Resveratrol protects against asthma-induced airway inflammation and remodeling by inhibiting the HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB pathway

Majie Cataplasm Alleviates Asthma by Regulating Th1/Th2/Treg/Th17 Balance

INTRODUCTION

T cells play a critical role in inflammatory diseases. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of Majie cataplasm (MJC) on asthma and to propose a possible mechanism involved in this process.

METHODS

Airway inflammation, infiltration of inflammatory cells, levels of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-10, IL-17, and interferon (IFN)-γ, levels of Th2, Treg, Th17, and Th1 cells, and the expressions of IL-4, IL-10, IL-17, IFN-γ, GATA binding protein 3 (GATA-3), Foxp3, RAR-related orphan receptor gamma (RORγt), and T-bet were detected.

RESULT

MJC treatment reduced lung airway resistance and inflammatory infiltration in lung tissues. MJC treatment also reduced the numbers of eosinophils and neutrophils in the blood and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). The levels of IL-4 and IL-17 in the blood, BALF, and lungs were suppressed by MJC, and IFN-γ and IL-10 were increased. Furthermore, MJC suppressed the percentage of Th2 and Th17 and increased the percentage of Th1 and Treg in spleen cells. In addition, MJC can inhibit asthma by increasing expressions of IFN-γ, IL-10, T-bet, and Foxp3, as well as decreasing expressions of IL-4, IL-17, GATA-3, and RORγt.

CONCLUSION

MJC may improve airway hyperresponsiveness and inflammation by regulating Th1/Th2/Treg/Th17 balance in ovalbumin-induced rats. And MJC may be a new source of anti-asthma drugs.

Therapeutic potential of natural products in inflammation: underlying molecular mechanisms, clinical outcomes, technological advances, and future perspectives

Chronic inflammation is a common underlying factor in many major diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune disorders, and is responsible for up to 60% of all deaths worldwide. Metformin, statins, and corticosteroids, and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are often given as anti-inflammatory pharmaceuticals, however, often have even more debilitating side effects than the illness itself. The natural product-based therapy of inflammation-related diseases has no adverse effects and good beneficial results compared to substitute conventional anti-inflammatory medications. In this review article, we provide a concise overview of present pharmacological treatments, the pathophysiology of inflammation, and the signaling pathways that underlie it. In addition, we focus on the most promising natural products identified as potential anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents. Moreover, preclinical studies and clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of natural products as anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents and their pragmatic applications with promising outcomes are reviewed. In addition, the safety, side effects and technical barriers of natural products are discussed. Furthermore, we also summarized the latest technological advances in the discovery and scientific development of natural products-based medicine.

A comprehensive insight into the molecular and cellular mechanisms of action of resveratrol on complications of sepsis a systematic review

Sepsis and septic shock are still one of the most important medical challenges. Sepsis is an extreme and uncontrolled response of the innate immune system to invading pathogenesis. Resveratrol (3,5,4'-trihydroxytrans-stilbene), is a phenolic and non-flavonoid compound naturally produced by some plants and fruits. The object of the current study is to systematically review the impacts of resveratrol and its mechanisms of function in the management of sepsis and its related complications. The guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statements were applied to perform the study (PROSPERO: CRD42021289357). We searched Embase, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed, ProQuest, and Scopus databases up to January 2023 by using the relevant keywords. Study criteria were met by 72 out of 1415 articles screened. The results of this systematic review depict that resveratrol can reduces the complications of sepsis by affecting inflammatory pathways, oxidative stress, and modulating immune responses. Future human randomized clinical trials are necessary due to the promising therapeutic effects of resveratrol on sepsis complications and the lack of clinical trials in this regard.

S14G-Humanin ameliorates ovalbumin-induced airway inflammation in asthma mediated by inhibition of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) expression and the nuclear factor κ-B (NF-κB)/early growth response protein-1 (Egr-1) pathway

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease with a high morbidity rate in children and significantly impacts their healthy growth. It is reported that Th2 cell-mediated airway inflammation and activated oxidative stress are involved in the pathogenesis of asthma. S14G-humanin (HNG) is a derivative of Humanin with higher activity. The present study proposes to explore the potential treating property of HNG on asthma. An asthma model was constructed in mice using ovalbumin (OVA), the mice were treated with 2.5 mg/kg and 5 mg/kg HNG for 16 days. Dramatically increased lung weight index, elevated number of monocytes, eosinophils, and neutrophils, promoted production of Th2 cytokines including interleukin-4 (IL-4), interleukin-5 (IL-5), and interleukin-13 (IL-13), and severe histological pathology were observed in OVA-challenged mice, all of which were extremely alleviated by 2.5 mg/kg and 5 mg/kg HNG. Furthermore, the increased malondialdehyde (MDA) level and declined superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in OVA-challenged mice were abolished by 2.5 mg/kg and 5 mg/kg HNG. Lastly, the upregulated TLR4, p-NF-κB p65, and early growth response 1 (Egr-1) in lung tissues of OVA-challenged mice were pronouncedly downregulated by 2.5 mg/kg and 5 mg/kg HNG. Collectively, our data suggested that HNG ameliorated airway inflammation in asthma partially due to NF-κB and Egr-1-mediated responses.

Allergen-specific immunotherapy with Alutard SQ improves allergic inflammation in house-dust mites-induced allergic asthma rats through inactivation of the HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB pathway

Background

Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) is the only available safe, effective, and long-term treatment for allergic airway diseases, including allergic asthma. However, the potential molecular mechanism of AIT in ameliorating airway inflammation remains unknown.

Methods

Rats were sensitized and challenged with house dust mite (HDM) and administered with Alutard SQ or/and high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) inhibitor, ammonium glycyrrhizinate (AMGZ) or HMGB1 lentivirus. The total and differential cell counts in rat bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were detected. Hematoxylin and eosin staining (H&E) was performed to examine the pathological lesions in lung tissues. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed to assess the expression of inflammatory factors in lungs, BALF, and serum. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to measure the levels of inflammatory factors in the lungs. Western blot assay was used to evaluate the expression of HMGB1, Τoll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) in the lungs.

Results

Consequently, AIT with Alutard SQ attenuated airway inflammation, the total and differential cells in BALF, and expression of Th (T helper)2 related cytokines and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1). The regimen also upregulated Th-1-related cytokine expression by inhibiting the HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB pathway in HDM-induced asthmatic rats. Furthermore, AMGZ, a HMGB1 antagonist, amplified the functions of AIT with Alutard SQ in the asthma rat model. Nevertheless, overexpression of HMGB1 reversed the functions of AIT with Alutard SQ in the asthma rat model.

Conclusions

In summary, this work demonstrates the role of AIT with Alutard SQ, which inhibits the HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in allergic asthma management.

Current Insight into Novel Delivery Approaches of Resveratrol for Improving Therapeutic Efficacy and Bioavailability with its Clinical Updates

Resveratrol (RSV) is a polyphenolic phytoalexin, and belongs to the stilbene family. RSV has several therapeutic activities such as cardioprotective, anticancer, and antioxidant. Apart from its therapeutic benefits, its pharmacological uses are limited due to low solubility, poor bioavailability, and short biological halflife. A researcher continuously focuses on overcoming the limitations of RSV through nanotechnology platforms to get the optimum health benefits. In this context, nanocarriers are pioneering to overcome these drawbacks. Nanocarriers possess high drug loading capacity, thermal stability, low production cost, longer shelflife, etc. Fortunately, scientists were proficient in delivering resveratrol-based nanocarriers in the present scenario. Nanocarriers can deliver drugs to the target sites without compromising the bioavailability. Thus, this review highlights how the latest nanocarrier systems overcome the shortcomings of RSV, which will be good for improving therapeutic efficacy and bioavailability. Moreover, recent updates on resveratrol-based novel formulations and their clinical trials have been addressed to manage several health-related problems.

MiR-140-3p Ameliorates The Inflammatory Response of Airway Smooth Muscle Cells by Targeting HMGB1 to Regulate The JAK2/STAT3 Signaling Pathway

OBJECTIVE

The growth and migration of airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) are dysregulated in asthma. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are associated with the pathogenesis of many diseases including asthma. Instead, the function of miR-140- 3pin ASMCs' dysregulation in asthma remains inconclusive. This study aimed to explore the role and mechanism of miR-140-3p in ASMCs' dysregulation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, ASMCs were stimulated with platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)- BB to construct an asthma cell model in vitro. MiR-140-3p expression level in the plasma of 50 asthmatic patients and 50 healthy volunteers was measured with quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Besides, the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was applied to detect the contents of interleukin (IL) -1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the cell culture supernatant of ASMCs. Additionally, CCK-8 and transwell assays were adopted to probe the multiplication and migration of ASMCs. In addition, the western blot was employed to examine HMGB1, JAK2, and STAT3 protein expressions in ASMCs after miR-140-3p and HMGB1 were selectively regulated.

RESULTS

miR-140-3p expression was declined in asthmatic patients' plasma and ASMCs stimulated by PDGF-BB. Upregulating miR-140-3p suppressed the viability and migration of the cells and alleviated the inflammatory response while inhibiting miR-140-3p showed opposite effects. Additionally, HMGB1 was testified as the target of miR-140-3p. HMGB1 overexpression could reverse the impact of miR-140-3p upregulation on the inflammatory response of ASMCs stimulated by PDGF-BB. MiR-140-3p could repress the activation of JAK2/STAT3 via suppressing HMGB1.

CONCLUSION

In ASMCs, miR-140-3p can inhibit the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway by targeting HMGB1, thus ameliorating airway inflammation and remodeling in the pathogenesis of asthma.

The Role and Mechanisms of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Airway Inflammation and Remodeling in Asthma: Overview and Progress

Asthma as an individual disease has blighted human health for thousands of years and is still a vital global health challenge at present. Though getting much progress in the utilization of antibiotics, mucolytics, and especially the combination of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and long-acting β-agonists (LABA), we are confused about the management of asthmatic airway inflammation and remodeling, which directly threatens the quality of life for chronic patients. The blind addition of ICS will not benefit the remission of cough, wheeze, or sputum, but to increase the risk of side effects. Thus, it is necessary to explore an effective therapy to modulate asthmatic inflammation and airway remodeling. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has justified its anti-asthma effect in clinical practice but its underlying mechanism and specific role in asthma are still unknown. Some animal studies demonstrated that the classic formula, direct exacts, and natural compounds isolated from TCM could significantly alleviate airway structural alterations and exhibit the anti-inflammatory effects. By investigating these findings and data, we will discuss the possible pathomechanism underlined airway inflammation and remodeling in asthma and the unique role of TCM in the treatment of asthma through regulating different signaling pathways.

PM2.5 Exposure and Asthma Development: The Key Role of Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress is defined as the imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the endogenous antioxidant defense system, leading to cellular damage. Asthma is a common chronic inflammatory airway disease. The presence of asthma tends to increase the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the antioxidant system in the lungs is insufficient to mitigate it. Therefore, asthma can lead to an exacerbation of airway hyperresponsiveness and airway inflammation. PM2.5 exposure increases ROS levels. Meanwhile, the accumulation of ROS will further enhance the oxidative stress response, resulting in DNA, protein, lipid, and other cellular and molecular damage, leading to respiratory diseases. An in-depth study on the relationship between oxidative stress and PM2.5-related asthma is helpful to understand the pathogenesis and progression of the disease and provides a new direction for the treatment of the disease. This paper reviews the research progress of oxidative stress in PM2.5-induced asthma as well as highlights the therapeutic potentials of antioxidant approaches in treatment of asthma.

MicroRNA-885-3p alleviates bronchial epithelial cell injury induced by lipopolysaccharide via toll-like receptor 4

Airway inflammation is one of the typical pathological characteristics of asthma. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in regulating inflammation. Nevertheless, miRNA-885-3p (miR-885-3p)’s role in asthmatic inflammation and the underlying mechanism need to be explained. In this work, miR-885-3p expression and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) expression in asthma patients’ plasma and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated 16HBE cells were detected through quantitative real-time PCR. The interleukin-8 (IL-8), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in 16HBE cell supernatant were examined via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and flow cytometry were employed to examine 16HBE cell viability and apoptosis, respectively. Western blotting was performed to examine the expression of TLR4, cleaved caspase-3, B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) p65, Bcl-2-related X protein (Bax), phosphorylated (p)-NF-κB p65 and myeloid differentiation primitive-response protein 88 (MyD88) in 16HBE cells. Furthermore, the targeted relationship between TLR4 and miR-885-3p in 16HBE cells was determined through dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. Compared with healthy volunteers, miR-885-3p expression in acute asthma patients’ plasma was significantly downregulated. In 16HBE cells, the stimulation of LPS reduced miR-885-3p expression. MiR-885-3p overexpression reduced LPS-stimulated 16HBE cell injury by enhancing cell viability, and suppressing the levels of inflammatory factors and apoptosis. Furthermore, TLR4 was identified as miR-885-3p’s target gene. TLR4 overexpression weakened the impacts of miR-885-3p on LPS-stimulated cell injury and NF-κB-MyD88 signaling. In conclusion, miR-885-3p can reduce LPS-induced 16HBE cell damage, via targeting TLR4 to suppress the NF-κB-MyD88 pathway.

The Ability of Resveratrol to Attenuate Ovalbumin-Mediated Allergic Asthma Is Associated With Changes in Microbiota Involving the Gut-Lung Axis, Enhanced Barrier Function and Decreased Inflammation in the Lungs

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease highly prevalent worldwide. Recent studies have suggested a role for microbiome-associated gut-lung axis in asthma development. In the current study, we investigated if Resveratrol (RES), a plant-based polyphenol, can attenuate ovalbumin (OVA)-induced murine allergic asthma, and if so, the role of microbiome in the gut-lung axis in this process. We found that RES attenuated allergic asthma with significant improvements in pulmonary functions in OVA-exposed mice when tested using plethysmography for frequency (F), mean volume (MV), specific airway resistance (sRaw), and delay time(dT). RES treatment also suppressed inflammatory cytokines in the lungs. RES modulated lung microbiota and caused an abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila accompanied by a reduction of LPS biosynthesis in OVA-treated mice. Furthermore, RES also altered gut microbiota and induced enrichment of Bacteroides acidifaciens significantly in the colon accompanied by an increase in butyric acid concentration in the colonic contents from OVA-treated mice. Additionally, RES caused significant increases in tight junction proteins and decreased mucin (Muc5ac) in the pulmonary epithelium of OVA-treated mice. Our results demonstrated that RES may attenuate asthma by inducing beneficial microbiota in the gut-lung axis and through the promotion of normal barrier functions of the lung.

Association of Toll-like receptors 4 (TLR-4) gene expression and polymorphisms in patients with severe asthma

Innate immunity plays a central role in the pathogenesis of severe asthma, and it is closely linked to elevated IgE and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) levels. However, there is a scarcity of information about the association of the TLR-4 receptor polymorphism in the pathogenesis of severe asthma. This study highlights the level of gene expression of different alleles in asthmatic patients compared to healthy control individuals. This was a randomized control trial, which included 150 patients with asthma (with high serum levels of IgE) with a matching 150 healthy control individuals. Participants had a series of blood tests to measure various immune parameters: interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM1) and detect allele type and gene expression of the TLR-4 gene. Patients with asthma had significantly higher levels of IL-8 when compared to the healthy control participants. In addition, in the rs91 genotyping, there were significant differences in the levels of IL-8 and TNF between CC and TT genotyping. While in rs90 TLR-4, TNF levels were significantly higher in AA vs. AG and GG genotypes among the asthmatic patients when compared to the control group. The results showed that in TLR-4, rs4986791 were significantly associated with asthma risk. Polymorphisms in TLRs play essential roles in asthma.

Resveratrol Can Attenuate Astrocyte Activation to Treat Spinal Cord Injury by Inhibiting Inflammatory Responses

Several preclinical and clinical studies have attempted to elucidate the pathophysiological mechanism associated with spinal cord injury. However, investigations have been unable to define the precise related mechanisms, and this has led to the lack of effective therapeutic agents for the condition. Neuroinflammation is one of the predominant processes that hinder spinal cord injury recovery. Resveratrol is a compound that has several biological features, such as antioxidation, antibacterial, and antiinflammation. Herein, we reviewed preclinical and clinical studies to delineate the role of toll-like receptors, nod-like receptors, and astrocytes in neuroinflammation. In particular, the alteration of astrocytes in SCI causes glial scar formation that impedes spinal cord injury recovery. Therefore, to improve injury recovery would be to prevent the occurrence of this process. Resveratrol is safe and effective in the significant modulation of neuroinflammatory factors, particularly those mediated by astrocytes. Thus, its potential ability to enhance the injury recovery process and ameliorate spinal cord injury.

Glaucocalyxin A Attenuates Allergic Responses by Inhibiting Mast Cell Degranulation through p38MAPK/NrF2/HO-1 and HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB Signaling Pathways

Glaucocalyxin A (GLA) has various pharmacological effects like antioxidation, immune regulation, and antiatherosclerosis. Here, in this study, the effect and mechanism of GLA on mast cell degranulation were studied. The results of the anti-DNP IgE-mediated passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) showed that GLA dramatically inhibited PCA in vivo, as evidenced by reduced Evans blue extravasation and decreased ear thickness. In addition, GLA significantly reduced the release of histamine and β-hexosaminidase, calcium influx, cytokine (IL-4, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-13, and IL-8) production in the RBL-2H3 (rat basophilic leukemia cells), and RPMCs (peritoneal mast cells) in vitro. Moreover, we further investigated the regulatory mechanism of GLA on antigen-induced mast cells by Western blot, which showed that GLA inhibited FcεRI-mediated signal transduction and invalidated the phosphorylation of Syk, Fyn, Lyn, Gab2, and PLC-γ1. In addition, GLA inhibited the recombinant mouse high mobility group protein B1- (HMGB1-) induced mast cell degranulation through limiting nuclear translocation of NF-κBp65. Treatment of mast cells with siRNA-HMGB1 significantly inhibited HMGB1 levels, as well as MyD88 and TLR4, decreased intracellular calcium levels, and suppressed the release of β-hexosaminidase. Meanwhile, GLA increased NrF2 and HO-1 levels by activating p38MAPK phosphorylation. Consequently, these data suggest that GLA regulates the NrF2/HO-1 signaling pathway through p38MAPK phosphorylation and inhibits HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway to reduce mast cell degranulation and allergic inflammation. Our findings could be used as a promising therapeutic drug against allergic inflammatory disease.

Inhibition of Cochlear HMGB1 Expression Attenuates Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in an Experimental Murine Model of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a common inner ear disease but has complex pathological mechanisms, one of which is increased oxidative stress in the cochlea. The high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) protein acts as an inflammatory mediator and shows different activities with redox modifications linked to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). We aimed to investigate whether manipulation of cochlear HMGB1 during noise exposure could prevent noise-induced oxidative stress and hearing loss. Sixty CBA/CaJ mice were divided into two groups. An intraperitoneal injection of anti-HMGB1 antibodies was administered to the experimental group; the control group was injected with saline. Thirty minutes later, all mice were subjected to white noise exposure. Subsequent cochlear damage, including auditory threshold shifts, hair cell loss, expression of cochlear HMGB1, and free radical activity, was then evaluated. The levels of HMGB1 and 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), as respective markers of reactive nitrogen species (RNS) and ROS formation, showed slight increases on post-exposure day 1 and achieved their highest levels on post-exposure day 4. After noise exposure, the antibody-treated mice showed markedly less ROS formation and lower expression of NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4), nitrotyrosine, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) than the saline-treated control mice. A significant amelioration was also observed in the threshold shifts of the auditory brainstem response and the loss of outer hair cells in the antibody-treated versus the saline-treated mice. Our results suggest that inhibition of HMGB1 by neutralization with anti-HMGB1 antibodies prior to noise exposure effectively attenuated oxidative stress and subsequent inflammation. This procedure could therefore have potential as a therapy for NIHL.

Investigation of the Active Ingredients and Mechanism of Polygonum cuspidatum in Asthma Based on Network Pharmacology and Experimental Verification

Background

Polygonum cuspidatum is a Chinese medicine commonly used to treat phlegm-heat asthma. However, its anti-asthmatic active ingredients and mechanism are still unknown. The aim of this study was to predict the active ingredients and pathways of Polygonum cuspidatum and to further explore the potential molecular mechanism in asthma by using network pharmacology.

Methods

The active ingredients and their targets related to Polygonum cuspidatum were seeked out with the TCM systematic pharmacology analysis platform (TCMSP), and the ingredient-target network was constructed. The GeneCards, DrugBank and OMIM databases were used to collect and screen asthma targets, and then the drug-target-disease interaction network was constructed with Cytoscape software. A target protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using the STRING database to screen key targets. Finally, GO and KEGG analyses were used to identify biological processes and signaling pathways. The anti-asthmatic effects of Polygonum cuspidatum and its active ingredients were tested in vitro for regulating airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells proliferation and MUC5AC expression, two main symptoms of asthma, by using Real-time PCR, Western blotting, CCK-8 assays and annexin V-FITC staining.

Results

Twelve active ingredients in Polygonum cuspidatum and 479 related target proteins were screened in the relevant databases. Among these target proteins, 191 genes had been found to be differentially expressed in asthma. PPI network analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis predicted that the Polygonum cuspidatum could regulate the AKT, MAPK and apoptosis signaling pathways. Consistently, further in vitro experiments demonstrated that Polygonum cuspidatum and resveratrol (one active ingredient of Polygonum cuspidatum) were shown to inhibit ASM cells proliferation and promoted apoptosis of ASM cells. Furthermore, Polygonum cuspidatum and resveratrol inhibited PDGF-induced AKT/mTOR activation in ASM cells. In addition, Polygonum cuspidatum decreased H₂O₂ induced MUC5AC overexpression in airway epithelial NCI-H292 cells.

Conclusion

Polygonum cuspidatum could alleviate the symptoms of asthma including ASM cells proliferation and MUC5AC expression through the mechanisms predicted by network pharmacology, which provides a basis for further understanding of Polygonum cuspidatum in the treatment of asthma.

Anti-Inflammatory Action and Mechanisms of Resveratrol

Resveratrol (3,4',5-trihy- droxystilbene), a natural phytoalexin polyphenol, exhibits anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic properties. This phytoalexin is well-absorbed and rapidly and extensively metabolized in the body. Inflammation is an adaptive response, which could be triggered by various danger signals, such as invasion by microorganisms or tissue injury. In this review, the anti-inflammatory activity and the mechanism of resveratrol modulates the inflammatory response are examined. Multiple experimental studies that illustrate regulatory mechanisms and the immunomodulatory function of resveratrol both in vivo and in vitro. The data acquired from those studies are discussed.

Anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects of resveratrol via inhibiting TXNIP-oxidative stress pathway in a mouse model of allergic rhinitis

Background

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a type I hypersensitivity mediated by IgE in the nose. Thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) plays a pivotal role in the process of producing reactive oxygen species (ROS). Resveratrol is a TXNIP inhibitor. Nonetheless, its role and mechanism in AR are still undetermined. The present study aimed to explore the effect and mechanism of resveratrol on an ovalbumin (OVA) induced mouse model of AR.

Methods

AR murine model was established using OVA and administrated intranasally with resveratrol or N-acetylcysteine (NAC). Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) stain was used for evaluating eosinophils. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining and real-time PCR were employed to evaluate immunolabeling and mRNA expression of TXNIP in nasal mucosas of mice. Malondialdehyde (MDA) level and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in nasal tissue homogenates were measured using MDA and SOD Assay Kit. Concentrations of OVA-specific IgE and histamines in serum, and OVA-specific IgE, PGD2, LTC4, ECP, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-33 and TNF-α in nasal lavage fluid (NLF) were assayed by ELISA. In vitro studies, western blotting, real-time PCR, ELISA, ROS detecting dye DCFH-DA, MDA, and SOD Assay Kit were performed to evaluate the effects and mechanisms of OVA, resveratrol or NAC on spleen mononuclear cells.

Results

We found significant alternations of sneezing, nasal rubbing, inflammatory cytokines, eosinophil numbers, TXNIP, MDA, and SOD levels in resveratrol or NAC treated mice compared with untreated AR mice. In cultured spleen mononuclear cells, TXNIP, MDA, SOD, ROS and inflammatory cytokines levels were altered by OVA but reversed by resveratrol or NAC.

Conclusions

Resveratrol could effectively alleviate murine AR by inhibiting TXNIP-oxidative stress pathway.

LncRNA OIP5-AS1 facilitates ox-LDL-induced endothelial cell injury through the miR-98-5p/HMGB1 axis

Cerebrovascular diseases have a high mortality and disability rate in developed countries. Endothelial cell injury is the main cause of atherosclerosis and cerebrovascular disease. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) has been proved to participate in the progression of endothelial cell. Our study aimed to develop the function of lncRNA opa-interacting protein 5 antisense RNA 1 (OIP5-AS1) in oxidative low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-induced endothelial cell injury. The expression of OIP5-AS1, miR-98-5p and High-mobility group protein box-1 (HMGB1) was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and flow cytometry were used to detect the cell proliferation and apoptosis. The levels of cyclinD1, Bcl-2 Associated X Protein (Bax), Cleaved-caspase-3, Toll like receptors 4 (TLR4), phosphorylation of p65 (p-P65), phosphorylation of nuclear factor-kappa B inhibitor α (p-IκB-α) and HMGB1 were measured by Western blot. The concentrations of Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were detected by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The production of Reactive oxygen species (ROS), Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) was detected by the corresponding kit. The targets of OIP5-AS and miR-98-5p were predicted by starBase 3.0 and TargetScan and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay. The expression of OIP5-AS1 was upregulated, while miR-98-5p was downregulated in ox-LDL-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Functionally, knockdown of OIP5-AS1 induced proliferation and inhibited apoptosis, inflammatory injury and oxidative stress injury in ox-LDL-induced HUVEC cells. Interestingly, miR-98-5p was a target of OIP5-AS1 and miR-98-5p inhibition abolished the effects of OIP5-AS1 downregulation on ox-LDL-induced HUVECs injury. More importantly, miR-98-5p directly targeted HMGB1, and OIP5-AS1 regulated the expression of HMGB1 by sponging miR-98-5p. Finally, OIP5-AS1 regulated the TLR4/nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway through miR-98-5p/HMGB1 axis. LncRNA OIP5-AS1 accelerates ox-LDL-induced endothelial cell injury through regulating HMGB1 mediated by miR-98-5p via the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Resveratrol extracted from Chinese herbal medicines: A novel therapeutic strategy for lung diseases

Lung diseases and their related complications represent a critical source of morbidity and mortality globally and have become a research focus in recent years. There are plenty of hazards that threaten the health of lung by exposure to external environmental stimuli, such as dust, cigarette smoke, PM2.5, air pollution and pathogen infection. These risks lead to the impairment of lung function and subsequent lung diseases including pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Compared with antibiotics and corticosteroids therapies, traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions are more effective with fewer side effects. A considerable variety of bioactive ingredients have been extracted and identified from Chinese herbal medicines and are used for the treatment of different lung diseases, including resveratrol. Increasing studies have reported promising therapeutic effects of resveratrol against lung diseases by inhibiting oxidative stress, inflammation, aging, fibrosis and cancer both in vitro and in vivo. In this review, the recent progress in the studies of lung-protective effects and underlying mechanisms of resveratrol and also highlight the potency of resveratrol and traditional Chinese prescriptions containing resveratrol as promising therapeutic options were summarized for the treatment of lung and respiratory diseases.

Compound amino acid combined with high-dose vitamin B6 attenuate traumatic coagulopathy via inhibiting inflammation by HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB pathway

BACKGROUND

Traumatic coagulopathy (TC) arises primarily from coagulation system failure to maintain adequate hemostasis after serious blood loss or trauma. Circulatory homeostasis restoration is the mainstay of the therapeutic approach to TC, but the effects are significantly inhibited by coagulopathy.

OBJECTIVE

To identify the therapeutic effects and underlying mechanism of compound amino acid (CAA) combined with high-dosage of vitamin B6 (VB6) on TC.

METHODS

Rabbit traumatic model and cellular model were used to evaluate the effect of CAA combined with high-dosage of VB6 in TC. Blood concentrations of AST and ALT were measured using the Vitros 250 device while blood APTT, PT and TT concentrations were measured using commercial diagnostics kits. Furthermore, qRT-PCR, ELISA and Western blotting were used to determine the expression of clotting factor (II, VII, IX, X and XI), inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β) and HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB signaling-related proteins, respectively.

RESULTS

In the rabbit traumatic model, CAA combined with high-dosage of VB6 therapy inhibited the high expression of AST and ALT, but increased the expression of coagulation factors. Additionally, in both the rabbit trauma model and cellular injury model, CAA combined with high-dosage of VB6 inhibited the expression of inflammatory factors (IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β) and proteins (HMGB1, TLR4 and p-p65) in HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB pathway. Most importantly, over-expression of HMGB1 reversed the effect of CAA and VB6 in HUVECs and EA.hy926 cells injury model.

CONCLUSION

CAA combined with high-dosage of VB6 alleviated TC and inhibited the expression and secretion of inflammatory factors by inhibiting HMGB1-mediated TLR4/NF-κB pathway.

An overview of high-mobility group box 1, a potent pro-inflammatory cytokine in asthma

High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), also called amphoterin, HMG1 and p30, is a highly conserved protein between different species that has various functions in nucleus such as stabilization of nucleosome formation, facilitation of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) bending and increasing the DNA transcription, replication and repair. It has also been indicated that HMGB1 acts as a potent pro-inflammatory cytokine with increasing concentrations in acute and chronic inflammatory diseases. Asthma is a common chronic respiratory disease associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. One central characteristic in its pathogenesis is airway inflammation. Considering the inflammatory role of HMGB1 and importance of inflammation in asthma pathogenesis, a better understanding of this protein is vital. This review describes the structure, cell surface receptors, signaling pathways and intracellular and extracellular functions of HMGB1, but also focuses on its inflammatory role in asthma. Moreover, this manuscript reviews experimental and clinical studies that investigated the pathologic role of HMGB1.

Targeting Inflammation Driven by HMGB1

High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is a highly conserved, nuclear protein present in all cell types. It is a multi-facet protein exerting functions both inside and outside of cells. Extracellular HMGB1 has been extensively studied for its prototypical alarmin functions activating innate immunity, after being actively released from cells or passively released upon cell death. TLR4 and RAGE operate as the main HMGB1 receptors. Disulfide HMGB1 activates the TLR4 complex by binding to MD-2. The binding site is separate from that of LPS and it is now feasible to specifically interrupt HMGB1/TLR4 activation without compromising protective LPS/TLR4-dependent functions. Another important therapeutic strategy is established on the administration of HMGB1 antagonists precluding RAGE-mediated endocytosis of HMGB1 and HMGB1-bound molecules capable of activating intracellular cognate receptors. Here we summarize the role of HMGB1 in inflammation, with a focus on recent findings on its mission as a damage-associated molecular pattern molecule and as a therapeutic target in inflammatory diseases. Recently generated HMGB1-specific inhibitors for treatment of inflammatory conditions are discussed.