Overview on the Discovery and Development of Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: Should the Focus Be on Synthesis or Degradation of PGE2?

Efficacy of intravenous acetaminophen on postoperative shivering: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

PURPOSE

Postoperative shivering (POS) is a common and vital complication after anesthesia, which may result in serious consequences and uncomfortable experiences. Acetaminophen has been used to treat fever and mild to moderate pain. However, there is not enough evidence to prove its advantage for POS. This meta-analysis aimed to explore the prophylactic use of acetaminophen as a valid agent for POS.

METHODS

Two researchers independently searched PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Embase for controlled clinical trials. The meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was performed by Review Manager.

RESULTS

Nine trials with 856 patients were included in our meta-analysis. Acetaminophen significantly reduced POS compared with placebo (pooled risk ratio [RR]: 0.43, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.35-0.52). What is more, not only 15 mg/kg but also 1000 mg intravenous acetaminophen could reduce the incidence of shivering compared with placebo.

CONCLUSION

Our present meta-analysis demonstrates that the intravenous prophylactic infusion of acetaminophen may prevent POS, and the results may provide new evidence to expand the clinical value of acetaminophen in addition to its routine usage.

The effects of aerobic exercise training on inflammatory markers in adult tobacco smokers: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

INTRODUCTION

Aerobic exercise training may reduce systemic inflammation, but the effects of this on systemic inflammatory markers in adult tobacco smokers has not been systematically reviewed. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of aerobic exercise training on C-reactive protein (CRP) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in adult tobacco smokers using a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was carried out using PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and hand search of bibliographies of the retrieved English or Persian articles up to August 2023. This review only included randomized controlled trials which investigated the effect of aerobic exercise training on CRP and TNF-α in adult smokers, based on a predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria.

RESULTS

A total of 1641 articles were identified. Six studies were included in the review and four evaluated CRP and two evaluated TNF-α in only males. The meta-analysis demonstrated that aerobic exercise training significantly decreased TNF-α concentrations in males (MD = -6.68, 95 % CI = -13.90 to -0.54, P = 0.05). CRP concentrations did not decrease significantly when the data from the four studies were pooled (MD = -0.17, 95 % CI = -0.37 to 0.03, P = 0.09).

CONCLUSION

Aerobic exercise training may reduce the concentration of TNF-α in male smokers, but it does not have a significant effect on CRP concentrations. However, these findings are based upon a small number of studies, that enrolled either exclusively male or female participants, and further investigation is necessary to increase statistical inference.

Functionalized fennel extract-mediated alumina/cerium oxide nanocomposite potentiometric sensor for the determination of diclofenac sodium medication

The current work suggests a new, ultrasensitive green functionalized sensor for the determination of anti-inflammatory medication diclofenac sodium (DCF). Alumina (Al2O3) and cerium oxide (CeO2) nanoparticles (NPs) have attracted great interest for their use as outstanding and electroactive nanocomposite in potentiometric and sensory research due to their ultrafunctional potential. The formed nanoparticles have been confirmed using various spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. The fennel extract-mediated Al2O3/CeO2 nanocomposite (Al2O3/CeO2 NCS) modified coated wire membrane sensor developed in this study was used to quantify DCF in bulk and commercial products. Diclofenac sodium was coupled with phosphomolybdic acid (PMA) to generate diclofenac phosphomolybdate (DCF-PM) as an active ion-pair in the existence of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and o-nitrophenyl octyl ether (o-NPOE). Clear peaks at 270, and 303 nm with band gaps of 4.59 eV and 4.09 eV were measured using UV-vis spectroscopy of Al2O3 and CeO2, respectively. The crystallite sizes of the formed nanoparticles were XRD-determined to be 30.13 ± 8, 17.72 ± 3, and 35.8 ± 0.5 nm for Al2O3, CeO2, and Al2O3/CeO2 NCS, respectively. The developed sensor showed excellent response for the measurement and assay of DCF, with a linearity between 1.0 × 10-9 and 1.0 × 10-2 mol L-1. EmV = (57.76) log [DCF] +622.69 was derived. On the other hand, the typical type DCF-PM presented a potentiometric response range of 1.0 × 10-5-1.0 × 10-2 mol L-1 and a regression equation of EmV = (56.97) log [DCF]+367.16. The functionalized sensor that was proposed was successful in determining DCF in its commercial tablets with percent recovery 99.95 ± 0.3. Method validation has been used to improve the suitability of the suggested potentiometric technique, by studying various parameters with respect to the international council harmonization requirements for analytical methodologies.

Imrecoxib: Advances in Pharmacology and Therapeutics

Imrecoxib, a cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) selective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), was discovered via the balanced inhibition strategy of COX-1/COX-2. It is indicated for the relief of painful symptoms of osteoarthritis. There have been some pharmacological and therapeutic advances since the approval of imrecoxib in 2011. However, an update review in this aspect is not yet available. Relevant literature until January 2024 was identified by search of PubMed, Web of science, Embase and CNKI. From the perspective of efficacy, imrecoxib provides relief of osteoarthritis symptoms, and potential off-label use for treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, perioperative pain, hand-foot syndrome, axial spondyloarthritis, COVID-19, cartilage injury, and malignancies such as lung and colon cancer. From a safety point of view, imrecoxib showed adverse effects common to NSAIDs; however, it has lower incidence of new-onset hypertension than other types of selective COX-2 inhibitors, less gastrointestinal toxicities than non-selective NSAIDs, weaker risk of drug interaction than celecoxib, and more suitable for elderly patients due to balanced inhibition of COX-1/COX-2. From a pharmacoeconomic perspective, imrecoxib is more cost-effective than celecoxib and diclofenac for osteoarthritis patients. With the deepening of the disease pathophysiology study of osteoarthritis, new therapeutic schemes and pharmacological mechanisms are constantly discovered. In the field of osteoarthritis treatment, mechanisms other than the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of COX-2 inhibitors are also being explored. Taken together, imrecoxib is a moderate selective COX-2 inhibitor with some advantages, and there would be more clinical applications and research opportunities in the future.

Phytochemical profiling, antioxidant, cytotoxic, and anti-inflammatory activities of Plectranthus rugosus extract and fractions: in vitro, in vivo, and in silico approaches

BACKGROUND

Inflammation is a key biological reaction that comprises a complex network of signals that both initiate and stop the inflammation process.

PURPOSE

This study targets to evaluate the anti-inflammatory potential of the leaves of the Plectranthus rugosus (P. rugosus) plant involving both in vitro and in vivo measures. The current available drugs exhibit serious side effects. Traditional medicines impart an essential role in drug development. P. rugosus is a plant used in traditional medicine of Tropical Africa, China, and Australia to treat various diseases.

METHODS

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an endotoxin, kindles macrophages to discharge huge quantities of pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6. So, clampdown of macrophage stimulation may have a beneficial potential to treat various inflammatory disorders. The leaves of the P. rugosus are used for swelling purpose by local population; however, its use as an anti-inflammatory agent and associated disorders has no scientific evidence.

RESULTS

The extracts of the plant Plectranthus rugosus ethanolic extract (PREE), Plectranthus rugosus ethyl acetate extract (PREAF), and the compound isolated (oleanolic acid) suppress the pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) and nitric oxide (NO), confirming its importance in traditional medicine.

CONCLUSION

The pro-inflammatory cytokines are inhibited by P. rugosus extracts, as well as an isolated compound oleanolic acid without compromising cell viability.

Impact of IL-6 rs1800795 and IL-17A rs2275913 gene polymorphisms on the COVID-19 prognosis and susceptibility in a sample of Iranian patients

BACKGROUND

From asymptomatic to acute and life-threatening pulmonary infection, the clinical manifestations of COVID-19 are highly variable. Interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-17A are key drivers of hyper inflammation status in COVID-19, and their elevated levels are hallmarks of the infection progression. To explore whether prognosis and susceptibility to COVID-19 are linked to IL-6 rs1800795 and IL-17A rs2275913, these single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were assessed in a sample of Iranian COVID-19 patients.

METHODS

This study enrolled two hundred and eighty COVID-19 patients (140 non-severe and 140 severe). Genotyping for IL-6 rs1800795 and IL-17A rs2275913 was performed using tetra primer-amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (tetra-ARMS-PCR). IL-6 and IL-17A circulating levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Also, mortality predictors of COVID-19 were investigated.

RESULTS

The rs1800795 GG genotype (78/140 (55.7 %)) and G allele (205/280 (73.2 %)) were significantly associated with a positive risk of COVID-19 severe infection (OR = 2.19, 95 %CI: 1.35-3.54, P =.006 and OR = 1.79, 95 %CI: 1.25-2.56, P <.001, respectively). Also, rs1800795 GG genotype was significantly linked to disease mortality (OR = 1.95, 95 %CI: 1.06-3.61, P =.04). The rs2275913 GA genotype was protective against severe COVID-19 (OR = 0.5, 95 %CI: 0.31--0.80, P =.012). However, the present study did not reveal any significant link between rs2275913 genotypes with disease mortality. INR ≥ 1.2 (OR = 2.19, 95 %CI: 1.61-3.78, P =.007), D-dimer ≥ 565.5 ng/mL (OR = 3.12, 95 %CI: 1.27-5.68, P =.019), respiratory rate ≥ 29 (OR = 1.19, 95 %CI: 1.12-1.28, P =.001), IL-6 serum concentration ≥ 28.5 pg/mL (OR = 1.97, 95 %CI: 1.942-2.06, P =.013), and IL-6 rs1800795 GG genotype (OR = 1.95, 95 %CI: 1.06-3.61, P =.04) were predictive of COVID-19 mortality.

CONCLUSION

The rs1800795 GG genotype and G allele were associated with disease severity, and INR, D-dimer, respiratory rate, IL-6 serum concentration, and IL-6 rs1800795 GG genotype were predictive of COVID-19 mortality.

A decade of USFDA-approved small molecules as anti-inflammatory agents: Recent trends and Commentaries on the "industrial" perspective

Inflammation is the human body's defence process against various pathogens, toxic substances, irradiation, and physically injured cells that have been damaged. Inflammation is characterized by swelling, pain, redness, heat, as well as diminished tissue function. Multiple important inflammatory markers determine the prognosis of inflammatory processes, which include likes of pro-inflammatory cytokines which are controlled by nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-kB), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), Janus kinase signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) pathway, all of which are activated in response to the stimulation of specific receptors. Besides these, the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme family also plays a significant role in inflammation. The current review is kept forth to compile a summary of small molecules-based drugs approved by the USFDA during the study period of 2013-2023. A thorough discussion has also been made to focus on biologics, macromolecules, and small chemical entities approved during this study period and their greener synthetic routes with a brief discussion on the chemical spacing parameters of anti-inflammatory drugs. The compilation is expected to assist the medicinal chemist and the scientist actively engaged in drug discovery and development of anti-inflammatory agents from newer perspectives during the current years.

Antinociceptive and antiinflammatory activities of crude leave extract and solvent fractions of Commelina latifolia Hochst. ex C.B.Clarke (Commelinaceae) leaves in murine model

Ethnopharmacological relevance: In the past, Ethiopian traditional medicine employed the leaves of the native Commelina latifolia Hochst. ex C.B. Clarke plant to treat wounds, pain, and malaria. Aim of the study: The crude extract and solvent fractions of C. latifolia Hochst. ex C.B. Clarke leaves were examined in the present investigation to determine their ability to have an antiinflammatory effect and provide an antinociceptive effect in animal models. Materials and methods: The leaves of C. latifolia were extracted with 80% methanol, and the CL crude extract was further fractionated with chloroform, pure methanol, and distilled water. The carrageenan-induced paw edema model was used to test the extracts' ability to reduce inflammation. The hotplate model and the acetic acid-induced writhing test on rodents were used to test the extracts' potential antinociceptive effect to reduce pain. Results: Inflammation was decreased by 64.59% with CL crude extract (400 mg/kg); 56.34% (400 mg/kg) of methanol fraction, 64.59% of aqueous fraction (400 mg/kg), and 38.27% of chloroform fraction in the carrageenan-induced inflammatory model. All extracts demonstrated a considerable lengthening of the nociception reaction time in the hot plate test, with a maximum antinociceptive effect of 78.98% (crude extract) and 71.65% (solvent fractions). At a dosage of 400 mg/kg, the natural C. latifolia crude extract and aqueous fraction demonstrated considerable antinociceptive effects against acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) during the writhing test (48.83% and 45.37than%, respectively). The current findings support Ethiopia's traditional user's assertions that the herb can alleviate inflammation and pain.

Tawfik S, Othman DIA, Elshal M, Ur Rahman H, Parambi DGT, M. Elbargisy R, Selim S, Mostafa EM, Mohamed AAB. Design, synthesis, and biological investigation of oxadiazolyl, thiadiazolyl, and pyrimidinyl linked antipyrine derivatives as potential non-acidic anti-inflammatory agents

A novel series of 12 antipyrine derivatives containing 1,3,4-oxadiazoles (4a-d), 1,3,4-thiadiazoles (6a-d), and pyrimidines (8a-d), was preparedand assessed for its potential in vitro COX-2 inhibitors. Compared to Celecoxib, compounds 4b-d and 8d were the most potent derivatives c with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration range of 53-69 nM. Considering COX-2 selectivity index, compounds 4 b and 4c were chosen among these most potent derivatives for further investigation. The in vivo ability of compounds 4 b and 4c to counteract carrageenan-induced paw edoema has been assessed and their potential underlying mechanisms have been elucidated and the results have been further validated using molecular docking simulations.

New benzothiazole hybrids as potential VEGFR-2 inhibitors: design, synthesis, anticancer evaluation, and in silico study

A new series of 2-aminobenzothiazole hybrids linked to thiazolidine-2,4-dione 4a-e, 1,3,4-thiadiazole aryl urea 6a-d, and cyanothiouracil moieties 8a-d was synthesised. The in vitro antitumor effect of the new hybrids was assessed against three cancer cell lines, namely, HCT-116, HEPG-2, and MCF-7 using Sorafenib (SOR) as a standard drug. Among the tested compounds, 4a was the most potent showing IC50 of 5.61, 7.92, and 3.84 µM, respectively. Furthermore, compounds 4e and 8a proved to have strong impact on breast cancer cell line with IC50 of 6.11 and 10.86 µM, respectively. The three compounds showed a good safety profile towards normal WI-38 cells. Flow cytometric analysis of the three compounds in MCF-7 cells revealed that compounds 4a and 4c inhibited cell population in the S phase, whereas 8a inhibited the population in the G1/S phase. The most promising compounds were subjected to a VEGFR-2 inhibitory assay where 4a emerged as the best active inhibitor of VEGFR-2 with IC50 91 nM, compared to 53 nM for SOR. In silico analysis showed that the three new hybrids succeeded to link to the active site like the co-crystallized inhibitor SOR.

The Crosstalk between Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cells and Hepatocytes in Homeostasis and under Stress

Liver diseases, characterized by high morbidity and mortality, represent a substantial medical problem globally. The current therapeutic approaches are mainly aimed at reducing symptoms and slowing down the progression of the diseases. Organ transplantation remains the only effective treatment method in cases of severe liver pathology. In this regard, the development of new effective approaches aimed at stimulating liver regeneration, both by activation of the organ's own resources or by different therapeutic agents that trigger regeneration, does not cease to be relevant. To date, many systematic reviews and meta-analyses have been published confirming the effectiveness of mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) transplantation in the treatment of liver diseases of various severities and etiologies. However, despite the successful use of MSCs in clinical practice and the promising therapeutic results in animal models of liver diseases, the mechanisms of their protective and regenerative action remain poorly understood. Specifically, data about the molecular agents produced by these cells and mediating their therapeutic action are fragmentary and often contradictory. Since MSCs or MSC-like cells are found in all tissues and organs, it is likely that many key intercellular interactions within the tissue niches are dependent on MSCs. In this context, it is essential to understand the mechanisms underlying communication between MSCs and differentiated parenchymal cells of each particular tissue. This is important both from the perspective of basic science and for the development of therapeutic approaches involving the modulation of the activity of resident MSCs. With regard to the liver, the research is concentrated on the intercommunication between MSCs and hepatocytes under normal conditions and during the development of the pathological process. The goals of this review were to identify the key factors mediating the crosstalk between MSCs and hepatocytes and determine the possible mechanisms of interaction of the two cell types under normal and stressful conditions. The analysis of the hepatocyte-MSC interaction showed that MSCs carry out chaperone-like functions, including the synthesis of the supportive extracellular matrix proteins; prevention of apoptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis; support of regeneration; elimination of lipotoxicity and ER stress; promotion of antioxidant effects; and donation of mitochondria. The underlying mechanisms suggest very close interdependence, including even direct cytoplasm and organelle exchange.

Benchmarking different docking protocols for predicting the binding poses of ligands complexed with cyclooxygenase enzymes and screening chemical libraries

Introduction

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) constitute an important class of pharmaceuticals acting on cyclooxygenase COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes. Due to their numerous severe side effects, it is necessary to search for new selective, safe, and effective anti-inflammatory drugs. In silico design of novel therapeutics plays an important role in nowadays drug discovery pipelines. In most cases, the design strategies require the use of molecular docking calculations. The docking procedure may require case-specific condition for a successful result. Additionally, many different docking programs are available, which highlights the importance of identifying the most proper docking method and condition for a given problem.

Methods

In the current work, the performances of five popular molecular docking programs, namely, GOLD, AutoDock, FlexX, Molegro Virtual Docker (MVD) and Glide to predict the binding mode of co- crystallized inhibitors in the structures of known complexes available for cyclooxygenases were evaluated. Furthermore, the best performers, Glide, AutoDock, GOLD and FlexX, were further evaluated in docking-based virtual screening of libraries consisted of active ligands and decoy molecules for cyclooxygenase enzymes and the obtained docking scores were assessed by receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis.

Results

The results of docking experiments indicated that Glide program outperformed other docking programs by correctly predicting the binding poses (RMSD less than 2 Å) of all studied co-crystallized ligands of COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes (i.e., the performance was 100%). However, the performances of the other studied docking methods for correctly predicting the binding poses of the ligands were between 59% to 82%. Virtual screening results treated by ROC analysis revealed that all tested methods are useful tools for classification and enrichment of molecules targeting COX enzymes. The obtained AUCs range between 0.61-0.92 with enrichment factors of 8 - 40 folds.

Conclusion

The obtained results support the importance of choosing appropriate docking method for predicting ligand-receptor binding modes, and provide specific information about docking calculations on COXs ligands.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Lauraceae Plant Species and Prediction Models Based on Their Metabolomics Profiling Data

The Lauraceae is a botanical family known for its anti-inflammatory potential. However, several species have not yet been studied. Thus, this work aimed to screen the anti-inflammatory activity of this plant family and to build statistical prediction models. The methodology was based on the statistical analysis of high-resolution liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry data and the ex vivo anti-inflammatory activity of plant extracts. The ex vivo results demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory activity for several of these plants for the first time. The sample data were applied to build anti-inflammatory activity prediction models, including the partial least square acquired, artificial neural network, and stochastic gradient descent, which showed adequate fitting and predictive performance. Key anti-inflammatory markers, such as aporphine and benzylisoquinoline alkaloids were annotated with confidence level 2. Additionally, the validated prediction models proved to be useful for predicting active extracts using metabolomics data and studying their most bioactive metabolites.

Chemical characterization, antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effect of Lippia lacunosa, a species used by the Bandeirantes

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Lippia lacunosa Mart. & Schauer is an endemic plant from the Serra do Espinhaço mountain range located on the Atlantic plateau, Brazil. It is known as "chá de pedestre" and "rosmaninho" in folk medicine. This species has a characteristic mango aroma and is widely used by the population for flu, colds, sinus infections, coughing, relaxing baths, and foot baths after long walks. It is often confused with and, therefore, used interchangeably with L. rotundifolia and L. pseudothea.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to increase scientific knowledge on the ethnopharmacological use of Lippia lacunosa through the evaluation of the micromolecular composition and anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of the hexane and ethanolic extracts, essential oil, and fractions in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The chemical profile of L. lacunosa extracts and fractions were obtained by chromatographic methods such as Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC), Gas Chromatography (GC), Column Chromatography (CC), and Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC). Carrageenan-induced paw edema was used to investigate the anti-inflammatory activity in mice. Mechanical allodynia induced by carrageenan and hot plate tests were employed to evaluate the antinociceptive activity.

RESULTS

The main constituents found in the essential oil were the monoterpenes myrcene (13.81%), linalool (6.84%), ipsenone (21.2%), and myrcenone (25.44%); and sesquiterpenes elemol (7.30%) and spathulenol (3.15%). The chromatograph fractionation of essential oil yielded a fraction rich in the main compounds (F33), ipsenone and mircenone. In experimental models of paw edema and mechanical allodynia induced by carrageenan (600 μg, 30 μL, i.pl.), the administration of hexane extract, essential oil (50 or 100 mg/kg, p.o.) or majority fraction (10 mg/kg, p.o.) reduced paw edema. The ethanolic extract (100 mg/kg) reduced mechanical allodynia only in the 2 nd h of evaluation. On the other hand, the hexane extract (50 or 100 mg/kg) and essential oil (100 mg/kg), as well as the majority fraction (10 mg/kg), reduced mechanical allodynia throughout the evaluation period. The hexane extract, essential oil, and majority fraction F33 also reduced the heat-induced nociceptive response. Also, majority fraction F33 did not affect the time mice spent in the rota-rod apparatus.

CONCLUSIONS

The elucidation of the composition of the essential oil and the demonstration of the activity of L. lacunosa in experimental models of acute inflammation and also in models of nociceptive and inflammatory pain can help to increase knowledge on the ancient ethnopharmacological use by the Bandeirantes, aiming at the evaluation of the species as a candidate for herbal medicine or phytopharmaceutical in the treatment of patients with inflammatory and painful conditions.

Anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive and anti-pyretic activities of Cenchrus ciliaris L

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cenchrus ciliaris L. belongs to the family Poaceae and is found all over the world. It is native to the Cholistan desert of Pakistan where it is locally known as 'Dhaman'. Owing to high nutritional value, C. ciliaris is used as fodder while seeds are used for bread making which are consumed by locals. It also possesses medicinal value and is extensively employed to treat pain, inflammation, urinary tract infection, and tumors.

AIM OF STUDY

Studies on the pharmacological activities of C. ciliaris are scarce in spite of its several traditional uses. To the best of our knowledge, no comprehensive study has been conducted on anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-pyretic activity of C. ciliaris until now. Here we employed an integrative phytochemical and in - vivo framework to evaluate the potential biological activities of C. ciliaris against inflammation, nociception and pyrexia experimentally induced in rodents.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

C. ciliaris was collected from the desert of Cholistan, Bahawalpur, Pakistan. Phytochemical profiling of C. ciliaris was done by employing GC-MS analysis. Anti-inflammatory activity of plant extract was initially determined by various in - vitro assays including albumin denaturation assay and RBC membrane stabilization assays. Finally, rodents were utilized to evaluate in - vivo anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and anti-nociceptive activities.

RESULTS

Our data revealed the presence of 67 phytochemicals in methanolic extract of C. ciliaris. The methanolic extract of C. ciliaris provided RBC membrane stabilization by 65.89 ± 0.32% and protection against albumin denaturation by 71.91 ± 3.42% at 1 mg/ml concentration. In in - vivo acute inflammatory models, C. ciliaris exhibited 70.33 ± 1.03, 62.09 ± 8.98, 70.24 ± 0.95% anti-inflammatory activity at concentration of 300 mg/ml against carrageenan, histamine and serotonin induced inflammation. In CFA induced arthritis, inhibition of inflammation was found to be 48.85 ± 5.11% at 300 mg/ml dose after 28 days of treatment. In anti-nociceptive assays C. ciliaris exhibited significant analgesic activity in both peripheral and centrally mediated pain. The C. ciliaris also reduced the temperature by 75.26 ± 1.41% in yeast induced pyrexia.

CONCLUSION

C. ciliaris exhibited anti-inflammatory effect against acute and chronic inflammation. It also showed significant anti-nociceptive and anti-pyretic activity which endorses its traditional use in the management of pain and inflammatory disorders.

Green Synthesis of Novel Pyridines via One-Pot Multicomponent Reaction and Their Anti-Inflammatory Evaluation

A functional and environmentally green procedure for the design of novel pyridine 5a-h and 7a-d derivatives through two pathways is presented. The first pathway is via a one-pot, four-component reaction of p-formylphenyl-4-toluenesulfonate (1), ethyl cyanoacetate (2), acetophenone derivatives 3a-h or acetyl derivatives 6a-d, and ammonium acetate (4) under microwave irradiation in ethanol. The advantages of this method are an excellent yield (82%-94%), pure products, a short reaction time (2-7 min), and low-cost processing. The second pathway was obtained by the traditional method with treatment of the same mixture under refluxing in ethanol, which afforded the same products, 5a-h and 7a-d, in less yield (71%-88%) and over a longer reaction time (6-9 h). The constructions of the novel compounds were articulated via spectral and elemental analysis. Overall, the compounds have been designed, synthesized, and studied for their in vitro anti-inflammatory activity using diclofenac as a reference drug (5 mg/kg). The most potent four compounds, 5a, 5f, 5g, and 5h, showed promising anti-inflammatory activity.

Evaluation of the Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Mastic Oil Extracted from Pistacia lentiscus var. chia

Mastic oil (MO) is extracted from the resin of the bark of Pistacia lentiscus var. chia, a tree abundantly grown in the Greek island of Chios. Various biological activities, such as antimicrobial, anticancer and antioxidant, have been associated with the dietary intake of MO. However, little is known about MO’s potential anti-inflammatory effects, while some of its main chemical constituents were reported to exert significant anti-inflammatory activity. This study aims to assay the bioactivity of MO on in vitro and in vivo experimental inflammation models, in particular on LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages, murine primary peritoneal macrophages and a model of zymosan-induced peritonitis in BALB/c mice. The per os administration of MO inhibited the recruitment of macrophages into the peritoneal cavity of zymosan-treated mice, but did not affect neutrophil mobilisation or the levels of IL-6 or TNF-α in the peritoneal fluid. Similarly, IL-6 and TNF-α secretion in primary LPS-stimulated macrophages was not affected by MO, but the levels of phosphoproteins that activate inflammation in macrophages were differentially regulated. Finally, MO and some of its individual constituents reduced nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 and TNF-α levels in supernatants of LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells and inhibited their phagocytosis rate. Our data imply that MO may promote an anti-inflammatory transition in macrophages due to the combined bioactivities of its individual constituents. Thus, as a mixture of various compounds, MO seems to affect multiple molecular mechanisms that are involved in the development of inflammation. Therefore, more research, focusing on MO’s individual constituents and employing various pre-clinical inflammation models that activate different mechanisms, is required for a detailed investigation of the oil’s potential anti-inflammatory activity.

Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidative Phytogenic Substances against Secret Killers in Poultry: Current Status and Prospects

Chronic stress is recognized as a secret killer in poultry. It is associated with systemic inflammation due to cytokine release, dysbiosis, and the so-called leaky gut syndrome, which mainly results from oxidative stress reactions that damage the barrier function of the cells lining the gut wall. Poultry, especially the genetically selected broiler breeds, frequently suffer from these chronic stress symptoms when exposed to multiple stressors in their growing environments. Since oxidative stress reactions and inflammatory damages are multi-stage and long-term processes, overshooting immune reactions and their down-stream effects also negatively affect the animal's microbiota, and finally impair its performance and commercial value. Means to counteract oxidative stress in poultry and other animals are, therefore, highly welcome. Many phytogenic substances, including flavonoids and phenolic compounds, are known to exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. In this review, firstly, the main stressors in poultry, such as heat stress, mycotoxins, dysbiosis and diets that contain oxidized lipids that trigger oxidative stress and inflammation, are discussed, along with the key transcription factors involved in the related signal transduction pathways. Secondly, the most promising phytogenic substances and their current applications to ameliorate oxidative stress and inflammation in poultry are highlighted.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity of 1,4-Naphthoquinones Blocking P2X7 Purinergic Receptors in RAW 264.7 Macrophage Cells

P2X7 receptors are ligand-gated ion channels activated by ATP and play a significant role in cellular immunity. These receptors are considered as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of multiple inflammatory diseases. In the present work, using spectrofluorimetry, spectrophotometry, Western blotting and ELISA approaches, the ability of 1,4-naphthoquinone thioglucoside derivatives, compounds U-286 and U-548, to inhibit inflammation induced by ATP/LPS in RAW 264.7 cells via P2X7 receptors was demonstrated. It has been established that the selected compounds were able to inhibit ATP-induced calcium influx and the production of reactive oxygen species, and they also exhibited pronounced antioxidant activity in mouse brain homogenate. In addition, compounds U-286 and U-548 decreased the LPS-induced activity of the COX-2 enzyme, the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β in RAW 264.7 cells, and significantly protected macrophage cells against the toxic effects of ATP and LPS. This study highlights the use of 1,4-naphthoquinones as promising purinergic P2X7 receptor antagonists with anti-inflammatory activity. Based on the data obtained, studied synthetic 1,4-NQs can be considered as potential scaffolds for the development of new anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs.

Identification of 2-Aminoacyl-1,3,4-thiadiazoles as Prostaglandin E2 and Leukotriene Biosynthesis Inhibitors

The application of a multi-step scientific workflow revealed an unprecedented class of PGE₂/leukotriene biosynthesis inhibitors with in vivo activity. Specifically, starting from a combinatorial virtual library of ∼4.2 × 10⁵ molecules, a small set of compounds was identified for the synthesis. Among these, four novel 2-aminoacyl-1,3,4-thiadiazole derivatives (3, 6, 7, and 9) displayed marked anti-inflammatory properties in vitro by strongly inhibiting PGE₂ biosynthesis, with IC₅₀ values in the nanomolar range. The hit compounds also efficiently interfered with leukotriene biosynthesis in cell-based systems and modulated IL-6 and PGE₂ biosynthesis in a lipopolysaccharide-stimulated J774A.1 macrophage cell line. The most promising compound 3 showed prominent in vivo anti-inflammatory activity in a mouse model, with efficacy comparable to that of dexamethasone, attenuating zymosan-induced leukocyte migration in mouse peritoneum with considerable modulation of the levels of typical pro-/anti-inflammatory cytokines.

Design and synthesis of functionalized 4-aryl-Catechol derivatives as new antiinflammtory agents with in vivo efficacy

Oxidative stress and inflammation are two conditions that coexist in many multifactorial diseases and the discovery of antioxidants is an attractive approach that can simultaneously tackle two or more therapeutic targets of the arachidonic acid cascade. We report that the simple structural variations on the 4-aryl-benzene-1,2-diol side-arm of the scaffold significantly influence the selectivity against 5-LOX vs 12- and 15-LOX. Derivatives 4 a-l were evaluated for their antioxidant activity, using the DPPH, and ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methods. Docking simulations proposed concrete binding of the catechol series to 5-LO. Selected active compound 4-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)dibenzofuran (4l) was also tested in different in vivo mouse models of inflammation. 4l (0.1 mg/kg; i.p.) impaired (I) bronchoconstriction in ovalbumin-sensitized mice challenged with acetylcholine, (II) exudate formation in carrageenan-induced paw edema, and (III) zymosan-induced leukocyte infiltration in air pouches. These results pave the way for investigating the therapeutic potential of 4-aryl-benzene-1,2-diol, as novel multitarget therapeutic drugs, able to regulate the complex inflammatory cascade mechanisms.

Essential Oils from the Leaves, Stem, and Roots of Blumea lanceolaria (Roxb.) Druce in Vietnam: Determination of Chemical Composition, and In Vitro, In Vivo, and In Silico Studies on Anti-Inflammatory Activity

Blumea lanceolaria (Roxb.) Druce, a flowering plant, is used for treating cancer and inflammatory diseases. In this study, we determined the chemical composition of the EOs extracted from the leaves (LBEO), stem (SBEO), and roots (RBEO) of B. lanceolaria and analyzed their anti-inflammation potential. Overall, 30 compounds representing 99.12%, 98.44%, and 96.89% of total EO constituents of the leaves, stem, and roots, respectively, were identified using GC-MS. ELISA, Western blotting, and qRT-PCR studies showed that LBEO, SBEO, and RBEO inhibited multiple steps in the inflammatory responses in the RAW 264.7 cell model, including NO production; TNF-α, IL-6, iNOS, and COX-2 transcription and translation; and phosphorylation of IκBα and p65 of the NF-κB pathway. In the carrageenan-induced paw edema model, all three EOs inhibited paw edema at both early and delayed phases. Molecular docking studies indicated that the main components of B. lanceolaria EOs (BEOs) targeted and inhibited major components of inflammation-related pathways, including the arachidonic acid metabolic pathway, NF-κB pathway, and MAPK pathway. We present the first study to characterize the chemical composition of BEOs and confirm their potent anti-inflammatory effects in in vitro, in vivo, and in silico analysis. These results can facilitate the development of effective anti-inflammatory drugs with limited side effects in the future.

Hepatocyte-Derived Prostaglandin E2-Modulated Macrophage M1-Type Polarization via mTOR-NPC1 Axis-Regulated Cholesterol Transport from Lysosomes to the Endoplasmic Reticulum in Hepatitis B Virus x Protein-Related Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis

Lipid metabolic dysregulation and liver inflammation have been reported to be associated with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Hepatitis B virus x protein (HBx) is a risk factor for NASH. Based on metabolomic and transcriptomic screens and public database analysis, we found that HBx-expressing hepatocyte-derived prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) induced macrophage polarization imbalance via prostaglandin E2 receptor 4 (EP4) through in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models. Here, we revealed that the M1-type polarization of macrophages induced by endoplasmic reticulum oxidoreductase-1-like protein α (ERO1α)-dependent endoplasmic reticulum stress was associated with the HBx-related hepatic NASH phenotype. Mechanistically, HBx promoted Niemann-Pick type C1 (NPC1)/oxysterol-binding protein-related protein 5 (ORP5)-mediated cholesterol transport from the lysosome to the endoplasmic reticulum via mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) activation. This study provides a novel basis for screening potential biomarkers in the macrophage mTOR-cholesterol homeostasis-polarization regulatory signaling pathway and evaluating targeted interventions for HBx-associated NASH.

Dietary anthocyanins balance immune signs in osteoarthritis and obesity - update of human in vitro studies and clinical trials

Anthocyanins are known to change ligand-receptor bindings, cell membrane permeability, and intracellular signaling pathways. The beneficial effects of dietary anthocyanins have been chronologically demonstrated in interventional and observational studies, including fourteen human chondrocyte studies and related cell culture assays, nineteen human clinical trials in osteoarthritis patients, seven in vivo obesity assays, nineteen in vitro assays in preadipocytes and related cells, and twenty-two clinical trials in overweight/obese subjects, which are critically discussed in this update. Strawberries, cherries, berries, pomegranate, tropical fruits, rosehip, purple rice, purple corn, red beans, and black soybean, together with cyanidin, delphinidin, malvidin, peonidin, some 3-O-glycosides, metabolites, and acylated anthocyanins from a potato cultivar have shown the best outcomes. The set of these five key tests and clinical trials, taken together, contributes to the understanding of the underlying mechanisms and pathways involved. Furthermore, this set shows the value of anthocyanins in counteracting the progression of osteoarthritis/obesity. The interplay between the inflammation of osteoarthritis and obesity, and the subsequent regulation/immunomodulation was performed through isolated and food anthocyanins. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties of anthocyanins explain the findings of the studies analyzed. However, further interventional studies should be conducted to finally establish the appropriate doses for anthocyanin supplementation, dose-response, and length of consumption, to include dietary recommendations for osteoarthritis/obese patients for preventive and management purposes.

The immune responses to different Uropathogens call individual interventions for bladder infection

Urinary tract infection (UTI) caused by uropathogens is the most common infectious disease and significantly affects all aspects of the quality of life of the patients. However, uropathogens are increasingly becoming antibiotic-resistant, which threatens the only effective treatment option available-antibiotic, resulting in higher medical costs, prolonged hospital stays, and increased mortality. Currently, people are turning their attention to the immune responses, hoping to find effective immunotherapeutic interventions which can be alternatives to the overuse of antibiotic drugs. Bladder infections are caused by the main nine uropathogens and the bladder executes different immune responses depending on the type of uropathogens. It is essential to understand the immune responses to diverse uropathogens in bladder infection for guiding the design and development of immunotherapeutic interventions. This review firstly sorts out and comparatively analyzes the immune responses to the main nine uropathogens in bladder infection, and summarizes their similarities and differences. Based on these immune responses, we innovatively propose that different microbial bladder infections should adopt corresponding immunomodulatory interventions, and the same immunomodulatory intervention can also be applied to diverse microbial infections if they share the same effective therapeutic targets.

Managing SARS-CoV2 Infections Through Resolution of Inflammation by Eicosanoids: A Review

Severe Corona Virus Disease is characterized by angiocentric inflammation of lungs and cytokine storm leading to potentially fatal multiple organ failure. Several studies have shown the high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, indicative of a poor prognosis in COVID-19. Eicosanoids play an important role in the induction of inflammation and cytokine production, while anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving properties of some eicosanoic acid derivatives enable inflamed tissues to return to homeostasis through the resolution of inflammation by aiding the clearance of cell debris and downregulation of pro-inflammatory stimulants. This review attempts to provide an overall insight on the eicosanoids synthesis and their role in the resolution of inflammation in the context of Corona Virus infection.

PGE2 inhibits neutrophil phagocytosis through the EP2R–cAMP–PTEN pathway

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is a potent lipid mediator of inflammation that modulates immune cell function by binding to unique G protein‐coupled receptors (EP receptors). PGE2 production increases during microbial infection and inflammation. In this study, we assessed the effect of PGE2 on the phagocytosis of bacteria by neutrophils, which are key players during infection and inflammation. We also looked for specific EP receptor signaling pathways that contributed to the neutrophil phagocytic activity. PGE2 (50–1000 ng/ml) inhibited the phagocytosis of Escherichia coli by HL‐60 human neutrophils in a concentration‐dependent manner. Inhibition of neutrophil phagocytosis by PGE2 correlated with increased intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) production, and forskolin, an adenosyl cyclase agonist, confirmed the inhibitory effect of cAMP stimulation on neutrophil phagocytosis. The expression of EP2 receptors by HL‐60 cells was confirmed by western blot analysis, and selective agonism of EP2 receptors mimicked the inhibition of phagocytosis by PGE2. The EP2 receptor antagonist AH‐6089 partially blocked the inhibition of neutrophil phagocytosis PGE2. Specific inhibition of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) enzyme attenuated the inhibition of neutrophil phagocytosis by PGE2, and both PGE2 and increased intracellular cAMP increased neutrophil PTEN activity, which was associated with decreased PTEN phosphorylation. The results support negative regulation of the antimicrobial activity of neutrophils (i.e., phagocytosis), which has important implications for the future management of bacterial infections.

15-Hydroxyprostaglandin Dehydrogenase Is a Predictor of Stroke-Associated Pneumonia

Background and Purpose

Stroke is a serious fatal and disabling disease. Stroke-associated pneumonia (SAP) is the most common complication of stroke, which may further aggravate the stroke. The prevention and early prediction of SAP is a key clinical strategy. 15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase (15-PGDH) is involved in pneumonia, while its relationship with SAP has yet to be determined. Therefore, we investigated the predictive value of 15-PGDH for SAP and visualized their relationship.

Methods

Stroke patients were recruited and divided into SAP group and Non-SAP group. Baseline demographic and clinical data were obtained from the medical record system, blood samples were collected to detect relevant variables and 15-PGDH levels. Patient characteristics were compared with a t-test. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the predictive value of 15-PGDH for SAP. Restricted cubic splines (RCS) were performed to visualize the relationship between 15-PGDH and SAP risk. Finally, the SAP patient characteristics between the severe group and mild group were compared.

Results

50 patients were enrolled and divided into SAP group (n = 26) and Non-SAP group (n = 24). 15-PGDH in the SAP group was lower than that in the Non-SAP group (0.258 ± 0.275 vs. 0.784 ± 0.615, p = 0.025). Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that the lower 15-PGDH, the higher the risk of SAP (OR = 0.04, 95%CI, 0.010–0.157, p < 0.001). The RCS model showed the L-shaped relationship between 15-PGDH and SAP.

Conclusions

In stroke patients, serum 15-PGDH is a valuable biomarker for predicting SAP. There is an L-shaped relationship between the level of 15-PGDH and the risk of SAP.

Modulation of Inflammation-Related Lipid Mediator Pathways by Celastrol During Human Macrophage Polarization

Background and Purpose

Celastrol (CS) is a major active ingredient of the Chinese/Asian herb Tripterygium wilfordii that is frequently used as phytomedicine to treat inflammation and autoimmune diseases. We showed before that short-term exposure to CS (1 µM) favorably impacts the biosynthesis of inflammation-related lipid mediators (LM) in human polarized macrophages by modulating the activities of different lipoxygenases (LOXs). However, whether CS regulates the expression of LOXs and other related LM-biosynthetic enzymes during macrophage polarization is unknown. Here, we investigated how CS affects LM-biosynthetic enzyme expression on the protein level and studied concomitant LM signature profiles during polarization of human monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) towards M1- and M2-like phenotypes.

Methods and Results

We used LM metabololipidomics to study the long-term effects of CS on LM profile signatures after manipulation of human monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) during polarization. Exposure of MDM to low concentrations of CS (ie, 0.2 µM) during polarization to an inflammatory M1 phenotype potently suppressed the formation of pro-inflammatory cyclooxygenase (COX)- and 5-LOX-derived LM, especially prostaglandin (PG)E₂. Notably, gene and enzyme expression of COX-2 and microsomal PGE₂ synthase (mPGES)-1 as well as M1 markers were strongly decreased by CS during M1-MDM polarization, along with impaired activation of nuclear factor-κB and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase. During IL-4-induced M2 polarization, CS decreased the capacity of the resulting M2-MDM to generate pro-inflammatory COX and 5-LOX products as well but it also reduced the formation of 12/15-LOX products and specialized pro-resolving mediators, without affecting the levels of liberated fatty acid substrates.

Conclusion

Depending on the timing and concentration, CS not only favorably affects LOX activities in macrophages but also the expression of LM-biosynthetic enzymes during macrophage polarization connected to changes of inflammation-related LM which might be of relevance for potential application of CS to treat inflammatory disorders.

Oxy210, a Semi-Synthetic Oxysterol, Exerts Anti-Inflammatory Effects in Macrophages via Inhibition of Toll-like Receptor (TLR) 4 and TLR2 Signaling and Modulation of Macrophage Polarization

Inflammatory responses by the innate and adaptive immune systems protect against infections and are essential to health and survival. Many diseases including atherosclerosis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and obesity involve persistent chronic inflammation. Currently available anti-inflammatory agents, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, and biologics, are often unsafe for chronic use due to adverse effects. The development of effective non-toxic anti-inflammatory agents for chronic use remains an important research arena. We previously reported that oral administration of Oxy210, a semi-synthetic oxysterol, ameliorates non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) induced by a high-fat diet in APOE*3-Leiden.CETP humanized mouse model of NASH and inhibits expression of hepatic and circulating levels of inflammatory cytokines. Here, we show that Oxy210 also inhibits diet-induced white adipose tissue inflammation in APOE*3-Leiden.CETP mice, evidenced by the inhibition of adipose tissue expression of IL-6, MCP-1, and CD68 macrophage marker. Oxy210 and related analogs exhibit anti-inflammatory effects in macrophages treated with lipopolysaccharide in vitro, mediated through inhibition of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), TLR2, and AP-1 signaling, independent of cyclooxygenase enzymes or steroid receptors. The anti-inflammatory effects of Oxy210 are correlated with the inhibition of macrophage polarization. We propose that Oxy210 and its structural analogs may be attractive candidates for future therapeutic development for targeting inflammatory diseases.

Evaluation of the treatment of fever, pain and inflammation with Indigofera suffruticosa Miller Leaves Aqueous Extract

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Indigofera suffruticosa has reports of its popular use for analgesy in several cultures. Besides that, all parts of this plant are used for some medicinal outcome. The leaves are used in teas, decoctions, juices and included in baths for treating fever and inflammatory processes.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity mechanisms of I. suffruticosa leave aqueous extract (IsAE).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Phytochemical screening of IsAE was performed by thin layer chromatography. Total flavonoid content was determined and expressed by milligram of quercetin equivalent per gram of extract (mgEQ/g). 50% of the lethal dose that kills animals (LD₅₀) was determined by acute toxicity in mice. Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated through carrageenan-induced paw edema, peritonitis, and protein denaturation inhibition. Anti-nociceptive potential was evaluated by acetic acid-induced writhing and formalin tests. Antipyretic activity was assessed by yeast-induced fever.

RESULTS

Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids and acid gallic in a quantity of 33.9 mg QE/g. Acute toxicity evaluation resulted in a LD₅₀ of 3807.88 mg/kg. For carrageenan-induced paw edema test, IsAE in both doses (20 and 100 mg/kg) reduced the edema in 83.93%. IsAE reduced nitric oxide (NO) production and leucocytes migration to peritonitis inflammation site and at a concentration of 0.5 mg/mL showed also inhibition of protein denaturation similar to indomethacin in the same concentration. IsAE inhibited in 72.60% the number of contortions in writhing test. In formalin test, IsAE was also efficient, but showed results only in the second phase. In addition, the concentration of 100 mg/kg reduced fever significantly.

CONCLUSIONS

IsAE proved to be anti-inflammatory, acting in different parts of the inflammation process, confirming its popular use.

Computational Analysis and Biological Activities of Oxyresveratrol Analogues, the Putative Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibitors

Polyphenols are a large family of naturally occurring phytochemicals. Herein, oxyresveratrol was isolated from ethanolic crude extracts of Artocarpus lacucha Buch.-Ham., and chemically modified to derive its lipophilic analogues. Biological screening assays showed their inhibitory potency against cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) with very low cytotoxicity to the MRC-5 normal cell lines. At the catalytic site of COX-2, docking protocols with ChemPLP, GoldScore and AutoDock scoring functions were carried out to reveal hydrogen bonding interactions with key polar contacts and hydrophobic pi-interactions. For more accurate binding energetics, COX-2/ligand complexes at the binding region were computed in vacuo and implicit aqueous solvation using M06-2X density functional with 6-31G+(d,p) basis set. Our computational results confirmed that dihydrooxyresveratrol (4) is the putative inhibitor of human COX-2 with the highest inhibitory activity (IC₅₀ of 11.50 ± 1.54 µM) among studied non-fluorinated analogues for further lead optimization. Selective substitution of fluorine provides a stronger binding affinity; however, lowering the cytotoxicity of a fluorinated analogue to a normal cell is challenging. The consensus among biological activities, ChemPLP docking score and the binding energies computed at the quantum mechanical level is obviously helpful for identification of oxyresveratrol analogues as a putative anti-inflammatory agent.

Study on The Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Callicarpa nudiflora Based on The Spectrum-Effect Relationship

Callicarpa nudiflora (C. nudiflora) is widely used to treat inflammation-related diseases in China. C. nudiflora mainly contains phenylethanol glycosides, flavonoids, triterpenes, diterpenes, iridoid glycosides, volatile oils, and other small molecules. Therefore, it is necessary to screen out anti-inflammatory active substances from C. nudiflora. In this paper, high-performance liquid chromatography was used to establish the fingerprint of C. nudiflora extracts. The anti-inflammation of C. nudiflora extracts were evaluated by the experiment of toes swelling in inflammatory rats. Then, the spectrum–effect relationship between the fingerprints and anti-inflammatory activities was researched by Pearson analysis and orthogonal partial least squares analysis to identify a group of anti-inflammatory compounds of C. nudiflora extracts. The differences of extracts are illustrated by principal component analysis and cluster analysis in pharmacological effects. Finally, 12 compounds, including catalpol (P1), caffeic acid (P2), protocatechuic acid (P9), 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde (P10), forsythiaside E (P12), protocatechualdehyde isomers (P14), forsythiaside B (P15), rutin (P16), alyssonoside (P21), verbascoside (P22), 2′-acetyl forsythoside B (P24), and isorhamnetin (P32) by HPLC-DAD and UPLC-Q-TOF MS/MS, were determined as potential compounds for anti-inflammatory activity in C. nudiflora. In particular, six compounds were identified as active substances with the greatest anti-inflammatory potential. Moreover, all compounds were tested for anti-inflammatory experiments or anti-inflammatory literature retrieval. In this study, a method for rapid screening of potential anti-inflammatory active ingredients of C. nudiflora was established, which can provide a reference for the future study of active compounds of C. nudiflora.

Shifting the Biosynthesis of Leukotrienes Toward Specialized Pro-Resolving Mediators by the 5-Lipoxygenase-Activating Protein (FLAP) Antagonist BRP-201

Background and Purpose

Lipid mediators (LM) play crucial roles in the complex inflammation process with respect to initiation, maintenance, and resolution. Proinflammatory leukotrienes (LTs), generated by 5-lipoxygenase (LOX) and the 5-LOX-activating protein (FLAP), initiate and maintain inflammation while specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) formed by various LOXs as key enzymes promote inflammation resolution and the return to homeostasis. Since 5-LOX also contributes to SPM biosynthesis, smart pharmacological manipulation of the 5-LOX pathway and accompanied activation of 12-/15-LOXs may accomplish suppression of LT formation but maintain or even elevate SPM formation. Here, we demonstrated that the FLAP antagonist BRP-201 possesses such pharmacological profile and causes a switch from LT toward SPM formation.

Methods and Results

Comprehensive LM metabololipidomics with activated human monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) of M1 or M2 phenotype showed that BRP-201 strongly inhibits LT formation induced by bacterial exotoxins. In parallel, SPM levels and 12/15-LOX-derived products were markedly elevated, in particular in M2-MDM. Intriguingly, in unstimulated MDM, BRP-201 induced formation of 12/15-LOX products including SPM and caused 15-LOX-1 subcellular redistribution without affecting 5-LOX. Experiments with HEK293 cells stably expressing either 5-LOX with or without FLAP, 15-LOX-1 or 15-LOX-2 confirmed suppression of 5-LOX product formation due to FLAP antagonism by BRP-201 but activated 15-LOX-1 in the absence of FLAP. Finally, in zymosan-induced murine peritonitis, BRP-201 (2 mg/kg, ip) lowered LT levels but elevated 12/15-LOX products including SPMs.

Conclusion

BRP-201 acts as FLAP antagonist but also as 12/15-LOX activator switching formation of pro-inflammatory LTs toward inflammation-resolving SPM, which reflects a beneficial pharmacological profile for intervention in inflammation.

Small molecule compounds with good anti-inflammatory activity reported in the literature from 01/2009 to 05/2021: a review

Inflammation and disease are closely related. Inflammation can induce various diseases, and diseases can promote inflammatory response, and two possibly induces each other in a bidirectional loop. Inflammation is usually treated using synthetic anti-inflammatory drugs which are associated with several adverse effects hence are not safe for long-term use. Therefore, there is need for anti-inflammatory drugs which are not only effective but also safe. Several researchers have devoted to the research and development of effective anti-inflammatory drugs with little or no side effects. In this review, we studied some small molecules with reported anti-inflammatory activities and hence potential sources of anti-inflammatory agents. The information was retrieved from relevant studies published between January 2019 and May, 2021 for review. This review study was aimed to provide relevant information towards the design and development of effective and safe anti-inflammation agents.

Maternal non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug exposure during pregnancy and risk of miscarriage: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies have suggested that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) might be associated with increased risk of miscarriage. However, these results are conflicting and inconclusive.

METHODS

We performed this systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the relationship between NSAIDs exposure and risk of miscarriage. A systematic literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies published from the time of database inception until June 2021.

RESULTS

A total of ten studies involving 207,341 pregnant women were subjected to meta-analysis. There was no statistically significantly increased risk of miscarriage with the use of NSAIDs during pregnancy (OR = 1.37, 95% CI 0.99-1.88, p = 0.057). However, our findings showed that women exposed to NSAIDs around the time of conception were at increased risk of miscarriage (OR 2.32, 95% CI 1.16-4.66, p = 0.018). Furthermore, no significant association between NSAID use and miscarriage was evident during the first trimester of pregnancy (OR = 1, 95% CI = 0.83-1.2, p = 0.996), possibly attributable to the small sample size.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that NSAID exposure around the time of conception might be a risk factor for miscarriage. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether the risk varies by the type, dosage, or timing of NSAID exposure.

Tannic acid is a gastroprotective that regulates inflammation and oxidative stress

This study investigated the gastroprotective effect of TA against gastric ulcer in mice, and its possible mechanisms of action. The effects were investigated in a model of ethanol and ethanol/HCl induced ulcers, and physical barrier test. Quantification of oxidative stress mediators and inflammatory cytokines in gastric tissue was performed. The involvement of sulfhydryl compounds (-SH), nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂), potassium channels (K ⁺_ATP) and opioid receptors in gastroprotection were investigated. Oral treatment with TA at a dose of 50 mg/kg resulted in 97.96% and 94.20% (reduction in gastric injury) of gastroprotection, against injuries caused by ethanol and ethanol/HCL, respectively, in addition to having a systematic effect. TA promotes increased levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and reduced glutathione (GSH), as well as reduced levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) reaction to thiobarbituric acid and myeloperoxidase (MPO). In addition, there was reduction in levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukins (IL) IL-1β and IL-6 and increased IL-10. The gastroprotective activity of TA involved K ⁺_ATP channels and the production of -SH, NO and PGE_2, demonstrating multiple mechanisms of action. The results of the present study suggest that TA may be a gastroprotective agent counteracting oxidative and inflammatory stress.

Interleukin-17A (IL-17A): A silent amplifier of COVID-19

One of the hallmarks of COVID-19 is the cytokine storm that provokes primarily pneumonia followed by systemic inflammation. Emerging evidence has identified a potential link between elevated interleukin-17A (IL-17A) levels and disease severity and progression. Considering that per se, IL-17A can activate several inflammatory pathways, it is plausible to hypothesize an involvement of this cytokine in COVID-19 clinical outcomes. Thus, IL-17A could represent a marker of disease progression and/or a target to develop therapeutic strategies. This hypothesis paper aims to propose this "unique" cytokine as a silent amplifier of the COVID-19 immune response and (potentially) related therapy.

Toward Multitasking Pharmacological COX-Targeting Agents: Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Prodrugs with Antiproliferative Effects

The antitumor activity of certain anti-inflammatory drugs is often attributed to an indirect effect based on the inhibition of COX enzymes. In the case of anti-inflammatory prodrugs, this property could be attributed to the parent molecules with mechanism other than COX inhibition, particularly through formulations capable of slowing down their metabolic conversion. In this work, a pilot docking study aimed at comparing the interaction of two prodrugs, nabumetone (NB) and its tricyclic analog 7-methoxy-2,3-dihydro-1H-cyclopenta[b]naphthalen-1-one (MC), and their common active metabolite 6-methoxy-2-naphthylacetic acid (MNA) with the COX binding site, was carried out. Cytotoxicity, cytofluorimetry, and protein expression assays on prodrugs were also performed to assess their potential as antiproliferative agents that could help hypothesize an effective use as anticancer therapeutics. Encouraging results suggest that the studied compounds could act not only as precursors of the anti-inflammatory metabolite, but also as direct antiproliferative agents.

Two New βN-Alkanoyl-5-Hydroxytryptamides with Relevant Antinociceptive Activity

In this work, we describe a new route for the synthesis and the antinociceptive effects of two new ^βN-alkanoyl-5-hydroxytryptamides (named C_20:0-5HT and C_22:0-5HT). The antinociceptive activities were evaluated using well-known models of thermal-induced (reaction to a heated plate, the hot plate model) or chemical-induced (licking response to paw injection of formalin, capsaicin, or glutamate) nociception. The mechanism of action for C_20:0-5HT and C_22:0-5HT was evaluated using naloxone (opioid receptor antagonist, 1 mg/kg), atropine (muscarinic receptor antagonist, 1 mg/kg), AM251 (cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist, 1 mg/kg), or ondansetron (5-HT3 serotoninergic receptor antagonist, 0.5 mg/kg) 30 min prior to C_20:0-5HT or C_22:0-5HT. The substances both presented significant effects by reducing licking behavior induced by formalin, capsaicin, and glutamate and increasing the latency time in the hot plate model. Opioidergic, muscarinic, cannabinoid, and serotoninergic pathways seem to be involved in the antinociceptive activity since their antagonists reversed the observed effect. Opioid receptors are partially involved due to tolerant mice demonstrating less antinociception when treated with both compounds. Our data showed a quicker and simpler route for the synthesis of the new ^βN-alkanoyl-5-hydroxytryptamides. Both compounds demonstrated significant antinociceptive effects. These new compounds could be used as a scaffold for the synthesis of analogues with promising antinociceptive effects.