IL-35 inhibits cell pyroptosis and attenuates cell injury in TNF-α-induced bronchial epithelial cells via p38 MAPK signaling pathway

IL-35 promotes IL-35+IL-10+ Bregs and Conventional LAG3+ Tregs in the lung tissue of OVA-Induced Asthmatic Mice

AIMS

This study aimed to investigate the effect of interleukin-35 (IL-35) on inflamed lung tissue in a murine model of asthma. IL-35 was examined for its potential to induce regulatory lymphocytes during ovalbumin (OVA)-induced acute lung injury.

METHODS

Female BALB/c mice sensitized with OVA and were treated with recombinant IL-35 (rIL-35) via intranasal or intraperitoneal routes and were administered 4 h before OVA challenge. The effects of rIL-35 treatment on the lung and blood levels of regulatory B cells (Bregs) and regulatory T cells (Tregs), as well as their production of immunosuppressive cytokines, were determined using flow cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively.

RESULTS

Treatment of OVA-sensitized asthmatic mice with rIL-35, whether administered intranasally or intraperitoneally, resulted in reduced lung inflammation and injury. This reduction was accompanied by an increase in the frequency of IL-35 producing Bregs, IL-35 and IL-10 producing Bregs, and conventional LAG3+ Tregs in the lung tissues and blood. This increase was more pronounced with intranasal rIL-35. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between the levels of these regulatory cells and lung gene expression of IL-35 and IL-10, and an inverse correlation with both lung gene expression and plasma level of IL-17.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest that IL-35, through its ability to increase Bregs and Tregs, is effective in reversing lung inflammation in the context of asthma. Since the increase was more pronounced with intranasal administration, this highlights the therapeutic potential of its local intrapulmonary application in managing asthma-related inflammation.

Knockdown of KIF23 alleviates the progression of asthma by inhibiting pyroptosis

BACKGROUND

Asthma is a chronic disease affecting the lower respiratory tract, which can lead to death in severe cases. The cause of asthma is not fully known, so exploring its potential mechanism is necessary for the targeted therapy of asthma.

METHOD

Asthma mouse model was established with ovalbumin (OVA). H&E staining, immunohistochemistry and ELISA were used to detect the inflammatory response in asthma. Transcriptome sequencing was performed to screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The role of KIF23 silencing in cell viability, proliferation and apoptosis was explored by cell counting kit-8, EdU assay and flow cytometry. Effects of KIF23 knockdown on inflammation, oxidative stress and pyroptosis were detected by ELISA and western blot. After screening KIF23-related signalling pathways, the effect of KIF23 on p53 signalling pathway was explored by western blot.

RESULTS

In the asthma model, the levels of caspase-3, IgG in serum and inflammatory factors (interleukin (IL)-1β, KC and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α) in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were increased. Transcriptome sequencing showed that there were 352 DEGs in the asthma model, and 7 hub genes including KIF23 were identified. Knockdown of KIF23 increased cell proliferation and inhibited apoptosis, inflammation and pyroptosis of BEAS-2B cells induced by IL-13 in vitro. In vivo experiments verified that knockdown of KIF23 inhibited oxidative stress, inflammation and pyroptosis to alleviate OVA-induced asthma mice. In addition, p53 signalling pathway was suppressed by KIF23 knockdown.

CONCLUSION

Knockdown of KIF23 alleviated the progression of asthma by suppressing pyroptosis and inhibited p53 signalling pathway.

Chlorpyrifos induces placental oxidative stress and barrier dysfunction by inducing mitochondrial apoptosis through the ERK/MAPK signaling pathway: In vitro and in vivo studies

Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is an organophosphorus pesticide that is widely used in agricultural production and residential environments worldwide. In this study, we determined the harmful effects and toxicological mechanism of CPF in porcine trophectoderm (pTr) cells and the placenta of female mice during pregnancy. The findings revealed that CPF significantly decreased cell viability and increased intracellular lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release in pTr cells. Similarly, CPF induced reproductive toxicity in pregnant maternal mice, including decreased maternal, fetal, and placental weights. Moreover, following CPF treatment, pTr cells and the placenta of female mice showed significant apoptosis. JC-1 staining and flow cytometry analysis also revealed that the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) of pTr cells treated with CPF was significantly depolarized. Additionally, CPF can induce an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and barrier dysfunction in pTr cells and the placenta of female mice. We further verified that CPF-induced mitochondrial apoptosis is mediated by the MAPK signaling pathway, as shown by using of small molecular inhibitors of related proteins. Also, CPF-induced oxidative stress, barrier dysfunction, and mitochondrial apoptosis in pTr cells were alleviated by U0126, an inhibitor of the ERK/MAPK signaling pathway. These findings suggested that exposure to CPF in early pregnancy might be a potential risk fator affecting placental formation and function in humans and animals.

Pmepa1 knockdown alleviates SpA-induced pyroptosis and osteogenic differentiation inhibition of hBMSCs via p38MAPK/NLRP3 axis

BACKGROUND

Osteomyelitis is a refractory bone infectious disease, which usually results in progressive bone destruction and bone loss. The invasion of pathogens and subsequent inflammatory response could damage bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and inhibit osteogenic differentiation, and finally aggravate uncontrolled bone remodeling in osteomyelitis by affecting bone formation. Exploring the mechanisms of BMSCs injury and osteogenic differentiation inhibition may would help us to find potential therapeutic targets.

METHOD

Firstly, staphylococcal protein A (SpA)-treated human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) were used to construct cell models of osteomyelitis. Secondly, transcriptome sequencing was performed to screen differentially expressed genes and then verified the expression of target genes. Next, in vitro experiments were conducted to explore the functions and mechanisms of prostate transmembrane protein androgen induced 1 (Pmepa1) in SpA-treated hBMSCs. Finally, the rat model of osteomyelitis was established to provide an auxiliary validation of the in vitro experimental results.

RESULTS

We found that SpA treatment induced inflammatory injury and inhibited osteogenic differentiation in hBMSCs, then the transcriptome sequencing and further detection results showed that Pmepa1 was significantly upregulated in this process. Functionally, Pmepa1 knockdown alleviated inflammatory injury and promoted osteogenic differentiation in SpA-treated hBMSCs. Among them, it was demonstrated that Pmepa1 knockdown exerted cytoprotective effects by alleviating pyroptosis of SpA-infected hBMSCs. Furthermore, recovery experiments revealed that Pmepa1 knockdown reversed SpA-mediated adverse effects by downregulating the p38MAPK/NLRP3 axis. Finally, the detection results of rat femoral osteomyelitis showed that the expression of Pmepa1 was up-regulated, and the expression trends of other indicators including p38MAPK, NLRP3, and caspase-1 were also consistent with the in vitro model.

CONCLUSION

Pmepa1 knockdown alleviates SpA-induced pyroptosis and inhibition of osteogenic differentiation in hBMSCs by downregulating p38MAPK/NLRP3 signaling axis. Modulating the expression of Pmepa1 may be a potential strategy to ameliorate osteomyelitis.

The epithelial barrier: The gateway to allergic, autoimmune, and metabolic diseases and chronic neuropsychiatric conditions

Since the 1960 s, our health has been compromised by exposure to over 350,000 newly introduced toxic substances, contributing to the current pandemic in allergic, autoimmune and metabolic diseases. The "Epithelial Barrier Theory" postulates that these diseases are exacerbated by persistent periepithelial inflammation (epithelitis) triggered by exposure to a wide range of epithelial barrier-damaging substances as well as genetic susceptibility. The epithelial barrier serves as the body's primary physical, chemical, and immunological barrier against external stimuli. A leaky epithelial barrier facilitates the translocation of the microbiome from the surface of the afflicted tissues to interepithelial and even deeper subepithelial locations. In turn, opportunistic bacterial colonization, microbiota dysbiosis, local inflammation and impaired tissue regeneration and remodelling follow. Migration of inflammatory cells to susceptible tissues contributes to damage and inflammation, initiating and aggravating many chronic inflammatory diseases. The objective of this review is to highlight and evaluate recent studies on epithelial physiology and its role in the pathogenesis of chronic diseases in light of the epithelial barrier theory.

Lutein attenuates Propionibacterium acnes-induced inflammation by inhibiting pyroptosis of human keratinocyte cells via TLR4/NLRP3/Caspase-1 pathway

BACKGROUND

Previous studies found Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) has a strong association with acne inflammation and cell pyroptosis. Because of the various side effects of current acne medicines, it is important to explore alternative drugs with anti-inflammatory activity against P. acnes. we explored the effect of Lutein on P. acnes-induced cell pyroptosis and accelerated the recovery of acne inflammation in vitro and vivo.

METHODS

Lutein was utilized to expose HaCaT keratinocytes, then we reassessed the effect of Lutein on the cell apoptosis, pyroptotic-associated inflammatory factors and catabolic enzymes in heat-killed P. acnes-treated HaCaT cells. Next, living P. acnes was intradermally injected into the right ears of ICR mice to induce mice with acne inflammation, and the effect of Lutein on living P. acnes-induced inflammation was investigated. Moreover, we explored the mechanism of Lutein on TLR4/NLRP3/Caspase-1 pathways by ELISA, immunofluorescence microscopy, and western blot assay.

RESULTS

Heat-killed P. acnes triggered remarkable cell pyroptosis, pyroptotic inflammatory factors and catabolic enzymes in HaCaT cells, including up-regulating interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-18, TNF-α, MMP3, MMP13, ADAMTS4, and ADAMTS5, TLR4, NLRP3, caspase-1, and the ratio of gasdermin D to cleaved gasdermin D, whereas these effects were suppressed by Lutein. In addition, Lutein effectively improved ear redness, swelling, and the expression of TLR4, IL-1β and TNF-α in vivo. Finally, NLRP3 activator (nigericin) increased caspase-1, IL-1β and IL-18 level, while TLR4 inhibitor (TAK-242) significantly blocked this effect in heat-killed P. acnes-treated cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Lutein attenuated P. acnes-caused pyroptosis of HaCaTs and the subsequent acne inflammation via the TLR4/NLRP3/Caspase-1 pathway.

Interleukin-35 and Interleukin-37 anti-inflammatory effect on inflammatory bowel disease: Application of non-coding RNAs in IBD therapy

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a widespread autoimmune disease that may even be life-threatening. IBD is divided into two major subtypes: ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Interleukin (IL)-35 and IL-37 are anti-inflammatory cytokines that belong to IL-12 and IL-1 families, respectively. Their recruitment relieves inflammation in various autoimmune diseases, including psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and IBD. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) and regulatory B cells (Bregs) are the primary producers of IL-35/IL-37. IL-35 and IL-37 orchestrate the regulation of the immune system through two main strategies: Blocking nuclear transcription factor kappa-B (NF-kB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways or promoting the proliferation of Tregs and Bregs. Moreover, IL-35 and IL-37 can also inhibit inflammation by adjusting the T helper (Th)17/Treg ratio balance. Among the anti-inflammatory cytokines, IL-35 and IL-37 have significant potential to reduce intestinal inflammation. Therefore, administering IL-35/IL-37-based drugs or blocking their inhibitor microRNAs could be a promising approach to alleviate IBD symptoms. Overall, in this review article, we summarized the therapeutic application of IL-35 and IL-37 in both human and experimental models of IBD. Also, it is hoped that this practical information will reach beyond IBD therapy and shed some light on treating all intestinal inflammations.

NJK14047 Suppression of the p38 MAPK Ameliorates OVA-Induced Allergic Asthma during Sensitization and Challenge Periods

p38 MAPK has been implicated in the pathogenesis of asthma as well as pro-allergic Th2 cytokines, orosomucoid-like protein isoform 3 (ORMDL3), regulation of sphingolipid biosynthesis, and regulatory T cell-derived IL-35. To elucidate the role of p38 MAPK in the pathogenesis of asthma, we examined the effect of NJK14047, an inhibitor of p38 MAPK, against ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic asthma; we administrated NJK14047 before OVA sensitization or challenge in BALB/c mice. As ORMDL3 regulation of sphingolipid biosynthesis has been implicated in childhood asthma, ORMDL3 expression and sphingolipids contents were also analyzed. NJK14047 inhibited antigen-induced degranulation of RBL-2H3 mast cells. NJK14047 administration both before OVA sensitization and challenge strongly inhibited the increase in eosinophil and lymphocyte counts in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. In addition, NJK14047 administration inhibited the increase in the levels of Th2 cytokines. Moreover, NJK14047 reduced the inflammatory score and the number of periodic acid-Schiff-stained cells in the lungs. Further, OVA-induced increase in the levels of C16:0 and C24:1 ceramides was not altered by NJK14047. These results suggest that p38 MAPK plays crucial roles in activation of dendritic and mast cells during sensitization and challenge periods, but not in ORMDL3 and sphingolipid biosynthesis.

The Molecular Role of IL-35 in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer and a common cause of cancer-related death. Better understanding of the molecular mechanisms, pathogenesis, and treatment of NSCLC can help improve patient outcomes. Significant progress has been made in the treatment of NSCLC, and immunotherapy can prolong patient survival. However, the overall cure and survival rates are low, especially in patients with advanced metastases. Interleukin-35 (IL-35), an immunosuppressive factor, is associated with the onset and prognosis of various cancers. Studies have shown that IL-35 expression is elevated in NSCLC, and it is closely related to the progression and prognosis of NSCLC. However, there are few studies on the mechanism of IL-35 in NSCLC. This study discusses the role of IL-35 and its downstream signaling pathways in the pathogenesis of NSCLC and provides new insights into its therapeutic potential.

Tanshinone IIA down-regulates -transforming growth factor beta 1 to relieve renal tubular epithelial cell inflammation and pyroptosis caused by high glucose

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a microvascular disease caused by diabetes. Tanshinone IIA has been indicated to ameliorate streptozotocin-induced DN. This study explores the effect of tanshinone IIA on high glucose-induced renal tubular epithelial cell pyroptosis and inflammation. High glucose-stimulated HK-2 cells were used as the in-vitro model of DN and were treated with tanshinone IIA at concentrations of 1, 5, 10 μM for 24 h with the same doses of tolbutamide as the control. After tanshinone IIA treatment, HK-2 cells were transfected with pcDNA-transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFB1) or sh-TGFB1 for 48 h. RT-qPCR was used to detect the mRNA levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and IL-18. Cell apoptosis and pyroptosis were detected by flow cytometry and cell immunofluorescence. Bioinformatics screening predicted that tanshinone IIA might be an effective component of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Labiatae) for the treatment of DN. Tanshinone IIA exerted a protective effect in the in-vitro model of DN by suppressing inflammation and pyroptosis via the TGFB1-dependent pathway. Tanshinone IIA inhibited high glucose-induced renal tubular epithelial cell inflammation and cell death through pyroptosis by regulating TGFB1, indicating the therapeutic potential of tanshinone IIA for DN treatment.

Diosmetin attenuates oxidative stress-induced damage to lens epithelial cells via the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway

Cataract is a global ophthalmic disease that blinds the eye, and oxidative stress is one of its primary causes. Apoptosis of lens epithelial cells (LECs) is considered the major cytological basis of many cataracts except congenital cataracts. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether diosmetin could reduce oxidative stress-induced damage to LECs, and explore its regulatory pathway. Lens epithelial cell line SRA01/04 was used as the object of study. Using ultraviolet B (UVB) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) as sources of oxidative stress, the protective effects of diosmetin at different concentrations on cells were investigated, including inhibition of proliferation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress. Molecular docking was then used to predict the target proteins and validation was performed at the cellular and protein levels. The oxidative stress of SRA01/04 was induced by UVB and H₂O₂, and inhibition of proliferation and apoptosis were observed. Here, diosmetin has a dose-dependent cell-protecting effect. This effect is achieved by targeting the MEK2 protein and inhibiting the MAPK signaling. In conclusion, diosmetin reduces H₂O₂- and UVB-induced inhibition of SRA01/04 proliferation and apoptosis by reducing oxidative stress-induced activation of the MAPK pathway.

Inhibition of KIF23 Alleviates IPAH by Targeting Pyroptosis and Proliferation of PASMCs

Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) is a progressive vascular disease with high mortality and heritability. Pyroptosis is a novel form of programmed cell death, and it is closely associated with IPAH. However, the roles of pyroptosis-related genes (PRGs) in IPAH are still largely unknown. In this study, we identified KIF23 as the most relevant gene for IPAH and pyroptosis, and its expression was significantly increased in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) of IPAH. Besides, the pyroptosis level of PASMCs was also considerably upregulated in IPAH. Knockdown of KIF23 in PASMCs could significantly suppress the PASMCs’ pyroptosis and proliferation and then alleviate the increase in pulmonary arterial pressure, right ventricular hypertrophy, and pulmonary vascular resistance in IPAH. KIF23 regulated the expression of Caspase3, NLRP3, and HMGB1, and they were all involved in the PI3K/AKT and MAPK pathways, indicating that PI3K/AKT and MAPK pathways might participate in regulating PASMCs pyroptosis by KIF23. In conclusion, our study suggests that KIF23 may be a new therapeutic target for IPAH, which can alleviate the symptoms of IPAH by inhibiting the pyroptosis and proliferation of PASMCs.