1
|
Li K, Song Z, Yue Q, Wang Q, Li Y, Zhu Y, Chen H. Disease-specific transcriptional programs govern airway goblet cell metaplasia. Heliyon 2024; 10:e34105. [PMID: 39071568 PMCID: PMC11283004 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Hypersecretion of airway mucus caused by goblet cell metaplasia is a characteristic of chronic pulmonary inflammatory diseases including asthma, cystic fibrosis (CF), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Goblet cells originate from airway progenitor club cells. However, the molecular mechanisms and features of goblet cell metaplasia in lung disease are poorly understood. Herein, public single-cell RNA sequencing datasets of human lungs were reanalyzed to explore the transitional phase as club cells differentiate into goblet cells in asthma, CF, and COPD. We found that changes in club and goblet cells during pathogenesis and cellular transition were associated with signalling pathways related to immune response, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Moreover, other key drivers of goblet cell specification appeared to be pathologically specific, with interleukin (IL)-13 and hypoxia inducible factor 1 (HIF-1)-induced genetic changes in asthma, cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) mutation being present in CF, and interactions with CD8+ T cells, mitophagy, and mitochondria-induced apoptosis in COPD. In conclusion, this study revealed the similarities and differences in goblet cell metaplasia in asthma, CF, and COPD at the transcriptome level, thereby providing insights into possible novel therapeutic approaches for these diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kuan Li
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Haihe Hospital, Tianjin University, 300350, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Regenerative Medicine, Haihe Hospital, Tianjin University, 300350, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Institute of Respiratory Diseases, 300350, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhaoyu Song
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Regenerative Medicine, Haihe Hospital, Tianjin University, 300350, Tianjin, China
- Department of Clinical Lab, Tianjin First Central Hospital, 300192, Tianjin, China
| | - Qing Yue
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Regenerative Medicine, Haihe Hospital, Tianjin University, 300350, Tianjin, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Regenerative Medicine, Haihe Hospital, Tianjin University, 300350, Tianjin, China
| | - Yu Li
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Haihe Hospital, Tianjin University, 300350, Tianjin, China
- Department of Tuberculosis, Haihe Clinical School, Tianjin Medical University, 300350, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Regenerative Medicine, Haihe Hospital, Tianjin University, 300350, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Institute of Respiratory Diseases, 300350, Tianjin, China
| | - Yu Zhu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Regenerative Medicine, Haihe Hospital, Tianjin University, 300350, Tianjin, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Haihe Hospital, Tianjin University, 300350, Tianjin, China
| | - Huaiyong Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Haihe Hospital, Tianjin University, 300350, Tianjin, China
- Department of Tuberculosis, Haihe Clinical School, Tianjin Medical University, 300350, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Regenerative Medicine, Haihe Hospital, Tianjin University, 300350, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Institute of Respiratory Diseases, 300350, Tianjin, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chen L, Wu L, Cheng X, Huang J, Peng J. Effects of PM2.5 on mucus hypersecretion in airway through miR-133b-5p/EGFR/Claudin1/MUC5AC axis. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:8472-8483. [PMID: 38809424 PMCID: PMC11164504 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the role of the EGFR/MAPK signaling pathway in PM2.5 in promoting the MUC5AC hypersecretion in airway and exacerbating airway inflammation. METHODS By establishing rat model exposed to PM2.5, overexpressing miR-133b-5p and Claudin1, the content of IL-1 and TNF-α in serum were detected by ELISA, the pathology of lung tissue was observed by HE staining, p-EGFR, Claudin1, MUC5AC, p-ERK1/2, p-JNK, p-p38 in rats lung tissue were detected by immunohistochemical and WB, the expression level of miR-133b-5p in rats lung tissue were detected by qPCR. RESULTS After the rats were exposed to PM2.5, the content of inflammatory factors in serum increased, the inflammatory damage of lung tissues occurred, the expression of miR-133b-5p was down-regulated, and the expression of MUC5AC protein was increased. The ELISA test results showed that the expression of IL-1 and TNF-α in the model group was significantly higher than that in the control group, and the model +AG1478 treatment group was down-regulated compared with the model group, and the +miR-133b-5p agomir treatment group was significantly lower than that in the control group, the model group and the model +Claudin1 overexpression blank load group, and the model +Claudin1 overexpression group was down-regulated compared with the model group and the model +Claudin1 overexpression blank load group. The protein detection results showed that the expression of p-EGFR, MUC5AC, p-ERK1/2, p-JNK and p-p38 proteins was increased and the expression of Claudin1 protein was decreased in the model group compared with the control group. In the model + AG1478 treatment group, model + miR-133b-5p agomir treatment group and model + Claudin1 overexpression group, compared with the model group, p-EGFR, MUC5AC, p-ERK1/2, p-JNK, p-p38 protein expression was down-regulated, and Claudin1 protein expression was up-regulated. CONCLUSIONS PM2.5 inhibited the expression of miR-133b-5p to activate the EGFR/MAPK signal pathway, induce the hypersecretion of MUC5AC, thus aggravating PM2.5-related airway inflammation in rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lerong Chen
- Department of Respiratory, Jiangxi Provincial Chest Hospital, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Liangliang Wu
- Department of Respiratory, Jiangxi Provincial Chest Hospital, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xiaopeng Cheng
- Department of Respiratory, Jiangxi Provincial Chest Hospital, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jianhua Huang
- Department of Respiratory, Jiangxi Provincial Chest Hospital, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jianping Peng
- Department of Respiratory, Jiangxi Provincial Chest Hospital, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bagley DC, Russell T, Ortiz-Zapater E, Stinson S, Fox K, Redd PF, Joseph M, Deering-Rice C, Reilly C, Parsons M, Brightling C, Rosenblatt J. Bronchoconstriction damages airway epithelia by crowding-induced excess cell extrusion. Science 2024; 384:66-73. [PMID: 38574138 DOI: 10.1126/science.adk2758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Asthma is deemed an inflammatory disease, yet the defining diagnostic feature is mechanical bronchoconstriction. We previously discovered a conserved process called cell extrusion that drives homeostatic epithelial cell death when cells become too crowded. In this work, we show that the pathological crowding of a bronchoconstrictive attack causes so much epithelial cell extrusion that it damages the airways, resulting in inflammation and mucus secretion in both mice and humans. Although relaxing the airways with the rescue treatment albuterol did not affect these responses, inhibiting live cell extrusion signaling during bronchoconstriction prevented all these features. Our findings show that bronchoconstriction causes epithelial damage and inflammation by excess crowding-induced cell extrusion and suggest that blocking epithelial extrusion, instead of the ensuing downstream inflammation, could prevent the feed-forward asthma inflammatory cycle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dustin C Bagley
- The Randall Centre for Cell & Molecular Biophysics, School of Basic & Medical Biosciences, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Tobias Russell
- The Randall Centre for Cell & Molecular Biophysics, School of Basic & Medical Biosciences, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Elena Ortiz-Zapater
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Sally Stinson
- Institute for Lung Health, Leicester NIHR BRC, University of Leicester, Leicester LE3 9QP, UK
| | | | - Polly F Redd
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Merry Joseph
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | | | | | - Maddy Parsons
- The Randall Centre for Cell & Molecular Biophysics, School of Basic & Medical Biosciences, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Christopher Brightling
- Institute for Lung Health, Leicester NIHR BRC, University of Leicester, Leicester LE3 9QP, UK
| | - Jody Rosenblatt
- The Randall Centre for Cell & Molecular Biophysics, School of Basic & Medical Biosciences, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, UK
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wang BH, Tang LL, Sun XH, Zhang Q, Liu CY, Zhang XN, Yu KY, Yang Y, Hu J, Shi XL, Wang Y, Liu L. Qufeng Xuanbi Formula inhibited benzo[a]pyrene-induced aggravated asthma airway mucus secretion by AhR/ROS/ERK pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 319:117203. [PMID: 37734473 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Excessive secretion of airway mucus may be an important pathological factor of air pollution-induced acute asthma attacks. Treatment of airway mucus hypersecretion improves asthma aggravated by air pollutants. Qufeng Xuanbi Formula (QFXBF) has been used to treat asthma for more than 30 years. However, whether QFXBF inhibits asthmatic mucus secretion exacerbated by air pollutants has not yet been established. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to evaluate the effect of QFXBF on airway mucus secretion and the mechanism of action in an air pollutant benzo[a]pyrene (BaP)-induced mouse model of aggravated asthma. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ovalbumin (OVA) and BaP co-exposure were used to establish the aggravated asthma model. The average enhanced pause (Penh), serum OVA-specific IgE, and changes in lung histopathology were determined. 16HBE cells exposed to BaP, treatment with QFXBF, arylhydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signal antagonist SR1, reactive oxygen species (ROS) antagonist NAC, or extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2) signal antagonist U0126 were established to investigate the effect of QFXBF on BaP-induced mucus secretion and its target. The mRNA and protein expression levels of MUC5AC in the lung tissue and 16HBE cells were examined. We also studied the effect of QFXBF on ROS production. Finally, the protein expression of AhR, phospho-extracellular signal-regulated kinases (p-ERK1/2), and ERK1/2 in 16HBE cells and lung tissues was determined by western blotting. RESULTS Administration of QFXBF significantly alleviated the pathological symptoms, including Penh, serum OVA-specific IgE, and changes in lung histopathology in a BaP-induced mouse model of aggravated asthma. QFXBF inhibited MUC5AC expression in asthmatic mice and 16HBE cells exposed to BaP. ROS production, AhR expression, and ERK1/2 phosphorylation were significantly increased in BaP-induced asthmatic mice and 16HBE cells. Signaling pathway inhibitors StemRegenin 1 (SR1), NAC, and U0126 significantly inhibitedBaP-induced MUC5AC expression in 16HBE cells. SR1 reversed Bap-induced ROS production and ERK activation, and NAC inhibited Bap-induced ERK activation. In addition, QFXBF regulated AhR signaling, inhibited ROS production, reversed ERK activation, and downregulated mucus secretion to improve asthma aggravated by air pollutant BaP. CONCLUSIONS QFXBF can ameliorate mucus secretion in BaP-induced aggravated asthmatic mice and 16HBE cells, and the specific mechanism may be related to the inhibition of the AhR/ROS/ERK signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Han Wang
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine/ Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ling-Ling Tang
- School of Chinese Medicine & School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xian-Hong Sun
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine/ Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine/Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Chun-Yang Liu
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine/Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiao-Na Zhang
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine/ Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ke-Yao Yu
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine/ Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ying Yang
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine/ Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jun Hu
- College of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina & College of Health Preservation and Rehabilitation, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiao-Lu Shi
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine/ Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Yue Wang
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine/ Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Li Liu
- Central Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine/Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Peng W, Xia Q, Zhang Y, Cao D, Zheng X. VEGF and EGFR signaling pathways are involved in the baicalein attenuation of OVA-induced airway inflammation and airway remodeling in mice. Respir Res 2024; 25:10. [PMID: 38178132 PMCID: PMC10765748 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-023-02637-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been used for treating asthma for centuries, the understanding of its mechanism of action is still limited. Thus, the purpose of this study was to explore the possible therapeutic effects, and underlying mechanism of baicalein in the treatment of asthma. METHODS Freely availabled atabases (e.g. OMIM, TTD, Genecards, BATMAN-TCM, STITCH 5.0, SEA, SwissTargetPrediction) and software (e.g. Ligplot 2.2.5 and PyMoL) were used for disease drug target prediction and molecular docking by network pharmacology. The efficacy and mechanism of action of baicalein in the treatment of asthma were validated using an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma mouse model and molecular biology techniques. RESULTS A total of 1655 asthma-related genes and 161 baicalein-related targets were identified from public databases. Utilizing common databases and software for network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis, seven potential target proteins for the therapeutic effects of baicalein on asthma were selected, including v-akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog 1 (AKT1), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), proto-oncogene tyrosine-protein kinase Src (SRC), mitogen-activated protein kinase 3 (MAPK3), matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9), and MAPK1. In vivo, baicalein treatment via intraperitoneal injection at a dose of 50 mg/kg significantly reduced airway inflammation, collagen deposition, smooth muscle thickness, lung interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 levels, peripheral blood immunoglobulin (Ig)E levels, as well as the count and ratio of eosinophils in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) in an OVA-induced asthma mouse model. Further validation by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blotting analysis revealed that the VEGF and EGFR signaling pathways involving VEGFA, MAPK1, MAPK3, and EGFR were inhibited by baicalein in the asthma mouse model. CONCLUSION Baicalein attenuates airway inflammation and airway remodeling through inhibition of VEGF and EGFR signaling pathways in an OVA-induced asthma mouse model. This will provide a new basis for the development of baicalein as a treatment for asthma and highlights the potential of network pharmacology and molecular docking in drug discovery and development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wang Peng
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
- Respiratory and critical care medicine, Xiangya Hospital, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Qinxuan Xia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1227, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
- Respiratory and critical care medicine, Xiangya Hospital, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Danfeng Cao
- Academician Workstation and The Hunan Provincial University Key Laboratory of the Fundamental and Clinical Research on Functional Nucleic Acid, Changsha Medical University, Changsha, Hunan, 410219, China.
| | - Xiangrong Zheng
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
- Respiratory and critical care medicine, Xiangya Hospital, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Feng Y, Qiao H, Liu H, Wang J, Tang H. Exploration of the mechanism of aloin ameliorates of combined allergic rhinitis and asthma syndrome based on network pharmacology and experimental validation. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1218030. [PMID: 37781715 PMCID: PMC10536143 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1218030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Aloin, as a bioactive compound, has a variety of pharmacological functions, but its effects on combined allergic rhinitis and asthma syndrome (CARAS) have not been studied. To clarify the protective effect and mechanism of aloin in the treatment of CARAS by network pharmacology, molecular dynamics simulation and experiment. Methods: The targets of aloin, allergic rhinitis and asthma were obtained from various databases. The protein interaction network was constructed for the common targets, and molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were performed for the core targets. Functional and pathway enrichment analysis of common targets was also performed using R software. Varieties of biological experiments were conducted to verify the effect of aloin on the inflammatory changes of CARAS and its regulatory mechanism. Results: A total of 42 anti-allergic rhinitis and 58 anti-asthma targets were obtained, and 5 core anti-allergic rhinitis and 6 core anti-asthma targets were identified using topological analysis. GO and KEGG analyses showed that endopeptidase activity and MAPK signaling pathway played important roles in allergic rhinitis and asthma. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations showed that aloin could stably bind to the core target proteins. Experimental verification showed that aloin significantly inhibited the expression of inflammatory factors, and may regulate CARAS by down-regulating MAPK signaling related proteins. Conclusion: This study identified the protective effect, potential target and mechanism of aloin on CARAS. It provides reference for understanding the molecular mechanism and clinical application of aloin in the ameliorates of CARAS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Feng
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Han Qiao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Hongyun Liu
- Department of Pathology, Qingdao Hospital, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (Qingdao Municipal Hospital), Qingdao, China
| | - Jvfei Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Huaping Tang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Qingdao Hospital, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (Qingdao Municipal Hospital), Qingdao, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Qi JH, Xu DC, Wang XL, Cai DY, Wang Y, Zhou W. Micro-simulation insights into the functional and mechanistic understanding of glycyrrhizin against asthma. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1220368. [PMID: 37711178 PMCID: PMC10497961 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1220368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Asthma is a common chronic respiratory disease, which causes inflammation and airway stenosis, leading to dyspnea, wheezing and chest tightness. Using transgelin-2 as a target, we virtually screened the lead compound glycyrrhizin from the self-built database of anti-asthma compounds by molecular docking technology, and found that it had anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and anti-asthma pharmacological effects. Then, molecular dynamics simulations were used to confirm the stability of the glycyrrhizin-transgelin-2 complex from a dynamic perspective, and the hydrophilic domains of glycyrrhizin was found to have the effect of targeting transgelin-2. Due to the self-assembly properties of glycyrrhizin, we explored the formation process and mechanism of the self-assembly system using self-assembly simulations, and found that hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions were the main driving forces. Because of the synergistic effect of glycyrrhizin and salbutamol in improving asthma, we revealed the mechanism through simulation, and believed that salbutamol adhered to the surface of the glycyrrhizin nano-drug delivery system through hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions, using the targeting effect of the hydrophilic domains of glycyrrhizin to reach the pathological parts and play a synergistic anti-asthmatic role. Finally, we used network pharmacology to predict the molecular mechanisms of glycyrrhizin against asthma, which indicated the direction for its clinical transformation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Hong Qi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dong-Chuan Xu
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xiao-Long Wang
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Basic Research, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Ding-Yuan Cai
- Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hu J, Ding R, Liu S, Wang J, Li J, Shang Y. Hypermethylation of RNF125 promotes autophagy-induced oxidative stress in asthma by increasing HMGB1 stability. iScience 2023; 26:107503. [PMID: 37599832 PMCID: PMC10432822 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Asthma is a global chronic airway disease. The expression and role of RNF125, an E3 ubiquitin ligase, in asthma remain uncertain. In this study, we revealed that RNF125 was downregulated in the bronchial epithelium of mice and patients with asthma. Rnf125 hypermethylation was responsible for the low expression of RNF125 in primary airway epithelial cells of mice treated with OVA. Moreover, we demonstrated that RNF125 could attenuate autophagy, oxidative stress, and protect epithelial barrier in vivo and in vitro. Additionally, we identified HMGB1 as a substrate of RNF125, which interacted with the HMG B-box domain of HMGB1 and induced degradation via the ubiquitin proteasome system, reducing autophagy and oxidative stress. Overall, our findings elucidated that hypermethylation of Rnf125 reduced its expression, which promoted autophagy-induced oxidative stress in asthma by increasing HMGB1 stability. These findings offer a theoretical and experimental basis for the pathogenesis of asthma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiapeng Hu
- Department of Pediatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Ruiwei Ding
- Pediatric Department, Qingdao Women and Children’s Hospital, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Shaozhuang Liu
- Department of Urology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Jia Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Jianjun Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Yunxiao Shang
- Department of Pediatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bagley DC, Russell T, Ortiz-Zapater E, Fox K, Redd PF, Joseph M, Rice CD, Reilly CA, Parsons M, Rosenblatt J. Bronchoconstriction damages airway epithelia by excess crowding-induced extrusion. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.04.551943. [PMID: 37577550 PMCID: PMC10418241 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.04.551943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Asthma is deemed an inflammatory disease, yet the defining diagnostic symptom is mechanical bronchoconstriction. We previously discovered a conserved process that drives homeostatic epithelial cell death in response to mechanical cell crowding called cell extrusion(1, 2). Here, we show that the pathological crowding of a bronchoconstrictive attack causes so much epithelial cell extrusion that it damages the airways, resulting in inflammation and mucus secretion. While relaxing airways with the rescue treatment albuterol did not impact these responses, inhibiting live cell extrusion signaling during bronchoconstriction prevented all these symptoms. Our findings propose a new etiology for asthma, dependent on the mechanical crowding of a bronchoconstrictive attack. Our studies suggest that blocking epithelial extrusion, instead of ensuing downstream inflammation, could prevent the feed-forward asthma inflammatory cycle.
Collapse
|
10
|
Bao C, Gu L, Wang S, Zou K, Zhang Z, Jiang L, Chen L, Fang H. Priority index for asthma (PIA): In silico discovery of shared and distinct drug targets for adult- and childhood-onset disease. Comput Biol Med 2023; 162:107095. [PMID: 37285660 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2023.107095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Asthma is a chronic disease that is caused by a combination of genetic risks and environmental triggers and can affect both adults and children. Genome-wide association studies have revealed partly distinct genetic architectures for its two age-of-onset subtypes (namely, adult-onset and childhood-onset). We reason that identifying shared and distinct drug targets between these subtypes may inform the development of subtype-specific therapeutic strategies. In attempting this, we here introduce Priority Index for Asthma or PIA, a genetics-led and network-driven drug target prioritisation tool for asthma. We demonstrate the validity of the tool in improving drug target prioritisation for asthma compared to the status quo methods, as well as in capturing the underlying etiology and existing therapeutics for the disease. We also illustrate how PIA can be used to prioritise drug targets for adult- and childhood-onset asthma, as well as to identify shared and distinct pathway crosstalk genes. Shared crosstalk genes are mostly involved in JAK-STAT signaling, with clinical evidence supporting that targeting this pathway may be a promising drug repurposing opportunity for both subtypes. Crosstalk genes specific to childhood-onset asthma are enriched for PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling, and we identify genes that are already targeted by licensed medications as repurposed drug candidates for this subtype. We make all our results accessible and reproducible at http://www.genetictargets.com/PIA. Collectively, our study has significant implications for asthma computational medicine research and can guide the future development of subtype-specific therapeutic strategies for the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chaohui Bao
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Leyao Gu
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shan Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Kexin Zou
- School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Hunan, China
| | - Zhiqiang Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lulu Jiang
- Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Liye Chen
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Hai Fang
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Liu Y, Li P, Jiang T, Li Y, Wang Y, Cheng Z. Epidermal growth factor receptor in asthma: A promising therapeutic target? Respir Med 2023; 207:107117. [PMID: 36626942 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2023.107117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway is involved in the pathogenesis of asthma. Although decades of intensive research have focused on the role of EGFR in asthma, the specific mechanisms and pathways of EGFR signaling remain unclear. Various reports have indicated that inhibition of EGFR improves the pathological features in asthma models. However, extending these experimental findings to clinical applications is difficult. Several measures can be adopted to promote clinical application of EGFR inhibitors. This review focuses on the role of EGFR in the pathogenesis of asthma and the development of a potentially novel therapeutic target for asthma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Pengfei Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Tianci Jiang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Zhe Cheng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Aegerter H, Lambrecht BN. The Pathology of Asthma: What Is Obstructing Our View? ANNUAL REVIEW OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 18:387-409. [PMID: 36270294 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pathol-042220-015902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Despite the advent of sophisticated and efficient new biologics to treat inflammation in asthma, the disease persists. Even following treatment, many patients still experience the well-known symptoms of wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing. What are we missing? Here we examine the evidence that mucus plugs contribute to a substantial portion of disease, not only by physically obstructing the airways but also by perpetuating inflammation. In this way, mucus plugs may act as an immunogenic stimulus even in the absence of allergen or with the use of current therapeutics. The alterations of several parameters of mucus biology, driven by type 2 inflammation, result in sticky and tenacious sputum, which represents a potent threat, first due to the difficulties in expectoration and second by acting as a platform for viral, bacterial, or fungal colonization that allows exacerbations. Therefore, in this way, mucus plugs are an overlooked but critical feature of asthmatic airway disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helena Aegerter
- Laboratory of Immunoregulation and Mucosal Immunology, VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium; .,Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bart N Lambrecht
- Laboratory of Immunoregulation and Mucosal Immunology, VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium; .,Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Chen D, Chen Q, Zhao K, Guo Y, Huang Y, Yuan Z, Cai Y, Li S, Xu J, Lin X. Exploring the mechanism of Xiaoqinglong decoction in the treatment of infantile asthma based on network pharmacology and molecular docking. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e32623. [PMID: 36637916 PMCID: PMC9839235 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000032623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
To explore the mechanism of Xiaoqinglong decoction (XQLD) in the treatment of infantile asthma (IA) based on network pharmacology and molecular docking. The active ingredients of fdrugs in XQLD were retrieved from Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology database and then the targets of drug ingredients were screened. The disease targets of IA were obtained from OMIM and Gencards databases, and the intersection targets of XQLD in the treatment of IA were obtained by Venny 2.1 mapping of ingredient targets and disease targets. Cytoscape software was used to construct active ingredient-intersection target network. The potential targets of XQLD in the treatment of IA were analyzed by protein-protein interaction network using STRING platform, and the Gene Ontology function and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis were obtained by R Studio software. AutoDock was used to perform molecular docking for verification. In this study, 150 active ingredients of XQLD were obtained, including quercetin, kaempferol, β-sitosterol, luteolin, stigmasterol, and so on. And 92 intersection targets of drugs and diseases were obtained, including interleukin 6 (IL6), cystatin 3, estrogen receptor 1, hypoxia inducible factor 1A, HSP90AA1, epidermal growth factor receptor and so on. There were 127 items of Gene Ontology enrichment analysis and 125 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment results, showing that apoptosis, IL-17 signaling pathway, tumor necrosis factor signaling pathway, P13K-Akt signaling pathway and other pathways may play a key role in the treatment of IA by XQLD. The results of molecular docking showed that the key active ingredients including quercetin, kaempferol, β-sitosterol, luteolin, stigmasterol, and the core targets including IL6, cystatin 3, estrogen receptor 1, hypoxia inducible factor 1A, HSP90AA1, and epidermal growth factor receptor had good binding activity. Through network pharmacology and molecular docking, the potential targets and modern biological mechanisms of XQLD in the treatment of IA were preliminarily revealed in the study, which will provide reference for subsequent animal experiments and clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daman Chen
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qiqi Chen
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kaibo Zhao
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongqi Guo
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuxin Huang
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zehuan Yuan
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yujia Cai
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sitong Li
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jiarong Xu
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaohong Lin
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
- * Correspondence: Xiaohong Lin, Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou 510405, China (e-mail: )
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Deng Z, Zhang X, Wen J, Yang X, Xue L, Ou C, Ma J, Zhan H, Cen X, Cai X, Zhang Y, Chen R, Zhang Q. Lonicerin attenuates house dust mite-induced eosinophilic asthma through targeting Src/EGFR signaling. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1051344. [PMID: 36618942 PMCID: PMC9817108 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1051344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Eosinophilic asthma is the predominant phenotype of asthma, and although these patients are sensitive to glucocorticoid therapy, they also experience many side effects. Lonicerin is a kind of bioflavonoid isolated from the Chinese herb Lonicera japonica Thunb, which has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. The aim of this study was to elucidate the effects of lonicerin on eosinophilic asthma and its potential mechanisms. Here, we established a house dust mite (house dust mite)-induced eosinophilic asthma model in BALB/c mouse, and evaluated the effects of lonicerin on it. Our results showed that lonicerin significantly reduced airway hyperresponsiveness the number of inflammatory cells (especially eosinophils) and the elevation of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-13 and eotaxin in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) supernatants of mice. Additionally, lonicerin also eminently blunted inflammatory infiltration and mucus secretion, as well as mRNA levels of Mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) in lung tissue. Furthermore, results of network pharmacology and molecular docking revealed that Src kinase and epidermal growth factor receptor may be the potential targets responsible for the effects of lonicerin. Finally, in vivo experiments confirmed that lonicerin inhibited activation of the Src/EGFR pathway by decreasing their phosphorylation. Taken together, the present study demonstrated that lonicerin could suppress HDM-induced eosinophilic asthma in mice through inhibiting the activation of Src/EGFR pathway, which also provides a basis for further research as a new potentially therapeutic agent for eosinophilic asthma and its underlying mechanisms in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenan Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuefei Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junjie Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojing Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lingna Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Changxing Ou
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianjuan Ma
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Hongrui Zhan
- Department of Rehabilitation, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Xiaomin Cen
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuliang Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China,*Correspondence: Qingling Zhang, ; Riken Chen, ; Yu Zhang,
| | - Riken Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China,*Correspondence: Qingling Zhang, ; Riken Chen, ; Yu Zhang,
| | - Qingling Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China,*Correspondence: Qingling Zhang, ; Riken Chen, ; Yu Zhang,
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Boateng E, Kovacevic D, Oldenburg V, Rådinger M, Krauss-Etschmann S. Role of airway epithelial cell miRNAs in asthma. FRONTIERS IN ALLERGY 2022; 3:962693. [PMID: 36203653 PMCID: PMC9530201 DOI: 10.3389/falgy.2022.962693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The airway epithelial cells and overlying layer of mucus are the first point of contact for particles entering the lung. The severity of environmental contributions to pulmonary disease initiation, progression, and exacerbation is largely determined by engagement with the airway epithelium. Despite the cellular cross-talk and cargo exchange in the microenvironment, epithelial cells produce miRNAs associated with the regulation of airway features in asthma. In line with this, there is evidence indicating miRNA alterations related to their multifunctional regulation of asthma features in the conducting airways. In this review, we discuss the cellular components and functions of the airway epithelium in asthma, miRNAs derived from epithelial cells in disease pathogenesis, and the cellular exchange of miRNA-bearing cargo in the airways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eistine Boateng
- Early Life Origins of Chronic Lung Disease, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, Airway Research Center North (ARCN), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Borstel, Germany
- Correspondence: Eistine Boateng
| | - Draginja Kovacevic
- DZL Laboratory for Experimental Microbiome Research, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, Airway Research Center North (ARCN), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Borstel, Germany
| | - Vladimira Oldenburg
- Early Life Origins of Chronic Lung Disease, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, Airway Research Center North (ARCN), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Borstel, Germany
| | - Madeleine Rådinger
- Krefting Research Centre, Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Susanne Krauss-Etschmann
- Early Life Origins of Chronic Lung Disease, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, Airway Research Center North (ARCN), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Borstel, Germany
- DZL Laboratory for Experimental Microbiome Research, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, Airway Research Center North (ARCN), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Borstel, Germany
- Institute for Experimental Medicine, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Molecular Mechanism of YuPingFeng in the Treatment of Asthma Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Technology. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2022; 2022:7364126. [PMID: 36105239 PMCID: PMC9467798 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7364126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective To explore the molecular targets and mechanism of YuPingFeng (YPF) for the treatment of asthma by using network pharmacology and molecular docking. Methods The potential active ingredients and relevant targets of YPF were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP). Asthma-related gene targets were retrieved from GeneCards, OMIM, DrugBank, PharmGKB, and TTD databases. The protein-protein (PPI) network between YPF and asthma common targets was constructed by SRING online database and Cytoscape software. GO and KEGG analyses were performed to explore the complicated molecular biological processes and potential pathways. Finally, a molecular docking approach was carried out to verify the results. Results We obtained 100 potential targets of the 35 active ingredients in YPF and 1610 asthma-related targets. 60 YPF-asthma common targets were selected to perform PPI analysis. Seven core genes were screened based on two topological calculation methods. GO and KEGG results showed that the main pathways of YPF in treating asthma include TNF signaling pathway and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Finally, the molecular docking results indicated that the key ingredients of YPF had a good affinity with the relevant core genes. Conclusion This study reflects the multicomponent, multitarget, and multipathway characteristics of YPF in treating asthma, providing a theoretical and scientific basis for the intervention of asthma by traditional Chinese medicine YPF.
Collapse
|
17
|
Home Dust Mites Promote MUC5AC Hyper-Expression by Modulating the sNASP/TRAF6 Axis in the Airway Epithelium. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169405. [PMID: 36012669 PMCID: PMC9408837 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
House dust mites (HDMs) are a common source of respiratory allergens responsible for allergic asthma and innate immune responses in human diseases. Since HDMs are critical factors in the triggering of allergen-induced airway mucosa from allergic asthma, we aimed to investigate the mechanisms of Toll-like receptors (TLR) in the signaling of the HDM extract that is involved in mucus hypersecretion and airway inflammation through the engagement of innate immunity. Previously, we reported that the somatic nuclear autoantigenic sperm protein (sNASP)/tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) axis controls the initiation of TLRs to maintain the homeostasis of the innate immune response. The present study showed that the HDM extract stimulated the biogenesis of Mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) in bronchial epithelial cells via the TLR2/4 signaling pathway involving MyD88 and TRAF6. Specifically, sNASP binds to TRAF6 in unstimulated bronchial epithelial cells to prevent the activation of TRAF6-depenedent kinases. Upon on HDMs’ stimulation, sNASP is phosphorylated, leading to the activation of TRAF6 downstream of the p38 MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways. Further, NASP-knockdown enhanced TRAF6 signaling and MUC5AC biogenesis. In the HDM-induced mouse asthma model, we found that the HDM extract promoted airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), MUC5AC, and allergen-specific IgE production as well as IL-5 and IL-13 for recruiting inflammatory cells. Treatment with the PEP-NASP peptide, a selective TRAF6-blocking peptide, ameliorated HDM-induced asthma in mice. In conclusion, this study indicated that the sNASP/TRAF6 axis plays a regulatory role in asthma by modulating mucus overproduction, and the PEP-NASP peptide might be a potential target for asthma treatment.
Collapse
|
18
|
Xia Y, Cao H, Zheng J, Chen L. Claudin-1 Mediated Tight Junction Dysfunction as a Contributor to Atopic March. Front Immunol 2022; 13:927465. [PMID: 35844593 PMCID: PMC9277052 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.927465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Atopic march refers to the phenomenon wherein the occurrence of asthma and food allergy tends to increase after atopic dermatitis. The mechanism underlying the progression of allergic inflammation from the skin to gastrointestinal (GI) tract and airways has still remained elusive. Impaired skin barrier was proposed as a risk factor for allergic sensitization. Claudin-1 protein forms tight junctions and is highly expressed in the epithelium of the skin, airways, and GI tract, thus, the downregulation of claudin-1 expression level caused by CLDN-1 gene polymorphism can mediate common dysregulation of epithelial barrier function in these organs, potentially leading to allergic sensitization at various sites. Importantly, in patients with atopic dermatitis, asthma, and food allergy, claudin-1 expression level was significantly downregulated in the skin, bronchial and intestinal epithelium, respectively. Knockdown of claudin-1 expression level in mouse models of atopic dermatitis and allergic asthma exacerbated allergic inflammation, proving that downregulation of claudin-1 expression level contributes to the pathogenesis of allergic diseases. Therefore, we hypothesized that the tight junction dysfunction mediated by downregulation of claudin-1 expression level contributes to atopic march. Further validation with clinical data from patients with atopic march or mouse models of atopic march is needed. If this hypothesis can be fully confirmed, impaired claudin-1 expression level may be a risk factor and likely a diagnostic marker for atopic march. Claudin-1 may serve as a valuable target to slowdown or block the progression of atopic march.
Collapse
|
19
|
Agaronyan K, Sharma L, Vaidyanathan B, Glenn K, Yu S, Annicelli C, Wiggen TD, Penningroth MR, Hunter RC, Dela Cruz CS, Medzhitov R. Tissue remodeling by an opportunistic pathogen triggers allergic inflammation. Immunity 2022; 55:895-911.e10. [PMID: 35483356 PMCID: PMC9123649 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Different effector arms of the immune system are optimized to protect from different classes of pathogens. In some cases, pathogens manipulate the host immune system to promote the wrong type of effector response-a phenomenon known as immune deviation. Typically, immune deviation helps pathogens to avoid destructive immune responses. Here, we report on a type of immune deviation whereby an opportunistic pathogen, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), induces the type 2 immune response resulting in mucin production that is used as an energy source by the pathogen. Specifically, P. aeruginosa-secreted toxin, LasB, processed and activated epithelial amphiregulin to induce type 2 inflammation and mucin production. This "niche remodeling" by P. aeruginosa promoted colonization and, as a by-product, allergic sensitization. Our study thus reveals a type of bacterial immune deviation by increasing nutrient supply. It also uncovers a mechanism of allergic sensitization by a bacterial virulence factor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen Agaronyan
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Lokesh Sharma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Bharat Vaidyanathan
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Keith Glenn
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Shuang Yu
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Charles Annicelli
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Talia D Wiggen
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Mitchell R Penningroth
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Ryan C Hunter
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Charles S Dela Cruz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Ruslan Medzhitov
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Huang DH, He J, Su XF, Wen YN, Zhang SJ, Liu LY, Zhao H, Ye CP, Wu JH, Cai S, Dong H. The airway microbiota of non-small cell lung cancer patients and its relationship to tumor stage and EGFR gene mutation. Thorac Cancer 2022; 13:858-869. [PMID: 35142041 PMCID: PMC8930493 DOI: 10.1111/1759-7714.14340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accumulating studies have suggested the airway microbiota in lung cancer patients is significantly different from that of healthy controls. However, little is known about the relationship between airway microbiota and important clinical parameters of lung cancer. In this study, we aimed to explore the association between sputum microbiota and lung cancer stage, lymph node metastasis, intrathoracic metastasis, and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene mutation. METHODS The microbiota of sputum samples from 85 newly-diagnosed NSCLC patients were sequenced via 16S rRNA sequencing of the V3-V4 region. Sequencing reads were filtered using QIIME2 and clustered against UPARSE. RESULTS Alpha- and β-diversity was significantly different between patients in stages I to II (early stage, ES) and patients in stages III to IV (advanced stage, AS). Linear discriminant analysis Effect Size (LEfSe) identified that genera Granulicatella and Actinobacillus were significantly enriched in ES, and the genus Actinomyces was significantly enriched in AS. PICRUSt2 identified that the NAD salvage pathway was significantly enriched in AS, which was positively associated with Granulicatella. Patients with intrathoracic metastasis were associated with increased genus Peptostreptococcus and incomplete reductive TCA cycle, which was associated with increased Peptostreptococcus. Genera Parvimonas, Pseudomona and L-valine biosynthesis were positively associated with lymph node metastasis. L-valine biosynthesis was related with increased Pseudomona. Finally, the genus Parvimonas was significantly enriched in adenocarcinoma patients with EGFR mutation. CONCLUSION The taxonomy structure differed between different lung cancer stages. The tumor stage, intrathoracic metastasis, lymph node metastasis, and EGFR mutation were associated with alteration of specific airway genera and metabolic function of sputum microbiota.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dan Hui Huang
- Chronic Airways Diseases Laboratory, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing He
- Chronic Airways Diseases Laboratory, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Fang Su
- Chronic Airways Diseases Laboratory, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ya Na Wen
- Chronic Airways Diseases Laboratory, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shu Jia Zhang
- Chronic Airways Diseases Laboratory, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lai Yu Liu
- Chronic Airways Diseases Laboratory, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haijin Zhao
- Chronic Airways Diseases Laboratory, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cui Pin Ye
- Chronic Airways Diseases Laboratory, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian Hua Wu
- Department of Oncology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaoxi Cai
- Chronic Airways Diseases Laboratory, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hangming Dong
- Chronic Airways Diseases Laboratory, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Chen FJ, Du LJ, Zeng Z, Huang XY, Xu CY, Tan WP, Xie CM, Liang YX, Guo YB. PTPRH Alleviates Airway Obstruction and Th2 Inflammation in Asthma as a Protective Factor. J Asthma Allergy 2022; 15:133-144. [PMID: 35140475 PMCID: PMC8818980 DOI: 10.2147/jaa.s340059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose PTPRH inhibits EGFR activity directly in cancer patients and activated EGFR induces goblet cell hyperplasia and mucus hypersecretion in asthma. However, the function of PTPRH in asthma remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to access the association of PTPRH with asthma and its underlying mechanism. Patients and Methods We examined the PTPRH level in asthma patients (n = 108) and healthy controls (n = 35), and analyzed the correlations between PTPRH and asthma-related indicators. Human bronchial epithelial cell (HBECs) transfected with PTPRH and asthma mouse model were set up to investigate the function of PTPRH. Results The expression of PTPRH was significantly increased and correlated with pulmonary function parameters, including airway obstruction, and T-helper2 (Th2) associated markers in asthma patients. PTPRH increased in the house dust mite (HDM)-induced asthmatic mice, while Th2 airway inflammation and Muc5ac suppressed when treated with PTPRH. Accordingly, PTPRH expression was markedly increased in IL-13-stimulated HBECs but PTPRH over-expression suppressed MUC5AC. Moreover, HBECs transfected with over-expressed PTPRH inhibited the phosphorylation of EGFR, ERK1/2 and AKT, while induced against PTPRH in HBECs dephosphorylated of EGFR, ERK1/2 and AKT. Conclusion PTPRH reduces MUC5AC secretion to alleviate airway obstruction in asthma via potential phosphorylating of EGFR/ERK1/2/AKT signaling pathway, which may provide possible therapeutic implications for asthma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feng-jia Chen
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Pulmonary Diseases, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li-juan Du
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Pulmonary Diseases, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhimin Zeng
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Pulmonary Diseases, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin-yan Huang
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Pulmonary Diseases, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chang-yi Xu
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Pulmonary Diseases, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei-ping Tan
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Pulmonary Diseases, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Can-mao Xie
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Pulmonary Diseases, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu-xia Liang
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Pulmonary Diseases, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu-biao Guo
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Pulmonary Diseases, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Yu-biao Guo; Yu-xia Liang, Tel +86 20 8775 5766, Email ;
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Tian G, Gu X, Bao K, Yu X, Zhang Y, Xu Y, Zheng J, Hong M. Anti-Inflammatory Effects and Mechanisms of Pudilan Antiphlogistic Oral Liquid. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:34512-34524. [PMID: 34963936 PMCID: PMC8697401 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c04797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Pudilan antiphlogistic oral liquid (PDL) is a commercial traditional Chinese medicine widely used in the treatment of a variety of inflammatory diseases. However, the specific mechanisms of PDL's anti-inflammatory effects have not been fully understood. In this research, five classic inflammatory models and a network pharmacology-based strategy were utilized to evaluate its anti-inflammatory efficacy and elucidate its multicomponent and multitarget mode of the anti-inflammatory mechanism. A systems pharmacology approach was carried out via a holistic process of active compound screening, target acquisition, network construction, and further analysis. The potential component-target-associated anti-inflammatory mechanisms of PDL were further verified both in vivo and in vitro. The results showed that PDL exhibited a proven anti-inflammatory effect on multiple types of inflammatory models, including β-hemolytic streptococcus-induced acute pharyngitis, LPS-induced acute lung injury, xylene-induced ear swelling, carrageenan-induced paw edema, and acetic acid-induced capillary permeability-increasing models. Systems pharmacology analysis predicted 45 ingredients of PDL that interact with 185 targets, of which 38 overlapped with the inflammation-related targets. Furthermore, KEGG pathway analysis showed that the predicted targets were mainly involved in hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), and NOD-like receptor (NLR) pathways. Both in vivo and in vitro experiments clarified that PDL has anti-inflammatory potency by inhibiting PI3K and p38 phosphorylation and activating the NLRP3 inflammasome. Our results suggested that PDL has an efficient and extensive anti-inflammatory effect, and its anti-inflammatory mechanisms may involve multiple inflammatory-associated signaling pathways, including HIF-1- and TNF-mediated pathways and NLRP3 inflammasome activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gang Tian
- Jumpcan
Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, Taixing 225441, China
| | - Xiaoqun Gu
- Jiangsu
Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia
Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University
of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Kaifan Bao
- Jiangsu
Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia
Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University
of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Department
of Pharmacology, School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Xuerui Yu
- Jiangsu
Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia
Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University
of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yuheng Zhang
- Jiangsu
Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia
Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University
of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yifan Xu
- Jiangsu
Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia
Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University
of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jie Zheng
- Jiangsu
Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia
Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University
of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Department
of Pharmacology, School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Min Hong
- Jiangsu
Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia
Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University
of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- . Phone: +86 15805191595. Fax: +86 25 85811248
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Hu X, Shen Y, Zhao Y, Wang J, Zhang X, Tu W, Kaufman W, Feng J, Gao P. Epithelial Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Protects From Mucus Production by Inhibiting ROS-Triggered NLRP3 Inflammasome in Asthma. Front Immunol 2021; 12:767508. [PMID: 34868022 PMCID: PMC8634667 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.767508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Despite long-standing recognition in the significance of mucus overproduction in asthma, its etiology remains poorly understood. Muc5ac is a secretory mucin that has been associated with reduced pulmonary function and asthma exacerbations. Objectives We sought to investigate the immunological pathway that controls Muc5ac expression and allergic airway inflammation in asthma. Methods Cockroach allergen-induced Muc5ac expression and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signaling activation was examined in the human bronchial epithelial cells (HBECs) and mouse model of asthma. AhR regulation of Muc5ac expression, mitochondrial ROS (Mito-ROS) generation, and NLRP3 inflammasome was determined by AhR knockdown, the antagonist CH223191, and AhR-/- mice. The role of NLRP3 inflammasome in Muc5ac expression and airway inflammation was also investigated. Results Cockroach allergen induced Muc5ac overexpression in HBECs and airways of asthma mouse model. Increased expression of AhR and its downstream genes CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 was also observed. Mice with AhR deletion showed increased allergic airway inflammation and MUC5AC expression. Moreover, cockroach allergen induced epithelial NLRP3 inflammasome activation (e.g., NLRP3, Caspase-1, and IL-1β), which was enhanced by AhR knockdown or the antagonist CH223191. Furthermore, AhR deletion in HBECs led to enhanced ROS generation, particularly Mito-ROS, and inhibition of ROS or Mito-ROS subsequently suppressed the inflammasome activation. Importantly, inhibition of the inflammasome with MCC950, a NLRP3-specifc inhibitor, attenuated allergic airway inflammation and Muc5ac expression. IL-1β generated by the activated inflammasomes mediated cockroach allergen-induced Muc5ac expression in HBECs. Conclusions These results reveal a previously unidentified functional axis of AhR-ROS-NLRP3 inflammasome in regulating Muc5ac expression and airway inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinyue Hu
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yingchun Shen
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Yilin Zhao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Ji Wang
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Laboratory of Pulmonary Immunology and Inflammation, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Tu
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Respirology & Allergy, Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - William Kaufman
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Juntao Feng
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Peisong Gao
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Li Y, Tang XX. Abnormal Airway Mucus Secretion Induced by Virus Infection. Front Immunol 2021; 12:701443. [PMID: 34650550 PMCID: PMC8505958 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.701443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The airway mucus barrier is a primary defensive layer at the airway surface. Mucins are the major structural components of airway mucus that protect the respiratory tract. Respiratory viruses invade human airways and often induce abnormal mucin overproduction and airway mucus secretion, leading to airway obstruction and disease. The mechanism underlying the virus-induced abnormal airway mucus secretion has not been fully studied so far. Understanding the mechanisms by which viruses induce airway mucus hypersecretion may open new avenues to treatment. In this article, we elaborate the clinical and experimental evidence that respiratory viruses cause abnormal airway mucus secretion, review the underlying mechanisms, and also discuss the current research advance as well as potential strategies to treat the abnormal airway mucus secretion caused by SARS-CoV-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Xiao Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangzhou Laboratory, Bio-island, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Chen X, Yang J, Shen H, Zhang X, Wang H, Wu G, Qi Y, Wang L, Xu W. Muc5ac Production Inhibited by Decreased lncRNA H19 via PI3K/Akt/NF-kB in Asthma. J Asthma Allergy 2021; 14:1033-1043. [PMID: 34421304 PMCID: PMC8373259 DOI: 10.2147/jaa.s316250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction LncRNAs play important roles in multiple diseases including asthma, while there are a few reports on the role of lncRNA H19 about asthma. This study aimed to investigate the roles and mechanisms of lncRNA H19 in asthma. Methods We detected lncRNA H19 and Muc5ac mRNA by establishing a murine asthma model and an in vitro inflammation model. Regulatory roles of lncRNA H19 in asthma were explored by lncRNA H19 overexpression or knockdown in vitro. To study its mechanisms, we detect p-NF-κB and p-Akt expression, and treated 16-HBE cells with inhibitors of PI3K. To study regulatory effects of miR-675-3p on Muc5ac, miR-675-3p mimics and inhibitors were respectively transfected into 16-HBE cells. Results Firstly, we established a murine asthma model and an in vitro inflammation model. We found that lncRNA H19 expression was decreased, while Muc5ac mRNA was increased in lung tissues of murine asthma model and in the in vitro inflammation model. lncRNA H19 overexpression increased Muc5ac mRNA expression and lncRNA H19 knockdown decreased Muc5ac mRNA expression in 16-HBE cells. Moreover, lncRNA H19 overexpression further increased Muc5ac expression in TNFα-induced in vitro inflammation model. lncRNA H19 knockdown decreased p-Akt and p-NF-κB expression. Inhibitors of PI3K abolished Muc5ac induced by lncRNA H19 overexpression. Although miR-675-3p was increased by lncRNA H19 overexpression, it had no regulatory effects on Muc5ac expression. Discussion These results demonstrated that lncRNA H19 positively regulates Muc5ac expression through PI3K/Akt /NF-κB pathway in the in vitro inflammation model. Therefore, this study indicated that decreased lncRNA H19 in asthma might play a protective role relieving mucus overproduction, and lncRNA H19 might be a potential target for asthma treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xu Chen
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics Designated by the Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,Department of Clinical Laboratory, First People's Hospital of Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Xichang, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chengdu Women's and Children's Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 611731, People's Republic of China
| | - Hailan Shen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuemei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics Designated by the Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics Designated by the Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangying Wu
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics Designated by the Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuhong Qi
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics Designated by the Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Wang
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics Designated by the Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenchun Xu
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics Designated by the Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
IL-17 Is a Key Regulator of Mucin-Galectin-3 Interactions in Asthma. Int J Cell Biol 2021; 2021:9997625. [PMID: 34221020 PMCID: PMC8211528 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9997625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucus hypersecretion and chronic airway inflammation are standard characteristics of several airway diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma. Increased mucus secretion from increased mucin gene expression in the airway epithelium is associated with poor prognosis and mortality. We previously showed that the absence of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1) enhances lung inflammation, airway hyperreactivity, and lung remodeling in asthma in an ovalbumin (OVA) asthma model of TIMP-1 knockout (TIMPKO) mice as compared to wild-type (WT) controls and mediated by increased galectin-3 (Gal-3) levels. Additionally, we have shown that in the lung epithelial cell line A549, Gal-3 inhibition increases interleukin-17 (IL-17) levels, leading to increased mucin expression in the airway epithelium. Therefore, in the current study, we further examined the relationship between Gal-3 and the production of IL-17-axis cytokines and critical members of the mucin family in the murine TIMPKO asthma model and the lung epithelium cell line A549. While Gal-3 may regulate a Th1/Th2 response, IL-17 could stimulate the mucin genes, MUC5B and MUC5AC. Gal-3 and IL-17 interactions induce mucus expression in OVA-sensitized mice. We conclude that Gal-3 may play an essential role in the pathogenesis of asthma, and modulation of Gal-3 may prove helpful in the treatment of this disease.
Collapse
|
27
|
Wei X, Zhang B, Liang X, Liu C, Xia T, Xie Y, Deng X, Tan X. Higenamine alleviates allergic rhinitis by activating AKT1 and suppressing the EGFR/JAK2/c-JUN signaling. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 86:153565. [PMID: 33945919 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allergic rhinitis (AR) is an inflammatory, immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated disease characterized by the typical symptoms of sneezing, rhinorrhea, nasal itching, and congestion. Higenamine (HG) is a plant-based alkaloid, possesses a wide range of activities, including vascular and tracheal relaxation, antioxidative, antiapoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities. So far, the effect and the underlying mechanism of HG on AR have not been studied. HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of HG on AR and investigate its underlying mechanism. METHODS The effects of HG on AR were evaluated in an ovalbumin-induced AR mouse model. Network pharmacology-based methods such as target prediction, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, pathway analysis, and molecular docking were used to identify the likely HG targets. Finally, we validated the mechanism of action of HG through its effects on these targets in human nasal epithelial cells (HNEpCs). RESULTS Oral administration of 30, 60, and 120 mg/kg HG significantly alleviated rubbing and sneezing in AR mice and attenuated histopathological changes in the lung and nasal tissues. Additionally, HG reduced the levels of IgE, histamine, and IL-4 in the serum of AR mice, and regulated imbalance in Th1/Th2 cells. Using network pharmacology-based methods, we identified 29 HG targets related to AR. These targets are mainly involved in the PD-L1, relaxin, estrogen, HIF-1, Th1 and Th2 cell differentiation, T cell receptor, and the Th17 cell differentiation signaling pathways. Molecular docking showed that HG may well be suited to the receptor binding pockets of key target AKT1, EGFR, c-Jun, NOS2, and JAK2. In HNEpCs, HG inhibited the histamine-induced mRNA expression and secretion of interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-8, as well as the expression of MUC5AC and the phosphorylation of NF-κB. Moreover, HG affected the changes of AKT1, EGFR, c-Jun, iNOS, and JAK2 induced by histamine. CONCLUSION Overall, our results suggest that HG may alleviate AR by activating AKT1 and suppressing the EGFR/JAK2/c-JUN signaling. HG, therefore, has great potential as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of AR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohan Wei
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangzhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Preparation Technology, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Baoping Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangzhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Preparation Technology, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xiao Liang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guilin Medical University. Guilin, China. 541199
| | - Changshun Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangzhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Preparation Technology, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Ting Xia
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangzhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Preparation Technology, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yingjie Xie
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xue Deng
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xiaomei Tan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangzhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Preparation Technology, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
O'Sullivan MJ, Phung TKN, Park JA. Bronchoconstriction: a potential missing link in airway remodelling. Open Biol 2020; 10:200254. [PMID: 33259745 PMCID: PMC7776576 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.200254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In asthma, progressive structural changes of the airway wall are collectively termed airway remodelling. Despite its deleterious effect on lung function, airway remodelling is incompletely understood. As one of the important causes leading to airway remodelling, here we discuss the significance of mechanical forces that are produced in the narrowed airway during asthma exacerbation, as a driving force of airway remodelling. We cover in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo work in this field, and discuss up-to-date literature supporting the idea that bronchoconstriction may be the missing link in a comprehensive understanding of airway remodelling in asthma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jin-Ah Park
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 665 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Airway Epithelial Dysfunction in Asthma: Relevant to Epidermal Growth Factor Receptors and Airway Epithelial Cells. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9113698. [PMID: 33217964 PMCID: PMC7698733 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9113698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Airway epithelium plays an important role as the first barrier from external pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, chemical substances, and allergic components. Airway epithelial cells also have pivotal roles as immunological coordinators of defense mechanisms to transfer signals to immunologic cells to eliminate external pathogens from airways. Impaired airway epithelium allows the pathogens to remain in the airway epithelium, which induces aberrant immunological reactions. Dysregulated functions of asthmatic airway epithelium have been reported in terms of impaired wound repair, fragile tight junctions, and excessive proliferation, leading to airway remodeling, which contributes to aberrant airway responses caused by external pathogens. To maintain airway epithelium integrity, a family of epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR) have pivotal roles in mechanisms of cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation. There are extensive studies focusing on the relation between EGFR and asthma pathophysiology, which describe airway remodeling, airway hypermucus secretion, as well as immunological responses of airway inflammation. Furthermore, the second EGFR family member, erythroblastosis oncogene B2 (ErbB2), has been recognized to be involved with impaired wound recovery and epithelial differentiation in asthmatic airway epithelium. In this review, the roles of the EGFR family in asthmatic airway epithelium are focused on to elucidate the pathogenesis of airway epithelial dysfunction in asthma.
Collapse
|
30
|
Network Pharmacology Strategy to Investigate the Pharmacological Mechanism of HuangQiXiXin Decoction on Cough Variant Asthma and Evidence-Based Medicine Approach Validation. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:3829092. [PMID: 33178315 PMCID: PMC7647767 DOI: 10.1155/2020/3829092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Objective To investigate the pharmacological mechanism of HuangQiXiXin decoction (HQXXD) on cough variant asthma (CVA) and validate the clinical curative effect. Methods The active compounds and target genes of HQXXD were searched using TCMSP. CVA-related target genes were obtained using the GeneCards database. The active target genes of HQXXD were compared with the CVA-related target genes to identify candidate target genes of HQXXD acting on CVA. A medicine-compound-target network was constructed using Cytoscape 3.6.0 software, and a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using the STRING database. Gene ontology (GO) function enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were performed using RGUI3.6.1 and Cytoscape 3.6.0. We searched the main database for randomized controlled trials of HQXXD for CVA. We assessed the quality of the included studies using the Cochrane Reviewers' Handbook. A meta-analysis of the clinical curative effect of HQXXD for CVA was conducted using the Cochrane Collaboration's RevMan 5.3 software. Results We screened out 48 active compounds and 217 active target genes of HQXXD from TCMSP. The 217 active target genes of HQXXD were compared with the 1481 CVA-related target genes, and 132 candidate target genes for HQXXD acting on CVA were identified. The medicine-compound-target network and PPI network were constructed, and the key compounds and key targets were selected. GO function enrichment and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis were performed. Meta-analysis showed that the total effective rate of the clinical curative effect was significantly higher in the experimental group than the control group. Conclusion The pharmacological mechanism of HQXXD acting on CVA has been further determined, and the clinical curative effect of HQXXD on CVA is remarkable.
Collapse
|
31
|
Li J, Ma J, Tian Y, Zhao P, Liu X, Dong H, Zheng W, Feng S, Zhang L, Wu M, Zhu L, Liu S, Zhao D. Effective-component compatibility of Bufei Yishen formula II inhibits mucus hypersecretion of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease rats by regulating EGFR/PI3K/mTOR signaling. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 257:112796. [PMID: 32344236 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The effective-component compatibility of Bufei Yishen formula I (ECC-BYF I), a combination of 10 compounds, including total ginsenosides, astragaloside IV, icariin, and paeonol, etc., is derived from Bufei Yishen formula (BYF). The efficacy and safety of ECC-BYF I is equal to BYF. However, the composition of ECC-BYF I needs to be further optimized. Based on the beneficial effects of BYF and ECC-BYF I on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), this study aimed to optimize the composition of ECC-BYF I and to explore the effects and mechanisms of optimized ECC-BYF I (ECC-BYF II) on mucus hypersecretion in COPD rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS ECC-BYF I was initially optimized to six groups: optimized ECC-BYF I (OECC-BYF I)-A~F. Based on a COPD rat model, the effects of OECC-BYF I-A~F on COPD rats were evaluated. R-value comprehensive evaluation was used to evaluate the optimal formula, which was named ECC-BYF II. The changes in goblet cells and expression of mucins and the mRNA and proteins involved in the epidermal growth factor receptor/phosphoinositide-3-kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin (EGFR/PI3K/mTOR) pathway were evaluated to explore the effects and mechanisms of ECC-BYF II on mucus hypersecretion. RESULTS ECC-BYF I and its six optimized groups, OECC-BYF I-A~F, had beneficial effects on COPD rats in improving pulmonary function and lung tissue pathology, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, and improving the protease/anti-protease imbalance and collagen deposition. R-value comprehensive evaluation found that OECC-BYF I-E (paeonol, icariin, nobiletin, total ginsenoside, astragaloside IV) was the optimal formula for improving the comprehensive effects (lung function: VT, MV, PEF, EF50, FVC, FEV 0.1, FEV 0.1/FVC; histological changes: MLI, MAN; IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, MMP-9, TIMP-1, T-AOC, LPO, MUC5AC, Collagen I and Collagen III). OECC-BYF I-E was named ECC-BYF II. Importantly, the effect of ECC-BYF II showed no significant difference from BYF and ECC-BYF I. ECC-BYF II inhibited mucus hypersecretion in COPD rats, which manifested as reducing the expression of MUC5AC and MUC5B and the hyperplasia rate of goblet cells. The mRNA and protein expression levels of EGFR, PI3K, Akt, and mTOR were increased in COPD rats and were obviously downregulated after ECC-BYF II administration. CONCLUSION ECC-BYF II, which consists of paeonol, icariin, nobiletin, total ginsenoside and astragaloside IV, has beneficial effects equivalent to BYF and ECC-BYF I on COPD rats. ECC-BYF II significantly inhibited mucus hypersecretion, which may be related to the regulation of the EGFR/PI3K/mTOR pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiansheng Li
- Co-construction Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases by Henan & Education Ministry of P.R., 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China.
| | - Jindi Ma
- Co-construction Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases by Henan & Education Ministry of P.R., 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China.
| | - Yange Tian
- Co-construction Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases by Henan & Education Ministry of P.R., 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China.
| | - Peng Zhao
- Co-construction Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases by Henan & Education Ministry of P.R., 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China.
| | - Xuefang Liu
- Co-construction Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases by Henan & Education Ministry of P.R., 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China.
| | - Haoran Dong
- Co-construction Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases by Henan & Education Ministry of P.R., 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China.
| | - Wanchun Zheng
- Co-construction Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases by Henan & Education Ministry of P.R., 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China.
| | - Suxiang Feng
- Co-construction Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases by Henan & Education Ministry of P.R., 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China.
| | - Lanxi Zhang
- Co-construction Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases by Henan & Education Ministry of P.R., 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China.
| | - Mingming Wu
- Co-construction Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases by Henan & Education Ministry of P.R., 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China.
| | - Lihua Zhu
- Co-construction Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases by Henan & Education Ministry of P.R., 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China.
| | - Shuai Liu
- Co-construction Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases by Henan & Education Ministry of P.R., 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China.
| | - Di Zhao
- Co-construction Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases by Henan & Education Ministry of P.R., 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China.
| |
Collapse
|