Emodin Bidirectionally Modulates Macrophage Polarization and Epigenetically Regulates Macrophage Memory

Emodin inhibits M1 macrophage activation that related to acute and chronic kidney injury through EGFR/MAPK pathway

BACKGROUND

Macrophages are the main inflammatory cells involved in kidney injury and play a significant role in the development of acute kidney injury (AKI) and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Emodin is believed to stabilize macrophage homeostasis under pathological conditions. The objective of this study aimed to explore the underlying mechanisms and effects of Emodin on M1 macrophages.

METHODS

Network pharmacology methods were used to predict target proteins associated with renal injury and identify the pathways affected by emodin. RAW264.7 macrophages were induced into M1 polarization using LPS and then treated with emodin at 20, 40, and 80 µM. The effects of emodin on cell viability, cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α), M1 macrophage markers (F4/80 + CD86+), and the EGFR/MAPK pathway were evaluated. Additionally, we transfected RAW264.7 cells with an EGFR shRNA interference lentivirus to assess its effects on RAW264.7 cells function and MAPK pathway. After RAW264.7 cells were passaged to expanded culture and transfected with EGFR-interfering plasmid, macrophages were induced to polarize towards M1 with LPS and then treated with 80 µM emodin. CKD modeling was performed to test how emodin is regulated during CKD.

RESULTS

There are 15 common targets between emodin and kidney injury, of which the EGFR/MAPK pathway is the pathway through which emodin affects macrophage function. Emodin significantly reduced the levels of IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α (p < 0.05) and the ratio of M1 macrophage surface markers F4/80 + CD86+ (p < 0.01) in the supernatant of RAW264.7 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of emodin on RAW264.7 cells was achieved by interfering with the EGFR/MAPK pathway. Moreover, emodin also affected the mRNA and protein expression of EGFR and Ras, leading to a decrease in the rate of M1 macrophages, thus inhibiting the pro-inflammatory effect of M1 macrophages. The addition of emodin reduced the rate of M1 macrophages in CKD and inhibited the further polarization of M1 macrophages, thus maintaining the pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory homeostasis in CKD, and these effects were achieved by emodin through the control of the EGRF/ERK pathway.

CONCLUSION

Emodin attenuates M1 macrophage polarization and pro-inflammatory responses via the EGFR/MAPK signalling pathway. And the addition of emodin maintains pro- and anti-inflammatory homeostasis, which is important for maintaining organ function and tissue repair.

Biological impact and therapeutic implication of tumor-associated macrophages in hepatocellular carcinoma

The tumor microenvironment is a complex space comprised of normal, cancer and immune cells. The macrophages are considered as the most abundant immune cells in tumor microenvironment and their function in tumorigenesis is interesting. Macrophages can be present as M1 and M2 polarization that show anti-cancer and oncogenic activities, respectively. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) mainly have M2 polarization and they increase tumorigenesis due to secretion of factors, cytokines and affecting molecular pathways. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among predominant tumors of liver that in spite of understanding its pathogenesis, the role of tumor microenvironment in its progression still requires more attention. The presence of TAMs in HCC causes an increase in growth and invasion of HCC cells and one of the reasons is induction of glycolysis that such metabolic reprogramming makes HCC distinct from normal cells and promotes its malignancy. Since M2 polarization of TAMs stimulates tumorigenesis in HCC, molecular networks regulating M2 to M1 conversion have been highlighted and moreover, drugs and compounds with the ability of targeting TAMs and suppressing their M2 phenotypes or at least their tumorigenesis activity have been utilized. TAMs increase aggressive behavior and biological functions of HCC cells that can result in development of therapy resistance. Macrophages can provide cell-cell communication in HCC by secreting exosomes having various types of biomolecules that transfer among cells and change their activity. Finally, non-coding RNA transcripts can mainly affect polarization of TAMs in HCC.

Advancements in Utilizing Natural Compounds for Modulating Autophagy in Liver Cancer: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets

Autophagy, an intrinsic catabolic mechanism that eliminates misfolded proteins, dysfunctional organelles, and lipid droplets, plays a vital function in energy balance and cytoplasmic quality control, in addition to maintaining cellular homeostasis. Liver cancer such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common causes of cancer deaths globally and shows resistance to several anticancer drugs. Despite the rising incidence and poor prognosis of malignant HCC, the underlying molecular mechanisms driving this aggressive cancer remain unclear. Several natural compounds, such as phytochemicals of dietary and non-dietary origin, affect hepatocarcinogenesis signaling pathways in vitro and in vivo, which may help prevent and treat HCC cells. Current HCC cells treatments include chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. However, these standard therapies have substantial side effects, and combination therapy enhances side effects for an acceptable therapeutic benefit. Therefore, there is a need to develop treatment strategies for HCC cells that are more efficacious and have fewer adverse effects. Multiple genetic and epigenetic factors are responsible for the HCC cells to become resistant to standard treatment. Autophagy contributes to maintain cellular homeostasis, which activates autophagy for biosynthesis and mitochondrial regulation and recycling. Therefore, modifying autophagic signaling would present a promising opportunity to identify novel therapies to treat HCC cells resistant to current standard treatments. This comprehensive review illustrates how natural compounds demonstrate their anti-hepatocellular carcinoma function through autophagy.

Traditional Chinese medicine in regulating macrophage polarization in immune response of inflammatory diseases

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Numerous studies have demonstrated that various traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) exhibit potent anti-inflammatory effects against inflammatory diseases mediated through macrophage polarization and metabolic reprogramming.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The objective of this review was to assess and consolidate the current understanding regarding the pathogenic mechanisms governing macrophage polarization in the context of regulating inflammatory diseases. We also summarize the mechanism action of various TCMs on the regulation of macrophage polarization, which may contribute to facilitate the development of natural anti-inflammatory drugs based on reshaping macrophage polarization.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive review of recently published articles, utilizing keywords such as "macrophage polarization" and "traditional Chinese medicines" in combination with "inflammation," as well as "macrophage polarization" and "inflammation" in conjunction with "natural products," and similar combinations, to search within PubMed and Google Scholar databases.

RESULTS

A total of 113 kinds of TCMs (including 62 components of TCMs, 27 TCMs as well as various types of extracts of TCMs and 24 Chinese prescriptions) was reported to exert anti-inflammatory effects through the regulation of key pathways of macrophage polarization and metabolic reprogramming.

CONCLUSIONS

In this review, we have analyzed studies concerning the involvement of macrophage polarization and metabolic reprogramming in inflammation therapy. TCMs has great advantages in regulating macrophage polarization in treating inflammatory diseases due to its multi-pathway and multi-target pharmacological action. This review may contribute to facilitate the development of natural anti-inflammatory drugs based on reshaping macrophage polarization.

Panaxynol improves crypt and mucosal architecture, suppresses colitis-enriched microbes, and alters the immune response to mitigate colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an idiopathic inflammatory disease of the large intestine, which impacts millions worldwide. Current interventions aimed at treating UC symptoms can have off-target effects, invoking the need for alternatives that may provide similar benefits with less unintended consequences. This study builds on our initial data, which showed that panaxynol-a novel, potent, bioavailable compound found in American ginseng-can suppress disease severity in murine colitis. Here we explore the underlying mechanisms by which panaxynol improves both chronic and acute murine colitis. Fourteen-week-old C57BL/6 female mice were either given three rounds of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in drinking water to induce chronic colitis or one round to induce acute colitis. Vehicle or panaxynol (2.5 mg/kg) was administered via oral gavage three times per week for the study duration. Consistent with our previous findings, panaxynol significantly (P < 0.05) improved the disease activity index and endoscopic scores in both models. Using the acute model to examine potential mechanisms, we show that panaxynol significantly (P < 0.05) reduced DSS-induced crypt distortion, goblet cell loss, and mucus loss in the colon. 16S Sequencing revealed panaxynol altered microbial composition to suppress colitis-enriched genera (i.e., Enterococcus, Eubacterium, and Ruminococcus). In addition, panaxynol significantly (P < 0.05) suppressed macrophages and induced regulatory T-cells in the colonic lamina propria. The beneficial effects of panaxynol on mucosal and crypt architecture, combined with its microbial and immune-mediated effects, provide insight into the mechanisms by which panaxynol suppresses murine colitis. Overall, this data is promising for the use of panaxynol to improve colitis in the clinic.NEW & NOTEWORTHY In the current study, we report that panaxynol ameliorates chemically induced murine colitis by improving colonic crypt and mucosal architecture, suppressing colitis-enriched microbes, reducing macrophages, and promoting the differentiation of regulatory T-cells in the colonic lamina propria. This study suggests that this novel natural compound may serve as a safe and effective treatment option for colitis patients.

Potential of Plant-Derived Compounds in Preventing and Reversing Organ Fibrosis and the Underlying Mechanisms

Increased production of extracellular matrix is a necessary response to tissue damage and stress. In a normal healing process, the increase in extracellular matrix is transient. In some instances; however, the increase in extracellular matrix can persist as fibrosis, leading to deleterious alterations in organ structure, biomechanical properties, and function. Indeed, fibrosis is now appreciated to be an important cause of mortality and morbidity. Extensive research has illustrated that fibrosis can be slowed, arrested or even reversed; however, few drugs have been approved specifically for anti-fibrotic treatment. This is in part due to the complex pathways responsible for fibrogenesis and the undesirable side effects of drugs targeting these pathways. Natural products have been utilized for thousands of years as a major component of traditional medicine and currently account for almost one-third of drugs used clinically worldwide. A variety of plant-derived compounds have been demonstrated to have preventative or even reversal effects on fibrosis. This review will discuss the effects and the underlying mechanisms of some of the major plant-derived compounds that have been identified to impact fibrosis.

SMYD3 activates the TCA cycle to promote M1-M2 conversion in macrophages

BACKGROUND

SMYD3 refers to a histone lysine methyltransferase from the SMYD family, which acts as a gene transcriptional regulator chiefly through catalysis of the histone subunit 3 at lysine 4 trimethylation (H3K4me3). Great progress has been made that epigenetic modification plays a pivotal role in regulating macrophage polarization. However, the effects of the histone lysine methyltransferase SMYD3 on macrophage polarization and phenotypic switching are unclear.

RESULTS

We found that LPS/IFN-γ-stimulated macrophages gradually transformed from M1 to M2 in the late stage, and SMYD3 played a key role in this process. As demonstrated by RNA-seq assessment, SMYD3 prominently activated a metabolic pathway known as TCA cycle inside macrophages during M1-M2 conversion. Besides, by modifying H3K4me3 histone, the target genes regulated by SMYD3 were identified via the ChIP-seq assessment, including citrate synthase (CS), succinate dehydrogenase complex subunit C (SDHC) and pyruvate carboxylase (PC). SMYD3 activated the transcriptional activities of the metabolic enzymes CS, SDHC and PC through H3K4me3 by causing the aggregation of citrate, an intramacrophage metabolite, and the depletion of succinate. And additionally, it facilitated the generation of ROS, as well as the expressions of genes associated with mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes. This increased ROS production ultimately induced mitophagy, triggering the M1 to M2 phenotype switch in the macrophages.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provides a detailed intrinsic mechanism in the macrophage phenotypic transition process, in short, SMYD3 promotes the M1-M2 conversion of macrophages by activating the TCA cycle through the simultaneous regulation of the transcriptional activities of the metabolic enzymes CS, SDHC and PC.

Lapachol inhibits the growth of lung cancer by reversing M2-like macrophage polarization via activating NF-κB signaling pathway

Resetting tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) is a promising strategy to ameliorate the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) and improve innate and adaptive antitumor immunity. Lapachol, a naturally occurring 1,4-naphthoquinone, exhibits various pharmacological activities including antitumor, anti-leishmanial, antimalarial and antiseptic. In this study, we investigated the relevance of macrophage polarization and the antitumor effect of lapachol in Lewis lung cancer (LLC) both in vitro and in vivo. This study demonstrated that lapachol significantly reversed the polarization of M2-like macrophages thus that were endowed with the ability to kill LLC cells by activating NF-κB signaling pathway. Furthermore, lapachol effectively suppressed tumor growth in C57BL/6 mice bearing lung tumors by reducing the proportion of M2-like macrophages. Overall, our findings clearly illustrated that lapachol could reverse the polarization of M2-like macrophages to improve the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, and had the potential to be developed as an immunomodulatory antitumor agent.

Therapeutic Potential of 1,8-Dihydroanthraquinone Derivatives for Breast Cancer

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignancy among women worldwide. In recent years, significant progress has been made in BC therapy. However, serious side effects resulting from the use of standard chemotherapeutic drugs, as well as the phenomenon of multidrug resistance (MDR), limit the effectiveness of approved therapies. Advanced research in the BC area is necessary to create more effective and safer forms of therapy to improve the outlook for individuals diagnosed with this aggressive neoplasm. For decades, plants and natural products with anticancer properties have been successfully utilized in treating various medical conditions. Anthraquinone derivatives are tricyclic secondary metabolites of natural origin that have been identified in plants, lichens, and fungi. They represent a few botanical families, e.g., Rhamnaceae, Rubiaceae, Fabaceae, Polygonaceae, and others. The review comprehensively covers and analyzes the most recent advances in the anticancer activity of 1,8-dihydroanthraquinone derivatives (emodin, aloe-emodin, hypericin, chrysophanol, rhein, and physcion) applied both individually, or in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents, in in vitro and in vivo BC models. The application of nanoparticles for in vitro and in vivo evidence in the context of 1,8-dihydroanthraquinone derivatives was also described.

Emodin reduces surgical wounding-accelerated tumor growth and metastasis via macrophage suppression in a murine triple-negative breast cancer model

It has been suspected that tumor resection surgery itself may accelerate breast cancer (BC) lung metastasis in some patients. Emodin, a natural anthraquinone found in the roots and rhizomes of various plants, exhibits anticancer activity. We examined the perioperative use of emodin in our established surgery wounding murine BC model. Emodin reduced primary BC tumor growth and metastasis in the lungs in both sham and surgical wounded mice, consistent with a reduction in proliferation and enhanced apoptosis (primary tumor and lungs). Further, emodin reduced systemic inflammation, most notably the number of monocytes in the peripheral blood and reduced pro-tumoral M2 macrophages in the primary tumor and the lungs. Consistently, we show that emodin reduces gene expression of select macrophage markers and associated cytokines in the primary tumor and lungs of wounded mice. Overall, we demonstrate that emodin is beneficial in mitigating surgical wounding accelerated lung metastasis in a model of triple-negative BC, which appears to be mediated, at least in part, by its actions on macrophages. These data support the development of emodin as a safe, low-cost, and effective agent to be used perioperatively to alleviate the surgery triggered inflammatory response and consequential metastasis of BC to the lungs.

Targeting different phenotypes of macrophages: A potential strategy for natural products to treat inflammatory bone and joint diseases

BACKGROUND

Macrophages, a key class of immune cells, have a dual role in inflammatory responses, switching between anti-inflammatory M2 and pro-inflammatory M1 subtypes depending on the specific environment. Greater numbers of M1 macrophages correlate with increased production of inflammatory chemicals, decreased osteogenic potential, and eventually bone and joint disorders. Therefore, reversing M1 macrophages polarization is advantageous for lowering inflammatory factors. To better treat inflammatory bone disorders in the future, it may be helpful to gain insight into the specific mechanisms and natural products that modulate macrophage polarization.

OBJECTIVE

This review examines the impact of programmed cell death and different cells in the bone microenvironment on macrophage polarization, as well as the effects of natural products on the various phenotypes of macrophages, in order to suggest some possibilities for the treatment of inflammatory osteoarthritic disorders.

METHODS

Using 'macrophage polarization,' 'M1 macrophage' 'M2 macrophage' 'osteoporosis,' 'osteonecrosis of femoral head,' 'osteolysis,' 'gouty arthritis,' 'collagen-induced arthritis,' 'freund's adjuvant-induced arthritis,' 'adjuvant arthritis,' and 'rheumatoid arthritis' as search terms, the relevant literature was searched using the PubMed, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science databases.

RESULTS

Targeting macrophages through different signaling pathways has become a key mechanism for the treatment of inflammatory bone and joint diseases, including HIF-1α, NF-κB, AKT/mTOR, JAK1/2-STAT1, NF-κB, JNK, ERK, p-38α/β, p38/MAPK, PI3K/AKT, AMPK, AMPK/Sirt1, STAT TLR4/NF-κB, TLR4/NLRP3, NAMPT pathway, as well as the programmed cell death autophagy, pyroptosis and ERS.

CONCLUSION

As a result of a search of databases, we have summarized the available experimental and clinical evidence supporting herbal products as potential treatment agents for inflammatory osteoarthropathy. In this paper, we outline the various modulatory effects of natural substances targeting macrophages in various diseases, which may provide insight into drug options and directions for future clinical trials. In spite of this, more mechanistic studies on natural substances, as well as pharmacological, toxicological, and clinical studies are required.

H3 histone methylation landscape in male urogenital cancers: from molecular mechanisms to epigenetic biomarkers and therapeutic targets

During the last decades, male urogenital cancers (including prostate, renal, bladder and testicular cancers) have become one of the most frequently encountered malignancies affecting all ages. While their great variety has promoted the development of various diagnosis, treatment and monitoring strategies, some aspects such as the common involvement of epigenetic mechanisms are still not elucidated. Epigenetic processes have come into the spotlight in the past years as important players in the initiation and progression of tumors, leading to a plethora of studies highlighting their potential as biomarkers for diagnosis, staging, prognosis, and even as therapeutic targets. Thus, fostering research on the various epigenetic mechanisms and their roles in cancer remains a priority for the scientific community. This review focuses on one of the main epigenetic mechanisms, namely, the methylation of the histone H3 at various sites and its involvement in male urogenital cancers. This histone modification presents a great interest due to its modulatory effect on gene expression, leading either to activation (e.g., H3K4me3, H3K36me3) or repression (e.g., H3K27me3, H3K9me3). In the last few years, growing evidence has demonstrated the aberrant expression of enzymes that methylate/demethylate histone H3 in cancer and inflammatory diseases, that might contribute to the initiation and progression of such disorders. We highlight how these particular epigenetic modifications are emerging as potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers or targets for the treatment of urogenital cancers.

The absence of genotoxicity of Aloe vera beverages: A review of the literature

Aloe has a long history of topical and systemic use with testimonials of countless health benefits and is one of the most popular botanical medicines in the world for the management of a wide variety both of benign and serious ailments including irritable bowel syndromes, osteoarthritis, Type II diabetes mellitus, and viral respiratory illness. The human consumption of Aloe vera extract in beverage form has substantially grown over the last several decades, in no small part, due to the increased consumer interest in alternative approaches to health benefits. The principal aim of the present paper is to characterize the research to date that has explored the genotoxic potential of Aloe vera inner leaf gel extract and decolorized whole leaf extract used in commercially available food-grade drinkable products which contain no more than 10 ppm aloin. Despite prevailing public health opinion, especially in Europe, the consensus of the reviewed studies retrieved from the peer-reviewed literature together with a mutagenic evaluation of an Aloe vera whole leaf decolorized spray-dried powder is that these products are not genotoxic.

Trained immunity in monocyte/macrophage: Novel mechanism of phytochemicals in the treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease

Atherosclerosis (AS) is the pathology of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD), characterized by persistent chronic inflammation in the vessel wall, in which monocytes/macrophages play a key role. It has been reported that innate immune system cells can assume a persistent proinflammatory state after short stimulation with endogenous atherogenic stimuli. The pathogenesis of AS can be influenced by this persistent hyperactivation of the innate immune system, which is termed trained immunity. Trained immunity has also been implicated as a key pathological mechanism, leading to persistent chronic inflammation in AS. Trained immunity is mediated via epigenetic and metabolic reprogramming and occurs in mature innate immune cells and their bone marrow progenitors. Natural products are promising candidates for novel pharmacological agents that can be used to prevent or treat cardiovascular diseases (CVD). A variety of natural products and agents exhibiting antiatherosclerotic abilities have been reported to potentially interfere with the pharmacological targets of trained immunity. This review describes in as much detail as possible the mechanisms involved in trained immunity and how phytochemicals of this process inhibit AS by affecting trained monocytes/macrophages.

Tumor-associated macrophages in tumor progression and the role of traditional Chinese medicine in regulating TAMs to enhance antitumor effects

Purpose

To emphasize the importance of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in tumor immunity and to describe the ways in which extracts from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) achieve tumor therapy by modulating macrophages.

Significance

By summarizing these available data, this review focused on TAMs and TCM and can build the foundation for future research on antitumor therapeutics.

Methods

In this review, we summarized the key functions of TAMs in cancer development and overviewed literature on TCM targeting TAMs together with other immune cells aiming to enhance antitumor immunity.

Conclusions

With an indispensable role in antitumor immunity, TAMs contribute to tumor progression, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, and immunosuppressive microenvironment. In recent years, TCM has gradually gained attention as a potential antitumor adjunctive therapy in preclinical and clinical trials. TCM is also a regulator of cytokine secretion and cell surface molecule expression in balancing the tumor microenvironment (TME), especially macrophage activation and polarization. Therefore, it is believed that TCM could serve as modifiers with immunomodulatory capability.

Mechanism of Emodin in the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic, and autoimmune disease, and its main pathological changes are inflammatory cell infiltration accompanied by the secretion and accumulation of a variety of related cytokines, which induce the destruction of cartilage and bone tissue. Therefore, the modulation of inflammatory cells and cytokines is a key therapeutic target for controlling inflammation in RA. This review details the effects of emodin on the differentiation and maturation of T lymphocytes, dendritic cells, and regulatory T cells. In addition, the systematic introduction of emodin directly or indirectly affects proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1, IL-1β, IL-17, IL-19, and M-CSF) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (the secretion of IL-4, IL-10, IL-13, and TGF-β) through the coregulation of a variety of inflammatory cytokines to inhibit inflammation in RA and promote recovery. Understanding the potential mechanism of emodin in the treatment of RA in detail provides a systematic theoretical basis for the clinical application of emodin in the future.

Effects of Anthraquinones on Immune Responses and Inflammatory Diseases

The anthraquinones (AQs) and derivatives are widely distributed in nature, including plants, fungi, and insects, with effects of anti-inflammation and anti-oxidation, antibacterial and antiviral, anti-osteoporosis, anti-tumor, etc. Inflammation, including acute and chronic, is a comprehensive response to foreign pathogens under a variety of physiological and pathological processes. AQs could attenuate symptoms and tissue damages through anti-inflammatory or immuno-modulatory effects. The review aims to provide a scientific summary of AQs on immune responses under different pathological conditions, such as digestive diseases, respiratory diseases, central nervous system diseases, etc. It is hoped that the present paper will provide ideas for future studies of the immuno-regulatory effect of AQs and the therapeutic potential for drug development and clinical use of AQs and derivatives.

Emodin suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma growth by regulating macrophage polarization via microRNA-26a/transforming growth factor beta 1/protein kinase B

Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that M2 macrophages contribute to the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Emodin is an anti-tumor agent and potentially regulates macrophage polarization. This study aims to explore the effect of emodin on M2 polarization in HCC and its underlying mechanism. After co-culture systems of M2 macrophages and HCC (HepG2 and Huh7) cells were established, it was shown that co-culture with M2 macrophages could promote both the proliferation and invasion of HepG2 and Huh7 cells. Emodin induces the transformation of M2 to M1 macrophages, thereby inhibiting the proliferation and invasion of HepG2 and Huh7 cells mediated by co-culturing with M2 macrophages. Based on bioinformatics analysis and in vitro validation, it was found that the effect of emodin on M2 polarization was regulated by the microRNA-26a (miR-26)/Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1)/Protein kinase B (Akt) axis. In vivo analysis showed that co-culturing with M2 macrophages markedly facilitated the growth of HepG2 cells, which was significantly inhibited by emodin. Western blot analysis on xenografts confirmed that emodin could induce transformation of M2 to M1 macrophages and reverse the up-regulation of PCNA, TGF-β1, and p-Akt induced by M2 macrophages. In summary, our findings uncover a novel mechanism behind the anti-tumor effects of emodin that regulates M2 polarization via miR-26a/TGF-β1/Akt to suppress HCC growth.

Emodin reduces tumor burden by diminishing M2-like macrophages in colorectal cancer

Emodin, a natural anthraquinone, has been shown to have antitumorigenic properties and may be an effective therapy for colorectal cancer (CRC). However, its clinical development has been hampered by a poor understanding of its mechanism of action. The purpose of this study was to 1) evaluate the efficacy of emodin in mouse models of intestinal/colorectal cancer and 2) to examine the impact of emodin on macrophage behavior in the context of CRC. We used a genetic model of intestinal cancer (Apc^Min/+) and a chemically induced model of CRC [azoxymethane/dextran sodium sulfate (AOM/DSS)]. Emodin was administered orally (40 or 80 mg/kg in AOM/DSS and 80 mg/kg in Apc^Min/+) three times a week to observe its preventative effects. Emodin reduced polyp count and size in both rodent models (P < 0.05). We further analyzed the colon microenvironment of AOM/DSS mice and found that mice treated with emodin exhibited lower protumorigenic M2-like macrophages and a reduced ratio of M2/M1 macrophages within the colon (P < 0.05). Despite this, we did not detect any significant changes in M2-associated cytokines (IL10, IL4, and Tgfb1) nor M1-associated cytokines (IL6, TNFα, IL1β, and IFNγ) within excised polyps. However, there was a significant increase in NOS2 expression (M1 marker) in mice treated with 80 mg/kg emodin (P < 0.05). To confirm emodin's effects on macrophages, we exposed bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) to C26 colon cancer cell conditioned media. Supporting our in vivo data, emodin reduced M2-like macrophages. Overall, these data support the development of emodin as a natural compound for prevention of CRC given its ability to target protumor macrophages.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Our study confirms that emodin is an effective primary therapy against the onset of genetic and chemically induced sporadic colorectal cancer. We established that emodin reduces the M2-like protumorigenic macrophages in the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, we provide evidence that emodin may be acting to antagonize the P2X7 receptor within the bone tissue and consequently decrease the activation of proinflammatory cells, which may have implications for recruitment of cells to the tumor microenvironment.

Advances in the study of emodin: an update on pharmacological properties and mechanistic basis

Rhei Radix et Rhizoma, also known as rhubarb or Da Huang, has been widely used as a spice and as traditional herbal medicine for centuries, and is currently marketed in China as the principal herbs in various prescriptions, such as Da-Huang-Zhe-Chong pills and Da-Huang-Qing-Wei pills. Emodin, a major bioactive anthraquinone derivative extracted from rhubarb, represents multiple health benefits in the treatment of a host of diseases, such as immune-inflammatory abnormality, tumor progression, bacterial or viral infections, and metabolic syndrome. Emerging evidence has made great strides in clarifying the multi-targeting therapeutic mechanisms underlying the efficacious therapeutic potential of emodin, including anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti-fibrosis, anti-tumor, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-diabetic properties. This comprehensive review aims to provide an updated summary of recent developments on these pharmacological efficacies and molecular mechanisms of emodin, with a focus on the underlying molecular targets and signaling networks. We also reviewed recent attempts to improve the pharmacokinetic properties and biological activities of emodin by structural modification and novel material-based targeted delivery. In conclusion, emodin still has great potential to become promising therapeutic options to immune and inflammation abnormality, organ fibrosis, common malignancy, pathogenic bacteria or virus infections, and endocrine disease or disorder. Scientifically addressing concerns regarding the poor bioavailability and vague molecular targets would significantly contribute to the widespread acceptance of rhubarb not only as a dietary supplement in food flavorings and colorings but also as a health-promoting TCM in the coming years.

Emodin alleviates hypertrophic scar formation by suppressing macrophage polarization and inhibiting the Notch and TGF-β pathways in macrophages

Hypertrophic scar (HS) formation is a common complication that develops after skin injury; however, there are few effective and specific therapeutic approaches for HS. Emodin has previously been reported to inhibit mechanical stress-induced HS inflammation. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the inhibitory effects of emodin on HS formation. First, we conducted in vitro assays that revealed that emodin inhibited M1 and M2 polarization in rat macrophages. We subsequently established a combined rat model of tail HS and dorsal subcutaneous polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) sponge-induced wounds. Rats were treated with emodin or vehicle (DMEM). Tail scar specimens were harvested at 14, 28, and 42 days post-incision and subjected to H&E staining and Masson's trichrome staining. Histopathological analyses confirmed that emodin attenuated HS formation and fibrosis. Macrophages were separated from wound cells collected from the PVA sponge at 3 and 7 days after implantation. Flow cytometry analysis demonstrated that emodin suppressed in vivo macrophage recruitment and polarization at the wound site. Finally, we explored the molecular mechanisms of emodin in modulating macrophage polarization by evaluating the expression levels of selected effectors of the Notch and TGF-β pathways in macrophages isolated from PVA sponges. Western blot and qPCR assays showed that Notch1, Notch4, Hes1, TGF-β, and Smad3 were downregulated in response to emodin treatment. Taken together, our findings suggested that emodin attenuated HS formation and fibrosis by suppressing macrophage polarization, which is associated with the inhibition of the Notch and TGF-β pathways in macrophages.

Emodin inhibits lipid accumulation and inflammation in adipose tissue of high-fat diet-fed mice by inducing M2 polarization of adipose tissue macrophages

Adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) represent the most abundant leukocytes in adipose tissue (AT). An increase in number and a phenotypical switch of ATMs during the development of obesity contribute to chronic inflammation and metabolic disorders, which have been regarded as potential therapeutic targets to restore AT homeostasis. Emodin has been shown to exert strong anti-inflammatory property via acting on macrophages in a range of disease models. However, whether emodin exerts a beneficial effect on obesity via modulating ATMs has not been reported. In high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice, emodin significantly inhibited the increase of body weight and lipid accumulation in ATs. Emodin apparently reduced glucose and insulin levels and ameliorated serum lipid profiles in HFD-fed mice. Moreover, the local and systemic inflammation was dramatically alleviated by emodin. We next discovered that M2 macrophage percentage was greatly increased by emodin although total ATMs was not altered, which resulted in a net increase of M2 macrophages in AT. In vitro studies confirmed that emodin promoted the polarization of macrophages towards M2. Gene ontology (GO) analysis showed that myeloid leukocyte differentiation and activation were among the most significant biological processes in emodin-treated ATMs. We further identified that TREM2 was the most dramatically upregulated molecule by emodin and emodin-induced M2 macrophage polarization was dependent on TREM2. Furthermore, silencing TREM2 apparently abrogated the effect of emodin on AT inflammation and adipogenesis. We, for the first time, disclosed that emodin inhibited obesity by promoting M2 macrophage polarization via TREM2, suggesting that emodin may be explored as a clinical and translational candidate in preventing obesity and its related metabolic diseases.

The roles of macrophage polarization in the host immune response to sepsis

Sepsis is a life-threatening clinical syndrome caused by infection. Its pathogenesis is complex and entails coagulation dysfunction, inflammation, and immune disorders. Macrophages are important components of innate and adaptive immunity that are highly heterogeneous and plastic. They can polarize into a multi-dimensional spectrum of phenotypes with different functions relating to immune regulation in response to changes in the microenvironment of specific tissues. We reviewed studies that examined the role of macrophage polarization with a focus on the classical activated (M1-like) and alternative activated (M2-like) macrophages as the two main phenotypes involved in the host immune response to sepsis. A complex regulatory network is involved in the process of macrophage polarization, which is influenced by a variety of signaling molecules, transcription factors, epigenetic modifications, and metabolic reprogramming. M1-like macrophages release large quantities of pro-inflammatory mediators, while M2-like macrophages release large quantities of anti-inflammatory mediators. An imbalance between M1-like and M2-like macrophages induces the occurrence and development of sepsis. Therefore, targeted regulation of the process of macrophage polarization could be a useful approach to normalize the immune balance of the host, offering a new treatment modality for different stages of sepsis.

Hypothermia Protects Mice Against Ischemic Stroke by Modulating Macrophage Polarization Through Upregulation of Interferon Regulatory Factor-4

Background

Therapeutic hypothermia (TH) has been proven to be protective in ischemic stroke (IS) due to its anti-inflammatory capacity. Recently, the interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4) has been characterized as a central regulator of neuroinflammation in IS. Here we aim to determine whether IFR4 contributes to the neuroprotective effects of TH in IS.

Methods

In the present study, IRF4 knockout (IRF4^−/-) and wild-type (IRF4^+/+) mice were treated with or without TH after IS. Cerebral IRF4 expression, the production of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines and macrophage polarization were determined at 8 hours after reperfusion. In addition, cerebral infarct volume and neurological function were evaluated at 7 days after IS.

Results

TH attenuates IS together with enhanced IRF4 expression as well as reduced production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, TH increased M2 macrophage polarization while inhibited M1 macrophage polarization. However, IRF4 knockout worsens neurological outcomes of stoke mice. The expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines were markedly increased in IRF4^−/- mice as compared with IRF4^+/+ mice at 8 h after stroke. Moreover, IRF4 knockout driven the macrophage polarization toward M1phenotype at 8 h after stroke. Most importantly, IRF4 knockout abolished the neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of TH in IS.

Conclusion

Together, we report for the first time that TH attenuates neuroinflammation following IS by modulating M1/M2 macrophage polarization through the upregulation of IRF4 expression.

The Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Phytochemicals and Their Effects on Epigenetic Mechanisms Involved in TLR4/NF-κB-Mediated Inflammation

Innate immune response induces positive inflammatory transducers and regulators in order to attack pathogens, while simultaneously negative signaling regulators are transcribed to maintain innate immune homeostasis and to avoid persistent inflammatory immune responses. The gene expression of many of these regulators is controlled by different epigenetic modifications. The remarkable impact of epigenetic changes in inducing or suppressing inflammatory signaling is being increasingly recognized. Several studies have highlighted the interplay of histone modification, DNA methylation, and post-transcriptional miRNA-mediated modifications in inflammatory diseases, and inflammation-mediated tumorigenesis. Targeting these epigenetic alterations affords the opportunity of attenuating different inflammatory dysregulations. In this regard, many studies have identified the significant anti-inflammatory properties of distinct naturally-derived phytochemicals, and revealed their regulatory capacity. In the current review, we demonstrate the signaling cascade during the immune response and the epigenetic modifications that take place during inflammation. Moreover, we also provide an updated overview of phytochemicals that target these mechanisms in macrophages and other experimental models, and go on to illustrate the effects of these phytochemicals in regulating epigenetic mechanisms and attenuating aberrant inflammation.

Macrophage polarization: an effective approach to targeted therapy of inflammatory bowel disease

Introduction: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a systemic disease with immune abnormalities that can affect the entire digestive tract. A high percentage of patients with IBD are unresponsive to current pharmacological agents, hence the need exists for novel therapeutic approaches. There is compelling evidence that macrophage polarization plays a key role in the remission of IBD patients and that it could open up future treatment options for patients.Areas covered: This paper highlights the crucial role of macrophage polarization in IBD. The authors shed light on the phenotype and function of macrophages and potential drug targets for polarization regulation. Existing approaches for regulating macrophage polarization are discussed and potential solutions for safety concerns are considered. We performed a literature search on the IBD and macrophage polarization mainly published in PubMed January 2010-July 2020.Expert opinion: Evidence indicates that there are fewer M2 macrophages and a high proportion of M1 macrophages in the intestinal tissues of individuals who are non- responsive to treatment. Regulating macrophage polarization is a potential novel targeted option for IBD treatment. Improved mechanistic insights are required to uncover more precise and effective targets for skewing macrophages into a proper phenotype.

TFEB is a master regulator of tumor-associated macrophages in breast cancer

Background

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play key roles in the development of many malignant solid tumors including breast cancer. They are educated in the tumor microenvironment (TME) to promote tumor growth, metastasis, and therapy resistance. However, the phenotype of TAMs is elusive and how to regulate them for therapeutic purpose remains unclear; therefore, TAM-targeting therapies have not yet achieved clinical success. The purposes of this study were to examine the role of transcription factor EB (TFEB) in regulating TAM gene expression and function and to determine if TFEB activation can halt breast tumor development.

Methods

Microarrays were used to analyze the gene expression profile of macrophages (MΦs) in the context of breast cancer and to examine the impact of TFEB overexpression. Cell culture studies were performed to define the mechanisms by which TFEB affects MΦ gene expression and function. Mouse studies were carried out to investigate the impact of MΦ TFEB deficiency or activation on breast tumor growth. Human cancer genome data were analyzed to reveal the prognostic value of TFEB and its regulated genes.

Results

TAM-mimic MΦs display a unique gene expression profile, including significant reduction in TFEB expression. TFEB overexpression favorably modulates TAM gene expression through multiple signaling pathways. Specifically, TFEB upregulates suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) expression and autophagy/lysosome activities, inhibits NLRP3 (NLR Family Pyrin Domain Containing 3) inflammasome and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α mediated hypoxia response, and thereby suppresses an array of effector molecules in TAMs including arginase 1, interleukin (IL)-10, IL-1β, IL-6 and prostaglandin E2. MΦ-specific TFEB deficiency promotes, while activation of TFEB using the natural disaccharide trehalose halts, breast tumor development by modulating TAMs. Analysis of human patient genome database reveals that expression levels of TFEB, SOCS3 and PPARγ are positive prognostic markers, while HIF-1α is a negative prognostic marker of breast cancer.

Conclusions

Our study identifies TFEB as a master regulator of TAMs in breast cancer. TFEB controls TAM gene expression and function through multiple autophagy/lysosome-dependent and independent pathways. Therefore, pharmacological activation of TFEB would be a promising therapeutic approach to improve the efficacy of existing treatment including immune therapies for breast cancer by favorably modulating TAM function and the TME.

Immunobiology and Application of Aloe Vera-Based Scaffolds in Tissue Engineering

Aloe vera (AV), a succulent plant belonging to the Liliaceae family, has been widely used for biomedical and pharmaceutical application. Its popularity stems from several of its bioactive components that have anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and even immunomodulatory effects. Given such unique multi-modal biological impact, AV has been considered as a biomaterial for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering applications, where tissue repair and neo-angiogenesis are vital. This review outlines the growing scientific evidence that demonstrates the advantage of AV as tissue engineering scaffolds. We particularly highlight the recent advances in the application of AV-based scaffolds. From a tissue engineering perspective, it is pivotal that the implanted scaffolds strike an appropriate foreign body response to be well-accepted in the body without complications. Herein, we highlight the key cellular processes that regulate the foreign body response to implanted scaffolds and underline the immunomodulatory effects incurred by AV on the innate and adaptive system. Given that AV has several beneficial components, we discuss the importance of delving deeper into uncovering its action mechanism and thereby improving material design strategies for better tissue engineering constructs for biomedical applications.

Immunomodulating Properties of Humic Acids Extracted from Oligotrophic Sphagnum magellanicum Peat

Humic acids extracted with sodium pyrophosphate from Oligotrophic Sphagnum magellanicum peat reduce mitogen-stimulated production of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 by mouse peritoneal macrophages and do not affect the secretion of IL-4 by lymphocytes. The studied humic acid sample stimulates the production of proinflammatory cytokines IL-12, TNFα, IL-1β, and IFNγ by immunocompetent mouse cells and human mononuclear cells. Course administration of humic acids to mice enhances the humoral immunity, increasing the number of antibody-forming cells in the spleen and the titer of antibodies in the blood serum after immunization with sheep red blood cells.

Safety of natural anthraquinone emodin: an assessment in mice

BACKGROUND

Emodin, a natural anthraquinone, has shown potential as an effective therapeutic agent in the treatment of many diseases including cancer. However, its clinical development is hindered by uncertainties surrounding its potential toxicity. The primary purpose of this study was to uncover any potential toxic properties of emodin in mice at doses that have been shown to have efficacy in our cancer studies. In addition, we sought to assess the time course of emodin clearance when administered both intraperitoneally (I.P.) and orally (P.O.) in order to begin to establish effective dosing intervals.

METHODS

We performed a subchronic (12 week) toxicity study using 3 different doses of emodin (~ 20 mg/kg, 40 mg/kg, and 80 mg/kg) infused into the AIN-76A diet of male and female C57BL/6 mice (n = 5/group/sex). Body weight and composition were assessed following the 12-week feeding regime. Tissues were harvested and assessed for gross pathological changes and blood was collected for a complete blood count and evaluation of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and creatinine. For the pharmacokinetic study, emodin was delivered intraperitoneally I.P. or P.O. at 20 mg/kg or 40 mg/kg doses to male and female mice (n = 4/group/sex/time-point) and circulating levels of emodin were determined at 1, 4 and 12 h following administration via liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis.

RESULTS

We found that 12 weeks of low (20 mg/kg), medium (40 mg/kg), or high (80 mg/kg) emodin feeding did not cause pathophysiological perturbations in major organs. We also found that glucuronidated emodin peaks at 1 h for both I.P. and P.O. administered emodin and is eliminated by 12 h. Interestingly, female mice appear to metabolize emodin at a faster rate than male mice as evidenced by greater levels of glucuronidated emodin at the 1 h time-point (40 mg/kg for both I.P. and P.O. and 20 mg/kg I.P.) and the 4-h time-point (20 mg/kg I.P.).

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, our studies establish that 1) emodin is safe for use in both male and female mice when given at 20, 40, and 80 mg/kg doses for 12 weeks and 2) sex differences should be considered when establishing dosing intervals for emodin treatment.

Identification of histone acetylation in a murine model of allergic asthma by proteomic analysis

The pathogenesis of asthma is closely related to histone acetylation modification, but the specific acetylation sites related to this process remain indistinct. Herein, our study sought to identify differentially modified acetylation sites and their expression distribution in cells involved in asthma in lung tissues. The airway hyper-responsiveness, inflammation, and remodeling were assessed by non-invasive whole-body plethysmography, ELISA, and hematoxylin-eosin staining to confirm the successful establishment of the allergic asthma model. Afterward, the differentially modified acetylation sites in asthmatic lung tissues were identified and validated by using proteomics and western blotting, respectively. The immunohistochemistry analysis was applied to reveal the distribution of identified acetylation sites in asthmatic lung tissues. A total of 15 differentially modified acetylation sites, including 13 upregulated (H3K9ac, H3K14ac, H3K18ac, H3K23ac,H3K27ac, H3K36ac, H2B1KK120ac, H2B2BK20ac, H2BK16ac, H2BK20ac, H2BK108ac, H2BK116ac, and H2BK120ac) and 2 downregulated (H2BK5ac and H2BK11ac) sites were identified and validated. Furthermore, immunohistochemical staining of lung tissues showed that nine of the identified histone acetylation sites (H2BK5, H2BK11, H3K18, H2BK116, H2BK20, H2BK120, H3K9, H3K36, and H3K27) were differentially expressed in airway epithelial cells, and the acetylation of identified H3 histones were observed in both eosinophil and perivascular inflammatory cells. Additionally, differential expression of histone acetylation sites was also observed in nucleus of airway epithelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, perivascular inflammatory cells, and airway smooth muscle cells. In conclusion, we identified potential acetylation sites associated with asthma pathogenesis. These findings may contribute greatly in the search for therapeutic approaches for allergic asthma.

Exposome and Immunity Training: How Pathogen Exposure Order Influences Innate Immune Cell Lineage Commitment and Function

Immune memory is a defining characteristic of adaptive immunity, but recent work has shown that the activation of innate immunity can also improve responsiveness in subsequent exposures. This has been coined “trained immunity” and diverges with the perception that the innate immune system is primitive, non-specific, and reacts to novel and recurrent antigen exposures similarly. The “exposome” is the cumulative exposures (diet, exercise, environmental exposure, vaccination, genetics, etc.) an individual has experienced and provides a mechanism for the establishment of immune training or immunotolerance. It is becoming increasingly clear that trained immunity constitutes a delicate balance between the dose, duration, and order of exposures. Upon innate stimuli, trained immunity or tolerance is shaped by epigenetic and metabolic changes that alter hematopoietic stem cell lineage commitment and responses to infection. Due to the immunomodulatory role of the exposome, understanding innate immune training is critical for understanding why some individuals exhibit protective phenotypes while closely related individuals may experience immunotolerant effects (e.g., the order of exposure can result in completely divergent immune responses). Research on the exposome and trained immunity may be leveraged to identify key factors for improving vaccination development, altering inflammatory disease development, and introducing potential new prophylactic treatments, especially for diseases such as COVID-19, which is currently a major health issue for the world. Furthermore, continued exposome research may prevent many deleterious effects caused by immunotolerance that frequently result in host morbidity or mortality.

The pharmacology, toxicology and therapeutic potential of anthraquinone derivative emodin

Emodin (1, 3, 8-trihydroxy-6-methylanthraquinone) is a derived anthraquinone compound extracted from roots and barks of pharmaceutical plants, including Rheum palmatum, Aloe vera, Giant knotweed, Polygonum multiflorum and Polygonum cuspidatum. The review aims to provide a scientific summary of emodin in pharmacological activities and toxicity in order to identify the therapeutic potential for its use in human specific organs as a new medicine. Based on the fundamental properties, such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antivirs, anti-diabetes, immunosuppressive and osteogenesis promotion, emodin is expected to become an effective preventive and therapeutic drug of cancer, myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, diabetes, acute pancreatitis, asthma, periodontitis, fatty livers and neurodegenerative diseases. This article intends to provide a novel insight for further development of emodin, hoping to reveal the potential of emodin and necessity of further studies in this field.

Emodin reduces Breast Cancer Lung Metastasis by suppressing Macrophage-induced Breast Cancer Cell Epithelial-mesenchymal transition and Cancer Stem Cell formation

Our previous studies demonstrated that the natural compound emodin blocks the tumor-promoting feedforward interactions between cancer cells and macrophages, and thus ameliorates the immunosuppressive state of the tumor microenvironment. Since tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) also affect epithelial mesenchymal-transition (EMT) and cancer stem cell (CSC) formation, here we aimed to test if emodin as a neoadjuvant therapy halts breast cancer metastasis by attenuating TAM-induced EMT and CSC formation of breast cancer cells.

Methods: Bioinformatical analysis was performed to examine the correlation between macrophage abundance and EMT/CSC markers in human breast tumors. Cell culture and co-culture studies were performed to test if emodin suppresses TGF-β1 or macrophage-induced EMT and CSC formation of breast cancer cells, and if it inhibits breast cancer cell migration and invasion. Using mouse models, we tested if short-term administration of emodin before surgical removal of breast tumors halts breast cancer post-surgery metastatic recurrence in the lungs. The effects of emodin on TGF-β1 signaling pathways in breast cancer cells were examined by western blots and immunofluorescent imaging.

Results: Macrophage abundance positively correlates with EMT and CSC markers in human breast tumors. Emodin suppressed TGF-β1 production in breast cancer cells and macrophages and attenuated TGF-β1 or macrophage-induced EMT and CSC formation of breast cancer cells. Short-term administration of emodin before surgery halted breast cancer post-surgery metastatic recurrence in the lungs by reducing tumor-promoting macrophages and suppressing EMT and CSC formation in the primary tumors. Mechanistic studies revealed that emodin inhibited both canonical and noncanonical TGF-β1 signaling pathways in breast cancer cells and suppressed transcription factors key to EMT and CSC.

Conclusion: Natural compound emodin suppresses EMT and CSC formation of breast cancer cells by blocking TGF-β1-mediated crosstalk between TAMs and breast cancer cells. Our study provides evidence suggesting that emodin harbors the potential for clinical development as a new effective and safe agent to halt metastatic recurrence of breast cancer.

Targeting foam cell formation and macrophage polarization in atherosclerosis: The Therapeutic potential of rhubarb

Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease associated with high morbidity and mortality, is characterized by the accumulation of foam cells in the arterial wall. It has long been acknowledged that the formation of foam cells is caused by excess lipid uptake and abnormal cholesterol metabolism function. And increasing evidence shows that inhibiting foam cell formation is a promising way to suppress the development of atherosclerotic lesions. In addition to excess foam cells accumulation, inflammation is another major contributor of atherosclerotic lesions. Recently, macrophage polarization has been demonstrated to play a vital role in the regulation of inflammatory response. Generally, macrophages mainly polarized into two phenotypes: either classically activated pro-inflammatory M1 or alternatively activated anti-inflammatory M2. And targeting macrophage polarization has been considered as a feasible approach to prevent the development of atherosclerosis. At present, the anti-atherosclerosis drugs mainly classified into two types: lipid-lowering drugs and anti-inflammatory drugs. A large part of those drugs belong to western medicine, and various side effects are unavoidable. Interestingly, in recent years, Traditional Chinese medicine has attracted growing attention because of its good efficacy and low negative effects. Rhubarb (called Da Huang in Chinese) is a famous folk medicine with a wide spectrum of pharmacological effects, such as lipid-lowering and anti-inflammatory effects. In this review, we summarized current findings about the regulatory effects of Rhubarb on foam cell formation and macrophage polarization, with emphasis on the molecular mechanisms of action that have been revealed during the past two decades, to better understand its pivotal role in the treatment and prevention of atherosclerosis.

Transcriptomic analysis reveals diverse gene expression changes in airway macrophages during experimental allergic airway disease

Background: Airway macrophages (AMs) are the most abundant leukocytes in the healthy airway lumen and have a highly specialised but plastic phenotype that is governed by signals in the local microenvironment. AMs are thought to maintain immunological homeostasis in the steady state, but have also been implicated in the pathogenesis of allergic airway disease (AAD). In this study, we aimed to better understand these potentially contrasting AM functions using transcriptomic analysis. Methods: Bulk RNA sequencing was performed on AMs (CD11c + Siglec F + CD64 + CD45 + SSC hi) flow cytometry sorted from C57BL/6 mice during experimental AAD driven by repeated house dust mite inhalation (AMs HDM), compared to control AMs from non-allergic mice. Differentially expressed genes were further analysed by hierarchical clustering and biological pathway analysis. Results: AMs HDM showed increased expression of genes associated with antigen presentation, inflammatory cell recruitment and tissue repair, including several chemokine and matrix metalloproteinase genes. This was accompanied by increased expression of mitochondrial electron transport chain subunit genes and the retinoic acid biosynthetic enzyme gene Raldh2. Conversely, AMs HDM displayed decreased expression of a number of cell cycle genes, genes related to cytoskeletal functions and a subset of genes implicated in antimicrobial innate immunity, such as Tlr5, Il18 and Tnf. Differential gene expression in AMs HDM was consistent with upstream effects of the cytokines IL-4 and IFN-γ, both of which were present at increased concentrations in lung tissue after HDM treatment. Conclusions: These data highlight diverse gene expression changes in the total AM population in a clinically relevant mouse model of AAD, collectively suggestive of contributions to inflammation and tissue repair/remodelling, but with decreases in certain steady state cellular and immunological functions.

Transcriptomic analysis reveals diverse gene expression changes in airway macrophages during experimental allergic airway disease

Background: Airway macrophages (AMs) are the most abundant leukocytes in the healthy airway lumen and have a highly specialised but plastic phenotype that is governed by signals in the local microenvironment. AMs are thought to maintain immunological homeostasis in the steady state, but have also been implicated in the pathogenesis of allergic airway disease (AAD). In this study, we aimed to better understand these potentially contrasting AM functions using transcriptomic analysis. Methods: Bulk RNA sequencing was performed on AMs flow cytometry sorted from C57BL/6 mice during experimental AAD driven by repeated house dust mite inhalation (AMs HDM), compared to control AMs from non-allergic mice. Differentially expressed genes were further analysed by hierarchical clustering and biological pathway analysis. Results: AMs HDM showed increased expression of genes associated with antigen presentation, inflammatory cell recruitment and tissue repair, including several chemokine and matrix metalloproteinase genes. This was accompanied by increased expression of mitochondrial electron transport chain subunit genes and the retinoic acid biosynthetic enzyme gene Raldh2. Conversely, AMs HDM displayed decreased expression of a number of cell cycle genes, genes related to cytoskeletal functions and a subset of genes implicated in antimicrobial innate immunity, such as Tlr5, Il18 and Tnf. Differential gene expression in AMs HDM was consistent with upstream effects of the cytokines IL-4 and IFN-γ, both of which were present at increased concentrations in lung tissue after HDM treatment. Conclusions: These data highlight diverse gene expression changes in the total AM population in a clinically relevant mouse model of AAD, collectively suggestive of contributions to inflammation and tissue repair/remodelling, but with decreases in certain steady state cellular and immunological functions.

Natural products that target macrophages in treating non-alcoholic steatohepatitis

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is the progressive subtype of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and potentiates risks for both hepatic and metabolic diseases. Although the pathophysiology of NASH is not completely understood, recent studies have revealed that macrophage activation is a major contributing factor for the disease progression. Macrophages integrate the immune response and metabolic process and have become promising targets for NASH therapy. Natural products are potential candidates for NASH treatment and have multifactorial underlying mechanisms. Macrophage involvement in the development of steatosis and inflammation in NASH has been widely investigated. In this review, we assess the evidence for natural products or their active ingredients in the modulation of macrophage activation, recruitment, and polarization, as well as the metabolic status of macrophages. Our work may highlight the possible natural products that target macrophages as potential treatment options for NASH.

Dietary natural products as epigenetic modifiers in aging-associated inflammation and disease

Covering: up to 2020Chronic, low-grade inflammation is linked to aging and has been termed "inflammaging". Inflammaging is considered a key contributor to the development of metabolic dysfunction and a broad spectrum of diseases or disorders including declines in brain and heart function. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) coupled with epigenome-wide association studies (EWAS) have shown the importance of diet in the development of chronic and age-related diseases. Moreover, dietary interventions e.g. caloric restriction can attenuate inflammation to delay and/or prevent these diseases. Common themes in these studies entail the use of phytochemicals (plant-derived compounds) or the production of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) as epigenetic modifiers of DNA and histone proteins. Epigenetic modifications are dynamically regulated and as such, serve as potential therapeutic targets for the treatment or prevention of age-related disease. In this review, we will focus on the role for natural products that include phytochemicals and short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) as regulators of these epigenetic adaptations. Specifically, we discuss regulators of methylation, acetylation and acylation, in the protection from chronic inflammation driven metabolic dysfunction and deterioration of neurocognitive and cardiac function.

HDAC1 and HDAC2 regulate anti-inflammatory effects of anesthetic isoflurane in human monocytes

Pre-exposure to volatile anesthetics inhibits inflammation induced by various stimuli, including surgical procedures and ischemia. We hypothesize that volatile anesthetics may induce anti-inflammatory effects via a mechanism involving regulation of histone deacetylases (HDACs). Pre-exposure of 1.5% isoflurane for 0.5 h induced anti-inflammatory effects [measured by cytokine production of tumor necrosis factor-ɑ, interleukin-8 (IL-8) and IL-1β] in both human THP-1 cells and primary human peripheral blood monocytes stimulated by lipopolysaccharide. In human THP-1 cells, coadministration of the HDAC inhibitor trichostatin A (TSA) blocked the isoflurane-induced anti-inflammatory effects. TSA also blocked isoflurane-upregulated HDAC1-3 expression and isoflurane-reduced nuclear translocation of p65 and p50 subunits of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). The ability of isoflurane to reduce NF-κB nuclear translocation and proinflammatory responses in the cell line was blocked by gene silencing of HDAC1 and HDAC2, but not by gene silencing of HDAC3. A coimmunoprecipitation assay demonstrated that the decreased interaction between HDAC1 and HDAC2 through lipopolysaccharide was restored by isoflurane pretreatment. These findings were validated in primary human peripheral blood monocytes  wherein gene silencing of HDAC1 and HDAC2 resulted in increased cytokine production and NF-κB nuclear translocation induced by isoflurane pre-exposure and lipopolysaccharide stimulation. These results indicate that anti-inflammatory effects of the volatile anesthetic isoflurane in human monocytes involve regulation of HDAC1 and HDAC2.

Naturally occurring anti-cancer compounds: shining from Chinese herbal medicine

Numerous natural products originated from Chinese herbal medicine exhibit anti-cancer activities, including anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-metastatic, anti-angiogenic effects, as well as regulate autophagy, reverse multidrug resistance, balance immunity, and enhance chemotherapy in vitro and in vivo. To provide new insights into the critical path ahead, we systemically reviewed the most recent advances (reported since 2011) on the key compounds with anti-cancer effects derived from Chinese herbal medicine (curcumin, epigallocatechin gallate, berberine, artemisinin, ginsenoside Rg3, ursolic acid, silibinin, emodin, triptolide, cucurbitacin B, tanshinone I, oridonin, shikonin, gambogic acid, artesunate, wogonin, β-elemene, and cepharanthine) in scientific databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, Scopus, and Clinical Trials). With a broader perspective, we focused on their recently discovered and/or investigated pharmacological effects, novel mechanism of action, relevant clinical studies, and their innovative applications in combined therapy and immunomodulation. In addition, the present review has extended to describe other promising compounds including dihydroartemisinin, ginsenoside Rh2, compound K, cucurbitacins D, E, I, tanshinone IIA and cryptotanshinone in view of their potentials in cancer therapy. Up to now, the evidence about the immunomodulatory effects and clinical trials of natural anti-cancer compounds from Chinese herbal medicine is very limited, and further research is needed to monitor their immunoregulatory effects and explore their mechanisms of action as modulators of immune checkpoints.

Mechanical stretch promotes tumoricidal M1 polarization via the FAK/NF-κB signaling pathway

Macrophages (Mφs) can be used as a part of cell-based cancer immunotherapy. However, they may be hampered by a failure to effectively and stably regulate their polarization state to enhance their tumoricidal effects. In this work, mechanical stretch (MS), as a biology-free modulatory method, was shown to enhance M1 polarization and tumoricidal effects. By using an in vitro Flexcell Tension system, we found that murine Mφ RAW264.7 cells showed higher M1 polarization-related mRNA expression and cytokine release after MS. Further molecular analyses found that focal adhesion kinase and NF-κB activation occurred in the MS-induced M1 polarization. Coculture of MS-preconditioned Mφ with B16F10 skin melanoma cells in vitro showed that the proliferation of B16F10 cells decreased, whereas caspase-3-induced apoptosis increased. Importantly, the injection of MS-preconditioned Mφ into murine skin melanomas in vivo impeded tumor growth; lesions were characterized by increased amounts of M1 Mφ, decreased tumor cell proliferation, and increased tumor cell apoptosis in the tumor microenvironment. Together, our results suggest that MS could be used as a simple preconditioning approach to prepare tumoricidal M1 Mφ for cancer immunotherapy.-Shan, S., Fang, B., Zhang, Y., Wang, C., Zhou, J., Niu, C., Gao, Y., Zhao, D., He, J., Wang, J., Zhang, X., Li, Q. Mechanical stretch promotes tumoricidal M1 polarization via the FAK/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Anticancer activity of emodin is associated with downregulation of CD155

Emodin is a Chinese herb-derived compound that exhibits a variety of pharmacological benefits. Although emodin has been shown to inhibit growth of cancer cells, its antineoplastic function is incompletely understood. CD155 is a member of poliovirus receptor-related (PRR) family of adhesion molecules; it is constitutively expressed on many tumor cell lines and tissues and has diverse functions. CD155 has been reported to mediate activation of T cells via CD226 or inhibition of T cells via T-cell immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains (TIGIT). In addition, CD155 may play a critical role through non-immunological mechanisms in cancer. In this study, we tested the ability of emodin to modulate CD155 expression in cancer cells. We found that emodin significantly decreased the expression of CD155 in tumor cells and inhibited tumor cell proliferation and migration, and induced cell-cycle arrest at G2/M phase. The tumor inhibitory effects of emodin were lost with CD155 knockdown. Furthermore, emodin was used to treat mice bearing B16 melanoma. It was shown that emodin attenuated tumor growth accompanied by suppressing CD155 expression. Therefore, we propose that emodin could inhibit tumor growth, and the antineoplastic properties of emodin are at least partially CD155 dependent. Our study provides new insights into the mechanisms by which emodin inhibits tumor growth.

Emodin reactivated autophagy and alleviated inflammatory lung injury in mice with lethal endotoxemia

An uncontrolled inflammation induced critical health problems with serious morbidity and death, which namely acute lung injury (ALI). Recently researchs have found the anti-inflammatory effects of emodin. Here, we investigated the potential effects of emodin on a mouse model with a lethal dose of the potential mechanisms and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory lung injury in mice. The pulmonary histological abnormalities, the Evans blue’s leakage, the myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, the grades of TNF-α, IL-6, nitric oxide (NO), lactic acid (LA) in lung tissues were determined 18 h post exposure of LPS. Based on the expression of LC3-II with BECN1 was determined using Western blotting. Besides, the LPS-exposed mice for survival rate was monitored. The results indicated that intervention with emodin was important for mitigating LPS-induced pulmonary histological change and LPS-induced leakage of Evans blue, which were associated with suppressed elevation of MPO activity and inhibited up-regulation of TNF-α, IL-6, NO with LA in lung tissues. Moreover, intervention with emodin enhanced the survival rate of LPS-exposed mice. Finally, therapy with emodin increased the LC3 and BECN1 in lungs of LPS-exposed mice. Treatment with 3-MA (the autophagy inhibitor) reversed the beneficial effects of emodin. In conclusion, emodin might provide pharmacological benefits in LPS-induced inflammatory lung injury, and the mechanisms might be related to the restoration of autophagy.

M1 and M2 macrophage polarization and potentially therapeutic naturally occurring compounds

Macrophages, as crucial cellular components of innate immunity, are characterized by possessing high plasticity and an abnormal ability to differentiate in response to numerous stimuli. Given this, macrophages show extreme heterogeneity under both physiological and pathological conditions. Typically, macrophages can be polarized into classically activated macrophages (M1) and alternatively activated macrophages (M2) depending on their environment. The relative functions of these two subtypes are almost exactly opposed to one another. Recent studies have suggested that some naturally occurring compounds can exert regulatory effects on the progression of macrophage polarization, which implies that they could be promising therapeutic tools to treat relevant diseases. Therefore, in our current review, we summarize recent studies on several naturally occurring compounds that may possess the ability to regulate macrophage polarization and explore the associated molecular mechanisms.