The role of mtDAMPs in the trauma-induced systemic inflammatory response syndrome

Unveiling the role of mtDNA in Liver-Kidney Crosstalk: Insights from trichloroethylene hypersensitivity syndrome

In specific pathological conditions, addressing liver injury may yield favorable effects on renal function through the phenomenon of liver-kidney crosstalk. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) possesses the capability to trigger downstream pathways of inflammatory cytokines, ultimately leading to immune-mediated organ damage. Consequently, understanding the intricate molecular mechanisms governing mtDNA involvement in diseases characterized by liver-kidney crosstalk is of paramount significance. This study seeks to elucidate the role of mtDNA in conditions marked by liver-kidney crosstalk. In previous clinical cases, it has been observed that patients with Trichloroethylene Hypersensitivity Syndrome (TCE-HS) who experience severe liver injury often also exhibit renal injury. In this study, patients diagnosed with trichloroethylene hypersensitivity syndrome were recruited from Shenzhen Occupational Disease Control Center. And Balb/c mice were treated with trichloroethylene. The correlation between liver and kidney injuries in patients with TCE-HS was assessed using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Alterations in mtDNA levels were examined in mouse hepatocytes, red blood cells (RBCs), and renal tubular epithelial cells utilizing immunofluorescence and PCR techniques. TCE-sensitized mice exhibited a significant increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore in hepatocytes, resulting in the release of mtDNA. Furthermore, heightened levels of mtDNA and Toll-like Receptor 9 (TLR9) expression were observed in RBCs. Additional experiments demonstrated elevated expression of TLR9 and its downstream mediator MyD88 in renal tubule epithelial cells of TCE-sensitized mice. In vitro investigations confirmed that mtDNA activates the TLR9 pathway in TCMK-1 cells. Collectively, these results suggest that mtDNA released from mitochondrial damage in hepatocytes is carried by RBCs to renal tubular epithelial cells and mediates inflammatory injury in renal tubular epithelial cells through activation of the TLR9 receptor.

The emerging role of mtDNA release in sepsis: Current evidence and potential therapeutic targets

Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory reaction caused by infection, and severe sepsis can develop into septic shock, eventually leading to multiorgan dysfunction and even death. In recent years, studies have shown that mitochondrial damage is closely related to the occurrence and development of sepsis. Recent years have seen a surge in concern over mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), as anomalies in this material can lead to cellular dysfunction, disruption of aerobic respiration, and even death of the cell. In this review, we discuss the latest findings on the mechanisms of mitochondrial damage and the molecular mechanisms controlling mitochondrial mtDNA release. We also explored the connection between mtDNA misplacement and inflammatory activation. Additionally, we propose potential therapeutic targets of mtDNA for sepsis treatment.

Th1/Th2 cytokines in early peripheral blood of patients with multiple injuries and its predictive value for SIRS: A bioinformatic analysis

This study aims to evaluate the changes in helper T lymphocyte (Th)1/Th2 factor levels in peripheral blood of patients with severe multiple injuries and their prognostic value for nosocomial infection using bioinformatic analysis. The experimental group consisted of 180 patients with numerous injuries admitted to our hospital between January 2021 and June 2023, with 80 healthy volunteers serving as controls. Th1 cytokines (interleukin-2 and interferon-γ) and Th2 cytokines (IL-4 and IL-10) were evaluated 48 hours after admission using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. The experimental group was separated into two groups: those with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and those without SIRS, for cytokine analysis and SIRS incidence. Furthermore, the study examined Th1 and Th2 cytokine levels in trauma patients in various body locations within the experimental group. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to determine the predictive value of Th1/Th2 cytokines for SIRS incidence. The experimental group had lower IL-2 and IFN-γ levels compared to the control group, but greater levels of IL-4 and IL-10. There were no significant variations in Th1 and Th2 cytokine levels across the experimental groups. Patients with SIRS had lower levels of IL-2 and IFN-γ but greater levels of IL-4 and IL-10 compared to those without SIRS. Combined cytokine levels have a better predictive value for SIRS than individual cytokines alone. In conclusion, individuals with severe multiple injuries had a change from Th1 to Th2 cytokine profiles, which was most evident in those with SIRS. The combined cytokine levels had a substantial predictive value for SIRS incidence in this patient cohort.

The neuroprotective potential of phytochemicals in traumatic brain injury: mechanistic insights and pharmacological implications

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) leads to brain damage, comprising both immediate primary damage and a subsequent cascade of secondary injury mechanisms. The primary injury results in localized brain damage, while the secondary damage initiates inflammatory responses, followed by the disruption of the blood-brain barrier, infiltration of peripheral blood cells, brain edema, and the release of various immune mediators, including chemotactic factors and interleukins. TBI disrupts molecular signaling, cell structures, and functions. In addition to physical tissue damage, such as axonal injuries, contusions, and haemorrhages, TBI interferes with brain functioning, impacting cognition, decision-making, memory, attention, and speech capabilities. Despite a deep understanding of the pathophysiology of TBI, an intensive effort to evaluate the underlying mechanisms with effective therapeutic interventions is imperative to manage the repercussions of TBI. Studies have commenced to explore the potential of employing natural compounds as therapeutic interventions for TBI. These compounds are characterized by their low toxicity and limited interactions with conventional drugs. Moreover, many natural compounds demonstrate the capacity to target various aspects of the secondary injury process. While our understanding of the pathophysiology of TBI, there is an urgent need for effective therapeutic interventions to mitigate its consequences. Here, we aimed to summarize the mechanism of action and the role of phytochemicals against TBI progression. This review discusses the therapeutic implications of various phytonutrients and addresses primary and secondary consequences of TBI. In addition, we highlighted the roles of emerging phytochemicals as promising candidates for therapeutic intervention of TBI. The review highlights the neuroprotective roles of phytochemicals against TBI and the mechanistic approach. Furthermore, our efforts focused on the underlying mechanisms, providing a better understanding of the therapeutic potential of phytochemicals in TBI therapeutics.