critical role for the alphavbeta5/beta6 integrins in mediating the IL-1beta-induced ALI and indicate that these integrins could be a potentially attractive therapeutic target in ALI.

Interleukin 1 beta gene polymorphism and risk of cervical cancer

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether a polymorphism at position +3953 in exon 5 of the lL-1beta gene (IL-1beta +3953), a condition associated with an increased risk for a number of inflammatory diseases, is also involved in the development of cervical cancer.

METHOD

We isolated DNA from peripheral blood in 150 women with cervical cancer and 200 healthy controls, and IL-1beta +3953 allele polymorphism was determined by polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Genotypes A1/A2 and A2/A2+A1/A2 were associated with increased risk of cervical cancer (odds ratio [OR], 2.88; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.78-4.67; P<0.001 and OR, 2.85; 95% CI, 1.77-4.6; P<0.001, respectively). The risk in a passive smoker with A2/A2 or A1/A2 genotype was increased more than 5-fold (OR, 5.69; 95% CI, 2.61-12.50; P<0.001) compared with a nonsmoker with the A1/A1 genotype.

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidence of an association between lL-1beta +3953 polymorphism and risk of cervical cancer.

Interleukin-1 beta-511 polymorphism and risk of cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is almost invariably associated with infection by human papillomavirus. It is believed that the host genetic factors such as inflammation-induced cytokines may play a role in cervical carcinogenesis. The IL1B gene, encoding IL-1beta cytokine, contains several single nucleotide polymorphisms. One of them which is in the positions -511 (C-T) related with promoter region has been associated with increased IL-1beta production and with increased risk of developing a number of inflammatory diseases and gastric carcinoma. We assessed the association between the IL1B -511 polymorphism and cervical cancer risk in a hospital-based case-control study among 546 Korean women (182 cases; 364 age-matched controls). The allele frequencies of the case subjects (C, 0.42; T, 0.58) were not significantly different from those of control subjects (C, 0.43; T, 0.57). Control subjects were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The carriers with -511 C/T or T/T genotypes were at higher risk of cervical cancer with odds ratio of 2.42 (95% CI 1.31-4.46, p<0.005). However, there was no difference of cervical cancer risk between C/T heterologous genotypes and T/T homologous genotypes. In conclusion, in Korean population, IL1B -511 C/C genotypes were significantly associated with a decreased risk of cervical cancer.

Interleukin-1beta decreases expression of the epithelial sodium channel alpha-subunit in alveolar epithelial cells via a p38 MAPK-dependent signaling pathway

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a devastating syndrome characterized by diffuse alveolar damage, elevated airspace levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and flooding of the alveolar spaces with protein-rich edema fluid. Interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) is one of the most biologically active cytokines in the distal airspaces of patients with ALI. IL-1beta has been shown to increase lung epithelial and endothelial permeability. In this study, we hypothesized that IL-1beta would decrease vectorial ion and water transport across the distal lung epithelium. Therefore, we measured the effects of IL-1beta on transepithelial current, resistance, and sodium transport in primary cultures of alveolar epithelial type II (ATII) cells. IL-1beta significantly reduced the amiloride-sensitive fraction of the transepithelial current and sodium transport across rat ATII cell monolayers. Moreover, IL-1beta decreased basal and dexamethasone-induced epithelial sodium channel alpha-subunit (alpha ENaC) mRNA levels and total and cell-surface protein expression. The inhibitory effect of IL-1beta on alpha ENaC expression was mediated by the activation of p38 MAPK in both rat and human ATII cells and was independent of the activation of alpha v beta6 integrin and transforming growth factor-beta. These results indicate that IL-1beta may contribute to alveolar edema in ALI by reducing distal lung epithelial sodium absorption. This reduction in ion and water transport across the lung epithelium is in large part due to a decrease in alpha ENaC expression through p38 MAPK-dependent inhibition of alpha ENaC promoter activity and to an alteration in ENaC trafficking to the apical membrane of ATII cells.

Serum ferritin elevation and acute lung injury in rats subjected to hemorrhage: reduction by mepacrine treatment

Ferritin regulates iron levels and, for unknown reasons, serum ferritin concentrations are increased in patients at risk for and with acute lung injury (ALI) and multiple organ failure. Uncomplexed iron could exacerbate the toxicity of the increased oxidative stress that occurs in patients with ALI and multiple organ failure and thereby contribute to disease. In the present investigation, the authors found that serum and lung lavage ferritin concentrations increased in hemorrhaged rats that develop ALI as manifested by increased lung inflammation (increased lung lavage leukocyte counts and lung myeloperoxidase activities) and increased lung leak (increased lung lavage protein concentrations). Treatment with mepacrine, a phospholipase A2 inhibitor, attenuated the increases in serum and lung lavage ferritin concentrations, lung inflammation, and lung leak that occur in rats subjected to hemorrhage. The findings show that serum and lung ferritin levels increase and may play a role in the development of acute lung injury caused by hemorrhage.

Lung inflammatory responses to intratracheal interleukin-1alpha in ventilated preterm lambs

Interleukin-1alpha is an early response proinflammatory cytokine that has been associated with chorioamnionitis and preterm labor, brain injury, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. However, IL-1alpha also can increase expression of surfactant proteins and induce lung maturation in the preterm fetus. We measured the effects of IL-1alpha given by intratracheal instillation (IT) and compared the responses with injection of i.v. IL-1alpha in surfactant-treated and ventilated premature lambs. IT recombinant ovine IL-1alpha at doses of 5 and 50 microg/kg caused a similar large recruitment of neutrophils into the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. The neutrophils expressed CD11b, CD14, and CD44, but did not produce increased amounts of H(2)O(2). Cells from the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid had increased expression of proinflammatory cytokines, which also were increased in mRNA from lung tissue. The IT IL-1alpha also suppressed the expression of surfactant protein-C mRNA. Systemic effects were decreased neutrophils in blood, decreased lung function, increased heart rate, and hypotension or death in the 50 microg/kg IL-1alpha IT group and only decreased neutrophils in the blood in the 5 microg/kg IL-1alpha IT group. The i.v. IL-1alpha caused no lung inflammation or injury but did result in severe neutropenia and hypotension leading to early death. IT IL-1alpha can cause intense lung inflammation and systemic shock in ventilated preterm lungs.

Roles for early response cytokines during Escherichia coli pneumonia revealed by mice with combined deficiencies of all signaling receptors for TNF and IL-1

During infection, inflammation is essential for host defense, but it can injure tissues and compromise organ function. TNF-alpha and IL-1 (alpha and beta) are early response cytokines that facilitate inflammation. To determine the roles of these cytokines with overlapping functions, we generated mice deficient in all of the three receptors mediating their effects (TNFR1, TNFR2, and IL-1RI). During Escherichia coli pneumonia, receptor deficiency decreased neutrophil recruitment and edema accumulation to half of the levels observed in wild-type mice. Thus these receptors contributed to maximal responses, but substantial inflammation progressed independently of them. Receptor deficiency compromised antibacterial efficacy for some infectious doses. Decreased ventilation during E. coli pneumonia was not affected by receptor deficiency. However, the loss of lung compliance during pneumonia was substantially attenuated by receptor deficiency. Thus during E. coli pneumonia in mice, the lack of signaling from TNF-alpha and IL-1 decreases inflammation and preserves lung compliance.

Polymorphisms of the interleukin-1 ? gene are associated with increased risk of non-small cell lung cancer

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death worldwide. Tobacco smoking is the main risk factor for lung cancer. Less than 20% of smokers develop lung cancer in their lifetime, however, indicating individual variations in lung cancer risk. Pro-inflammatory cytokines produced by inflammatory cells have been associated with inflammatory diseases and cancer. The IL1B gene, encoding IL-1beta cytokine, contains several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Two of these are in the promoter region, at positions -511 (C-T) and -31 (T-C). These polymorphisms have been associated with increased risk of developing a number of inflammatory diseases and gastric carcinoma. We genotyped the 2 polymorphisms in 251 non-small cell lung cancer patients from Norway and 272 healthy controls chosen from the general Norwegian population. The T allele at the -31 SNP (p = 0.01) and C allele at -511 SNP (p < 0.01) were over represented in lung cancer cases. The homozygote subjects were particularly at higher risk of lung cancer with odds ratio of 2.39 (95% CI = 1.29-4.44) for -31T/T and 2.51 (95% CI = 1.47-4.58) for -511C/C genotypes. In view of the significance of the p53 gene in lung carcinogenesis, we also analyzed the IL1B genotypes in relation to p53 mutations in the tumors. The results indicated that subjects having homozygote genotypes were more likely to have a mutation in the p53 gene (p = 0.05). This is the first study to provide evidence for an association of 1L1B gene polymorphisms with lung cancer risk.

Platelet-activating factor induces lung inflammation and leak in rats: hydrogen peroxide production along neutrophil-lung endothelial cell interfaces

Interleukin-1 (IL-1) levels and neutrophils are increased in the lung-lavage fluid of patients with acute lung injury (ALI), and instilling IL-1 intratracheally into rats causes rapid lung-neutrophil influx and neutrophil-dependent lung leakage. IL-1 insufflation also increases platelet-activating factor (PAF) activity in rat lung, and PAF is increased in the lung-lavage fluid of ALI patients. To assess the direct effects of PAF on the lung, we administered PAF intratracheally in rats. We found that rats given PAF (5 microg) intratracheally had increased lung nuclear factor-kappaB activation, myeloperoxidase activity, numbers of lavage neutrophils, lavage neutrophil nitroblue tetrazolium reduction, and leakage compared with sham-treated rats administered saline solution intratracheally. Electron microscopic examination also indicated that lungs from rats given PAF intratracheally had increased neutrophil infiltration, cell damage, and neutrophil-endothelial cell interface cerium chloride staining - a marker of hydrogen peroxide production - compared with sham-treated rats. Simultaneous treatment with a PAF receptor-antagonist, WEB 2086, decreased the aforementioned changes observed after intratracheal administration of PAF.

Intra-amniotic injection of IL-1 induces inflammation and maturation in fetal sheep lung

Antenatal inflammation may be an important triggering event in the pathogenesis of bronchopulmonary dysplasia but may also accelerate fetal lung maturation. We examined the effects of intra-amniotic (IA) interleukin (IL)-1 alpha and IL-1 beta on maturation of the fetal sheep lung. These cytokine effects were compared with IA endotoxin, a potent proinflammatory stimulus that accelerated lung maturation. Date-bred ewes received 15 or 150 microg recombinant ovine IL-1 alpha or IL-1 beta or 10 mg Escherichia coli endotoxin by IA injection at 118 days gestation (term = 150 days), and fetuses were delivered at 125 days. IL-1 alpha and IL-1 beta improved lung function and increased alveolar saturated phosphatidylcholine (Sat PC) and surfactant protein mRNA expression at the higher dose. The maturation response to IL-1 alpha was greater than that to IL-1 beta, which was similar to endotoxin response. Inflammation was also more pronounced after IL-1 alpha treatment. Only endotoxin animals had residual inflammation of the fetal membranes at 7 days. Lung compliance, lung volume, and alveolar Sat PC were positively correlated with residual alveolar wash leukocyte numbers 7 days after IL-1 treatment, suggesting a link between lung inflammation and maturation.

Gamma glutamyl transferase

Serum gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) has been widely used as an index of liver dysfunction and marker of alcohol intake. The last few years have seen improvements in these areas and advances in understanding of its physiological role in counteracting oxidative stress by breaking down extracellular glutathione and making its component amino acids available to the cells. Conditions that increase serum GGT, such as obstructive liver disease, high alcohol consumption, and use of enzyme-inducing drugs, lead to increased free radical production and the threat of glutathione depletion. However, the products of the GGT reaction may themselves lead to increased free radical production, particularly in the presence of iron. There have also been important advances in the definition of the associations between serum GGT and risk of coronary heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and stroke. People with high serum GGT have higher mortality, partly because of the association between GGT and other risk factors and partly because GGT is an independent predictor of risk. This review aims to summarize the knowledge about GGT's clinical applications, to present information on its physiological roles, consider the results of epidemiological studies, and assess how far these separate areas can be combined into an integrated view.