A Stable Aspirin-Triggered Lipoxin A4Analog Blocks Phosphorylation of Leukocyte-Specific Protein 1 in Human Neutrophils

Lipoxin Mimetics and the Resolution of Inflammation

Inflammation and its timely resolution are critical to ensure effective host defense and appropriate tissue repair after injury and or infection. Chronic, unresolved inflammation typifies many prevalent pathologies. The key mediators that initiate and drive the inflammatory response are well defined and targeted by conventional anti-inflammatory therapeutics. More recently, there is a growing appreciation that specific mediators, including arachidonate-derived lipoxins, are generated in self-limiting inflammatory responses to promote the resolution of inflammation and endogenous repair mechanisms without compromising host defense. We discuss the proresolving biological actions of lipoxins and recent efforts to harness their therapeutic potential through the development of novel, potent lipoxin mimetics generated via efficient, modular stereoselective synthetic pathways. We consider the evidence that lipoxin mimetics may have applications in limiting inflammation and reversing fibrosis and the underlying mechanisms.

Lipoxins and synthetic lipoxin mimetics: Therapeutic potential in renal diseases

Inflammation and its timely resolution are critical to ensuring effective host defence and appropriate tissue repair after injury. Unresolved inflammation typifies many renal pathologies. The key drivers of the inflammatory response are well defined and targeted by conventional anti-inflammatory therapeutics. However, these are associated with undesirable side effects including immune suppression. More recently, there is growing appreciation that specialized lipid mediators [SPMs] including lipoxins promote the resolution of inflammation and endogenous repair mechanisms without compromising host defence. We discuss the pro-resolving bioactions of lipoxins and recent work that aims to harness their therapeutic potential in the context of kidney disease.

Lipid mediators in immune regulation and resolution

We are all too familiar with the events that follow a bee sting-heat, redness, swelling, and pain. These are Celsus' four cardinal signs of inflammation that are driven by very well-defined signals and hormones. In fact, targeting the factors that drive this onset phase is the basis upon which most current anti-inflammatory therapies were developed. We are also very well aware that within a few hours, these cardinal signs normally disappear. In other words, inflammation resolves. When it does not, inflammation persists, resulting in damaging chronic conditions. While inflammatory onset is actively driven, so also is its resolution-years of research have identified novel internal counter-regulatory signals that work together to switch off inflammation. Among these signals, lipids are potent signalling molecules that regulate an array of immune responses including vascular hyper reactivity and pain, as well as leukocyte trafficking and clearance, so-called resolution. Here, we collate bioactive lipid research to date and summarize the major pathways involved in their biosynthesis and their role in inflammation, as well as resolution. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed section on Eicosanoids 35 years from the 1982 Nobel: where are we now? To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.8/issuetoc.

Towards targeting resolution pathways of airway inflammation in asthma

Asthma is a chronic disorder characterized by persistent inflammation of the airways with mucosal infiltration of eosinophils, T lymphocytes, and mast cells, and release of proinflammatory cytokines and lipid mediators. The natural resolution of airway inflammation is now recognized as an active host response, with highly coordinated cellular events under the control of endogenous pro-resolving mediators that enable the restoration of tissue homeostasis. Lead members of proresolving mediators are enzymatically derived from essential polyunsaturated fatty acids, including arachidonic acid-derived lipoxins, eicosapentaenoic acid-derived E-series resolvins, and docosahexaenoic acid-derived D-series resolvins, protectins, and maresins. Functionally, these specialized pro-resolving mediators can limit further leukocyte recruitment, induce granulocyte apoptosis, and enhance efferocytosis by macrophages. They can also switch macrophages from classical to alternatively activated cells, promote the return of non-apoptotic cells to lymphatics and blood vessels, and help initiate tissue repair and healing. In this review, we highlight cellular and molecular mechanisms for successful resolution of inflammation, and describe the main specialized pro-resolving mediators that drive these processes. Furthermore, we report recent data suggesting that the pathobiology of severe asthma may result in part from impaired resolution of airway inflammation, including defects in the biosynthesis of these specialized pro-resolving mediators. Finally, we discuss resolution-based therapeutic perspectives.

Aspirin-Mediated Acetylation Protects Against Multiple Neurodegenerative Pathologies by Impeding Protein Aggregation

AIMS

Many progressive neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Huntington's disease, and Parkinson's disease (PD), are characterized by accumulation of insoluble protein aggregates. In prospective trials, the cyclooxygenase inhibitor aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) reduced the risk of AD and PD, as well as cardiovascular events and many late-onset cancers. Considering the role played by protein hyperphosphorylation in aggregation and neurodegenerative diseases, and aspirin's known ability to donate acetyl groups, we asked whether aspirin might reduce both phosphorylation and aggregation by acetylating protein targets.

RESULTS

Aspirin was substantially more effective than salicylate in reducing or delaying aggregation in human neuroblastoma cells grown in vitro, and in Caenorhabditis elegans models of human neurodegenerative diseases in vivo. Aspirin acetylates many proteins, while reducing phosphorylation, suggesting that acetylation may oppose phosphorylation. Surprisingly, acetylated proteins were largely excluded from compact aggregates. Molecular-dynamic simulations indicate that acetylation of amyloid peptide energetically disfavors its association into dimers and octamers, and oligomers that do form are less compact and stable than those comprising unacetylated peptides.

INNOVATION

Hyperphosphorylation predisposes certain proteins to aggregate (e.g., tau, α-synuclein, and transactive response DNA-binding protein 43 [TDP-43]), and it is a critical pathogenic marker in both cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. We present novel evidence that acetylated proteins are underrepresented in protein aggregates, and that aggregation varies inversely with acetylation propensity after diverse genetic and pharmacologic interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

These results are consistent with the hypothesis that aspirin inhibits protein aggregation and the ensuing toxicity of aggregates through its acetyl-donating activity. This mechanism may contribute to the neuro-protective, cardio-protective, and life-prolonging effects of aspirin. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 27, 1383-1396.

Lipid Mediators in Inflammation

Lipids are potent signaling molecules that regulate a multitude of cellular responses, including cell growth and death and inflammation/infection, via receptor-mediated pathways. Derived from polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), such as arachidonic acid (AA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), each lipid displays unique properties, thus making their role in inflammation distinct from that of other lipids derived from the same PUFA. This diversity arises from their synthesis, which occurs via discrete enzymatic pathways and because they elicit responses via different receptors. This review will collate the bioactive lipid research to date and summarize the major pathways involved in their biosynthesis and role in inflammation. Specifically, lipids derived from AA (prostanoids, leukotrienes, 5-oxo-6,8,11,14-eicosatetraenoic acid, lipoxins, and epoxyeicosatrienoic acids), EPA (E-series resolvins), and DHA (D-series resolvins, protectins, and maresins) will be discussed herein.

Natural resolution of inflammation

Inflammation is a protective response essential for maintaining human health and for fighting disease. As an active innate immune reaction to challenge, inflammation gives rise to clinical cardinal signs: rubor, calor, dolor, tumor and functio laesa. Termination of acute inflammation was previously recognized as a passive process; a natural decay of pro-inflammatory signals. We now understand that the natural resolution of inflammation involves well-integrated, active, biochemical programs that return tissues to homeostasis. This review focuses on recent advances in the understanding of the role of endogenous lipid mediators that modulate cellular fate and inflammation. Biosynthesis of eicosanoids and other lipids in exudates coincides with changes in the types of inflammatory cells. Resolution of inflammation is initiated by an active class switch in lipid mediators, such as classic prostaglandins and leukotrienes, to the production of proresolution mediators. Endogenous pro-resolving lipid mediators, including arachidonic acid-derived lipoxins, aspirin-triggered lipoxins, ω3-eicosapentaenoic acid-derived resolvins of the E-series, docosahexaenoic acid-derived resolvins of the D-series, protectins and maresins, are biosynthesized during the resolution phase of acute inflammation. Depending on the type of injury and the type of tissue, the initial cells that respond are polymorphonuclear leukocytes, monocytes/macrophages, epithelial cells or endothelial cells. The selective interaction of specific lipid mediators with G protein-coupled receptors expressed on innate immune cells (e.g. G protein-coupled receptor 32, lipoxin A4 receptor/formyl peptide receptor2, chemokine-like receptor 1, leukotriene B4 receptor type 1 and cabannoid receptor 2) induces cessation of leukocyte infiltration; vascular permeability/edema returns to normal with polymorphonuclear neutrophil death (mostly via apoptosis), the nonphlogistic infiltration of monocyte/macrophages and the removal (by macrophages) of apoptotic polymorphonuclear neutrophils, foreign agents (bacteria) and necrotic debris from the site. While an acute inflammatory response that is resolved in a timely manner prevents tissue injury, inadequate resolution and failure to return tissue to homeostasis results in neutrophil-mediated destruction and chronic inflammation. A better understanding of the complex mechanisms of lipid agonist mediators, cell targets and actions allows us to exploit and develop novel therapeutic strategies to treat human inflammatory diseases, including periodontal diseases.

Resolvin D1 limits 5-lipoxygenase nuclear localization and leukotriene B4 synthesis by inhibiting a calcium-activated kinase pathway

Imbalances between proinflammatory and proresolving mediators can lead to chronic inflammatory diseases. The balance of arachidonic acid-derived mediators in leukocytes is thought to be achieved through intracellular localization of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX): nuclear 5-LOX favors the biosynthesis of proinflammatory leukotriene B4 (LTB4), whereas, in theory, cytoplasmic 5-LOX could favor the biosynthesis of proresolving lipoxin A4 (LXA4). This balance is shifted in favor of LXA4 by resolvin D1 (RvD1), a specialized proresolving mediator derived from docosahexaenoic acid, but the mechanism is not known. Here we report a new pathway through which RvD1 promotes nuclear exclusion of 5-LOX and thereby suppresses LTB4 and enhances LXA4 in macrophages. RvD1, by activating its receptor formyl peptide receptor2/lipoxin A4 receptor, suppresses cytosolic calcium and decreases activation of the calcium-sensitive kinase calcium-calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII). CaMKII inhibition suppresses activation P38 and mitogen-activated protein kinase-activated protein kinase 2 kinases, which reduces Ser271 phosphorylation of 5-LOX and shifts 5-LOX from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. As such, RvD1's ability to decrease nuclear 5-LOX and the LTB4:LXA4 ratio in vitro and in vivo was mimicked by macrophages lacking CaMKII or expressing S271A-5-LOX. These findings provide mechanistic insight into how a specialized proresolving mediator from the docosahexaenoic acid pathway shifts the balance toward resolution in the arachidonic acid pathway. Knowledge of this mechanism may provide new strategies for promoting inflammation resolution in chronic inflammatory diseases.

Mechanisms of aspirin desensitization

Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease is a clinical syndrome characterized by severe, persistent asthma, hyperplastic eosinophilic sinusitis with nasal polyps, and reactions to aspirin and other nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs that preferentially inhibit cyclooxygenase 1. The mechanisms behind the therapeutic effects of aspirin desensitization remain poorly understood. Recent studies suggest that the clinical benefits may occur through direct inhibition of tyrosine kinases and the signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 signaling pathway, which results in inhibition of interleukin 4 production. In this article, the current understanding of the mechanisms of aspirin desensitization is reviewed and future areas of investigation are discussed.

Lipoxin A4 attenuation of endothelial inflammation response mimicking pancreatitis-induced lung injury

Lipoxins (LXs) and their analogues are known to display potent anti-inflammatory actions. Previously, we reported that lipoxin A4 (LXA4) possessed powerful anti-inflammatory properties in acute pancreatitis in rats and that it may ameliorate the concomitant acute lung injury by reducing cytokine generation and inhibiting neutrophil activation. Considering that the vascular endothelium plays an important role during adherence, migration and activation of leukocytes, the present study was designed to investigate the effects of LXA4 on the inflammatory response induced by tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) in human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (HPMECs) and explore the potential mechanisms involved in these processes. We found that LXA4 markedly down-regulated the expression of monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), E-selectin, and interleukin-6 (IL-6) mRNA, as well as intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) in TNF-α-exposed HPMECs. Moreover, LXA4 inhibited the phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB/p65 (NF-κB/p65) and phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) in HPMECs following TNF-α stimulation. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), a cytoprotective enzyme, was up-regulated by LXA4 in both non- and TNF-α-stimulated HPMECs. In conclusion, the protective effects of LXA4 to ALI may be executed through inhibition inflammation pathways of NF-κB and p38 MAPK and up-regulation of cytoprotective HO-1.

Resolvin D1 protects periodontal ligament

Resolution agonists are endogenous mediators that drive inflammation to homeostasis. We earlier demonstrated in vivo activity of resolvins and lipoxins on regenerative periodontal wound healing. The goal of this study was to determine the impact of resolvin D1 (RvD1) on the function of human periodontal ligament (PDL) fibroblasts, which are critical for wound healing during regeneration of the soft and hard tissues around teeth. Primary cells were cultured from biopsies obtained from three individuals free of periodontal diseases. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated by density gradient centrifugation from whole blood of healthy volunteers. PGE2, leukotriene B4 (LTB4), and lipoxin A4 (LXA4) in culture supernatants were measured by ELISA. The direct impact of RvD1 on PDL fibroblast proliferation was measured and wound closure was analyzed in vitro using a fibroblast culture "scratch assay." PDL fibroblast function in response to RvD1 was further characterized by basic FGF production by ELISA. IL-1β and TNF-α enhanced the production of PGE2. Treatment of PDL cells and monocytes with 0.1-10 ng/ml RvD1 (0.27-27 M) reduced cytokine induced production of PGE2 and upregulated LXA4 production by both PDL cells and monocytes. RvD1 significantly enhanced PDL fibroblast proliferation and wound closure as well as basic FGF release. The results demonstrate that anti-inflammatory and proresolution actions of RvD1 with upregulation of arachidonic acid-derived endogenous resolution pathways (LXA4) and suggest resolution pathway synergy establishing a novel mechanism for the proresolution activity of the ω-3 docosahexaenoic acid-derived resolution agonist RvD1.

BML-111 attenuates hemorrhagic shock-induced acute lung injury through inhibiting activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway in rats

BACKGROUND

Hemorrhagic shock activates cellular stress signals and can lead to systemic inflammatory response, organ injury, and death. Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) acts as a sensor of tissue injury in models of ischemia-reperfusion injury. Lipoxins are endogenous lipid mediators with potent anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving actions. We hypothesized that BML-111 (a lipoxin A4-receptor agonist) attenuates hemorrhagic shock-induced acute lung injury (ALI) through inhibiting activation of the MAPK pathway.

METHODS

We randomized Sprague-Dawley rats into four groups: sham, hemorrhagic shock-resuscitation (HS), HS plus BML-111 (BML-111), and HS plus BML-111 and BOC-2 (BOC-2). Two hours after resuscitation, we collected samples of lung. We obtained bronchoalveolar lavage fluid for neutrophil count. We performed optical microscopy to examine pathologic changes in lungs. Wet/dry ratios, myeloperoxidase expression, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 levels in lung were measured. We evaluated MAPK activation and the DNA binding activity of activator protein-1 in lung.

RESULTS

Treatment with BML-111 reduced the lung damage and wet/dry ratio, neutrophil count in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, expression of myeloperoxidase, and production of IL-1β and IL-6 in lung. Phosphorylation of MAPK was also decreased by BML-111 in lung. Furthermore, the DNA binding activity of activator protein-1 was blocked by BML-111. An antagonist of the lipoxin A4-receptor, BOC-2, reversed the protective effect of BML-111 on ALI induced by hemorrhagic shock.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates that BML-111 attenuated hemorrhagic shock-induced ALI via the MAPK/activator protein-1 signaling pathway. Therefore, BML-111 may have therapeutic potential for hemorrhagic shock-induced ALI.

Lipoxins, resolvins and protectins: new leads for the treatment of asthma

BACKGROUND

The pathobiology of asthma is characterized by the production of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids that play important roles in regulating airway responses. Recognition of the biosynthetic pathways and sites of action for 5-lipoxygenase-derived leukotrienes has led to the successful development of two different classes of asthma therapeutics.

OBJECTIVES

In this review, we describe structurally distinct lipid mediators derived from arachidonic acid and ω-3 fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving actions. These counter-regulatory lipid mediators are generated in the airway during asthma and defects in their production are associated with disease severity.

CONCLUSION

These natural small molecules are rapidly inactivated, but serve as rationale templates for the design of stable analogues with protective actions that could serve as new therapeutic leads for asthma.

Resolution of inflammation in asthma

The resolution of inflammation in healthy airways is an active process, with specialized mediators and cellular mechanisms enlisted to restore tissue homeostasis. This article focuses on recent discoveries of natural mediators derived from essential fatty acids, including ω-3 fatty acids, with anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving. These pro-resolving mediators serve as agonists at specific receptors. Asthma is an incurable disease of chronic, nonresolving inflammation of the airways. While the biosynthesis of pro-resolving mediators occurs during asthma, defects in their production are associated with disease severity, suggesting that the pathobiology of asthma may result in part from impaired resolution of airway inflammation.

Aspirin and immune system

The time-tested gradual exploration of aspirin's diverse pharmacological properties has made it the most reliable therapeutic agent worldwide. In addition to its well-argued anti-inflammatory effects, many new and exciting data have emerged regarding the role of aspirin in cells of the immune system and certain immunopathological states. For instance, aspirin induces tolerogenic activity in dendritic cells and determines the fate of naive T cells to regulatory phenotypes, which suggests its immunoregulatory potential in relevance to immune tolerance. It also displays some intriguing traits to modulate the innate and adaptive immune responses. In this article, the immunomodulatory relation of aspirin to different immune cells, such as neutrophils, macrophages, dendritic cells (DCs), natural killer (NK) cells, and the T and B lymphocytes has been highlighted. Moreover, the clinical prospects of aspirin in terms of autoimmunity, allograft rejection and immune tolerance have also been outlined.

Aspirin-triggered lipoxin A4 attenuates LPS-induced pro-inflammatory responses by inhibiting activation of NF-κB and MAPKs in BV-2 microglial cells

Background

Microglial activation plays an important role in neurodegenerative diseases through production of nitric oxide (NO) and several pro-inflammatory cytokines. Lipoxins (LXs) and aspirin-triggered LXs (ATLs) are considered to act as 'braking signals' in inflammation. In the present study, we investigated the effect of aspirin-triggered LXA₄ (ATL) on infiammatory responses induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in murine microglial BV-2 cells.

Methods

BV-2 cells were treated with ATL prior to LPS exposure, and the effects of such treatment production of nitric oxide (NO), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were analysed by Griess reaction, ELISA, western blotting and quantitative RT-PCR. Moreover, we investigated the effects of ATL on LPS-induced nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation, phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and activator protein-1 (AP-1) activation.

Results

ATL inhibited LPS-induced production of NO, IL-1β and TNF-α in a concentration-dependent manner. mRNA expressions for iNOS, IL-1β and TNF-α in response to LPS were also decreased by ATL. These effects were inhibited by Boc-2 (a LXA₄ receptor antagonist). ATL significantly reduced nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65, degradation of the inhibitor IκB-α, and phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38 MAPK in BV-2 cells activated with LPS. Furthermore, the DNA binding activity of NF-κB and AP-1 was blocked by ATL.

Conclusions

This study indicates that ATL inhibits NO and pro-inflammatory cytokine production at least in part via NF-κB, ERK, p38 MAPK and AP-1 signaling pathways in LPS-activated microglia. Therefore, ATL may have therapeutic potential for various neurodegenerative diseases.

The endogenous pro-resolving mediators lipoxin A4 and resolvin E1 preserve organ function in allograft rejection

Allograft rejection remains a major limitation to successful solid organ transplantation. Here, we investigated the biosynthesis and bioactions of the pro-resolving mediators lipoxin A(4) and resolvin E1 in host responses to organ transplantation. In samples obtained during screening bronchoscopy after human lung transplantation, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid levels of lipoxin A(4) were increased in association with the severity of allograft rejection that was graded independently by clinical pathology. Lipoxin A(4) significantly inhibited calcineurin activation in human neutrophils, and lipoxin A(4) stable analogs prevented acute rejection of vascularized cardiac and renal allografts. Transgenic animals expressing human lipoxin A(4) receptors revealed important sites of action in host tissues for lipoxin A(4)'s protective effects. Resolvin E1 displays counter-regulatory actions for leukocytes, in part, via increased lipoxin A(4) biosynthesis, yet RvE1 administered (1μg, iv) to donor (days -1 and 0) and recipient mice (days -1, 0 and +4) was even more potent than a lipoxin stable analog (1μg, iv) in prolonging renal allograft survival (median survival time=74.0 days with RvE1 and 37.5 days with a LXA(4) analog). Together, these results highlight the potential for pro-resolving mediators in prolonging survival of solid organ transplants.

Endothelial LSP1 is involved in endothelial dome formation, minimizing vascular permeability changes during neutrophil transmigration in vivo

The endothelium actively participates in neutrophil migration out of the vasculature via dynamic, cytoskeleton-dependent rearrangements leading to the formation of transmigratory cups in vitro, and to domes that completely surround the leukocyte in vivo. Leukocyte-specific protein 1 (LSP1), an F-actin-binding protein recently shown to be in the endothelium, is critical for effective transmigration, although the mechanism has remained elusive. Herein we show that endothelial LSP1 is expressed in the nucleus and cytosol of resting endothelial cells and associates with the cytoskeleton upon endothelial activation. Two-photon microscopy revealed that endothelial LSP1 was crucial for the formation of endothelial domes in vivo in response to neutrophil chemokine keratinocyte-derived chemokine (KC) as well as in response to endogenously produced chemokines stimulated by cytokines (tumor necrosis factor α [TNFα] or interleukin-1β [IL-1β]). Endothelial domes were significantly reduced in Lsp1(-/-) compared with wild-type (WT) mice. Lsp1(-/-) animals not only showed impaired neutrophil emigration after KC and TNFα stimulation, but also had disproportionate increases in vascular permeability. We demonstrate that endothelial LSP1 is recruited to the cytoskeleton in inflammation and plays an important role in forming endothelial domes thereby regulating neutrophil transendothelial migration. The permeability data may underscore the physiologic relevance of domes and the role for LSP1 in endothelial barrier integrity.

Old and new generation lipid mediators in acute inflammation and resolution

Originally regarded as just membrane constituents and energy storing molecules, lipids are now recognised as potent signalling molecules that regulate a multitude of cellular responses via receptor-mediated pathways, including cell growth and death, and inflammation/infection. Derived from polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), such as arachidonic acid (AA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), each lipid displays unique properties, thus making their role in inflammation distinct from that of other lipids derived from the same PUFA. The diversity of their actions arises because such metabolites are synthesised via discrete enzymatic pathways and because they elicit their response via different receptors. This review will collate the bioactive lipid research to date and summarise the findings in terms of the major pathways involved in their biosynthesis and their role in inflammation and its resolution. It will include lipids derived from AA (prostanoids, leukotrienes, 5-oxo-6,8,11,14-eicosatetraenoic acid, lipoxins and epoxyeicosatrienoic acids), EPA (E-series resolvins), and DHA (D-series resolvins, protectins and maresins).

Molecular circuits of resolution in airway inflammation

Inflammatory diseases of the lung are common, cause significant morbidity, and can be refractory to therapy. Airway responses to injury, noxious stimuli, or microbes lead to leukocyte recruitment for host defense. As leukocytes respond, they interact with lung resident cells and can elaborate specific mediators that are enzymatically generated from polyunsaturated fatty acids via transcellular biosynthesis. These bioactive, lipid-derived, small molecules serve as agonists at specific receptors and are rapidly inactivated in the local environment. This review will focus on the biosynthesis, receptors, cellular responses, and in vivo actions of lipoxins, resolvins, and protectins as exemplary molecular signaling circuits in the airway that are anti-inflammatory and proresolving.

Lipoxin A(4) reduces lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in macrophages and intestinal epithelial cells through inhibition of nuclear factor-kappaB activation

Lipoxins, which are bioactive lipids derived from omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, play important roles in various biological functions. In this study, the anti-inflammatory effects of lipoxin A(4) (LXA4; 5S,6R,15S-trihydroxy-7,9,13-trans-11-eicosatetraenoic acid) were investigated in in vitro cultured cell experiments and in vivo animal experiments. In mouse peritoneal macrophages and mouse macrophage cell line RAW264.7 cells, LXA4 reduced the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced increase in the mRNA expression level of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha. LXA4 also reduced the LPS-induced nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB). In an LPS-induced acute inflammation mouse model, the injection of LXA4 at 5 microg/kg b.wt. led to down-regulation of the TNF-alpha level in serum and the TNF-alpha mRNA expression level in intestinal epithelial cells. Moreover, LXA4 reduced the LPS-caused phosphorylation of IkappaB kinases, IkappaB, and NF-kappaB, the degradation of IkappaB, and the nuclear translocation of NF-kappaB in intestinal epithelial cells. In a coculture system using RAW264.7 cells and human colon carcinoma cell line Caco-2 cells, treatment with LXA4 to Caco-2 cells led to reduction of LPS-evoked TNF-alpha production in RAW264.7 cells and interleukin-8 mRNA expression in Caco-2 cells. These results indicate that LXA4 exerts anti-inflammatory effects through inhibition of NF-kappaB activation, and, therefore, LXA4 may be useful as a therapeutic strategy against intestinal mucosa inflammation.

Lipid emulsions - Guidelines on Parenteral Nutrition, Chapter 6

The infusion of lipid emulsions allows a high energy supply, facilitates the prevention of high glucose infusion rates and is indispensable for the supply with essential fatty acids. The administration of lipid emulsions is recommended within ≤7 days after starting PN (parenteral nutrition) to avoid deficiency of essential fatty acids. Low-fat PN with a high glucose intake increases the risk of hyperglycaemia. In parenterally fed patients with a tendency to hyperglycaemia, an increase in the lipid-glucose ratio should be considered. In critically ill patients the glucose infusion should not exceed 50% of energy intake. The use of lipid emulsions with a low phospholipid/triglyceride ratio is recommended and should be provided with the usual PN to prevent depletion of essential fatty acids, lower the risk of hyperglycaemia, and prevent hepatic steatosis. Biologically active vitamin E (α-tocopherol) should continuously be administered along with lipid emulsions to reduce lipid peroxidation. Parenteral lipids should provide about 25–40% of the parenteral non-protein energy supply. In certain situations (i.e. critically ill, respiratory insufficiency) a lipid intake of up to 50 or 60% of non-protein energy may be reasonable. The recommended daily dose for parenteral lipids in adults is 0.7–1.3 g triglycerides/kg body weight. Serum triglyceride concentrations should be monitored regularly with dosage reduction at levels >400 mg/dl (>4.6 mmol/l) and interruption of lipid infusion at levels >1000 mg/dl (>11.4 mmol/l). There is little evidence at this time that the choice of different available lipid emulsions affects clinical endpoints.

HIV-1 gp120-induced migration of dendritic cells is regulated by a novel kinase cascade involving Pyk2, p38 MAP kinase, and LSP1

Targeting dendritic cell (DC) functions such as migration is a pivotal mechanism used by HIV-1 to disseminate within the host. The HIV-1 envelope protein is the most important of the virally encoded proteins that exploits the migratory capacity of DCs. In the present study, we elucidated the signaling machinery involved in migration of immature DCs (iDCs) in response to HIV-1 envelope protein. We observed that M-tropic HIV-1 glycoprotein 120 (gp120) induces phosphorylation of the nonreceptor tyrosine kinase, Pyk2. Inhibition of Pyk2 activity using a pharmacologic inhibitor, kinase-inactive Pyk2 mutant, and Pyk2-specific small interfering RNA blocked gp120-induced chemotaxis, confirming the role of Pyk2 in iDC migration. In addition, we also illustrated the importance of Pyk2 in iDC migration induced by virion-associated envelope protein, using aldithriol-2-inactivated M-tropic HIV-1 virus. Further analysis of the downstream signaling mechanisms involved in gp120-induced migration revealed that Pyk2 activates p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, which in turn activates the F-actin-binding protein, leukocyte-specific protein 1, and enhances its association with actin. Taken together, our studies provide an insight into a novel gp120-mediated pathway that regulates DC chemotaxis and contributes to the dissemination of HIV-1 within an infected person.

12/15-lipoxygenase counteracts inflammation and tissue damage in arthritis

Eicosanoids are essential mediators of the inflammatory response and contribute both to the initiation and the resolution of inflammation. Leukocyte-type 12/15-lipoxygenase (12/15-LO) represents a major enzyme involved in the generation of a subclass of eicosanoids, including the anti-inflammatory lipoxin A(4) (LXA(4)). Nevertheless, the impact of 12/15-LO on chronic inflammatory diseases such as arthritis has remained elusive. By using two experimental models of arthritis, the K/BxN serum-transfer and a TNF transgenic mouse model, we show that deletion of 12/15-LO leads to uncontrolled inflammation and tissue damage. Consistent with these findings, 12/15-LO-deficient mice showed enhanced inflammatory gene expression and decreased levels of LXA(4) within their inflamed synovia. In isolated macrophages, the addition of 12/15-LO-derived eicosanoids blocked both phosphorylation of p38MAPK and expression of a subset of proinflammatory genes. Conversely, 12/15-LO-deficient macrophages displayed significantly reduced levels of LXA(4), which correlated with increased activation of p38MAPK and an enhanced inflammatory gene expression after stimulation with TNF-alpha. Taken together, these results support an anti-inflammatory and tissue-protective role of 12/15-LO and its products during chronic inflammatory disorders such as arthritis.

Application of proteomics to neutrophil biology

Polymorphonuclear leukocytes or neutrophils are a primary effector cell of the innate immune system and contribute to the development of adaptive immunity. Neutrophils participate in both the initiation and resolution of inflammatory responses through a series of highly coordinated molecular and phenotypic changes. To accomplish these changes, neutrophils express numerous receptors and use multiple overlapping and redundant signal transduction pathways. Dysregulation of the activation or resolution pathways plays a role in a number of human diseases. A comprehensive understanding of the regulation of neutrophil responses can be provided by high throughput proteomic technologies and sophisticated computational analysis. The first steps in the application of proteomics to understanding neutrophil biology have been taken. Here we review the application of expression, structural, and functional proteomic studies to neutrophils. Although defining the complex molecular events associated with neutrophil activation is in the early stages, the data generated to date suggest that proteomic technologies will dramatically enhance our understanding of neutrophil biology.

Aspirin and indomethacin reduce lung inflammation of mice exposed to cigarette smoke

Neutrophil accumulation response to cigarette smoke (CS) in humans and animal models is believed to play an important role in pathogenesis of many tobacco-related lung diseases. Here we evaluated the lung anti-inflammatory effect of aspirin and indomethacin in mice exposed to CS. C57BL/6 mice were exposed to four cigarettes per day during 4 days and were treated i.p. with aspirin or indomethacin, administered each day 1h before CS exposure. Twenty four hours after the last exposure, cells and inflammatory mediators were assessed in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and the lungs used for evaluation of lipid peroxidation, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation and nuclear transcription factor kappaB (NF-kappaB) activation. Exposure to CS resulted in a marked lung neutrophilia. Moreover, the levels of oxidative stress-related lipid peroxidation, prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), interleukin 1beta (IL-1beta), monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1), and activated NF-kappaB and p38 MAPK were greatly increased in CS group. Aspirin or indomethacin treatment led to a significant reduction of neutrophil influx, but only aspirin resulted in dramatic decrease of inflammatory mediators. Moreover, both drugs reduced lung p38 MAPK and NF-kappaB activation induced by CS. These results demonstrate that short-term CS exposure has profound airway inflammatory effects counteracted by the anti-inflammatory agents aspirin and indomethacin, probably through COX-dependent and -independent mechanisms.

Lipoxin A4 counterregulates GM-CSF signaling in eosinophilic granulocytes

Eosinophils are granulated leukocytes that are involved in many inflammation-associated pathologies including airway inflammation in asthma. Resolution of eosinophilic inflammation and return to homeostasis is in part due to endogenous chemical mediators, for example, lipoxins, resolvins, and protectins. Lipoxins are endogenous eicosanoids that demonstrate antiinflammatory activity and are synthesized locally at sites of inflammation. In view of the importance of lipoxins (LXs) in resolving inflammation, we investigated the molecular basis of LXA(4) action on eosinophilic granulocytes stimulated with GM-CSF employing the eosinophilic leukemia cell line EoL-1 as well as peripheral blood eosinophils. We report herein that LXA(4) (1-100 nM) decreased protein tyrosine phosphorylation in EoL-1 cells stimulated with GM-CSF. Additionally, the expression of a number of GM-CSF-induced cytokines was inhibited by LXA(4) in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, using a proteomics approach involving mass spectrometry and immunoblot analysis we identified 11 proteins that were tyrosine phosphorylated after GM-CSF stimulation and whose phosphorylation was significantly inhibited by LXA(4) pretreatment. Included among these 11 proteins were alpha-fodrin (nonerythroid spectrin) and actin. Microscopic imaging showed that treatment of EoL-1 cells or blood eosinophils with GM-CSF resulted in the reorganization of actin and the translocation of alpha-fodrin from the cytoplasm to the plasma membrane. Importantly, alpha-fodrin translocation was prevented by LXA(4) but actin reorganization was not. Thus, the mechanism of LXA(4) action likely involves prevention of activation of eosinophilic granulocytes by GM-CSF through inhibition of protein tyrosine phosphorylation and modification of some cytoskeletal components.

Priming of neutrophil oxidative burst in diabetes requires preassembly of the NADPH oxidase

Hyperglycemia associated with diabetes mellitus results in the priming of neutrophils leading to oxidative stress that is, in part, responsible for diabetic complications. p47phox, a NADPH oxidase cytosolic subunit, is a key protein in the assembly of the NADPH oxidase leading to superoxide generation. Little is known about the priming mechanism of oxidative pathways in neutrophils of people with diabetes. In this study, the kinetics of p47phox activation was investigated by comparing neutrophils from diabetic and healthy subjects, and the mechanism of hyperglycemia-induced changes was studied by using neutrophil-like HL-60 cells as a model. In resting neutrophils from diabetic subjects, p47phox prematurely translocates to the cell membrane and preassembles with p22phox, a NADPH oxidase membrane subunit. This premature p47phox translocation and preassembly with p22phox were also observed in HL-60 cells cultured with high glucose (HG; 25 mM) and with the specific ligand for the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), S100B. Phosphorylation of ERK1/2, but not p38 MAPK, was the primary signaling pathway, as evidenced by PD98059 suppressing the translocation of p47phox in HL-60 cells incubated with HG and S100B. HL-60 cells cultured in HG and S100B exhibited a 1.8-fold increase in fMLP-induced superoxide generation compared with those cultured in normal glucose (5.5 mM). These data suggest that HG and increased AGE prime neutrophils and increase oxidative stress inducing the translocation of p47phox to the cell membrane and preassembly with p22phox by stimulating a RAGE-ERK1/2 pathway.

Endogenous lipid mediators in the resolution of airway inflammation

Acute inflammation in the lung is fundamentally important to host defence, but chronic or excessive inflammation leads to several common respiratory diseases, including asthma and acute respiratory distress syndrome. The resolution of inflammation is an active process. In health, events at the onset of acute inflammation establish biosynthetic circuits for specific chemical mediators that later serve as agonists to orchestrate a return to tissue homeostasis. In addition to an overabundance of pro-inflammatory stimuli, pathological inflammation can also result from defects in resolution signalling. The understanding of anti-inflammatory, pro-resolution molecules and their counter-regulatory signalling pathways is providing new insights into the molecular pathophysiology of lung disease and opportunities for the design of therapeutic strategies. In the present review, the growing family of lipid mediators of resolution is examined, including lipoxins, resolvins, protectins, cyclopentenones and presqualene diphosphate. Roles are uncovered for these compounds, or their structural analogues, in regulating airway inflammation.

Role of lipoxin in the modulation of immune response during infection

Pro-inflammatory mediators such as IL-12, IFN-gamma and TNF are essential in controlling parasite growth during Toxoplasma gondii infection. However, it is clear that the exacerbate production of these cytokines results in the host tissue damage. Investigation into the immune response modulation during infectious disease, has revealed that lipoxin (LXA), an anti-inflammatory eicosanoids, plays an important role in regulation of immune response to different pathogens, including T. gondii and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Here, we review the pro-resolution pathways triggered by LXA that are responsible for control of pro-inflammatory response during chronic disease.

Resolution phase of inflammation: novel endogenous anti-inflammatory and proresolving lipid mediators and pathways

Resolution of inflammation and the return of tissues to homeostasis are essential. Efforts to identify molecular events governing termination of self-limited inflammation uncovered pathways in resolving exudates that actively generate, from essential omega fatty acids, new families of local-acting mediators. These chemical mediator families, termed resolvins and protectins, are potent stereoselective agonists that control the duration and magnitude of inflammation, joining the lipoxins as signals in resolution. This review examines the mapping of these circuits and recent advances in our understanding of the biosynthesis and actions of these novel proresolving lipid mediators. Aspirin jump-starts resolution by triggering biosynthesis of specific epimers of these mediators. In addition to their origins in inflammation resolution, these compounds also display potent protective roles in neural systems, liver, lung, and eye. Given the potent actions of lipoxins, resolvins, and protectins in models of human disease, deficiencies in resolution pathways may contribute to many diseases and offer exciting new potential for therapeutic control via resolution.

MAPKAPK2-mediated LSP1 phosphorylation and FMLP-induced neutrophil polarization

In neutrophils, the major substrate of MAPKAPK2 (MK2) is an F-actin binding protein LSP1. Studies using mutants of the two potential Serine phosphorylation sites in LSP1 C-terminal F-actin binding region indicated that the major phosphorylation site for MK2 is Ser243 in murine neutrophils (Ser252 in humans). Human phosphoLSP1 antibodies that recognize phosphoSer252 site were prepared and revealed fMLP-induced neutrophil LSP1 phosphorylation. The phosphorylation was inhibited by p38 MAPK (upstream kinase for MK2) inhibitor SB203580. The antibodies also detect LSP1 phosphorylation in murine neutrophils. Immunostaining revealed that in WT murine neutrophils phosphoLSP1 was localized in F-actin enriched lamellipodia and oriented toward the fMLP gradient while non-phosphoLSP1 failed to colocalize with F-actin. In suspension, WT neutrophils exhibited persistent F-actin polarization following fMLP stimulation, while MK2(-/-) neutrophils exhibited transient F-actin polarization. These studies suggest that MK2-regulated LSP1 phosphorylation is involved in stabilization of F-actin polarization during neutrophil chemotaxis.

The lipoxin receptor ALX: potent ligand-specific and stereoselective actions in vivo

Lipoxins (LXs) and aspirin-triggered LX (ATL) are trihydroxytetraene-containing eicosanoids generated from arachidonic acid that are distinct in structure, formation, and function from the many other proinflammatory lipid-derived mediators. These endogenous eicosanoids have now emerged as founding members of the first class of lipid/chemical mediators involved in the resolution of the inflammatory response. Lipoxin A(4) (LXA(4)), ATL, and their metabolic stable analogs elicit cellular responses and regulate leukocyte trafficking in vivo by activating the specific receptor, ALX. ALX was the first receptor cloned and identified as a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) for lipoxygenase-derived eicosanoids with demonstrated cell type-specific signaling pathways. ALX at the level of DNA has sequence homology to the N-formylpeptide receptor and as an orphan GPCR was initially referred to as the N-formylpeptide receptor-like 1. Although LXA(4) is the endogenous potent ligand for ALX activation, a number of peptides can also activate this receptor to stimulate calcium mobilization and chemotaxis in vitro. In contrast with LXA(4), the counterparts of many of these peptides in vivo remain to be established. The purpose of this review is to highlight the molecular characterization of the ALX receptor and provide an overview of the ALX-LXA(4) axis responsible for anti-inflammatory and proresolving signals in vivo. The information in this review provides further support for the initial nomenclature proposition for this GPCR as ALX.

Leukocyte-specific protein 1 (LSP1): a regulator of leukocyte emigration in inflammation

LSP1 is an F-actin bundling cytoskeletal protein expressed in hematopoietic lineage and endothelial cells. We investigated the function of this protein by generating and analyzing an LSP1-deficient mouse strain and in this review we describe our findings together with those of other investigators. The results show a complex function of LSP1 in regulating leukocyte recruitment to inflamed sites. Based on current evidence, we propose that the levels of LSP1 on the cytoskeleton and the type of integrin involved are some of the critical elements which affect LSP1 function in modulating the threshold for transmigration.

Lipoxin A4 Redistributes Myosin IIA and Cdc42 in Macrophages: Implications for Phagocytosis of Apoptotic Leukocytes

Lipoxins (LXs) are endogenously produced anti-inflammatory agents that modulate leukocyte trafficking and stimulate nonphlogistic macrophage phagocytosis of apoptotic neutrophils, thereby promoting the resolution of inflammation. Previous data suggest a role for altered protein phosphorylation and cytoskeletal rearrangement in LX-stimulated phagocytosis but the exact mechanisms remain unclear. In this study we examine the effects of LXA4 on the protein phosphorylation pattern of THP-1 cells differentiated into a macrophage-like phenotype. THP-1 cells stimulated with LXA4 (1 nM) exhibit dephosphorylation of a 220-kDa protein. Using mass spectrometry, this protein was identified as MYH9, a nonmuscle myosin H chain II isoform A, which is involved in cytoskeleton rearrangement. THP-1 cells treated with LXA4 adopt a polarized morphology with activated Cdc42 localized toward the leading edge and MYH9 localized at the cell posterior. Polarized distribution of Cdc42 is associated with Akt/PKB-mediated Cdc42 activation. Interestingly, the annexin-derived peptide Ac2-26, a recently described agonist for the LXA4 receptor, also stimulates macrophage phagocytosis, MYH9 dephosphorylation, and MYH9 redistribution. In addition, we demonstrate that LXA4 stimulates the phosphorylation of key polarity organization molecules: Akt, protein kinase Czeta, and glycogen synthase kinase-3beta. Inhibition of LXA4-induced Akt and protein kinase Czeta activity with specific inhibitors prevented LXA4-stimulated phagocytosis of both apoptotic polymorphonuclear neutrophils and lymphocytes, highlighting a potential use for LXA4 in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Furthermore, phosphorylation and subsequent inactivation of glycogen synthase kinase-3beta resulted in an increase in phagocytosis similar to that of LXA4. These data highlight an integrated mechanism whereby LXA4 regulates phagocytosis through facilitative actin cytoskeleton rearrangement and cell polarization.

Anti-inflammatory actions of lipoxin A4 and aspirin-triggered lipoxin are SOCS-2 dependent

Control of inflammation is crucial to prevent damage to the host during infection. Lipoxins and aspirin-triggered lipoxins are crucial modulators of proinflammatory responses; however, their intracellular mechanisms have not been completely elucidated. We previously showed that lipoxin A4 (LXA4) controls migration of dendritic cells (DCs) and production of interleukin (IL)-12 in vivo. In the absence of LXA4 biosynthetic pathways, the resulting uncontrolled inflammation during infection is lethal, despite pathogen clearance. Here we show that lipoxins activate two receptors in DCs, AhR and LXAR, and that this activation triggers expression of suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS)-2. SOCS-2-deficient DCs are hyper-responsive to microbial stimuli, as well as refractory to the inhibitory actions of LXA4, but not to IL-10. Upon infection with an intracellular pathogen, SOCS-2-deficient mice had uncontrolled production of proinflammatory cytokines, decreased microbial proliferation, aberrant leukocyte infiltration and elevated mortality. We also show that SOCS-2 is a crucial intracellular mediator of the anti-inflammatory actions of aspirin-induced lipoxins in vivo.

Annexin 1 and its bioactive peptide inhibit neutrophil-endothelium interactions under flow: indication of distinct receptor involvement

We have tested the effects of annexin 1 (ANXA1) and its N-terminal peptide Ac2-26 on polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) recruitment under flow. Differential effects of the full-length protein and its peptide were observed; ANXA1 inhibited firm adhesion of human PMNs, while Ac2-26 significantly attenuated capture and rolling without effect on firm adhesion. Analysis of the effects of ANXA1 and Ac2-26 on PMN adhesion molecule expression supported the flow chamber results, with Ac2-26 but not ANXA1 causing l-selectin and PSGL-1 shedding. ANXA1 and its peptide act via the FPR family of receptors. This was corroborated using HEK-293 cells transfected with FPR or FPRL-1/ALX (the 2 members of this family expressed by human PMNs). While Ac2-26 bound both FPR and FPRL-1/ALX, ANXA1 bound FPRL-1/ALX only. ANXA1 and Ac2-26 acted as genuine agonists; Ac2-26 binding led to ERK activation in both FPR- and FPRL-1/ALX-transfected cells, while ANXA1 caused ERK activation only in cells transfected with FPRL-1/ALX. Finally, blockade of FPRL-1/ALX with a neutralizing monoclonal antibody was found to abrogate the effects of ANXA1 in the flow chamber but was without effect on Ac2-26-mediated inhibition of rolling. These findings demonstrate for the first time distinct mechanisms of action for ANXA1 and its N-terminal peptide Ac2-26.

Anti-inflammatory circuitry: lipoxin, aspirin-triggered lipoxins and their receptor ALX

Endogenous chemical mediators or autacoids play key roles in controlling inflammation and its programmed resolution. Among them, it is known that lipoxins (LX) and aspirin-triggered LX (ATL) evoke bioactions in a range of physiologic and pathophysiologic processes and serve as endogenous lipid/chemical mediators that stop neutrophilic infiltration and initiate resolution. LXA4, ATL and their metabolic stable analogs elicit cellular responses and regulate PMN in vivo via interacting with their specific receptor, namely ALX. ALX is the first cloned and identified lipoxygenase-derived eicosanoid receptor with cell type-specific signaling pathways. Also, ALX could regulate PMN by interacting with each class of ligands (lipid vs. peptide) within specific phases of an inflammatory response. Together LX, ATL and ALX may provide new opportunities to design "resolution-targeted" therapies with high degree of precision in controlling inflammation. In this chapter, we give an overview and update of the current actions for LX and ATL, the identification of ALX and their novel anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving signals.

Design, synthesis and bioactions of novel stable mimetics of lipoxins and aspirin-triggered lipoxins

The lipoxins (LX) are a class of potent endogenous oxygenated products that are enzymatically generated from arachidonic acid and have novel anti-inflammatory properties and promote resolution. Elucidation of the biochemical pathways involved in the metabolic inactivation of LX and the discovery of the aspirin-triggered lipoxins (ATL) provided the basis for the design and synthesis of stable analogs of LX and ATL. This special issue review describes the efforts that led to the design and synthesis of stable LX/ATL mimetics, which permitted the detailed elucidation of their novel biological roles, leading to the development of new anti-inflammatory agents that mimic their actions. These synthetic molecules provided the means to uncover the physiologic roles of both the LX and the ATL biosynthetic pathways which led to several unexpected discoveries. Among these findings is the involvement of polyisoprenyl phosphates (PIPP) in intracellular signaling mediated by presqualene diphosphate (PSDP), and the recognition of the novel roles of these lipid mediators in regulating cell trafficking during inflammation as well as in promoting resolution of inflammatory processes. These efforts also provided the basis for examining the potential therapeutic role of LX/ATL stable mimetics and led to the development of new analogs with improved pharmacokinetics that opened the way to potentially new approaches to treating human diseases.

Lipoxins and lipoxin analogs in asthma

The pathobiology of asthma is characterized by production of eicosanoids, a diverse family of bioactive fatty acids that play important roles in regulating airway inflammation and reactivity. Lipoxins (LXs) are products of arachidonic acid metabolism that are distinct from leukotrienes (LTs) and prostaglandins (PGs) in structure and function. Unlike the pro-inflammatory PGs and LTs, LXs display counter-regulatory actions. Cell-type specific biological actions have been uncovered for LXs and LX stable analogs that promote resolution of acute inflammatory responses. At least two classes of receptors, CysLT1 receptors and LXA4 receptors (named ALX), can interact with LXA4 and LXA4 analogs to mediate their biological actions. LXs are generated during asthma and LXA4 signaling blocks asthmatic responses in humans and experimental model systems. Of interest, respiratory diseases of increased severity, such as aspirin-intolerant asthma, cystic fibrosis and steroid-dependent, severe asthma, display defective generation of these protective lipid signals. Together, these findings indicate a pivotal role for LXs in mediating airway homeostasis.

Lipoxins and aspirin-triggered 15-epi-lipoxins are the first lipid mediators of endogenous anti-inflammation and resolution

Lipoxins (LXs) or the lipoxygenase interaction products are generated from arachidonic acid via sequential actions of lipoxygenases and subsequent reactions to give specific trihydroxytetraene-containing eicosanoids. These unique structures are formed during cell-cell interactions and appear to act at both temporal and spatially distinct sites from other eicosanoids produced during the course of inflammatory responses and to stimulate natural resolution. Lipoxin A4 (LXA4) and lipoxin B4 (LXB4) are positional isomers that each possesses potent cellular and in vivo actions. These LX structures are conserved across species. The results of numerous studies reviewed in this work now confirm that they are the first recognized eicosanoid chemical mediators that display both potent anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving actions in vivo in disease models that include rabbit, rat, and mouse systems. LXs act at specific GPCRs as agonists to regulate cellular responses of interest in inflammation and resolution. Aspirin has a direct impact in the LX circuit by triggering the biosynthesis of endogenous epimers of LX, termed the aspirin-triggered 15-epi-LX, that share the potent anti-inflammatory actions of LX. Stable analogs of LXA4, LXB4, and aspirin-triggered lipoxin were prepared, and several of these display potent actions in vitro and in vivo. The results reviewed herein implicate a role of LX and their analogs in many common human diseases including airway inflammation, asthma, arthritis, cardiovascular disorders, gastrointestinal disease, periodontal disease, kidney diseases and graft-vs.-host disease, as well as others where uncontrolled inflammation plays a key role in disease pathogenesis. Hence, the LX pathways and mechanisms reviewed to date in this work provide a basis for new approaches to treatment of many common human diseases that involve inflammation.

Lipoxins and aspirin-triggered lipoxins in neutrophil adhesion and signal transduction

Lipoxin A4 (LXA4) and aspirin-triggered 15-epi-LXA4 (ATL) are emerging as endogenous braking signals for neutrophil-mediated tissue injury. LXA4 and ATL and their metabolically stable analogues display potent inhibitory actions in human isolated cells and blood, including attenuation of expression of adhesion molecules on leukocytes and endothelial cells, neutrophil adhesion to endothelial cells and platelets under shear, and IL-8 production, key events of the acute inflammatory response. The underlying molecular mechanisms include interference with MAPK signaling pathways, modulation of the oxidative chemistry of superoxide, NO and ONOO-, inhibition of activation of NF-kappaB and AP-1, and consequently the expression of interleukin-8 and likely other pro-inflammatory genes. Collectively, these results add to the profile of LXA4/ATL rapid actions that contribute to "stop signaling" involved in regulating neutrophil functions during acute inflammation and suggest that aspirin inhibits neutrophil accumulation through triggering the synthesis of 15-epi-LXA4.

Aspirin-triggered Lipoxin A4 inhibition of VEGF-induced endothelial cell migration involves actin polymerization and focal adhesion assembly

Angiogenesis, the growth of new capillaries from pre-existing ones, occurs through dynamic functions of the endothelial cells (EC), including migration, which is essential to achieve an organized formation of the vessel sprout. We demonstrated previously that an aspirin-triggered lipoxin analog, 15-epi-16-(para-fluoro)-phenoxy-lipoxin A4 (ATL-1), inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced EC migration. In the present study, we investigated the effects of ATL-1 in the actin cytoskeleton reorganization of EC stimulated with VEGF. Pretreatment of EC with ATL-1 caused a reduction in VEGF-induced stress fibers and therefore reduced the intracellular content of filamentous actin. A concomitant impairment in stress-activated protein kinase (SAPK2/p38) phosphorylation suggests that ATL inhibition of VEGF-stimulated actin polymerization involves the SAPK2/p38 pathway. Moreover, ATL-1 treatment inhibited focal adhesion clustering due to inhibition of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) phosphorylation and the subsequent association of FAK with the actin cytoskeleton. This final event, which ultimately allows cell migration, was reverted by an LX receptor antagonist, but not by a cys-LT1R antagonist, indicating an effect via the G-protein-linked LXA4 receptor. Together our results provide evidence that ATL-1 inhibits EC migration via the concerted inhibition of actin polymerization and proper assembly of focal adhesions, supporting a role for these novel lipid mediators as angiogenesis modulators.

Host persistence: exploitation of anti-inflammatory pathways by Toxoplasma gondii

Hosts that are infected with Toxoplasma gondii must mount a powerful immune response to contain dissemination of the parasite and to prevent mortality. After parasite proliferation has been contained by interferon-gamma-dependent responses, the onset of the chronic phase of infection is characterized by continuous cell-mediated immunity. Such potent responses are kept under tight control by a class of anti-inflammatory eicosanoid, the lipoxins. Here, we review such immune-containment strategies from the perspective of the host, which attempts to keep pro-inflammatory responses under control during chronic disease, as well as from the perspective of the pathogen, which hijacks the lipoxygenase machinery of the host for its own advantage, probably as an immune-escape mechanism.