Brazilin ameliorates high glucose-induced vascular inflammation via inhibiting ROS and CAMs production in human umbilical vein endothelial cells

Regulation of cellular and molecular markers of epithelial-mesenchymal transition by Brazilin in breast cancer cells

Breast cancer is the most common invasive neoplasm and the leading cause of cancer death in women worldwide. The main cause of mortality in cancer patients is invasion and metastasis, where the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a crucial player in these processes. Pharmacological therapy has plants as its primary source, including isoflavonoids. Brazilin is an isoflavonoid isolated from Haematoxilum brasiletto that has shown antiproliferative activity in several cancer cell lines. In this study, we evaluated the effect of Brazilin on canonical markers of EMT such as E-cadherin, vimentin, Twist, and matrix metalloproteases (MMPs). By Western blot, we evaluated E-cadherin, vimentin, and Twist expression and the subcellular localization by immunofluorescence. Using gelatin zymography, we determined the levels of secretion of MMPs. We used Transwell chambers coated with matrigel to determine the in vitro invasion of breast cancer cells treated with Brazilin. Interestingly, our results show that Brazilin increases 50% in E-cadherin expression and decreases 50% in vimentin and Twist expression, MMPs, and cell invasion in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) MDA-MB-231 and to a lesser extend in MCF7 ER+ breast cancer cells. Together, these findings position Brazilin as a new molecule with great potential for use as complementary or alternative treatment in breast cancer therapy in the future.

Fuyuan decoction prevents nasopharyngeal carcinoma metastasis by inhibiting circulating tumor cells/ endothelial cells interplay and enhancing anti-cancer immune response

Distant metastasis is a major cause of treatment failure in cancer patients and a key challenge to improving cancer care today. We hypothesized that enhancing anti-cancer immune response and inhibiting circulating tumor cells (CTCs) adhesion and transendothelial migration through synergistic multi-target approaches may effectively prevent cancer metastasis. "Fuyuan Decoction" (FYD) is a traditional Chinese medicine compound that is widely used to prevent postoperative metastasis in cancer patients, but its underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this work, we systematically elucidated the underlying molecular mechanism by which FYD prevents cancer metastasis through multi-compound and multi-target synergies in vitro and in vivo. FYD significantly prevented cancer metastasis at non-cytotoxic concentrations by suppressing the adhesion of CTCs to endothelial cells and their subsequent transendothelial migration, as well as enhancing anti-cancer immune response. Mechanistically, FYD interrupts adhesion of CTCs to vascular endothelium by inhibiting TNF-α-induced CAMs expression via regulation of the NF-κB signaling pathway in endothelial cells. FYD inhibits invasion and migration of CTCs by suppressing EMT, PI3K/AKT and FAK signaling pathways. Moreover, FYD enhances the anti-cancer immune response by significantly increasing the population of Tc and NK cells in the peripheral immune system. In addition, the chemical composition of FYD was determined by UPLC-HRMS, and the results indicated that multiple compounds in FYD prevents cancer metastasis through multi-target synergistic treatment. This study provides a modern medical basis for the application of FYD in the prevention of cancer metastasis, and suggesting that multi-drug and multi-target synergistic therapy may be one of the most effective ways to prevent cancer metastasis.

Key circRNAs, lncRNAs, and mRNAs of ShenQi Compound in Protecting Vascular Endothelial Cells From High Glucose Identified by Whole Transcriptome Sequencing

ABSTRACT

Vascular endothelial cells, which make up the inner wall of blood arteries, are susceptible to damage from oxidative stress and apoptosis caused by hyperglycemia. According to certain reports, noncoding RNAs are involved in controlling oxidative stress and apoptosis. ShenQi Compound (SQC), a traditional herbal remedy, has been successfully treating diabetic vascular disease in China for more than 20 years. Although it is well established that SQC protects the vascular endothelium, the molecular mechanism remains unknown. Goto-Kakizaki rats, spontaneous type II diabetes rats, that consistently consume a high-fat diet were chosen as model animals. Six groups (control group, model group, metformin group, and 7.2 g/kg/d SQC group, 14.4 g/kg/d SQC group, and 28.8 g/kg/d SQC group) were included in this work, 15 rats each group. The approach of administration was gavage, and the same volume (5.0 mL/kg/d) was given in each group, once a day, 12 weeks. The thoracic aortas were removed after the rats were sacrificed. Oxidative reduction profile in thoracic aorta, histopathological observation of thoracic aorta, endothelial cell apoptosis in thoracic aorta, whole transcriptome sequencing, bioinformatic analyses, and qRT-PCR were conducted. As a result, SQC prevented the oxidative stress and apoptosis induced by a high glucose concentration. Under hyperglycemia condition, noncoding RNAs, including 1 downregulated novel circRNA (circRNA.3121), 3 downregulated lncRNAs (Skil.cSep08, Shawso.aSep08-unspliced, and MSTRG.164.2), and 1 upregulated mRNA (Pcdh17), were clearly reverse regulated by SQC. SQC plays a role in protecting vascular endothelial cells from high glucose mainly by mediating ncRNA to inhibit cell apoptosis and oxidative stress.

Ginsenoside Rg-1 prevents elevated cytosolic Ca2+ via store-operated Ca2+ entry in high-glucose–stimulated vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells

Background

Ginsenoside Rg-1 (Rg-1), a triterpenoid saponin abundantly present in Panax ginseng, is a type of naturally occurring steroid with known anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we sought to confirm the effects and mechanisms of action of Rg-1 on store-operated Ca²⁺ entry (SOCE) in human vascular endothelial cell line (EA) and murine aortic vascular smooth muscle cell line (MOVAS) cells exposed to high glucose.

Methods

Cytosolic Ca²⁺ concentrations in EA and MOVAS cells were measured by monitoring fluorescence of the ratiometric Ca²⁺-indicator, Fura-2 AM.

Results

High glucose significantly increased Ca²⁺ influx by abnormally activating SOCE in EA and MOVAS cells. Notably, this high glucose-induced increase in SOCE was restored to normal levels in EA and MOVAS cells by Rg-1. Moreover, Rg-1 induced reductions in SOCE in cells exposed to high glucose were significantly inhibited by the plasma membrane Ca²⁺ ATPase (PMCA) blocker lanthanum, the Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase blocker ouabain, or the Na⁺/Ca²⁺ exchanger (NCX) blockers Ni²⁺ and KB-R7943. These observations suggest that the mechanism of action of Rg-1 inhibition of SOCE involves PMCA and Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase, and an increase in Ca²⁺ efflux via NCXs in both EA and MOVAS cells exposed to high glucose.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that Rg-1 may protect vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells from Ca²⁺ increases following exposure to hyperglycemic conditions.

Long non-coding RNAs in <i>Sus scrofa</i> ileum under starvation stress

Objective

In this study, we aimed to identify long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) that play important roles in starvation stress, analyze their functions, and discover potential molecular targets to alleviate starvation stress to provide a theoretical reference for subsequent in-depth research.

Methods

We generated a piglet starvation stress animal model. Nine Yorkshire weaned piglets were randomly divided into a long-term starvation stress group (starved for 72 h), short-term starvation stress group (starved for 48 h), and the control group. LncRNA libraries were constructed using high-throughput sequencing of piglet ileums.

Results

We obtained 11,792 lncRNAs, among which, 2,500 lncRNAs were novel. In total, 509 differentially expressed (DE)lncRNAs were identified in this study. Target genes of DElncRNAs were predicted via cis and trans interactions, and functional and pathway analyses were performed. Gene ontology functions and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes analysis revealed that lncRNA-targeted genes mainly participated in metabolic pathways, cellular processes, immune system processes, digestive systems, and transport activities. To reveal the mechanism underlying starvation stress, the interaction network between lncRNAs and their targets was constructed based on 26 DElncRNAs and 72 DEmRNAs. We performed an interaction network analysis of 121 DElncRNA–DEmRNA pairs with a Pearson correlation coefficient greater than 0.99.

Conclusion

We found that MSTRG.19894.13, MSTRG.16726.3, and MSTRG.12176.1 might play important roles in starvation stress. This study not only generated a library of enriched lncRNAs in piglets, but its outcomes also provide a strong foundation to screen key lncRNAs involved in starvation stress and a reference for subsequent in-depth research.

Brazilin: Biological activities and therapeutic potential in chronic degenerative diseases and cancer

Caesalpinia sappan and Haematoxylum brasiletto belong to the Fabaceae family, predominantly distributed in Southeast Asia and America. The isoflavonoid brazilin has been identified from the bark and heartwood of these plants. This review summarizes the studies describing the biological activities of these plants and brazilin. Mainly, brazilin protects cells from oxidative stress, shows anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, and hypoglycemic effect. In addition, it has a biological impact on various pathologies such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, fibrillogenesis, and osteoarthritis. Interestingly, most of the antecedents are related to the anticancer effect of brazilin. In several cancers such as osteosarcoma, neuroblastoma, multiple myeloma, glioblastoma, bladder, melanoma, breast, tongue, colon, cervical, head, and neck squamous cell carcinoma, brazilin induces autophagy by increasing the levels of the LC3-II protein. Furthermore, it inhibits cell proliferation and induces apoptosis through increased expression of Bcl-2, Bcl-XL, p21, p27, activation of caspase-3 and -7, and the cleavage of PARP and inhibiting the expression of Bax. In addition, it blocks the expression of JNK and regulates the nuclear translocation of Nrf2. Together, these data positions brazilin as a compound of natural origin with multiple bioactivities and therapeutic potential in various chronic degenerative diseases and cancer.

Protective Effects of Caesalpinia sappan Linn. and Its Bioactive Compounds on Cardiovascular Organs

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. The long-term aim of cardiovascular disease therapy is to reduce the mortality rate and decelerate the progression of cardiovascular organ damage. Current therapies focus on recovering heart function and reducing risk factors such as hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia. However, oxidative stress and inflammation are important causes of further damage to cardiovascular organs. Caesalpinia sappan Linn. (Fabaceae), a flowering tree native to tropical Asia, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is used as a natural dye to color food and beverages and as a traditional treatment for diarrhea, diabetes, and blood stasis. The phytochemical compounds in C. sappan, mainly the homoisoflavonoids brazilin, sappanone A, protosappanin, and hematoxylin, can potentially be used to protect cardiovascular organs. This review aims to provide updates on recent developments in research on C. sappan in relation to treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Many studies have reported protective effects of the plant’s bioactive compounds that reduce cardiac damage and enhance vasorelaxation. For example, brazilin and sappanone A have an impact on molecular and cellular changes in cardiovascular disease pathogenesis, mainly by modulating oxidative, inflammatory, and apoptotic signaling pathways. Therefore, bioactive compounds of C. sappan have the potential to be developed as therapeutic agents to combat cardiovascular diseases like myocardial infarction and vascular disease. This review could help further the understanding of the possible modulatory role of the compounds in cardiovascular diseases, thereby facilitating future studies.

Relationship Between Autophagy and Metabolic Syndrome Characteristics in the Pathogenesis of Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is the main cause of mortality in metabolic-related diseases, including cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Atherosclerosis is characterized by lipid accumulation and increased inflammatory cytokines in the vascular wall, endothelial cell and vascular smooth muscle cell dysfunction and foam cell formation initiated by monocytes/macrophages. The characteristics of metabolic syndrome (MetS), including obesity, glucose intolerance, dyslipidemia and hypertension, may activate multiple mechanisms, such as insulin resistance, oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways, thereby contributing to increased risks of developing atherosclerosis and T2DM. Autophagy is a lysosomal degradation process that plays an important role in maintaining cellular metabolic homeostasis. Increasing evidence indicates that impaired autophagy induced by MetS is related to oxidative stress, inflammation, and foam cell formation, further promoting atherosclerosis. Basal and mild adaptive autophagy protect against the progression of atherosclerotic plaques, while excessive autophagy activation leads to cell death, plaque instability or even plaque rupture. Therefore, autophagic homeostasis is essential for the development and outcome of atherosclerosis. Here, we discuss the potential role of autophagy and metabolic syndrome in the pathophysiologic mechanisms of atherosclerosis and potential therapeutic drugs that target these molecular mechanisms.

Brazilin prevents against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury through the modulation of Nrf2 via the PKC signaling pathway

Background

Brazilin, a major ingredient of Caesalpinia sappan L., possesses multiple pharmaceutical activities, although whether or not brazilin exerts any protective effect on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) has not yet been reported. The present study determined the cardioprotective effects of brazilin, and elucidated the role of nuclear factor E2-associated factor 2 (Nrf2) in this process.

Methods

Following treatment with brazilin, H9c2 cells were subjected to 6 h of hypoxia/3 h of reoxygenation. CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry were employed to detect cell viability and apoptosis, respectively. Furthermore, after brazilin treatment, isolated rat hearts underwent 30 min of ischemia, followed by 90 min of reperfusion. Triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining were performed to measure myocardial infarct size and apoptosis, respectively. The changes in the levels of proteins were detected by western blotting.

Results

Brazilin treatment dose-dependently led to a significant enhancement in cell viability, a reduction in myocardial infarct size, and a decrease in release of creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Moreover, brazilin also remarkably inhibited apoptosis and led to various improvements in cardiac function. Additionally, brazilin treatment caused a marked alleviation of oxidative stress, as evidenced by the fact that brazilin reduced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), while enhancing the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GXH-Px). Mechanistically, it was found that brazilin induced Nrf2 nuclear translocation, with a concomitant upregulation of both heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase (NQO1) expression. Furthermore, the phosphorylation level and transcriptional activity of Nrf2 were enhanced by brazilin, although these enhancements were abrogated by treatment with a protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor. Finally, it was observed that the protective effects of brazilin could be negated through inhibition of Nrf2, which suggested that the cardioprotection afforded by brazilin was Nrf2-dependent.

Conclusions

Taken together, our results have demonstrated that brazilin may afford protection against MIRI through the activation of Nrf2 via the PKC signaling pathway. These results may lay the foundation for the further use of brazilin in the prevention of MIRI in clinical practice.

Integrative Bioinformatics Analysis Reveals Potential Target Genes and TNFα Signaling Inhibition by Brazilin in Metastatic Breast Cancer Cells

OBJECTIVE

Metastasis is the most significant cause of morbidity and mortality in breast cancer patients. Previously, a combination of brazilin and doxorubicin has been shown to inhibit metastasis in HER2-positive breast cancer cells. This present study used an integrative bioinformatics approach to identify new targets and the molecular mechanism of brazilin in inhibiting metastasis in breast cancer.

METHODS

Cytotoxicity and mRNA arrays data were retreived from the DTP website, whereas genes that regulate metastatic breast cancer cells were retreived from PubMed with keywords "breast cancer metastasis". Gene ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment, and Drug association analysis were carried out by using WEB-based GEne SeT AnaLysis Toolkit (WebGestalt). Construction of protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis was performed by STRING-DB v11.0 and Cytoscape, respectively. The genetic alterations of the potential therapeutic target genes of brazilin (PB) were analyzed using cBioPortal.

RESULTS

Analysis of cytotoxicity with the public database of COMPARE showed that brazilin exerts almost the same cytotoxicity in the NCI-60 cells panel showing by similar GI50 value, in which the lowest GI50 value was observed in MDA-MB 231, a metastatic breast cancer cells. KEGG enrichment indicated several pathways regulated by brazilin such as TNF signaling pathway, cellular senescence, and pathways in cancer. We found ten drugs that are associated with PB, including protein kinase inhibitors, TNFα inhibitors, enzyme inhibitors, and anti-inflammatory agents.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, this study identified eight PB, including MMP14, PTGS2, ADAM17, PTEN, CCL2, PIK3CB, MAP3K8, and CXCL3. In addition, brazilin possibly inhibits metastatic breast cancer through inhibition of TNFα signaling. The study results study need to be validated with in vitro and in vivo studies to strengthen scientific evidence of the use of brazilin in breast cancer metastasis inhibition.

Aspirin protects human coronary artery endothelial cells by inducing autophagy

Although the use of aspirin has substantially reduced the risks of cardiovascular events and death, its potential mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. In a previous study, we found that aspirin triggers cellular autophagy. In the present study, we aimed to determine the protective effects of aspirin on human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs) and explore its underlying mechanisms. HCAECs were treated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL), angiotensin II (Ang-II), or high glucose (HG) with or without aspirin stimulation. The expression levels of endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS), p-eNOS, LC3, p62, phosphor-nuclear factor kappa B (p-NF-κB), p-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p-p38 MAPK), and Beclin-1 were detected via immunoblotting analysis. Concentrations of soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1) and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1) were measured via ELISA. NO levels were determined using the Griess reagent. Autophagic flux was tracked by tandem mRFP-GFP-tagged LC3. Results showed that aspirin increased eNOS level and reduced injury to the endothelial cells (ECs) caused by ox-LDL, Ang-II, and HG treatment in a dose-dependent manner. Aspirin also increased the LC3II/LC3I ratio, decreased p62 expression, and enhanced autophagic flux (autophagosome and autolysosome puncta) in the HCAECs. p-NF-κB and p-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase inhibition, sVCAM-1 and sICAM-1 secretion, and eNOS activity promotion by aspirin treatment were found to be dependent on Beclin-1. These results suggested that aspirin can protect ECs from ox-LDL-, Ang-II-, and HG-induced injury by activating autophagy in a Beclin-1-dependent manner.

Inhibition of long noncoding RNA MALAT1 suppresses high glucose-induced apoptosis and inflammation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells by suppressing the NF-κB signaling pathway

The study investigated the expression of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) MALAT1 in high glucose (HG)-induced human vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs) and the role of MALAT1 in the apoptosis of HG-induced HUVECs. The HUVECs were cultured and induced with 25 mmol/L HG. After that, the HUVECs were transfected with MALAT1 siRNA. The expression levels of MALAT1 were detected with qPCR, whereas the expression levels of Bax, Bcl-2, cleaved-caspase-3, cleaved-caspase-9, p-65, and p-p65 were detected using Western blot. The roles of MALAT1 in cell activities, including apoptosis, were evaluated using the CCK-8 assay, TUNEL staining, and flow cytometry. The expression levels of inflammatory factors (TNF-α and IL-6) were measured using ELISA. The expression levels of MALAT1, TNF-α, and IL-6 in HUVECs were increased in the HG environment; however, when MALAT1 was silenced in the HUVECs, cell proliferation increased significantly, the expression levels of TNF-α, IL-6, Bax, cleaved-caspase-3, and cleaved-caspase-9 decreased, and the rate of apoptosis also decreased. Silencing MALAT1 inhibited the expression of p-p65 in HG-induced HUVECs. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that MALAT1 is upregulated in HG-induced HUVECs, and inhibition of MALAT1 inhibits HG-induced apoptosis and inflammation in HUVECs by suppression of the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Screening of the active fractions from the Coreopsis tinctoria Nutt. Flower on diabetic endothelial protection and determination of the underlying mechanism

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The Coreopsis tinctoria Nutt. flower (CTF) has been used traditionally in China for treating hypertension and diabetes as well as reducing body weight and blood fat. However, the vascular protection effect of the CTF has not been studied to date.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to screen and identify bioactive fractions from the CTF with a diabetic endothelial protection effect and to clarify the underlying mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The vascular protection effect of Fraction A was studied in high-fat diet and streptozocin-induced diabetic models. The endothelial protection effect of Fraction A-2 was further studied in an in vitro vascular endothelial dysfunction model induced by high glucose. In a high glucose-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) model, Fractions A-2-2 and A-2-3 were screened, and their detailed mechanisms of endothelial protection were studied. Liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was used to identify the main components in Fractions A-2-2 and A-2-3.

RESULTS

Fraction A treatment significantly improved the endothelium-dependent vasodilation of the mesenteric artery induced by acetylcholine in diabetic rats. The maximum relaxation was 79.82 ± 2.45% in the control group, 64.36 ± 9.81% in the model group, and 91.87 ± 7.38% in the Fraction A treatment group (P < 0.01). Fraction A treatment also decreased rat tail pressure compared with the model group at the 12th week. The systolic blood pressure was 152.7 5 ± 16.99 mmHg in the control group, 188.50 ± 5.94 mmHg in the model group, and 172.60 ± 14.31 mmHg in the Fraction A treatment group (P < 0.05). The mean blood pressure was 128.50 ± 13.79 mmHg in the control group, 157.00 ± 6.06 mmHg in the model group, and 144.80 ± 11.97 mmHg in the Fraction A treatment group (P < 0.05). In an in vitro vascular endothelium-dependent vasodilation dysfunction model induced by high glucose, Fraction A-2 improved the vasodilation of the mesenteric artery. The maximum relaxation was 82.15 ± 16.24% in the control group, 73.29 ± 14.25% in the model group, and 79.62 ± 13.89% in the Fraction A-2 treatment group (P < 0.05). In a high glucose-induced HUVEC model, Fraction A-2-2 and Fraction A-2-3 upregulated the expression of IRS-1, Akt, and eNOS and increased the levels of p-IRS-1^Ser307, p-Akt ^Ser473, and p-eNOS^Ser1177 and also decreased the expression of NOX4, TNF-α, IL-6, sVCAM, sICAM, and NF-κB (P < 0.01). With the intervention of AG490 and LY294002, the above effects of Fraction A-2-2 and Fraction A-2-3 were inhibited (P < 0.01). LC-MS data showed that in Fraction A-2-2 and Fraction A-2-3, there were 10 main components: flavanocorepsin; polyphenolic; flavanomarein; isochlorogenic acid A; dicaffeoylquinic acid; coreopsin; marein; coreopsin; luteolin-7-O-glucoside; and 3',5,5',7-tetrahydroxyflavanone-O-hexoside.

CONCLUSION

The protective effect of the CTF on diabetic endothelial dysfunction may be due to its effect on the JAK2/IRS-1/PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway and the related oxidative stress and inflammation. The results strongly suggested that Fraction A-2-2 and Fraction A-2-3 were the active fractions from the CTF, and the CTF might be a potential option for the prevention of vascular complications in diabetes.

Long noncoding RNA CA7-4 promotes autophagy and apoptosis via sponging MIR877-3P and MIR5680 in high glucose-induced vascular endothelial cells

Vascular endothelial cells (VECs) that form the inner wall of blood vessels can be injured by high glucose-induced autophagy and apoptosis. Although the role of long noncoding RNA in regulating cell fate has received widespread attention, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) that can both regulate autophagy and apoptosis need to be discovered. In this study, we identified that a small chemical molecule, 3-benzyl-5-([2-nitrophenoxy] methyl)-dihydrofuran-2(3H)-one (3BDO), synthesized by us, could inhibit VEC autophagy and apoptosis induced by a high concentration of glucose. To find new lncRNAs that regulate autophagy and apoptosis in VECs, we performed lncRNA microarray analysis. We found and verified an upregulated lncRNA named CA7-4 that was induced by a high concentration of glucose could be downregulated by 3BDO most obviously among all of the detected lncRNAs. Meanwhile, we investigated the mechanism of CA7-4 in regulating VEC autophagy and apoptosis. The results showed that CA7-4 facilitated endothelial autophagy and apoptosis as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) by decoying MIR877-3P and MIR5680. Further study elucidated that MIR877-3P could trigger the decrease of CTNNBIP1 (catenin beta interacting protein 1) by combining with its 3' UTR and then upregulating CTNNB1 (catenin beta 1); MIR5680 inhibited the phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) by targeting and decreasing DPP4 (dipeptidyl peptidase 4). Therefore, CA7-4, MIR877-3P and MIR5680 represent new signal pathways that regulate VEC autophagy and apoptosis under the high-glucose condition.Abbreviations: 3BDO: 3-benzyl-5-([2-nitrophenoxy] methyl)-dihydrofuran-2(3H)-one; 3' UTR: 3' untranslated region; AGO2: argonaute RISC catalytic component 2; AMPK: AMP-activated protein kinase/protein kinase AMP-activated; BAX/BCL2L4: BCL2 associated X, apoptosis regulator; BCL2: BCL2 apoptosis regulator; CASP3: caspase 3; ceRNA: competing endogenous RNA; CTNNB1: catenin beta 1; CTNNBIP1/ICAT: catenin beta interacting protein 1; DPP4: dipeptidyl peptidase 4; FGF2/FGF-2: fibroblast growth factor 2; HG: high concentration glucose (30 mM glucose); lncRNA: long noncoding RNA; MAP1LC3B/LC3B: microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3 beta; miRNA: microRNA; MIR4778-3P: microRNA 4778-3p; MIR561-3P: microRNA 561-3p; MIR5680: microRNA 5680; MIR877-3P: microRNA 877-3p; MTOR: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase; Mut: mutant; NC: negative control; NG: normal concentration glucose (5.5 mM glucose); PARP1: poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1; qPCR: quantitative real-time PCR; RNA-FISH: RNA-fluorescence in situ hybridization; ROS: reactive oxygen species; RT-PCR: reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction; siRNA: small interfering RNA; SQSTM1: sequestosome 1; TGFB2-OT1: TGFB2 overlapping transcript 1; TUNEL: terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling; VECs: vascular endothelial cells; WT: wild type.

SIRT1-Dependent Upregulation of Antiglycative Defense in HUVECs Is Essential for Resveratrol Protection against High Glucose Stress

Uncontrolled accumulation of methylglyoxal (MG) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) occurs in hyperglycemia-induced endothelial dysfunction associated with diabetes. Resveratrol (RSV) protects the endothelium upon high glucose (HG); however, the mechanisms underlying such protective effects are still debated. Here we identified key molecular players involved in the glycative/oxidative perturbations occurring in endothelial cells exposed to HG. In addition, we determined whether RSV essentially required SIRT1 to trigger adaptive responses in HG-challenged endothelial cells. We used primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) undergoing a 24-h treatment with HG, with or without RSV and EX527 (i.e., SIRT1 inhibitor). We found that HG-induced glycative stress (GS) and oxidative stress (OS), by reducing SIRT1 activity, as well as by diminishing the efficiency of MG- and ROS-targeting protection. RSV totally abolished the HG-dependent cytotoxicity, and this was associated with SIRT1 upregulation, together with increased expression of GLO1, improved ROS-scavenging efficiency, and total suppression of HG-related GS and OS. Interestingly, RSV failed to induce effective response to HG cytotoxicity when EX527 was present, thus suggesting that the upregulation of SIRT1 is essential for RSV to activate the major antiglycative and antioxidative defense and avoid MG- and ROS-dependent molecular damages in HG environment.

Effect of Herb-Partitioned Moxibustion on Autophagy and Immune-Associated Gene Expression Profiles in a Rat Model of Crohn's Disease

Objective

To investigate the immune regulation mechanism of herb-partitioned moxibustion in rats with Crohn's disease (CD) focusing on autophagy.

Methods

Rats were randomly divided into normal (N) group, CD model (M) group, CD model with herb-partitioned moxibustion (MM) group, normal with herb-partitioned moxibustion (NM) group, CD model with mesalazine (western medicine, Med ) group, and normal saline (NS) group, with 10 rats in each group. The CD model rats were prepared by trinitrobenzene sulphonic expect for the N group and NM group. After the CD rats model were established, the rats in the MM and NM groups were treated with herb-partitioned moxibustion at Tianshu (ST25) and Qihai (CV6) acupoints once daily for 7 days, and rats in the Med and NS groups were respectively treated with mesalazine enteric coated tablet and normal saline once daily for 7 days. After intervention, hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to observe the histological changes of colon; RNA sequencing was used to observe the changes in autophagy- and immune-associated gene expression profiles. In addition, autophagy- and immune-associated cytokines and signaling pathways in CD rats were also screened.

Results

HPM significantly increased the body weight of CD rats (P<0.01) and improved the pathological injury of colon in CD rats (P<0.01). HPM also changed the expression of many autophagy- and immune-associated genes, especially downregulating the expression of autophagy-associated Nod2, Irgm genes as well as the receptor of immune-associated Il12b, Il22 (Il12rb1, Il22ra2) genes in the colon of CD rats. HPM also changed the enrichment levels of differentially expressed genes in the human T-cell leukemia virus type-1 infection pathway, the Epstein-Barr virus infection pathway, and the cell adhesion molecule pathway. In addition, the expression levels of Nod2, Irgm, IL-12b, and IL-22 mRNA were increased (all P< 0.01) in the M group compared to the N group, while the expression levels of Nod2, Irgm, IL-12b, and IL-22 mRNA were decreased (P<0.05 or P<0.01) in the MM and Med groups compared to the M group.

Conclusion

Herb-partitioned moxibustion may effectively attenuate intestinal inflammation and promote the repair of colon mucosal injury of CD rats through the regulation of autophagy- and immune-associated gene expression and signaling pathways.

Melatonin Protects Against Hypoxia/Reoxygenation-Induced Dysfunction of Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells Through Inhibiting Reactive Oxygen Species Generation

BACKGROUND

Hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) induces oxidative stress and eventually leads to vascular injury.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of melatonin on HUVECs injured by H/R and explore the underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A model of HUVECs under hypoxia/reoxygenation was established. Cell migration and adhesive ability was measured by wound healing and adhesion assays. Cell proliferation was measured by EdU assay. Production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was evaluated by CM-H2DCFDA staining. Actin cytoskeleton rearrangement was examined by immunofluorescence. Western blotting analysis were used to analyze P38 and HSP27 phosphorylation levels.

RESULTS

H/R inhibited HUVEC proliferation, cell migratory and adhesive capacities, whereas melatonin (1~100 μM) inhibited these effects in a dose-dependent manner. Melatonin alone did not affect HUVEC viability, however, it inhibited the increase in ROS production and cytoskeleton disruption elicited by H/R, and it dose-dependently prevented H/R-induced upregulation of P38 and HSP27 phosphorylation. In addition, the ROS scavenger N-acetyl-L-cysteine markedly inhibited increased phosphorylation levels of P38 and HSP27 under H/R.

CONCLUSIONS

Melatonin may have a potential clinical effect in trials of H/R-induced vascular injury through its antioxidant property.

Novel Insights in the Metabolic Syndrome-induced Oxidative Stress and Inflammation-mediated Atherosclerosis

Context:

Atherosclerosis is a progressive pathological process and a leading cause of mor-tality worldwide. Clinical research and epidemiological studies state that atherosclerosis is caused by an amalgamation of metabolic and inflammatory deregulation involving three important pathological events including Endothelial Dysfunction (ED), Foam Cell Formation (FCF), and Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells (VSMCs) proliferation and migration.

Objectives:

Research in recent years has identified Metabolic Syndrome (MS), which involves factors such as obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and diabetes, to be responsible for the pathophysiol-ogy of atherosclerosis. These factors elevate oxidative stress and inflammation-induced key signalling molecules and various microRNAs (miRs). In present study, we have reviewed recently identified molecular targets in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis.

Methods:

Scientific literature obtained from databases such as university library, PubMed and Google along with evidences from published experimental work in relevant journals has been sum-marized in this review article.

Results:

The molecular events and cell signalling implicated in atherogenic processes of ED, FCF and VSMCs hyperplasia are sequential and progressive, and involve cross talks at many levels. Specific molecules such as transcription factors, inflammatory cytokines and chemokines and miRs have been identified playing crucial role in most of the events leading to atherosclerosis.

Conclusion:

Studies associated with MS induced oxidative stress- and inflammation- mediated sig-nalling pathways along with critical miRs help in better understanding of the pathophysiology of ath-erosclerosis. Several key molecules discussed in this review could be potent target for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis.

IinQ attenuates systemic inflammatory responses via selectively impairing the Myddosome complex formation upon TLR4 ligation

A specific small-molecule inhibitor of the TLR4 signaling complex upstream of the IKK would likely provide therapeutic benefit for NF-κB-mediated inflammatory disease. We previously identified brazilin as a selective upstream IKK inhibitor targeting the Myddosome complex. In this study, using a cell-based ubiquitination assay for IRAK1 and a chemical library comprising a series of structural analogues of brazilin, a novel small molecule, 2-hydroxy-5,6-dihydroisoindolo[1,2-a]isoquinoline-3,8-dione (IinQ), was identified as a selective and potent inhibitor of IRAK1-dependent NF-κB activation upon TLR4 ligation. In RAW264.7 macrophages, IinQ drastically suppressed activation of upstream IKK signaling events including membrane-bound IRAK1 ubiquitination and IKK phosphorylation by the TLR4 ligand, resulting in reduced expression of proinflammatory mediators including IL-6, TNF-α, and nitric oxide. Interestingly, IinQ did not suppress NF-κB activation via the TLR3 ligand, DNA damaging agents, or a protein kinase C activator, indicating IinQ is specific for TLR4 signaling. Analysis of upstream signaling events further confirmed that IinQ disrupts the MyD88-IRAK1-TRAF6 complex formation induced by LPS treatment, without affecting TLR4 oligomerization. Moreover, intravenous administration of IinQ significantly reduced lethality and attenuated systemic inflammatory responses in an in vivo mouse model of endotoxin shock following LPS challenge. Thus, IinQ represents a novel class of brazilin analogues with improved potency and specificity toward disruption of Myddosome complex formation in TLR4 signaling, indicating that IinQ may be a promising therapeutic candidate for the treatment of systemic inflammatory diseases.

Reversibility of endothelial dysfunction in diabetes: role of polyphenols

The endothelium, a thin single sheet of endothelial cells, is a metabolically active layer that coats the inner surface of blood vessels and acts as an interface between the circulating blood and the vessel wall. The endothelium through the secretion of vasodilators and vasoconstrictors serves as a critical mediator of vascular homeostasis. During the development of the vascular system, it regulates cellular adhesion and vessel wall inflammation in addition to maintaining vasculogenesis and angiogenesis. A shift in the functions of the endothelium towards vasoconstriction, proinflammatory and prothrombic states characterise improper functioning of these cells, leading to endothelial dysfunction (ED), implicated in the pathogenesis of many diseases including diabetes. Major mechanisms of ED include the down-regulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase levels, differential expression of vascular endothelial growth factor, endoplasmic reticulum stress, inflammatory pathways and oxidative stress. ED tends to be the initial event in macrovascular complications such as coronary artery disease, peripheral arterial disease, stroke and microvascular complications such as nephropathy, neuropathy and retinopathy. Numerous strategies have been developed to protect endothelial cells against various stimuli, of which the role of polyphenolic compounds in modulating the differentially regulated pathways and thus maintaining vascular homeostasis has been proven to be beneficial. This review addresses the factors stimulating ED in diabetes and the molecular mechanisms of natural polyphenol antioxidants in maintaining vascular homeostasis.

Compounds from Caesalpinia sappan with anti-inflammatory properties in macrophages and chondrocytes

The heartwood of Caesalpinia sappan is a traditional ingredient of food and beverages in South East Asia and has been used in traditional medicine as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory drug or to promote blood circulation.

Angiotensin 1-7 significantly reduces diabetes-induced leukocyte recruitment both in vivo and in vitro

OBJECTIVE

Recent studies have demonstrated that Ang1-7 has anti-inflammatory effects. Since the formation of Ang1-7 is significantly altered in the setting of diabetes, here we aimed to evaluate whether Ang1-7 infusion could ameliorate diabetes-induced leukocyte recruitment.

METHODS

Wild-type male Wistar rats were randomly allocated to the following groups: control + saline, control + Ang1-7, diabetes + saline, diabetes + Ang1-7. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin. Saline and Ang1-7 (576 μg/kg/day) were injected intraperitoneally daily. After 4 weeks leukocyte trafficking was studied in vivo by intravital microscopy in the mesenteric bed, where the expression of pro-oxidative, proinflammatory, and profibrotic molecules was also assessed. In parallel in vitro studies, HUVEC were grown in 5 mM, 22 mM, 30 mM, 40 mM, 50 mM, and 75 mM glucose media for 48 h, 72 h and 6 days and were treated either with placebo, or with Ang1-7, or with Ang1-7 and its inhibitor A779 in order to evaluate the expression of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1. We further studied leukocytes recruitment in vitro by evaluating PMN-HUVEC adhesion.

RESULTS

Ang1-7 prevented in vivo diabetes-induced leukocyte adhesion and extravasation, and it significantly reduced vascular hypertrophy and the other molecular changes due to diabetes. Ang 1-7 prevented also in vitro the hyperglycemia-induced increase of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 as well as the hyperglycemia-induced PMN adhesion. A779 inhibited Ang 1-7 effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Ang1-7 significantly reduced diabetes-induced leukocyte recruitment both in vivo and in vitro. These findings emphasize the potential utility of ACE2/Ang1-7/Mas repletion as a strategy to reduce diabetes-induced atherosclerosis.

Brazilin isolated from the heartwood of Caesalpinia sappan L induces endothelium-dependent and -independent relaxation of rat aortic rings

AIM

Brazilin is one of the major constituents of Caesalpinia sappan L with various biological activities. This study sought to investigate the vasorelaxant effect of brazilin on isolated rat thoracic aorta and explore the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

Endothelium-intact and -denuded aortic rings were prepared from rats. The tension of the preparations was recorded isometrically with a force displacement transducer connected to a polygraph. The phosphorylation levels of ERK1/2 and myosin light chain (MLC) were analyzed using Western blotting assay.

RESULTS

Application of brazilin (10-100 μmol/L) dose-dependently relaxed the NE- or high K(+)-induced sustained contraction of endothelium-intact aortic rings (the EC50 was 83.51±5.6 and 79.79±4.57 μmol/L, respectively). The vasorelaxant effect of brazilin was significantly attenuated by endothelium removal or by pre-incubation with L-NAME, methylene blue or indomethacin. In addition, pre-incubation with brazilin dose-dependently attenuated the vasoconstriction induced by KCl, NE or Ang II. Pre-incubation with brazilin also markedly suppressed the high K(+)-induced extracellular Ca(2+) influx and NE-induced intracellular Ca(2+) release in endothelium-denuded aortic rings. Pre-incubation with brazilin dose-dependently inhibited the NE-stimulated phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and MLC in both endothelium-intact and -denuded aortic rings.

CONCLUSION

Brazilin induces relaxation in rat aortic rings via both endothelium-dependent and -independent ways as well as inhibiting NE-stimulated phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and MLC. Brazilin also attenuates vasoconstriction via blocking voltage- and receptor-operated Ca(2+) channels.

Brazilin Limits Inflammatory Responses through Induction of Prosurvival Autophagy in Rheumatoid Fibroblast-Like Synoviocytes

Brazilin is an active compound of Caesalpinia sappan L. (Leguminosae), which possesses pro-apoptotic and anti-inflammation potentials depending on the specific cell type. However, it is largely unknown whether autophagy is implicated in the mechanism underlying its chemotherapeutic and anti-inflammatory effects in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Here, we show that treatment of RA fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) with brazilin results in enhanced level of autophagic flux, evidenced by accumulation of autophagosome and increased level of lipidated LC3 (LC3-II), which is mainly mediated by enhanced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Interestingly, long-term exposure of brazilin was able to restore cell survival against the cytotoxity, exclusively in RA FLS, but not in normal fibroblast. Importantly, such a restoration from brazilin-induced cytotoxity in RA FLS was completely abrogated after co-treatment with autophagy inhibitors including NH4Cl or chloroquine. Furthermore, we found that the pretreatment of RA FLS with brazilin reduced LPS- or TNF-induced NF-κB activation and the secretion of inflammatory cytokines in parallel with the enhanced autophagic flux. Such anti-NF-κB potentials of brazilin were drastically masked in RA FLS when autophagy was suppressed. These results suggest that brazilin is capable of activating autophagy exclusively in RA FLS, and such inducible autophagy promotes cell survival and limits inflammatory response.

Development of immunoaffinity chromatography to specifically knockout baicalin from Gegenqinlian Decoction

Specific knockout technology provides a powerful tool to confirm the role of target compounds in a plant or its derived prescriptions, and this principle is the same as that with knockout genes. In this study, we generated an immunoaffinity column conjugated with an anti-baicalin monoclonal antibody and then loaded Gegenqinlian Decoction extracts, followed by washing with deionized water and an elution solvent. The results of the high-performance liquid chromatography fingerprints and high-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry showed that the immunoaffinity column was able to specifically knockout baicalin, oroxylin A-7-O-glucuronide, wogonoside, wogonin, and baicalein from Gegenqinlian Decoction. A reliable one-step method to specifically knockout baicalin was established with an immunoaffinity column. Gegenqinlian Decoction and its knocked-out fraction induced the expression of superoxide dismutase and were compared in human umbilical vein endothelial cells cultured with a high glucose concentration; the results showed that the Gegenqinlian Decoction and its knocked-out fraction showed no significant difference, which indicated that the baicalin, oroxylin A-7-O-glucuronide, wogonoside, wogonin, and baicalein that were knocked out by the immunoaffinity column might not be key compounds for the induction of Gegenqinlian Decoction superoxide dismutase secretion.

The saponin DT-13 attenuates tumor necrosis factor-α-induced vascular inflammation associated with Src/NF-кB/MAPK pathway modulation

This study aimed to explore the effect of DT-13 (25(R,S)-ruscogenin- 1-O- [β-d-glucopyranosyl- (1→2)][β-d-xylopyranosyl-(1→3)]-β -d- fucopyranoside) on tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α-induced vascular inflammation and the potential molecular mechanisms. In vitro, DT-13 suppressed TNF-α-induced adhesion and migration of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) by inhibiting the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1). DT-13 markedly suppressed NF-кB p65 phosphorylation, and when NF-кB p65 was over-expressed, the inhibitory effect of DT-13 on adhesion molecular decreased. DT-13 also suppressed TNF-α induced luciferase activities of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 promoter containing NF-κB binding sites. Furthermore, DT-13 markedly suppressed p38 phosphorylation and Src degradation induced by TNF-α, whereas had no significant effect on ERK and JNK activation. In vivo, DT-13 at 4 mg/kg prevented vascular inflammation and the expression of adhesion molecules induced by TNF-α in mice. These findings suggest that DT-13 abrogates vascular inflammation by down-regulating adhesion molecules associated with modulating the NF-кB, p38MAPK, Src signaling pathways, and NF-κB binding site is at least one of the targets of DT-13. This study provides novel information regarding the mechanism by which DT-13 exerts its effects on vascular inflammation, which is important for the onset and progression of various diseases.

bFGF Promotes the Migration of Human Dermal Fibroblasts under Diabetic Conditions through Reactive Oxygen Species Production via the PI3K/Akt-Rac1- JNK Pathways

Fibroblasts play a pivotal role in the process of cutaneous wound repair, whereas their migratory ability under diabetic conditions is markedly reduced. In this study, we investigated the effect of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on human dermal fibroblast migration in a high-glucose environment. bFGF significantly increased dermal fibroblast migration by increasing the percentage of fibroblasts with a high polarity index and reorganizing F-actin. A significant increase in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) was observed in dermal fibroblasts under diabetic conditions following bFGF treatment. The blockage of bFGF-induced ROS production by either the ROS scavenger N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) or the NADPH oxidase inhibitor diphenylene iodonium chloride (DPI) almost completely neutralized the increased migration rate of dermal fibroblasts promoted by bFGF. Akt, Rac1 and JNK were rapidly activated by bFGF in dermal fibroblasts, and bFGF-induced ROS production and promoted dermal fibroblast migration were significantly attenuated when suppressed respectively. In addition, bFGF-induced increase in ROS production was indispensable for the activation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and paxillin. Therefore, our data suggested that bFGF promotes the migration of human dermal fibroblasts under diabetic conditions through increased ROS production via the PI3K/Akt-Rac1-JNK pathways.

Insulin reverses D-glucose-increased nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species generation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells

Vascular tone is controlled by the L-arginine/nitric oxide (NO) pathway, and NO bioavailability is strongly affected by hyperglycaemia-induced oxidative stress. Insulin leads to high expression and activity of human cationic amino acid transporter 1 (hCAT-1), NO synthesis and vasodilation; thus, a protective role of insulin on high D-glucose-alterations in endothelial function is likely. Vascular reactivity to U46619 (thromboxane A2 mimetic) and calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) was measured in KCl preconstricted human umbilical vein rings (wire myography) incubated in normal (5 mmol/L) or high (25 mmol/L) D-glucose. hCAT-1, endothelial NO synthase (eNOS), 42 and 44 kDa mitogen-activated protein kinases (p42/44mapk), protein kinase B/Akt (Akt) expression and activity were determined by western blotting and qRT-PCR, tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) level was determined by HPLC, and L-arginine transport (0-1000 μmol/L) was measured in response to 5-25 mmol/L D-glucose (0-36 hours) in passage 2 human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Assays were in the absence or presence of insulin and/or apocynin (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-oxidase [NADPH oxidase] inhibitor), tempol or Mn(III)TMPyP (SOD mimetics). High D-glucose increased hCAT-1 expression and activity, which was biphasic (peaks: 6 and 24 hours of incubation). High D-glucose-increased maximal transport velocity was blocked by insulin and correlated with lower hCAT-1 expression and SLC7A1 gene promoter activity. High D-glucose-increased transport parallels higher reactive oxygen species (ROS) and superoxide anion (O2•-) generation, and increased U46619-contraction and reduced CGRP-dilation of vein rings. Insulin and apocynin attenuate ROS and O2•- generation, and restored vascular reactivity to U46619 and CGRP. Insulin, but not apocynin or tempol reversed high D-glucose-increased NO synthesis; however, tempol and Mn(III)TMPyP reversed the high D-glucose-reduced BH4 level. Insulin and tempol blocked the high D-glucose-increased p42/44mapk phosphorylation. Vascular dysfunction caused by high D-glucose is likely attenuated by insulin through the L-arginine/NO and O2•-/NADPH oxidase pathways. These findings are of interest for better understanding vascular dysfunction in states of foetal insulin resistance and hyperglycaemia.

Anti inflammatory and anti angiogenic effect of black raspberry extract on human esophageal and intestinal microvascular endothelial cells

Polyphenolic compounds (anthocyanins, flavonoid glycosides) in berries prevent the initiation, promotion, and progression of carcinogenesis in rat's digestive tract and esophagus, in part, via anti-inflammatory pathways. Angiogenesis has been implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammation and tumorigenesis. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic effects of black raspberry extract (BRE) on two organ specific primary human intestinal microvascular endothelial cells, (HIMEC) and human esophageal microvascular endothelial cells (HEMEC), isolated from surgically resected human intestinal and donor discarded esophagus, respectively. HEMEC and HIMEC were stimulated with TNF-α/IL-1β with or without BRE. The anti-inflammatory effects of BRE were assessed based upon COX-2, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 gene and protein expression, PGE2 production, NFκB p65 subunit nuclear translocation as well as endothelial cell-leukocyte adhesion. The anti-angiogenic effects of BRE were assessed on cell migration, proliferation and tube formation following VEGF stimulation as well as on activation of Akt, MAPK and JNK signaling pathways. BRE inhibited TNF-α/IL-1β-induced NFκB p65 nuclear translocation, PGE2 production, up-regulation of COX-2, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 gene and protein expression and leukocyte binding in HEMEC but not in HIMEC. BRE attenuated VEGF-induced cell migration, proliferation and tube formation in both HEMEC and HIMEC. The anti-angiogenic effect of BRE is mediated by inhibition of Akt, MAPK and JNK phosphorylations. BRE exerted differential anti-inflammatory effects between HEMEC and HIMEC following TNF-α/IL-1β activation whereas demonstrated similar anti-angiogenic effects following VEGF stimulation in both cell lines. These findings may provide more insight into the anti-tumorigenic capacities of BRE in human disease and cancer.