The saponin D39 blocks dissociation of non-muscular myosin heavy chain IIA from TNF receptor 2, suppressing tissue factor expression and venous thrombosis

Endothelial NMMHC IIA dissociation from PAR1 activates the CREB3/ARF4 signaling in thrombin-mediated intracerebral hemorrhage

INTRODUCTION

There is an urgent need for cerebroprotective interventions to improve the suboptimal outcomes with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Despite the important role of nonmuscle myosin heavy chain IIA (NMMHC IIA) in the blood-brain barrier (BBB), its function in ICH remains unclear.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study is to explore how NMMHC IIA functions in ICH and to evaluate the effectiveness of targeting NMMHC IIA as a treatment for ICH.

METHODS

We firstly examined the protein expression of NMMHC IIA in clinical patients and animal models with ICH. The function of NNMMHC IIA was then corroborated by using overexpress or knockdown NMMHC IIA specifically in ECs mice and pBMECs. In addition, we explored protein interacts with NMMHC IIA and signaling pathways after ICH by LC-MS/MS and transcriptomics analysis with an emphasis on the function of PAR1 and the CREB3/ARF4 signaling pathway, and validated them in three kind of animal models. To support the clinical translation of our results, we targeted NMMHC IIA to bicalutamide selected from a library of marketed drugs and examined to validate its ameliorative effect on ICH.

RESULTS

We observed an upregulation of endothelial NMMHC IIA in the brain following the onset of ICH in both patients and mice, while inhibited NMMHC ⅡA improved ICH induced by thrombin, warfarin or tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) after ischemic stroke. Mechanistically, the head domain of NMMHC IIA interacted with protease-activated receptor 1 (PAR1) at the 380-430 aa region and subsequently dissociated and activated the CREB3/ARF4 signaling pathway. We found that bicalutamide and blebbistatin could bind to NMMHC IIA and effectively protect mice from thrombin-mediated ICH.

CONCLUSION

The findings indicated that NMMHC IIA dissociated from PAR1 and activated CREB3/ARF4 pathway, which aggravated BBB damage induced by thrombin. This suggested that NMMHC IIA was a novel potential therapeutic target for BBB-related diseases.

Kaempferol alleviates myocardial ischemia injury by reducing oxidative stress via the HDAC3-mediated Nrf2 signaling pathway

INTRODUCTION

Kaempferol (KAE) is a flavonoid found in various plants. Recent studies showed that high dietary intake of KAE was associated with a lower risk of myocardial infarction; however, the cardioprotective mechanism of KAE remains unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effect of KAE on cardiac injury in isoproterenol (ISO)-induced rats and cobalt chloride (CoCl2)-treated cardiomyocytes, and the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

Male rats were pretreated with different doses of KAE for 14 days, and then injected with ISO to induce myocardial ischemia injury. We also established a model of myocardial cell injury using rat H9c2 cardiomyocytes stimulated with CoCl2.

RESULTS

We found that KAE pretreatment significantly alleviated myocardial injury and improved cardiac function in ISO-injected rats. In addition, KAE reduced oxidative stress in rats with myocardial ischemia by decreasing malondialdehyde concentration and increasing superoxide dismutase activity, and protection of the myocardial mitochondrial structure. KAE also attenuated CoCl2-induced injuryof H9c2 cardiomyocytes via suppression ofoxidative stress. With regard to the mechanism, we found that KAE down-regulated HDAC3 expression and up-regulated Nrf2 expression in ISO-induced rats and CoCl2-stimulated cardiomyocytes. Incubation of cardiomyocytes with HDAC3-selective inhibitor RGFP966 augmented the protective effect of KAE and reduced oxidative stress. By contrast, HDAC3 overexpression by adenovirus attenuated the effect of KAE on oxidative stress compared with KAE treatment group. HDAC3 also regulated Nrf2 expression in the cardiomyocytes with RGFP966 or an adenovirus overexpressing HDAC3; but Nrf2 inhibition reduced the effect of KAE on ROS generation in CoCl2-induced cardiomyocytes. Immunoprecipitation assay showed that HDAC3 interacted with Nrf2 in cardiomyocytes. Further studies found that KAE increased the acetylation level of Nrf2, while HDAC3 overexpression decreased the acetylation of Nrf2 compared with KAE treatment group.

CONCLUSION

Our data show that KAE ameliorates cardiac injury by reducing oxidative stress via the HDAC3-mediated Nrf2 signaling pathway in cardiomyocytes.

Potential mechanistic linkages of Naoluotong granules on the remission of atherosclerosis by multidimensional analysis

Background

Naoluotong granules (NLTGs) are a medicinal formula derived from traditional Chinese medicine, which have been demonstrated to be effective in slowing down the progression of atherosclerosis (AS) through clinical practice and animal experiments. By means of multidimensional analysis, the relevant mechanism of NLTGs in delaying the progression of atherosclerosis was studied, which is conducive to its widespread adoption.

Materials and methods

In this study, data from network pharmacology and GEO database were comprehensively analysed to identify differentially expressed core cluster genes (DECCGs). Subsequently, multilevel analyses were applied to investigate the potential mechanistic linkages and causal associations of NLTGs in delaying atherosclerosis.

Results

Eight DECCGs positively correlated with atherosclerosis risk were identified, with Polygonatum sibiricum (Huangjing), Hirudo nipponica (Shuizhi), and Ligusticum chuanxiong (Chuanxiong) as the core drug pairs. Senkyunone, Wallichilide, and Aurantiamide were the core components. The prediction model using principal components (PC) demonstrated high accuracy and clinical relevance. The mechanisms were strongly associated with the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, as well as the polarization of Macrophages M0 and the balanced regulation of M1/M2 types. Ultimately, elevated expression of CTSB was causally associated with increased risk of cerebral atherosclerosis (OR = 1.313; 95 % CI = 1.024-1.685; P = 0.032).

Conclusions

Employing multidimensional analysis, we identified core pairs, components, and targets of NLTGs. Our multilevel analysis of DECCGs enabled the construction of a clinical prediction model, highlighting CTSB as a risk target for AS. Additionally, we unveiled NLTGs' mechanisms closely tied to the polarization and regulation of macrophage, facilitating subsequent research and application.

Diet and Nutraceuticals for treatment and prevention of primary and secondary stroke: Emphasis on nutritional antiplatelet and antithrombotic agents

Ischemic stroke is a devastating disease that causes morbidity and mortality. Malnutrition following ischemic stroke is common in stroke patients. During the rehabilitation, the death rates of stroke patients are significantly increased due to malnutrition. Nutritional supplements such as protein, vitamins, fish, fish oils, moderate wine or alcohol consumption, nuts, minerals, herbal products, food colorants, marine products, fiber, probiotics and Mediterranean diets have improved neurological functions in stroke patients as well as their quality of life. Platelets and their mediators contribute to the development of clots leading to stroke. Ischemic stroke patients are treated with thrombolytics, antiplatelets, and antithrombotic agents. Several systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and clinical trials recommended that consumption of these nutrients and diets mitigated the vascular, peripheral, and central complications associated with ischemic stroke (Fig. 2). Particularly, these nutraceuticals mitigated the platelet adhesion, activation, and aggregation that intended to reduce the risks of primary and secondary stroke. Although these nutraceuticals mitigate platelet dysfunction, there is a greater risk of bleeding if consumed excessively. Moreover, malnutrition must be evaluated and adequate amounts of nutrients must be provided to stroke patients during intensive care units and rehabilitation periods. In this review, we have summarized the importance of diet and nutraceuticals in ameliorating neurological complications and platelet dysfunction with an emphasis on primary and secondary prevention of ischemic stroke.

Design, Synthesis, and Antirheumatoid Arthritis Mechanism of TLR4 Inhibitors

A total of 12 carbonyl compounds were synthesized, their lipopolysaccharide induced inhibition, and activity of RAW264.7 cells was evaluated. The most active compound 3k inhibited RAW264.7 cells with IC50 value of 1.02 ± 0.08 μM. Compound 3k significantly inhibited the release of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in supernatant for RAW264.7 cells. In vivo collagen-induced arthritis model tests administered orally, compound 3k showed effects similar to those of methotrexate in the positive control group. The preliminary mechanism study showed that compound 3k had an effect on abnormal expression for TLR4, TNF-α, NF-κB protein, and genes related to inflammation signaling pathway in RAW264.7 cells. Meanwhile, compound 3k showed a good affinity for the TLR4 receptor in molecular docking simulation. Therefore, compound 3k may be a promising lead compound for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

Therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms of natural products in thrombosis

Thrombotic disorders, such as myocardial infarction and stroke, are the leading cause of death in the global population and have become a health problem worldwide. Drug therapy is one of the main antithrombotic strategies, but antithrombotic drugs are not completely safe, especially the risk of bleeding at therapeutic doses. Recently, natural products have received widespread interest due to their significant efficacy and high safety, and an increasing number of studies have demonstrated their antithrombotic activity. In this review, articles from databases, such as Web of Science, PubMed, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure, were filtered and the relevant information was extracted according to predefined criteria. As a result, more than 100 natural products with significant antithrombotic activity were identified, including flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, quinones, terpenoids, steroids, and alkaloids. These compounds exert antithrombotic effects by inhibiting platelet activation, suppressing the coagulation cascade, and promoting fibrinolysis. In addition, several natural products also inhibit thrombosis by regulating miRNA expression, anti-inflammatory, and other pathways. This review systematically summarizes the natural products with antithrombotic activity, including their therapeutic effects, mechanisms, and clinical applications, aiming to provide a reference for the development of new antithrombotic drugs.

Design, synthesis and anti-rheumatoid arthritis activity of target TLR4 inhibitors

A series of 1-(2-oxocyclohexyl)butane-1, 3-dione derivatives were designed and synthesized as TLR4 inhibitors by modifying the core structure of the lead compound ((6, 8-dioxo-1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 8a-octahydronaphthalen-2-yl) carbamate)). In vitro, compound 3p significantly inhibited the proliferation of rat synovial cells, inhibited the proliferation of LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells, and inhibited TLR4 activity, with IC50 values of 1.21 ± 0.09 μM, 0.73 ± 0.05 μM and 0.43 ± 0.03 μM, respectively, which was superior to the positive control methotrexate. In vivo anti-rheumatoid arthritis evaluation, compound 3p can significantly inhibit the inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6, so as to achieve the therapeutic purpose. In the preliminary mechanism study, compound 3p has obvious regulatory effects on the abnormal increase of TLR4, JAK2 and STAT3 protein and gene expression related to inflammatory signaling pathway in RAW264.7 cells. In summary, this study aims to develop more effective candidates for rheumatoid arthritis.

Oxybutynin ameliorates LPS-induced inflammatory response in human bladder epithelial cells

Urinary tract infection (UTI) mainly results from bacterial infections in the urinary tract and markedly impacts the normal lives of millions of patients worldwide. The infection and damage to urethral epithelial cells is the first and key step of UTI development and is a critical target for treating clinical UTI. Oxybutynin, an agent for treating urinary incontinence, is recently claimed with protective effects on bladder ultrastructure. Our study will assess the impact of Oxybutynin on inflammation in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated bladder epithelial cells. Bladder epithelial T24 cells were treated with 1 μg/mL LPS with or without 10 and 20 μM Oxybutynin for 24 h. Increased levels of oxidative stress (OS) biomarkers, such as reactive oxygen species, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, malondialdehyde, as well as upregulated inducible nitric oxide synthase and promoted release of nitric oxide, were observed in LPS-managed T24 cells, all of which were signally suppressed by Oxybutynin. Furthermore, severe inflammatory responses, including enhanced release of cytokines, upregulated matrix metallopeptidase-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9, and raised monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 level, were found in LPS-challenged T24 cells, which were markedly reversed by Oxybutynin. Moreover, the activated toll-1ike receptor 4/nuclear factor-κB pathway observed in LPS-managed T24 cells was repressed by Oxybutynin. Collectively, Oxybutynin mitigated LPS-induced inflammatory response in human bladder epithelial cells.

Expression of nonmuscle myosin IIC is regulated by non-canonical binding activity of miRNAs

The expression of mechanoresponsive nonmuscle myosin II (NMII)C is found to be inducible during tumor progression, but its mechanism is yet to be explored. Here, we report a group of microRNAs (mmu-miR-200a-5p, mmu-miR-532-3p, mmu-miR-680, and mmu-miR-1901) can significantly repress the expression of nonmuscle myosin IIC (NMIIC). Interestingly, these microRNAs have both canonical and non-canonical binding sites at 3/UTR and coding sequence (CDS) of NMIIC's heavy chain (HC) mRNA. Each of the miRNA downregulates NMHC-IIC to a different degree as assessed by dual-luciferase and immunoblot analyses. When we abolish the complementary base pairing at canonical binding site, mmu-miR-532-3p can still bind at non-canonical binding site and form Argonaute2 (AGO2)-miRNA complex to downregulate the expression of NMIIC. Modulating the expression of NMIIC by miR-532-3p in mouse mammary tumor cells, 4T1, increases its tumorigenic potential both in vitro and in vivo. Together, these studies provide the functional role of miRNA's non-canonical binding mediated NMIIC regulation in tumor cells.

HDAC3-mediated lncRNA ZFAS1 inhibited IL-13-induced secretion of proinflammatory cytokines in nasal epithelial cells by regulating the miR-7-5p/SIRT1 pathway

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a disease that is difficult to cure and accompanies the patient's life. Proinflammatory cytokines (GM-CSF and eotaxin) and MUC5AC are key mediators promoting AR progression. Herein, the function of lncRNA ZFAS1 in AR was investigated. Nasal epithelial cells (NECs) were subjected to 50 ng/mL IL-13 for 24 h to construct an AR cell model. The mRNA and protein expressions were assessed using qRT-PCR and western blot. The levels of GM-CSF, eotaxin, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and MUC5AC in cell supernatant were examined by ELISA. The binding relationships between HDAC3, ZFAS1, miR-7-5p and SIRT1 were analysed using dual luciferase reporter or ChIP assays. Herein, our results displayed that ZFAS1 and SIRT1 were lowly expressed in AR, while miR-7-5p and HDAC3 were highly expressed. Functional experiments displayed that ZFAS1 overexpression suppressed IL-13-induced proinflammatory cytokines and mucin production in NECs. The highly expressed HDAC3 in AR inhibited ZFAS1 expression by binding with ZFAS1 promoter. In addition, our experiments revealed that ZFAS1 targeted miR-7-5p, and miR-7-5p targeted SIRT1. As expected, miR-7-5p overexpression or SIRT1 silencing abrogated ZFAS1 upregulation's repression on IL-13-induced proinflammatory cytokines and MUC5AC secretory levels in NECs. ZFAS1 suppressed proinflammatory cytokines, inflammatory cytokines, and MUC5AC secretory levels in AR by regulating the miR-7-5p/SIRT1 axis. Thus, our work suggested that ZFAS1 might serve as a novel target for AR treatment and prevention.

SENP2-mediated SERCA2a deSUMOylation increases calcium overload in cardiomyocytes to aggravate myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury

BACKGROUND

Sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase 2a (SERCA2a) is a key protein that maintains myocardial Ca 2+ homeostasis. The present study aimed to investigate the mechanism underlying the SERCA2a-SUMOylation (small ubiquitin-like modifier) process after ischemia/reperfusion injury (I/RI) in vitro and in vivo .

METHODS

Calcium transient and systolic/diastolic function of cardiomyocytes isolated from Serca2a knockout (KO) and wild-type mice with I/RI were compared. SUMO-relevant protein expression and localization were detected by quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR), Western blotting, and immunofluorescence in vitro and in vivo . Serca2a-SUMOylation, infarct size, and cardiac function of Senp1 or Senp2 overexpressed/suppressed adenovirus infected cardiomyocytes, were detected by immunoprecipitation, triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC)-Evans blue staining, and echocardiography respectively.

RESULTS

The results showed that the changes of Fura-2 fluorescence intensity and contraction amplitude of cardiomyocytes decreased in the I/RI groups and were further reduced in the Serca2a KO + I/RI groups. Senp1 and Senp2 messenger ribose nucleic acid (mRNA) and protein expression levels in vivo and in cardiomyocytes were highest at 6 h and declined at 12 h after I/RI. However, the highest levels in HL-1 cells were recorded at 12 h. Senp2 expression increased in the cytoplasm, unlike that of Senp1. Inhibition of Senp2 protein reversed the I/RI-induced Serca2a-SUMOylation decline, reduced the infarction area, and improved cardiac function, while inhibition of Senp1 protein could not restore the above indicators.

CONCLUSION

I/RI activated Senp1 and Senp2 protein expression, which promoted Serca2a-deSUMOylation, while inhibition of Senp2 expression reversed Serca2a-SUMOylation and improved cardiac function.

The role of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury

Myocardial ischemia has a high incidence and mortality rate, and reperfusion is currently the standard intervention. However, reperfusion may lead to further myocardial damage, known as myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MIRI). There are currently no effective clinical treatments for MIRI. The PI3K/Akt signaling pathway is involved in cardiovascular health and disease and plays an important role in reducing myocardial infarct size and restoring cardiac function after MIRI. Activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway provides myocardial protection through synergistic upregulation of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and autophagy activities and inhibition of mitochondrial dysfunction and cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Many studies have shown that PI3K/Akt has a significant protective effect against MIRI. Here, we reviewed the molecular regulation of PI3K/Akt in MIRI and summarized the molecular mechanism by which PI3K/Akt affects MIRI, the effects of ischemic preconditioning and ischemic postconditioning, and the role of related drugs or activators targeting PI3K/Akt in MIRI, providing novel insights for the formulation of myocardial protection strategies. This review provides evidence of the role of PI3K/Akt activation in MIRI and supports its use as a therapeutic target.

20(S)- Protopanaxadiol saponins isolated from Panax notoginseng target the binding of HMGB1 to TLR4 against inflammation in experimental ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) has emerged as a global healthcare issue due to high prevalence and unsatisfying therapeutic measures. 20(S)- Protopanaxadiol saponins (PDS) from Panax notoginseng with anti-inflammatory properties is a potential anti-colitis agent. Herein, we explored the effects and mechanisms of PDS administration on experimental murine UC. Dextran sulfate sodium-induced murine UC model was employed to investigate anti-colitis effects of PDS, and associated mechanisms were further verified in HMGB1-exposed THP-1 macrophages. Results indicated that PDS administration exerted ameliorative effects against experimental UC. Moreover, PDS administration remarkably downregulated mRNA expressions and productions of related pro-inflammatory mediators, and reversed elevated expressions of proteins related to NLRP3 inflammasome after colitis induction. Furthermore, administration with PDS also suppressed the expression and translocation of HMGB1, interrupting the downstream TLR4/NF-κB pathway. In vitro, ginsenoside CK and 20(S)-protopanaxadiol, the metabolites of PDS, exhibited greater potential in anti-inflammation, and intervened with the TLR4-binding domain of HMGB1 predictably. Expectedly, ginsenoside CK and 20(S)-protopanaxadiol administrations inhibited the activation of TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway in HMGB1-exposed THP-1 macrophages. Summarily, PDS administration attenuated inflammatory injury in experimental colitis by blocking the binding of HMGB1 to TLR4, majorly attributed to the antagonistic efficacies of ginsenoside CK and 20(S)-protopanaxadiol.

Total flavonoid extract from Dracocephalum moldavica L. improves pulmonary fibrosis by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the hedgehog signaling pathway

Dracocephalum Moldavica L. is a traditional herb for improving pharynx and relieving cough. However, the effect on pulmonary fibrosis is not clear. In this study, we explored the impact and molecular mechanism of total flavonoid extract from Dracocephalum moldavica L. (TFDM) on bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis mouse model. Lung function testing, lung inflammation and fibrosis, and the related factors were detected by the lung function analysis system, HE and Masson staining, ELISA, respectively. The expression of proteins was studied through Western Blot, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence while the expression of genes was analyzed by RT-PCR. The results showed that TFDM significantly improved lung function in mice, reduced the content of inflammatory factors, thereby reducing the inflammation. It was found that expression of collagen type I, fibronectin, and α-smooth muscle actin was significantly decreased by TFDM. The results further showed that TFDM interferes with hedgehog signaling pathway by decreasing the expression of Shh, Ptch1, and SMO proteins and thereby inhibiting the generation of downstream target gene Gli1 and thus improving pulmonary fibrosis. Conclusively, these findings suggest that TFDM improve pulmonary fibrosis by reducing inflammation and inhibition of the hedgehog signaling pathway.

Shenxiong glucose injection inhibits oxidative stress and apoptosis to ameliorate isoproterenol-induced myocardial ischemia in rats and improve the function of HUVECs exposed to CoCl2

Background: Shenxiong Glucose Injection (SGI) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula composed of ligustrazine hydrochloride and Danshen (Radix et rhizoma Salviae miltiorrhizae; Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, Lamiaceae). Our previous studies and others have shown that SGI has excellent therapeutic effects on myocardial ischemia (MI). However, the potential mechanisms of action have yet to be elucidated. This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism of SGI in MI treatment. Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with isoproterenol (ISO) to establish the MI model. Electrocardiograms, hemodynamic parameters, echocardiograms, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and serum concentrations of cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and cardiac troponin T (cTnT) were analyzed to explore the protective effect of SGI on MI. In addition, a model of oxidative damage and apoptosis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was established using CoCl₂. Cell viability, Ca²⁺ concentration, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), apoptosis, intracellular ROS, and cell cycle parameters were detected in the HUVEC model. The expression of apoptosis-related proteins (Bcl-2, Caspase-3, PARP, cytoplasmic and mitochondrial Cyt-c and Bax, and p-ERK1/2) was determined by western blotting, and the expression of cleaved caspase-3 was analyzed by immunofluorescence. Results: SGI significantly reduced ROS production and serum concentrations of cTnI and cTnT, reversed ST-segment elevation, and attenuated the deterioration of left ventricular function in ISO-induced MI rats. In vitro, SGI treatment significantly inhibited intracellular ROS overexpression, Ca²⁺ influx, MMP disruption, and G2/M arrest in the cell cycle. Additionally, SGI treatment markedly upregulated the expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 and downregulated the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins p-ERK1/2, mitochondrial Bax, cytoplasmic Cyt-c, cleaved caspase-3, and PARP. Conclusion: SGI could improve MI by inhibiting the oxidative stress and apoptosis signaling pathways. These findings provide evidence to explain the pharmacological action and underlying molecular mechanisms of SGI in the treatment of MI.

The role of Andrographolide in the prevention and treatment of liver diseases

BACKGROUND

The presence or absence of damage to the liver organ is crucial to a person's health. Nutritional disorders, alcohol consumption, and drug abuse are the main causes of liver disease. Liver transplantation is the last irrevocable option for liver disease and has become a serious economic burden worldwide. Andrographolide (AP) is one of the main active ingredients of Herba Andrographitis. It has several biological activities and has been reported to have protective and therapeutic effects against liver diseases. Earlier literature has been written on AP's role in treating inflammation and other diseases, and there has not been a systematic review on liver diseases. This review is dedicated to sorting out the research results of AP against liver diseases. Pharmacokinetics, toxicity, and nanotechnology to improve bioavailability are discussed. Finally, an outlook and assessment of its future are provided.

METHODS

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. PubMed and web of Science databases were used to search all relevant literature on AP for liver disease up to 2022.

RESULTS

Studies have shown that AP plays an important role in different liver disease phenotypes, mainly through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. AP regulates HO-1 and inhibits hepatitis virus replication. It affects the NF-κB pathway, downregulates inflammatory factors such as IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, and reduces liver damage. In preventing liver fibrosis, AP inhibits angiogenesis and activation of hepatic stellate cells and reduces oxidative stress involved in the Nrf2 and TGF-β1/Smad pathways. In addition, AP impedes the development of liver cancer by promoting apoptosis and autonomous phagocytosis in a cell-dependent way. Interestingly, miRNAs are involved in the therapeutic process of liver cancer and hepatic fibrosis. The poor solubility of AP limits the development of dosage forms. Therefore, the advent of nanoformulations has improved bioavailability. Although the effect of AP is dose- and time-dependent, the magnitude of its toxicity is not negligible. Some clinical trials have shown that AP has mild side effects.

CONCLUSIONS

AP, as an effective natural product, has a good effect on the liver disease through multiple pathways and targets. However, the dose reaches a certain level, leading to its toxicity and side effects. For better clinical application of AP, high-quality clinical and toxic intervention mechanisms are needed to validate current studies. In addition, modulation of miRNA-mediated hepatocellular carcinoma and liver fibrosis and synergistic action with drugs may be the future focus of AP. In conclusion, AP can be regarded as an important candidate for treating different liver diseases in the future.

RNY3 modulates cell proliferation and IL13 mRNA levels in a T lymphocyte model: a possible new epigenetic mechanism of IL-13 regulation

Allergic asthma is the most common type of asthma. It is characterized by T_H2 cell-driven inflammation in which interleukin-13 (IL-13) plays a pivotal role. Cytoplasmic RNAs (Y-RNAs), a variety of non-coding RNAs that are dysregulated in many cancer types, are also differentially expressed in patients with allergic asthma. Their function in the development of the disease is still unknown. We investigated the potential role of RNY3 RNA (hY3) in the T_H2 cell inflammatory response using the Jurkat cell line as a model. hY3 expression levels were modulated to mimic the upregulation effect in allergic disease. We evaluated the effect of hY3 over cell stimulation and the expression of the T_H2 cytokine IL13. Total RNA was isolated and retrotranscribed, and RNA levels were assessed by qPCR. In Jurkat cells, hY3 levels increased upon stimulation with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and ionomycin. When transfecting with high levels of hY3 mimic molecules, cell proliferation rate decreased while IL13 mRNA levels increased upon stimulation compared to stimulated control cells. Our results show the effect of increased hY3 levels on cell proliferation and the levels of IL13 mRNA in Jurkat cells. Also, we showed that hY3 could act over other cells via exosomes. This study opens up new ways to study the potential regulatory function of hY3 over IL-13 production and its implications for asthma development.

Lycopene Ameliorate Atrazine-Induced Oxidative Damage in the B Cell Zone via Targeting the miR-27a-3p/Foxo1 Axis

Lycopene, a natural bioactive component, has potential to reduce the risk of environmental factors inducing chronic diseases. It is important to explore lycopene's health benefits and its mechanism. The uncontrolled use of atrazine in agriculture causes critical environmental pollution issues worldwide. Exposure to atrazine through water and food chains is a risk to humans. In this study, mice were orally treated with lycopene and/or different concentrations of atrazine for 21 days to explore the influence of atrazine on the spleen and the role of lycopene's protection in atrazine exposure. The work found that atrazine exerted its toxic role in the B cell zone of the spleen by inducing Foxo1 deficiency. Atrazine caused ROS generation and Pink1/Parkin dysfunction via inducing Foxo1 deficiency, which led to apoptosis in the B cell zone. Additionally, the work revealed that lycopene ameliorates atrazine-induced apoptosis in the B cell zone of the spleen via regulating the miR-27a-3p/Foxo1 pathway. The finding also underscored a novel target of lycopene in maintaining homeostasis during B cell maturation.

Antithrombotic and antiplatelet effects of plant-derived compounds: a great utility potential for primary, secondary, and tertiary care in the framework of 3P medicine

Thromboembolism is the third leading vascular disease, with a high annual incidence of 1 to 2 cases per 1000 individuals within the general population. The broader term venous thromboembolism generally refers to deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and/or a combination of both. Therefore, thromboembolism can affect both - the central and peripheral veins. Arterial thromboembolism causes systemic ischemia by disturbing blood flow and oxygen supply to organs, tissues, and cells causing, therefore, apoptosis and/or necrosis in the affected tissues. Currently applied antithrombotic drugs used, e.g. to protect affected individuals against ischemic stroke, demonstrate significant limitations. For example, platelet inhibitors possess only moderate efficacy. On the other hand, thrombolytics and anticoagulants significantly increase hemorrhage. Contextually, new approaches are extensively under consideration to develop next-generation antithrombotics with improved efficacy and more personalized and targeted application. To this end, phytochemicals show potent antithrombotic efficacy demonstrated in numerous in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models as well as in clinical evaluations conducted on healthy individuals and persons at high risk of thrombotic events, such as pregnant women (primary care), cancer, and COVID-19-affected patients (secondary and tertiary care). Here, we hypothesized that specific antithrombotic and antiplatelet effects of plant-derived compounds might be of great clinical utility in primary, secondary, and tertiary care. To increase the efficacy, precise patient stratification based on predictive diagnostics is essential for targeted protection and treatments tailored to the person in the framework of 3P medicine. Contextually, this paper aims at critical review toward the involvement of specific classes of phytochemicals in antiplatelet and anticoagulation adapted to clinical needs. The paper exemplifies selected plant-derived drugs, plant extracts, and whole plant foods/herbs demonstrating their specific antithrombotic, antiplatelet, and fibrinolytic activities relevant for primary, secondary, and tertiary care. One of the examples considered is antithrombotic and antiplatelet protection specifically relevant for COVID-19-affected patient groups.

Moxibustion regulates T-regulatory/T-helper 17 cell balance by modulating the microRNA-221/suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 axis in a mouse model of rheumatoid arthritis

OBJECTIVE

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) progression is associated with the balance of T-regulatory (Treg) and T-helper 17 (Th17) cells, while the role of microRNAs (miRs) in regulating Treg/Th17 cell balance has not been clarified. This study aimed to assess whether moxibustion could regulate Treg/Th17 cell balance by modulating the miR-221/suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) axis in the RA mouse model.

METHODS

A mouse model of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) was established in male DBA/1J mice. Twenty-two days after CIA induction, the mice received daily treatment with moxibustion for 12 times. Pathological scores were assessed according to the levels of synovial hyperplasia. The expression levels of cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), IL-17 and IL-10 were analyzed in serum by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4⁺) splenocytes was analyzed by fluorescence-activated cell sorting. The expression levels of RA-related miRs and target genes were subsequently detected, and the target of miR-221 was confirmed by the dual-luciferase reporter assay.

RESULTS

It was revealed that moxibustion treatment decreased the pathological scores and downregulated the expression levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-17, while upregulated the expression level of IL-10. The Treg/Th17 cell balance was regulated by moxibustion treatment. The expression level of miR-221 was suppressed by moxibustion treatment. Furthermore, SOCS3 was found as the direct target of miR-221, which mediated the function of moxibustion by regulating the Treg/Th17 cell balance.

CONCLUSION

Moxibustion therapy regulated the Treg/Th17 cell balance by modulating the miR-221/SOCS3 axis in the RA mouse model.

miRNAs from Plasma Extracellular Vesicles Are Signatory Noninvasive Prognostic Biomarkers against Atherosclerosis in LDLr-/-Mice

Circular microRNAs (miRNAs) have become central in pathophysiological conditions of atherosclerosis (AS). However, the biomarkers for diagnosis and therapeutics against AS are still unclear. The atherosclerosis models in low-density lipoprotein receptor deficiency (LDLr^−/−) mice were established with a high-fat diet (HFD). The extraction kit isolated extracellular vesicles from plasma. Total RNAs were extracted from LDLr^−/− mice in plasma extracellular vesicles. Significantly varying miRNAs were detected by employing Illumina HiSeq 2000 deep sequencing technology. Target gene predictions of miRNAs were employed by related software that include RNAhybrid, TargetScan, miRanda, and PITA. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) further analyzed the intersection points of predicted results. The results showed that the HFD group gradually formed atherosclerotic plaques in thoracic aorta compared with the control group. Out of 17, 8 upregulated and 9 downregulated miRNAs with a significant difference were found in the plasma extracellular vesicles that were further cross-examined by sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. Focal adhesion and Ras signaling pathway were found to be the most closely related pathways through GO and KEGG pathway analyses. The 8 most differentially expressed up- and downregulated miRNAs were further ascertained by TaqMan-based qRT-PCR. TaqMan-based qRT-PCR and in situ hybridization further validated the most differentially expressed miRNAs (miR-378d, miR-181b-5p, miR-146a-5p, miR-421-3p, miR-350-3p, and miR-184-3p) that were consistent with deep sequencing analysis suggesting a promising potential of utility to serve as diagnostic biomarkers against AS. The study gives a comprehensive profile of circular miRNAs in atherosclerosis and may pave the way for identifying biomarkers and novel targets for atherosclerosis.

The leaves of the seasoning plant Litsea cubeba inhibit the NLRP3 inflammasome and ameliorate dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice

The intracellular sensor NACHT, LRR, and PYD domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome controls caspase-1 activity and the maturation and release of the cytokines interleukin (IL)−1β and IL−18. The NLRP3 inflammasome has attracted the attention of the pharmaceutical industry because it promotes the pathogenesis of many diseases, making it a promising target for drug development. Litsea cubeba (Lour.) is a plant traditionally used as a seasoning in Taiwan and in other Asian countries. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory activity of the leaves of L. cubeba against the NLRP3 inflammasome. We found that the ethanol extract of L. cubeba leaves (MLE) inhibited the NLRP3 inflammasome in macrophages by reducing caspase−1 activation and IL−1β secretion. MLE reduced pyroptosis in macrophages and inhibited the release of NLRP3 and apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC). In a mechanistic study, MLE reduced mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and preserved mitochondrial integrity, which led to reduced mitochondrial DNA release into the cytosol. MLE did not reduce the expression levels of NLRP3, IL−1β precursor or TNF-α in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated macrophages. These results indicated that MLE inhibited the NLRP3 inflammasome by suppressing the activation signals of the NLRP3 inflammasome but not by reducing the priming signal induced by LPS. In addition, oral administration of MLE (20−80 mg/kg) ameliorated dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)−induced colitis in a mouse model. Notably, mice that received MLE (1 and 2 g/kg) daily for 7 days did not exhibit visible side effects. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis found that α-Terpinyl acetate (27.2%) and 1,8−Cineole (17.7%) were the major compounds in MLE. These results indicated that L. cubeba leaves have the potential to be a nutraceutical for preventing and improving NLRP3 inflammasome-related diseases.

Recent advances in potential of Fisetin in the management of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury-A systematic review

BACKGROUND

The primary therapeutic strategy in managing ischemic heart diseases is to restore the perfusion of the myocardial ischemic area by surgical methods that often result in an unavoidable injury called ischemia-reperfusion injury (IR). Fisetin is an effective flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, proven to be cardioprotective against IR injury in both in-vitro and invivo models, apart from its promising health benefits against cancer, diabetes, and neurodegenerative ailments.

PURPOSE

The potential of fisetin in attenuating myocardial IR is inconclusive as the effectiveness of fisetin needs more understanding in terms of its possible target sites and underlying different mechanisms. Considering the surge in recent scientific interests in fisetin as a pharmacological agent, this review not only updates the existing preclinical and clinical studies with fisetin and its underlying mechanisms but also summarizes its possible targets during IR protection.

METHODS

We performed a literature survey using search engines Pubmed, PMC, Science direct, Google, and research gate published across the years 2006-2021. The relevant studies were extracted from the databases with the combinations of the following keywords and summarized: myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury, natural products, flavonoid, fisetin, PI3K, JAK-STAT, Nrf2, PKC, JNK, autophagy.

RESULTS

Fisetin is reported to be effective in attenuating IR injury by delaying the clotting time, preserving the mitochondrial function, reducing oxidative stress, and inhibiting GSK 3β. But it failed to protect diseased cardiomyocytes challenged to IR. As discussed in the current review, fisetin not only acts as a conventional antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent to exert its biological effect but may also exert modulatory action on the cellular metabolism and adaptation via direct action on various signalling pathways that comprise PI3K, JAK-STAT, Nrf2, PKC, JNK, and autophagy. Moreover, the dosage of fisetin and co-morbidities like diabetes and obesity are found to be detrimental factors for cardioprotection.

CONCLUSION

For further evaluation and smooth clinical translation of the fisetin molecule in IR treatment, researchers should pay close attention to the potential of fisetin to possibly alter the key cardioprotective pathways and dosage, as the efficacy of fisetin is tissue and cell type-specific and varies with different doses.

The myosin II inhibitor, blebbistatin, ameliorates pulmonary endothelial barrier dysfunction in acute lung injury inducedB19 by LPS via NMMHC IIA/Wnt5a/β-catenin pathway

Acute lung injury (ALI) or its most advanced form, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), is a severe inflammatory pulmonary process triggered by varieties of pathophysiological factors, among which endothelial barrier disruption plays a critical role in the progression of ALI/ARDS. As an inhibitor of myosin II, blebbistatin inhibits endothelial barrier damage. This study aimed to investigate the effect of blebbistatin on lung endothelial barrier dysfunction in LPS induced acute lung injury and its potential mechanism. Mice were challenged with LPS (5 mg/kg) by intratracheal instillation for 6 h to disrupt the pulmonary endothelial barrier in the model group. Blebbistatin (5 mg/kg, ip) was administrated 1 h before LPS challenge. The results showed that blebbistatin could significantly attenuate LPS-induced lung injury and pulmonary endothelial barrier dysfunction. And we observed that blebbistatin inhibited the activation of NMMHC IIA/Wnt5a/β-catenin pathway in pulmonary endothelium after LPS treatment. In murine lung vascular endothelial cells (MLECs) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), we further confirmed that Blebbistatin (1 μmol/L) markedly ameliorated endothelial barrier dysfunction in MLECs and HUVECs by modulating NMMHC IIA/Wnt5a/β-catenin pathway. Our data demonstrated that blebbistatin could inhibit the development of pulmonary endothelial barrier dysfunction and ALI via NMMHC IIA/Wnt5a/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Current update on herbal sources of antithrombotic activity—a comprehensive review

Background

Herbs are commonly used to treat cardiovascular diseases in various traditional medicine. On the other hand, herb-drug interactions are most commonly encountered with conventional antiplatelet and anticoagulant drug prescriptions. This review presents a compilation of plants investigated for antiplatelet and anticoagulation recently and enumerates their possible lead compounds responsible for its action for paving further drug discovery and knowledge update.

Main body of the abstract

Information about the herbs was withdrawn from the PubMed database of the previous 5 years. We also hand-searched the bibliography of relevant articles for the acquisition of additional information. About 72 herbal sources were identified with the effect of antiplatelet activity, antithrombotic activity, and anticoagulant activity. Bioactive compounds and various secondary metabolites responsible for it, such as alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, coumarins, polyphenols, furan derivatives, iridoid glycosides, sesquiterpenes, aporphine compounds, were reported.

Conclusion

Newer pharmacological moieties are needed to prevent or reduce the adverse effects of current anti-thrombotic agents and to improve the safety of patients and cost-effectiveness.

Metabolomic Profiling of Brain Protective Effect of Edaravone on Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Mice

Edaravone (EDA) injection has been extensively applied in clinics for treating stroke. Nevertheless, the metabolite signatures and underlying mechanisms associated with EDA remain unclear, which deserve further elucidation for improving the accurate usage of EDA. Ischemia stroke was simulated by intraluminal occlusion of the right middle cerebral artery for 1 h, followed by reperfusion for 24 h in mice. Brain infarct size, neurological deficits, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were improved by EDA. Significantly differential metabolites were screened with untargeted metabolomics by cross-comparisons with pre- and posttreatment of EDA under cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. The possibly involved pathways, such as valine, leucine, and isoleucine biosynthesis, and phenylalanine, taurine, and hypotaurine metabolisms, were enriched with differential metabolites and relevant regulatory enzymes, respectively. The network of differential metabolites was constructed for the integral exhibition of metabolic characteristics. Targeted analysis of taurine, an important metabolic marker, was performed for further validation. The level of taurine decreased in the MCAO/R group and increased in the EDA group. The inhibition of EDA on cerebral endothelial cell apoptosis was confirmed by TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) stain. Cysteine sulfinic acid decarboxylase (CSAD), the rate-limiting enzyme of taurine generation, significantly increased along with inhibiting endothelial cell apoptosis after treatment of EDA. Thus, CSAD, as the possible new therapeutic target of EDA, was selected and validated by Western blot and immunofluorescence. Together, this study provided the metabolite signatures and identified CSAD as an unrecognized therapeutic intervention for EDA in the treatment of ischemic stroke via inhibiting brain endothelial cell apoptosis.

Molecular modeling in cardiovascular pharmacology: Current state of the art and perspectives

Molecular modeling in pharmacology is a promising emerging tool for exploring drug interactions with cellular components. Recent advances in molecular simulations, big data analysis, and artificial intelligence (AI) have opened new opportunities for rationalizing drug interactions with their pharmacological targets. Despite the obvious utility and increasing impact of computational approaches, their development is not progressing at the same speed in different fields of pharmacology. Here, we review current in silico techniques used in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), cardiological drug discovery, and assessment of cardiotoxicity. In silico techniques are paving the way to a new era in cardiovascular medicine, but their use somewhat lags behind that in other fields.

Aesculin suppresses the NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis via the Akt/GSK3β/NF-κB pathway to mitigate myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury

BACKGROUND

Aesculin (AES), an effective component of Cortex fraxini, is a hydroxycoumarin glucoside that has diverse biological properties. The nucleotide-binding domain leucine-rich repeat-containing receptor, pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome has been heavily interwoven with the development of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MIRI). Nevertheless, it remains unclear whether AES makes a difference to the changes of the NLRP3 inflammasome in MIRI.

PURPOSE

We used rats that were subjected to MIRI and neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCMs) that underwent oxygen-glucose deprivation/restoration (OGD/R) process to investigate what impacts AES exerts on MIRI and the NLRP3 inflammasome activation.

METHODS

The establishment of MIRI model in rats was conducted using the left anterior descending coronary artery ligation for 0.5 h ischemia and then untying the knot for 4 h of reperfusion. After reperfusion, AES were administered intraperitoneally using 10 and 30 mg/kg doses. We evaluated the development of reperfusion ventricular arrhythmias, hemodynamic changes, infarct size, and the biomarkers in myocardial injury. The inflammatory mediators and pyroptosis were also assessed. AES at the concentrations of 1, 3, and 10 μM were imposed on the NRCMs immediately before the restoration process. We also determined the cell viability and cell death in the NRCMs exposed to OGD/R insult. Furthermore, we also analyzed the levels of proteins that affect the NLRP3 inflammasome activation, pyroptosis, and the AKT serine/threonine kinase (Akt)/glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β)/nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway via western blotting.

RESULTS

We found that AES notably attenuated reperfusion arrhythmias and myocardia damage, improved the hemodynamic function, and ameliorated the inflammatory response and pyroptosis of cardiomyocytes in rats and NRCMs. Additionally, AES reduced the NLRP3 inflammasome activation in rats and NRCMs. AES also enhanced the phosphorylation of Akt and GSK3β, while suppressing the phosphorylation of NF-κB. Moreover, the allosteric Akt inhibitor, MK-2206, abolished the AES-mediated cardioprotection and the NLRP3 inflammasome suppression.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings indicate that AES effectively protected cardiomyocytes against MIRI by suppressing the NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis, which may relate to the upregulated Akt activation and disruption of the GSK3β/NF-κB pathway.

Ginsenoside Rg1 ameliorates blood-brain barrier disruption and traumatic brain injury via attenuating macrophages derived exosomes miR-21 release

During the traumatic brain injury (TBI), improved expression of circulatory miR-21 serves as a diagnostic feature. Low levels of exosome-miR-21 in the brain can effectively improve neuroinflammation and blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability, reduce nerve apoptosis, restore neural function and ameliorate TBI. We evaluated the role of macrophage derived exosomes-miR-21 (M-Exos-miR-21) in disrupting BBB, deteriorating TBI, and Rg1 interventions. IL-1β-induced macrophages (IIM)-Exos-miR-21 can activate NF-κB signaling pathway and induce the expressions of MMP-1, -3 and -9 and downregulate the levels of tight junction proteins (TJPs) deteriorating the BBB. Rg1 reduced miR-21-5p content in IIM-Exos (RIIM-Exos). The interaction of NMIIA–HSP90 controlled the release of Exos-miR-21, this interaction was restricted by Rg1. Rg1 could inhibit the Exos-miR-21 release in peripheral blood flow to brain, enhancing TIMP3 protein expression, MMPs proteolysis, and restricting TJPs degradation thus protected the BBB integrity. Conclusively, Rg1 can improve the cerebrovascular endothelial injury and hold the therapeutic potential against TBI disease.

Aqueous extract of Paeoniae Radix Rubra prevents deep vein thrombosis by ameliorating inflammation through inhibiting GSK3β activity

BACKGROUND

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a kind of blood stasis syndrome. Paeoniae Radix Rubra (PRR) has long been widely used for eliminating blood stasis in China, but its effect on DVT has not yet been reported.

PURPOSE

The present study aimed to assess the potential inhibitory effect of the aqueous extract of PRR (i.e.,PRR dispensing granule, PRRDG) on DVT and explore the underlying mechanism.

STUDY DESIGN/METHODS

The chemical profile of PRRDG was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Sprague-Dawley rats were intragastrically treated with PRRDG (0.625, 1.25 and 1.875 g crude drug/kg/d) once daily for 7 consecutive days. On the sixth day, a model of inferior vena cava (IVC) stenosis-induced DVT was established. All rats were sacrificed on the seventh day. Serum was collected for enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Thrombus-containing IVC was weighed and further processed for histopathologic examination, immunohistochemical analysis and western blotting. LiCl and LY294002 were adopted to block and increase the activity of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β), respectively.

RESULTS

The chemical profile analysis showed that paeoniflorin, benzoylpaeoniflorin, albiflorin, gallic acid and catechin were the main constituents of PRRDG. LiCl decreased thrombus weight, reduced the number of inflammatory cells in thrombus and vein wall, down-regulated phosphorylated NF-κB p65 (p-p65) protein expression. Similarly, PRRDG decreased thrombus weight and tissue factor (TF) protein expression. PRRDG reduced the protein expression levels of P-selectin, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) in venous endothelium, serum levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and the number of inflammatory cells in thrombus and vein wall. Moreover, PRRDG down-regulated p-p65 protein expression and up-regulated phosphorylated GSK3β (p-GSK3β) protein expression. LY294002 abrogated the inhibitory effects of PRRDG on thrombus weight, TF protein expression, TNF-α and IL-1β serum levels, inflammatory cells influxes, and p-p65 protein expression.

CONCLUSION

PRRDG prevents DVT by ameliorating inflammation through inhibiting GSK3β activity.

Azithromycin alleviates the severity of rheumatoid arthritis by targeting the UPR component GRP78

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Azithromycin (AZM) is a macrolide antibiotic with well-described anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to substantiate the treatment potential of AZM in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Gene expression profiles were collected by RNA sequencing, and the effects of AZM were assessed in functional assays. In vitro and in vivo assays were performed to examine the effects of AZM-mediated blockade of glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78). Assays to define the anti-inflammatory activity of AZM using fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) from RA patients and collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in DBA/1 mice were performed. Identification and characterization of the binding of AZM to GRP78 was performed using drug affinity responsive target stability assays, proteomics and cellular thermal shift assays. AZM-mediated inhibition of GRP78 and the dependence of the antiarthritic activity of AZM on GRP78 were assessed.

KEY RESULTS

AZM reduced proinflammatory factor production, cell migration, invasion and chemoattraction and enhanced apoptosis, thereby reducing the deleterious inflammatory response of RA FLSs in vitro. AZM ameliorated the severity of CIA lesions as efficiently as the anti-tumour necrosis factor (anti-TNF) biological agent etanercept (ETC). Transcriptional analyses suggested that AZM treatment impairs signalling cascades associated with cholesterol and lipid biosynthetic processes. GRP78 was identified as a novel target of AZM. AZM-mediated activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) via the inhibition of GRP78 activity is required not only for inducing the expression of C/EBP-homologous protein (ChOP) but also for the activating sterol-regulatory element binding protein (SREBP) and its targeted genes involved in cholesterol and lipid biosynthetic processes. Furthermore, deletion of GRP78 abolished the antiarthritic activity of AZM.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

These findings confirmed that AZM is a therapeutic drug for RA treatment.

Protectin D1 protects against lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury through inhibition of neutrophil infiltration and the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps in lung tissue

Protectin D1 (PD1), a DHA-derived lipid mediator, has recently been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving properties. To date, little is known about the effect of PD1 on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI) in mice. The aim of the present study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of PD1 on LPS-induced ALI and its potential mechanisms of action. ALI was induced via an intraperitoneal injection of LPS, where PD1 (2 ng/mouse) was administered intravenously 30 min after LPS challenge. Mice were sacrificed 24 h after modeling. Lung histopathological changes were assessed using hematoxylin and eosin staining and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity was tested using immunohistochemistry. Tumor necrosis-α and interleukin-6 levels in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and serum were measured using ELISA. To detect neutrophil extracellular traps produced by infiltrated neutrophils in the lung tissue, immunofluorescence staining was performed using anti-MPO and anti-histone H3 antibodies. The results indicated that PD1 significantly attenuated histological damage and neutrophil infiltration in lung tissue, reduced the lung wet/dry weight ratio, protein concentration and proinflammatory cytokine levels in BALF and decreased proinflammatory cytokine levels in serum. Moreover, neutrophil citrullinated histone H3 (CitH3) expression was also reduced after PD1 administration. In conclusion, PD1 attenuated LPS-induced ALI in mice via inhibition of neutrophil extracellular trap formation in lung tissue. Therefore, PD1 administration may serve to be a new strategy for treating ALI.

Rosmarinic acid protects mice from imiquimod induced psoriasis-like skin lesions by inhibiting the IL-23/Th17 axis via regulating Jak2/Stat3 signaling pathway

IL-23/Th17 (IL-17) axis plays a critical role in psoriasis. Rosmarinic acid (RA) was proved the inhibitory effect of T cell infiltration in the skin. However, whether and how RA has beneficial effects on psoriasis did not really know yet. So lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced abnormal proliferation Hacat cell line and Imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis-like mouse dermatitis were used to assess the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of RA by Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) score, histopathology, flow cytometry, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blotting. The results showed that RA inhibited LPS-induced aberrant expression of Hacat cell line, and significantly alleviated IMQ-induced skin inflammation. Although RA had no obviously effect on the ratio of epidermal Langerhans cell (LC) and LC migration from the skin to the skin draining lymph nodes, RA inhibited the expression of IL-23 in skin lesions, as well as reduced the differentiation of Th17 cells and producing of IL-17A by down regulating the transcriptor factor RORγt and JAK2/Stat3 signal pathway, comparing to IMQ treated group. The findings suggest that RA inhibits psoriasis-like skin inflammation in vivo and in vitro by reducing the expression of IL-23, inhibiting Th17 dominated inflammation and down regulating the Jak2/Stat3 signal pathway.

LncRNA XIST is involved in rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes by sponging miR-126-3p via the NF-κB pathway

The role and mechanism of lncRNA XIST (XIST) in the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) was explored in this study. RT-qPCRs were performed to detect the expression of XIST and miR-126-3p in synovial tissues and cells. Target gene prediction and luciferase gene reporter assay were used to validate downstream target genes of XIST. MTT assay, EdU staining and Annexin V/PI staining were performed to explore the effects of XIST and miR-126-3p on cell proliferation and apoptosis. Western blotting analysis was used to detect the expression of related proteins. We found that the expression levels of XIST in tissues and cells were significantly higher than that in normal tissues and cells. Down-regulation of XIST could inhibit cell proliferation rate and increase apoptosis rate. Luciferase gene reporter assay showed that miR-126-3p was a downstream target gene of XIST. Overexpression of miR-126-3p significantly inhibited RA-FLS cell proliferation and induced RA-FLS cell apoptosis. In addition, down-regulation of XIST could increase the ratio of caspase-3 and Bax/Bcl-2. In addition, overexpression of miR-126-3p could inhibit the NF-κB signalling pathway by reducing the expression levels of p-p65 and p-IκBα in RA-FLS cells. In conclusion, down-regulation of XIST can inhibit the proliferation of synovial fibroblasts by increasing the expression levels of miR-126-3p/NF-κB, thereby inhibiting the occurrence and development of RA.

Ruscogenin attenuates particulate matter-induced acute lung injury in mice via protecting pulmonary endothelial barrier and inhibiting TLR4 signaling pathway

The inhalation of particulate matter (PM) is closely related to respiratory damage, including acute lung injury (ALI), characterized by inflammatory fluid edema and disturbed alveolar-capillary permeability. Ruscogenin (RUS), the main active ingredient in the traditional Chinese medicine Ophiopogonis japonicus, has been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory activity and rescue LPS-induced ALI. In this study, we investigated whether and how RUS exerted therapeutic effects on PM-induced ALI. RUS (0.1, 0.3, 1 mg·kg-1·d-1) was orally administered to mice prior to or after intratracheal instillation of PM suspension (50 mg/kg). We showed that RUS administration either prior to or after PM challenge significantly attenuated PM-induced pathological injury, lung edema, vascular leakage and VE-cadherin expression in lung tissue. RUS administration significantly decreased the levels of cytokines IL-6 and IL-1β, as well as the levels of NO and MPO in both bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and serum. RUS administration dose-dependently suppressed the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 and the expression of TLR4 and MyD88 in lung tissue. Furthermore, TLR4 knockout partly diminished PM-induced lung injury, and abolished the protective effects of RUS in PM-instilled mice. In conclusion, RUS effectively alleviates PM-induced ALI probably by inhibition of vascular leakage and TLR4/MyD88 signaling. TLR4 might be crucial for PM to initiate pulmonary lesion and for RUS to exert efficacy against PM-induced lung injury.

Design, synthesis and anti-rheumatoid arthritis evaluation of double-ring conjugated enones

Four series of double-ring conjugated enones were designed, synthesized and studied for the inhibition of synovial cell activity through the modification of Dysodensiol K core structure, double-ring, double-bond and double-carbonyl groups. For in vitro synovial cell assay of rats, compound 151 and 168 exhibited good inhibitory activities, with IC₅₀ values of 2.71 ± 0.18 and 2.68 ± 0.16 μM respectively. At the same time, the LDH release and LD₅₀ test results revealed that the target compounds were low cytotoxicity and acute toxicity. For in vivo CIA model test through the oral administration, compounds 151 and 168 were exhibited similar effect to positive control group methotrexate.

Shentong Zhuyu Decoction Inhibits Inflammatory Response, Migration, and Invasion and Promotes Apoptosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis Fibroblast-like Synoviocytes via the MAPK p38/PPARγ/CTGF Pathway

INTRODUCTION

The current study is aimed at exploring the effect of Shentong Zhuyu Decoction on the proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis of rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes (RA-FLS) and its underlying molecular mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The type II collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model was established. Subsequently, the RA-FLS were isolated from the CIA rat model and identified by immunohistochemistry. The viability, apoptosis, cell cycle, migration, and invasion of RA-FLS were detected by the cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8) assay, flow cytometry, wound-healing assay, and transwell invasion assay, respectively. The levels of MAPK p38, PPARγ, CTGF, Bcl-2, Bax, caspase-3, IL-1β, MMP-3, CDK4, and cyclin D1 were determined by qRT-PCR and western blotting, respectively.

RESULTS

After treatment with Shentong Zhuyu Decoction medicated serum, the OD570 value, migrative and invasive abilities, and the secretion of IL-1β, MMP-3 were remarkably decreased in RA-FLS, while the apoptosis rate was increased. Further, results showed that Shentong Zhuyu Decoction inhibited the transition from the G1 phase to S phase. Additionally, Shentong Zhuyu Decoction significantly inhibited the expression of Bcl-2, CDK4, cyclin D1, MAPK p-p38, and CTGF, whereas elevated the levels of Bax, caspase-3, and PPARγ. Importantly, the effects of Shentong Zhuyu Decoction were consistent with the trends of MAPK P38 inhibitor (SB203580) and PPARγ agonist (GW1929).

CONCLUSIONS

Shentong Zhuyu Decoction inhibited viability, inflammatory response, migration, invasion, and transition from the G1 phase to S phase and promoted apoptosis of RA-FLS via the MAPK p38/PPARγ/CTGF pathway.

Synthesis, anticancer activity and potential application of diosgenin modified cancer chemotherapeutic agent cytarabine

Diosgenin (DG), a steroidal saponin, is mainly found in yam tubers. DG and its derivatives displayed significant pharmacological activities against inflammatory, hyperlipidemia, and various cancers. DG was selected to modify the cancer chemotherapeutic agent cytarabine (Ara-C) due to its anti-tumor activities as well as lipophilicity. After characterization, the biomembrane affinity and the kinetic thermal processes of the obtained DG-Ara-C conjugate were evaluated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Thin hydration method with sonication was applied to prepare the DG-Ara-C liposomes without cholesterol since the DG moiety has the similar basic structure with cholesterol with more advantages. Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) analysis and cytotoxic analysis were employed to characterize the DG-Ara-C liposomes and investigate their biological activities, respectively. The results indicated that DG changed the biomembrane affinity of Ara-C and successfully replaced the cholesterol during the liposome preparation. The DG-Ara-C liposomes have an average particle size of around 116 nm with a narrow size distribution and revealed better anti-cancer activity against leukemia cells and solid tumor cells than that of free DG or Ara-C. Therefore, it can be concluded that DG displayed the potential application as an anti-cancer drug carrier to improve the bio-activities, since DG counted for a critical component in modulating the biomembrane affinity, preparation of liposome, and release of hydrophilic Ara-C from lipid vesicles.

Knockdown of lncRNA ANRIL suppresses the production of inflammatory cytokines and mucin 5AC in nasal epithelial cells via the miR-15a-5p/JAK2 axis

The incidence of allergic rhinitis (AR) is increasing worldwide. Human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs) are the key cells in the occurrence of AR. Antisense non-coding RNA in the INK4 locus (ANRIL) was discovered to be involved in the progression of AR. However, the mechanism by which ANRIL mediates the progression of AR remains to be determined. The present study aimed to further explore the mechanism by which ANRIL regulates AR. Thereby, HNECs were treated with IL-13 to mimic AR in vitro. The mRNA expression levels of ANRIL, microRNA (miR)-15a-5p, JAK2, mucin 5AC (MUC5AC), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and eotaxin-1, and protein expression levels of JAK2, STAT3 and phosphorylated-STAT3 in HNECs were analyzed using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blotting, respectively. ELISAs were used to detect the secretory levels of inflammatory cytokines and mucin in cell supernatants. In addition, a dual luciferase reporter assay was used to confirm the downstream target of ANRIL and the target gene of miR-15a-5p. The results revealed that the secretory levels of eotaxin-1, GM-CSF and MUC5AC were significantly upregulated by IL-13 in the supernatant of HNECs. The expression levels of ANRIL and JAK2 were also upregulated in IL-13-induced HNECs, while the expression levels of miR-15a-5p were downregulated. In addition, ANRIL was identified to bind to miR-15a-5p. The IL-13-induced upregulation of eotaxin-1, GM-CSF and MUC5AC mRNA expression and secretory levels was significantly inhibited by the genetic knockdown of ANRIL, while the miR-15a-5p inhibitor effectively reversed this effect. JAK2 was also discovered to be directly targeted by miR-15a-5p. The overexpression of JAK2 significantly suppressed the therapeutic effect of miR-15a-5p mimics on IL-13-induced inflammation in vitro. In conclusion, the findings of the present study suggested that the genetic knockdown of ANRIL may suppress the production of inflammatory cytokines and mucin in IL-13-treated HNECs via regulation of the miR-15a-5p/JAK2 axis. Thus, ANRIL may serve as a novel target for AR treatment.

Saponins as Modulators of the Blood Coagulation System and Perspectives Regarding Their Use in the Prevention of Venous Thromboembolic Incidents

Saponins comprise a heterogenous group of chemical compounds containing a triterpene or steroid aglycone group and at least one sugar chain. They exist as secondary metabolites, occurring frequently in dicotyledonous plants and lower marine animals. Plant saponin extracts or single saponins have indicated antiplatelet and anticoagulant activity. Venous thromboembolism (VTE), including deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, is a multifactorial disease influenced by various patient characteristics such as age, immobility, previous thromboembolism and inherited thrombophilia. This mini-review (1) evaluates the current literature on saponins as modulators of the coagulation system, (2) discusses the impact of chemical structure on the modulation of the coagulation system, which may further provide a basis for drug or supplement design, (3) examines perspectives of their use in the prevention of VTE. It also describes the molecular mechanisms of action of the saponins involved in the prevention of VTE.

Factors Affecting the Formation and Treatment of Thrombosis by Natural and Synthetic Compounds

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) refers to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), whose consequence may be a pulmonary embolism (PE). Thrombosis is associated with significant morbidity and mortality and is the third most common cardiovascular disease after myocardial infarction and stroke. DVT is associated with the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein in the body. Thrombosis promotes slowed blood flow, hypoxia, cell activation, and the associated release of many active substances involved in blood clot formation. All thrombi which adhere to endothelium consist of fibrin, platelets, and trapped red and white blood cells. In this review, we summarise the impact of various factors affecting haemostatic disorders leading to blood clot formation. The paper discusses the causes of thrombosis, the mechanism of blood clot formation, and factors such as hypoxia, the involvement of endothelial cells (ECs), and the activation of platelets and neutrophils along with the effects of bacteria and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Mechanisms related to the action of anticoagulants affecting coagulation factors including antiplatelet drugs have also been discussed. However, many aspects related to the pathogenesis of thrombosis still need to be clarified. A review of the drugs used to treat and prevent thrombosis and natural anticoagulants that occur in the plant world and are traditionally used in Far Eastern medicine has also been carried out.

A combinatorial target screening strategy for deorphaning macromolecular targets of natural product

Natural products, as an ideal starting point for molecular design, play a pivotal role in drug discovery; however, ambiguous targets and mechanisms have limited their in-depth research and applications in a global dimension. In-silico target prediction methods have become an alternative to target identification experiments due to the high accuracy and speed, but most studies only use a single prediction method, which may reduce the accuracy and reliability of the prediction. Here, we firstly presented a combinatorial target screening strategy to facilitate multi-target screening of natural products considering the characteristics of diverse in-silico target prediction methods, which consists of ligand-based online approaches, consensus SAR modelling and target-specific re-scoring function modelling. To validate the practicability of the strategy, natural product neferine, a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid isolated from the lotus seed, was taken as an example to illustrate the screening process and a series of corresponding experiments were implemented to explore the pharmacological mechanisms of neferine. The proposed computational method could be used for a complementary hypothesis generation and rapid analysis of potential targets of natural products.

Shenzao jiannao oral liquid, an herbal formula, ameliorates cognitive impairments by rescuing neuronal death and triggering endogenous neurogenesis in AD-like mice induced by a combination of Aβ42 and scopolamine

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

According to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Alzheimer's disease (AD) is identified as "forgetfulness" or "dementia", and is mainly caused by "kidney essence deficiency" which ultimately induces "encephala reduction". Therefore, herbal formulas possessing the efficacy of nourishing kidney essence or replenishing brain marrow are commonly served as effective strategies for AD treatment. Shenzao jiannao oral liquid (SZJN), a traditional Chinese preparation approved by the China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA), is used for the treatment of insomnia and mind fatigue at present for its efficacy of nourishing kidneys. In present study, we found that SZJN could improve cognitive function of AD-like mice.

AIMS OF STUDY

This study aims to investigate the effects of SJZN on ameliorating cognitive deficits of AD-like mouse model, and to illuminate the underlying mechanisms from the perspective of neuroprotection and neurogenesis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Kunming mice (28 ± 2 g) were randomly allocated into seven groups: control, sham, model, donepezil and SZJN groups (low, middle and high). The AD mouse model was established by Aβ42 combined with scopolamine. SZJN were intragastrically administrated at doses of 0.3, 1.5 and 7.5 g/kg for 28 days. Morris water maze (MWM) test was applied to determine the cognitive function. Hematoxylin eosin (HE) and Nissl staining were carried out to evaluate pathological damages in the cortex and hippocampal tissues. To explore the protective effects of SZJN on multiple pathogenic factors of AD, protein levels of Aβ42, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-3, synaptophysin (SYP), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and neurogenesis related proteins were assessed using Immunofluorescence (IF) and western blot analysis. In vitro, the AD cell model was established by transduction of APP_695swe genes into Neural stem cells (NSCs) isolated from the hippocampal tissues of neonatal C57BL/6 mice. Cell viability assay and neurosphere formation assay were carried out to verify the efficacy of SZJN on proliferation of NSCs.

RESULTS

Our results demonstrated that SZJN (1.5 g/kg and 7.5 g/kg) treatment significantly ameliorated cognitive deficits of AD-like mice. SZJN (7.5 g/kg) treatment significantly retarded the pathological damages including neuronal degeneration, neuronal apoptosis, Aβ peptides aggregation and reaction of astrocytes in AD-like mice. In addition, SZJN (7.5 g/kg) increased the expression of BDNF and SYP, and restored the abnormal level of MDA and SOD in the brain of AD-like mice. Furthermore, SZJN treatment for 28 days remarkably increased the proliferation of NSCs evidenced by more Nestin⁺ and BrdU⁺ cells in the hippocampal DG regions, and increased the amount of mature neurons marked by NeuN both in the cortex and hippocampal DG regions. In vitro, SZJN treatement (16, 32, 64 mg/ml) promoted the proliferation of NSCs evidenced by the increased amount and enlarged size of the neurospheres (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicated that SZJN could ameliorate cognitive deficits by protecting neurons from death and triggering endogenous neurogenesis. Therefore, SZJN may be considered as a promising agent to restore neuronal loss and deter the deterioration in AD patients.

Role of CARD9 in inflammatory signal pathway of peritoneal macrophages in severe acute pancreatitis

Previous studies revealed that caspase recruitment domain protein 9 (CARD9) was involved in severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) inflammation and that interfering with its expression in vivo could inhibit inflammation. However, the specific mechanism is unknown. This study aimed to discover the related signal pathways of CARD9 in macrophages. SiRNA interference technology was used in vivo and in vitro to detect CARD9‐related signal pathways in peritoneal macrophages. Furthermore, Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) and membrane‐associated C‐type lectin‐1 (Dectin‐1) pathways in macrophages were activated specially to looking for the upstream signal path of CARD9. Results showed up‐regulation of CARD9 expression in peritoneal macrophages of SAP rats (P < .05). CARD9 siRNA alleviated inflammatory cytokines, and inhibited the phosphorylation of NF‐κB and p38MAPK in peritoneal macrophages in vivo or in vitro. Meanwhile, CARD9 siRNA reduced the concentration of CARD9 and Bcl10 in peritoneal macrophages, and TLR4 and Dectin‐1 took part in CARD9 signal pathways in macrophages. In conclusion, there is an inflammation signal pathway comprised of TLR4/Dectin‐1‐CARD9‐NF‐κB/p38MAPK activated in macrophages in SAP. Blockade of CARD9 expression in macrophages can effectively alleviate SAP inflammation.

Rhodojaponin II inhibits TNF-α-induced inflammatory cytokine secretion in MH7A human rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes

Rhodojaponin II (R-II) has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory activity. Herein, we aimed to explore the effect of R-II on tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-induced inflammation in MH7A rheumatoid arthritis (RA) fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs). We found that R-II treatment at high concentration suppressed the viability of MH7A cells. R-II suppressed the levels of nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2, and inhibited messenger RNA expression and concentrations of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6 and matrix metalloproteinase-1 in TNF-α-stimulated RA-FLSs. Additionally, R-II repressed TNF-α-induced activation of the Akt, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/MyD88 pathways in MH7A cells. Inhibition of the Akt, NF-κB, and TLR4/MyD88 pathways by the corresponding inhibitors reinforced the inhibitory effect of R-II on TNF-α-induced inflammatory cytokine secretion in MH7A cells. R-II ameliorated the severity of collagen-induced arthritis in mice by inhibiting inflammation. In conclusion, R-II repressed TNF-α-induced inflammatory response in MH7A cells by inactivating the Akt, NF-κB, and TLR4/MyD88 pathways.

NMMHC IIA triggers neuronal autophagic cell death by promoting F-actin-dependent ATG9A trafficking in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion

Previous findings have shown that non-muscle myosin heavy-chain IIA (NMMHC IIA) is involved in autophagy induction triggered by starvation in D. melanogaster; however, its functional contribution to neuronal autophagy remains unclear. The aim of this study is to explore the function of NMMHC IIA in cerebral ischemia-induced neuronal autophagy and the underlying mechanism related to autophagy-related gene 9A (ATG9A) trafficking. Functional assays and molecular mechanism studies were used to investigate the role of NMMHC IIA in cerebral ischemia-induced neuronal autophagy in vivo and in vitro. A middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model in mice was used to evaluate the therapeutic effect of blebbistatin, a myosin II ATPase inhibitor. Herein, either depletion or knockdown of NMMHC IIA led to increased cell viability in both primary cultured cortical neurons and pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells exposed to oxygen–glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R). In addition, NMMHC IIA and autophagic marker LC3B were upregulated by OGD/R, and inhibition of NMMHC IIA significantly reduced OGD-induced neuronal autophagy. Furthermore, NMMHC IIA-induced autophagy is through its interactions with F-actin and ATG9A in response to OGD/R. The NMMHC IIA–actin interaction contributes to ATG9A trafficking and autophagosome formation. Inhibition of the NMMHC IIA–actin interaction using blebbistatin and the F-actin polymerization inhibitor cytochalasin D significantly suppressed ATG9A trafficking and autophagy induction. Furthermore, blebbistatin significantly improved neurological deficits and infarct volume after ischemic attack in mice, accompanied by ATG9A trafficking and autophagy inhibition. These findings demonstrate neuroprotective effects of NMMHC IIA inhibition on regulating ATG9A trafficking-dependent autophagy activation in the context of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion.

Osthole ameliorates cognitive impairments via augmenting neuronal population in APP / PS1 transgenic mice

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder with notable factors of dysfunction in multiple neurological changes, encompassing neuronal loss in the frontal cortex and hippocampal regions. Dysfunction of proliferation and self-renewal of neural stem cells (NSCs) was observed in AD patients and animals. Thereby, mobilizing endogenous neurogenesis by pharmacological agents would provide a promising route for neurodegeneration. Osthole (Ost), a natural coumarin derivative, has been reported to exert extensive neuroprotective effects in AD. However, whether ost can facilitate endogenous neurogenesis against AD in vivo is still unknown. In this study, by using Morris water maze (MWM) test, hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, Nissl staining, immunofluorescence analysis and western blot, we demonstrated that oral administration of ost could improve the learning and memory function, inhibit neuronal apoptosis, elevate the expression of glial cell line derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), synaptophysin (SYP) and postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95). Moreover, ost could remarkably enhance proliferation of NSCs and increase the amount of mature neurons in APP/PS1 transgenic mice. Together, our findings demonstrated that ost possessed the ability of promoting endogenous neurogenesis and ost could be served as a plausible agent to reverse or slow down the progress of AD.

Oleanolic acid administration alleviates neuropathic pain after a peripheral nerve injury by regulating microglia polarization-mediated neuroinflammation

Neuropathic pain caused by a peripheral nerve injury constitutes a great challenge in clinical treatments due to the unsatisfactory efficacy of the current strategy. Microglial activation-mediated neuroinflammation is a major characteristic of neuropathic pain. Oleanolic acid is a natural triterpenoid in food and medical plants, and fulfills pleiotropic functions in inflammatory diseases. Nevertheless, its role in neuropathic pain remains poorly elucidated. In the current study, oleanolic acid dose-dependently suppressed LPS-evoked IBA-1 expression (a microglial marker) without cytotoxicity to microglia, suggesting the inhibitory efficacy of oleanolic acid in microglial activation. Moreover, oleanolic acid incubation offset LPS-induced increases in the iNOS transcript and NO releases from microglia, concomitant with the decreases in pro-inflammatory cytokine transcripts and production including IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α. Simultaneously, oleanolic acid shifted the microglial polarization from the M1 phenotype to the M2 phenotype upon LPS conditions by suppressing LPS-induced M1 marker CD16, CD86 transcripts, and enhancing the M2 marker Arg-1 mRNA and anti-inflammatory IL-10 levels. In addition, the LPS-induced activation of TLR4-NF-κB signaling was suppressed in the microglia after the oleanolic acid treatment. Restoring this signaling by the TLR4 plasmid transfection overturned the suppressive effects of oleanolic acid on microglial polarization-evoked inflammation. In vivo, oleanolic acid injection alleviated allodynia and hyperalgesia in SNL-induced neuropathic pain mice. Concomitantly, oleanolic acid facilitated microglial polarization to M2, accompanied by inhibition in inflammatory cytokine levels and activation of TLR4-NF-κB signaling. Collectively, these findings confirm that oleanolic acid may ameliorate neuropathic pain by promoting microglial polarization from pro-inflammatory M1 to anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype via the TLR4-NF-κB pathway, thereby indicating its usefulness as therapeutic intervention in neuropathic pain.

Neuropathic pain caused by a peripheral nerve injury constitutes a great challenge in clinical treatments due to the unsatisfactory efficacy of the current strategy.