Potential Involvement of Oxidative Stress, Apoptosis and Proinflammation in Ipconazole-Induced Cytotoxicity in Human Endothelial-like Cells

Triazole fungicides are widely used in the world, mainly in agriculture, but their abuse and possible toxic effects are being reported in some in vivo and in vitro studies that have demonstrated their danger to human health. This in vitro study evaluated the cytotoxicity, oxidative stress and proinflammation of EA.hy926 endothelial cells in response to ipconazole exposure. Using the MTT assay, ipconazole was found to produce a dose-dependent reduction (*** p < 0.001; concentrations of 20, 50 and 100 µM) of cell viability in EA.hy926 with an IC50 of 29 µM. Also, ipconazole induced a significant increase in ROS generation (** p < 0.01), caspase 3/7 (** p < 0.01), cell death (BAX, APAF1, BNIP3, CASP3 and AKT1) and proinflammatory (NLRP3, CASP1, IL1β, NFκB, IL6 and TNFα) biomarkers, as well as a reduction in antioxidant (NRF2 and GPx) biomarkers. These results demonstrated that oxidative stress, proinflammatory activity and cell death could be responsible for the cytotoxic effect produced by the fungicide ipconazole, such that this triazole compound should be considered as a possible risk factor in the development of alterations in cellular homeostasis.

A TRANSCRIPTOMIC APPRECIATION OF CHILDHOOD MENINGOCOCCAL AND POLYMICROBIAL SEPSIS FROM A PRO-INFLAMMATORY AND TRAJECTORIAL PERSPECTIVE, A ROLE FOR VASCULAR ENDOTHELIAL GROWTH FACTOR A AND B MODULATION?

ABSTRACT

This study investigated the temporal dynamics of childhood sepsis by analyzing gene expression changes associated with proinflammatory processes. Five datasets, including four meningococcal sepsis shock (MSS) datasets (two temporal and two longitudinal) and one polymicrobial sepsis dataset, were selected to track temporal changes in gene expression. Hierarchical clustering revealed three temporal phases: early, intermediate, and late, providing a framework for understanding sepsis progression. Principal component analysis supported the identification of gene expression trajectories. Differential gene analysis highlighted consistent upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) and nuclear factor κB1 (NFKB1), genes involved in inflammation, across the sepsis datasets. NFKB1 gene expression also showed temporal changes in the MSS datasets. In the postmortem dataset comparing MSS cases to controls, VEGF-A was upregulated and VEGF-B downregulated. Renal tissue exhibited higher VEGF-A expression compared with other tissues. Similar VEGF-A upregulation and VEGF-B downregulation patterns were observed in the cross-sectional MSS datasets and the polymicrobial sepsis dataset. Hexagonal plots confirmed VEGF-R (VEGF receptor)-VEGF-R2 signaling pathway enrichment in the MSS cross-sectional studies. The polymicrobial sepsis dataset also showed enrichment of the VEGF pathway in septic shock day 3 and sepsis day 3 samples compared with controls. These findings provide unique insights into the dynamic nature of sepsis from a transcriptomic perspective and suggest potential implications for biomarker development. Future research should focus on larger-scale temporal transcriptomic studies with appropriate control groups and validate the identified gene combination as a potential biomarker panel for sepsis.

Hydralazine Promotes Central Nervous System Recovery after Spinal Cord Injury by Suppressing Oxidative Stress and Inflammation through Macrophage Regulation

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the effects of hydralazine on inflammation induced by spinal cord injury (SCI) in the central nervous system (CNS) and its mechanism in promoting the structural and functional recovery of the injured CNS.

METHODS

A compressive SCI mouse model was utilized for this investigation. Immunofluorescence and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction were employed to examine the levels of acrolein, acrolein-induced inflammation-related factors, and macrophages at the injury site and within the CNS. Western blotting was used to evaluate the activity of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway to study macrophage regulation. The neuropathic pain and motor function recovery were evaluated by glutamic acid decarboxylase 65/67 (GAD65/67), vesicular glutamate transporter 1 (VGLUT1), paw withdrawal response, and Basso Mouse Scale score. Nissl staining and Luxol Fast Blue (LFB) staining were performed to investigate the structural recovery of the injured CNS.

RESULTS

Hydralazine downregulated the levels of acrolein, IL-1β, and TNF-α in the spinal cord. The downregulation of acrolein induced by hydralazine promoted the activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway, leading to M2 macrophage polarization, which protected neurons against SCI-induced inflammation. Additionally, hydralazine promoted the structural recovery of the injured spinal cord area. Mitigating inflammation and oxidative stress by hydralazine in the animal model alleviated neuropathic pain and altered neurotransmitter expression. Furthermore, hydralazine facilitated motor function recovery following SCI. Nissl staining and LFB staining indicated that hydralazine promoted the structural recovery of the injured CNS.

CONCLUSION

Hydralazine, an acrolein scavenger, significantly mitigated SCI-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in vivo, modulated macrophage activation, and consequently promoted the structural and functional recovery of the injured CNS.

Efficient Generation of Chondrocytes From Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in a 3D Culture System: Protocol for a Practical Model for Assessing Anti-Inflammatory Therapies

BACKGROUND

Chondrocytes are the primary cells responsible for maintaining cartilage integrity and function. Their role in cartilage homeostasis and response to inflammation is crucial for understanding the progression and potential therapeutic interventions for various cartilage-related disorders. Developing an accessible and cost-effective model to generate viable chondrocytes and to assess their response to different bioactive compounds can significantly advance our knowledge of cartilage biology and contribute to the discovery of novel therapeutic approaches.

OBJECTIVE

We developed a novel, streamlined protocol for generating chondrocytes from bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) in a 3D culture system that offers significant implications for the study of cartilage biology and the discovery of potential therapeutic interventions for cartilage-related and associated disorders.

METHODS

We developed a streamlined protocol for generating chondrocytes from BMSCs in a 3D culture system using an "in-tube" culture approach. This simple pellet-based 3D culture system allows for cell aggregation and spheroid formation, facilitating cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions that better mimic the in vivo cellular environment compared with 2D monolayer cultures. A proinflammatory chondrocyte model was created by treating the chondrocytes with lipopolysaccharide and was subsequently used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of vitamin D, curcumin, and resveratrol.

RESULTS

The established protocol successfully generated a large quantity of viable chondrocytes, characterized by alcian blue and toluidine blue staining, and demonstrated versatility in assessing the anti-inflammatory effects of various bioactive compounds. The chondrocytes exhibited reduced inflammation, as evidenced by the decreased tumor necrosis factor-α levels, in response to vitamin D, curcumin, and resveratrol treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Our novel protocol offers an accessible and cost-effective approach for generating chondrocytes from BMSCs and for evaluating potential therapeutic leads in the context of inflammatory chondrocyte-related diseases. Although our approach has several advantages, further investigation is required to address its limitations, such as the potential differences between chondrocytes generated using our protocol and those derived from other established methods, and to refine the model for broader applicability and clinical translation.

Reduced proinflammatory activity of outer membrane vesicles of Tannerella forsythia treated with quorum sensing inhibitors

Outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) of bacteria harbor physiologically active molecules, and quorum sensing inhibitors (QSIs) are expected to regulate bacterial virulence. In this study, we analyzed the proinflammatory activity of OMVs of the periodontal pathogen Tannerella forsythia treated with d-arabinose and d-galactose as QSIs, which inhibit the biofilm formation of periodontal pathogens and autoinducer 2 activity. Compared to OMVs of nontreated T. forsythia (TF OMVs), OMVs released from QSI-treated T. forsythia, designated TF ara-OMVs and TF gal-OMVs, showed reduced production of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8 in THP-1 monocytes through decreased activation of NF-κB/MAPKs. Using a human NF-κB reporter cell line and bone marrow-derived macrophages from TLR2^-/- mice, TF ara-OMVs and TF gal-OMVs showed less activation of TLR2 than TF OMVs. These results demonstrated that QSIs provide a dual advantage against bacterial infection by inhibiting bacterial biofilm formation and generating OMVs with reduced proinflammatory activity.

The potential role of cfDNA-related innate immune responses in postoperative bone loss after alveolar bone grafting

The purpose of treating alveolar bone cleft is to restore a normal maxilla structure. Multiple factors have been identified that can affect the success of alveolar bone grafting. However, with consistent treatment modifications, the surgical outcomes have been improved, but alveolar bone loss still exists. Thus, a new aspect should be found to solve this problem. As alveolar bone belongs to the periodontal tissues, the mechanism of the alveolar bone loss after bone grafting in patients with alveolar bone cleft may be similar to the development of alveolar bone loss in periodontitis. Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) has been demonstrated as a key promoter of alveolar bone loss during periodontal inflammation. We hypothesized that cfDNA-related innate immune responses could be a major inducement for postoperative bone loss after alveolar bone grafting. In this perspective, we preliminarily proved the potential association between cfDNA, TLR9 pathway, and alveolar bone grafting operation, and it might verify that surgical trauma could accumulate cfDNA, which can further activate cellular TLR9 signaling.

Engineered Human Intervertebral Disc Model Inducing Degenerative Microglial Proinflammation

Degeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD) is a major contributor to low back pain (LBP). IVD degeneration is characterized by abnormal production of inflammatory cytokines secreted by IVD cells. Although the underlying molecular mechanisms of LBP have not been elucidated, increasing evidence suggests that LBP is associated particularly with microglia in IVD tissues and the peridiscal space, aggravating the cascade of degenerative events. In this study, we implemented our microfluidic chemotaxis platform to investigate microglial inflammation in response to our reconstituted degenerative IVD models. The IVD models were constructed by stimulating human nucleus pulposus (NP) cells with interleukin-1β and producing interleukin-6 (129.93 folds), interleukin-8 (18.31 folds), C-C motif chemokine ligand-2 (CCL-2) (6.12 folds), and CCL-5 (5.68 folds). We measured microglial chemotaxis (p < 0.05) toward the conditioned media of the IVD models. In addition, we observed considerable activation of neurodegenerative and deactivation of protective microglia via upregulated expression of CD11b (p < 0.001) and down-regulation of CD206 protein (p < 0.001) by soluble factors from IVD models. This, in turn, enhances the inflammatory milieu in IVD tissues, causing matrix degradation and cellular damage. Our findings indicate that degenerative IVD may induce degenerative microglial proinflammation, leading to LBP development.

Obesity induces extracellular vesicle release from the endothelium as a contributor to brain damage after cerebral ischemia in rats

OBJECTIVES

Cerebral ischemia is the most common cause of disability, the second most common cause of dementia, and the fourth most common cause of death in the developed world [Sveinsson OA, Kjartansson O, Valdimarsson EM. Heilablóðþurrð/heiladrep: Faraldsfræði, orsakir og einkenni [Cerebral ischemia/infarction - epidemiology, causes and symptoms]. Laeknabladid. 2014 May;100(5):271-9. Icelandic. doi:10.17992/lbl.2014.05.543]. Obesity has been associated with worse outcomes after ischemia in rats, triggering proinflammatory cytokine production related to the brain microvasculature. The way obesity triggers these effects remains mostly unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to elucidate the cellular mechanisms of damage triggered by obesity in the context of cerebral ischemia.

METHODS

We used a rat model of obesity induced by a 20% high fructose diet (HFD) and evaluated peripheral alterations in plasma (lipid and cytokine profiles). Then, we performed cerebral ischemia surgery using two-vessel occlusion (2VO) and analyzed neurological/motor performance and glial activation. Next, we treated endothelial cell line cultures with glutamate in vitro to simulate an excitotoxic environment, and we added 20% plasma from obese rats. Subsequently, we isolated EVs released from endothelial cells and treated primary cultures of astrocytes with them.

RESULTS

Rats fed a HFD had an increased BMI with dyslipidemia and high levels of proinflammatory cytokines. Glia from the obese rats exhibited altered morphology, suggesting hyperreactivity related to neurological and motor deficits. Plasma from obese rats induced activation of endothelial cells, increasing proinflammatory signals and releasing more EVs. Similarly, these EVs caused an increase in NF-κB and astrocyte cytotoxicity. Together, the results suggest that obesity activates proinflammatory signals in endothelial cells, resulting in the release of EVs that simultaneously contribute to astrocyte activation.

The Complex Biology of the Obesity-Induced, Metastasis-Promoting Tumor Microenvironment in Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers in women contributing to cancer-related death in the advanced world. Apart from the menopausal status, the trigger for developing breast cancer may vary widely from race to lifestyle factors. Epidemiological studies refer to obesity-associated metabolic changes as a critical risk factor behind the progression of breast cancer. The plethora of signals arising due to obesity-induced changes in adipocytes present in breast tumor microenvironment, significantly affect the behavior of adjacent breast cells. Adipocytes from white adipose tissue are currently recognized as an active endocrine organ secreting different bioactive compounds. However, due to excess energy intake and increased fat accumulation, there are morphological followed by secretory changes in adipocytes, which make the breast microenvironment proinflammatory. This proinflammatory milieu not only increases the risk of breast cancer development through hormone conversion, but it also plays a role in breast cancer progression through the activation of effector proteins responsible for the biological phenomenon of metastasis. The aim of this review is to present a comprehensive picture of the complex biology of obesity-induced changes in white adipocytes and demonstrate the relationship between obesity and breast cancer progression to metastasis.

Echinochrome A Treatment Alleviates Atopic Dermatitis-like Skin Lesions in NC/Nga Mice via IL-4 and IL-13 Suppression

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease in which skin barrier dysfunction leads to dryness, pruritus, and erythematous lesions. AD is triggered by immune imbalance and oxidative stress. Echinochrome A (Ech A), a natural pigment isolated from sea urchins, exerts antioxidant and beneficial effects in various inflammatory disease models. In the present study, we tested whether Ech A treatment alleviated AD-like skin lesions. We examined the anti-inflammatory effect of Ech A on 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced AD-like lesions in an NC/Nga mouse model. AD-like skin symptoms were induced by treatment with 1% DNCB for 1 week and 0.4% DNCB for 5 weeks in NC/Nga mice. The results showed that Ech A alleviated AD clinical symptoms, such as edema, erythema, and dryness. Treatment with Ech A induced the recovery of epidermis skin lesions as observed histologically. Tewameter^® and Corneometer^® measurements indicated that Ech A treatment reduced transepidermal water loss and improved stratum corneum hydration, respectively. Ech A treatment also inhibited inflammatory-response-induced mast cell infiltration in AD-like skin lesions and suppressed the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, such as interferon-γ, interleukin-4, and interleukin-13. Collectively, these results suggest that Ech A may be beneficial for treating AD owing to its anti-inflammatory effects.

Hypoxia-Induced Mitogenic Factor: A Multifunctional Protein Involved in Health and Disease

Hypoxia-induced mitogenic factor (HIMF), also known as resistin-like molecule α (RELMα) or found in inflammatory zone 1 (FIZZ1) is a member of the RELM protein family expressed in mice. It is involved in a plethora of physiological processes, including mitogenesis, angiogenesis, inflammation, and vasoconstriction. HIMF expression can be stimulated under pathological conditions and this plays a critical role in pulmonary, cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. The present review summarizes the molecular characteristics, and the physiological and pathological roles of HIMF in normal and diseased conditions. The potential clinical significance of these findings for human is also discussed.

The Putative Adverse Effects of Bisphenol A on Autoimmune Diseases

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a monomer that is widely used in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastics including storage plastics and baby bottles, and is considered one of the most widely used synthetic compounds in the manufacturing industry. Exposure to BPA mainly occurs after oral ingestion and results from leaks into food and water from plastic containers and according to epidemiological data exposure is widespread and estimated to occur in 90% of individuals. BPA exertspleiotropiceffects and demonstrates estrogen like effects, thus considered an endocrine disrupting chemical. Growing body of evidence highlight the role of BPA in modulating immune responses and signaling pathways resulting in a proinflammatory response by enhancing the differential polarization of immune cells and cytokine production profile to one that is consistent with proinflammation. Indeed, epidemiological studies have uncovered associations between several autoimmune diseases and BPA exposure. Data from animal models provided consistent evidence highlighting the role of BPA in the pathogenesis, exacerbation and perpetuation of various autoimmune phenomena including neuroinflammation in the context of multiple sclerosis, colitis in inflammatory bowel disease, nephritis in systemic lupus erythematosus, and insulitis in type 1 diabetes mellitus. Given the wide spread of BPA use and its effects in immune systemdysregulation, a call for careful assessment of patients' risks and for public health measures are needed to limit exposure and subsequent deleterious effects. The purpose of this paper is to explore the autoimmune triggering mechanisms and present the current literature supporting the role of BPA in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases.

A Potential Role of Interleukin 10 in COVID-19 Pathogenesis

A unique feature of the cytokine storm in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is the dramatic elevation of interleukin 10 (IL-10). This was thought to be a negative feedback mechanism to suppress inflammation. However, several lines of clinical evidence suggest that dramatic early proinflammatory IL-10 elevation may play a pathological role in COVID-19 severity.

Leucocytes and Th-associated Cytokine Profile of HIV-Leishmaniasis Co-Infected Persons Attending Abuja Teaching Hospital, Nigeria

Objective

T-helper cells (Th)-1& -2 cytokines homeostasis control or predict clinical outcome of infected persons, especially those with HIV /AIDS. This case-control study evaluated the leucocytes differentials, TNF-alpha, interleukin (IL)-2 and -10 levels among HIV infected persons with serological evidence of leishmaniasis attending University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods

Blood samples from 28 HIV infected persons who had Leishmania donovani rK39 and Immunoglobulin-G (IgG) positive (group 1), 30 age- & -sex matched HIV infected persons without Leishmania antibodies (group 2) and 30 apparently healthy persons without HIV and Leishmania antibodies (group 3). Full blood counts, TNF alpha, IL-2 and -10 levels were analyzed using automated hematology analyzer and ELISA, respectively. Structured questionnaires were used to collate biodata and clinical presentations of participants.

Results

Ten (35.7%) participants in group 1 were on ART, 15 (50%) in group 2 were on ART, while group 3 were ART naïve. There were significantly higher values in basophil (4.4±2.5%) and eosinophil counts (12.9±3.8%) in HIV/leishmania coinfected persons (p<0.005). However, other white cells subpopulation was significantly lower in HIV/leishmania co-infected participants (p<0.05). There was significantly reduced CD4+ T cell counts ([119±26 versus 348±63 versus 605±116 cells/mm3]), TNF-alpha ([36.82±8.21 versus 64.67±12.54 versus 254.98±65.59 pg/mL]) and IL-2 levels ([142.14±20.91 versus 507.6±84.42 versus 486.62±167.87 pg/mL]) among HIV/Leishmania co-infected participants compared to group 2 and group 3 participants, respectively. However, higher IL-10 level (80.35±14.57 pg/mL) was found in HIV/Leishmania co-infected participants as opposed to the HIV monoinfected (62.2±10.43 pg/mL) and apparently healthy persons (23.97±4.88 pg/mL) (p<0.001).

Conclusion

Eosinophil, basophil counts and serum IL-10 level were high in HIV/Leishmania coinfected persons, demonstrating parasite-induced hypersensitivity and immunosuppression.

Colonization of Mice With Amoxicillin-Associated Klebsiella variicola Drives Inflammation via Th1 Induction and Treg Inhibition

β-Lactam antibiotics can increase the resistance and virulence of individual intestinal microorganisms, which may affect host physiology and health. Klebsiella, a crucial gut inhabitant, has been confirmed to be resistant to most β-lactam antibiotics and contributes to the etiology of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In this study, the influence of amoxicillin (AMO) on Klebsiella and its role in colitis was investigated in an antibiotic cocktail (ABx) murine model. The results suggested that a 7-day AMO treatment significantly enriched the abundance of Klebsiella and enhanced serum resistance, antibiotic resistance, and biofilm formation ability of Klebsiella variicola (K. variicola) compared to the wild-type strain in the control group mice. Colonization of mice with the AMO-associated K. variicola could induce Th1 cells and inhibit Treg differentiation to promote inflammation in ABx murine model. In addition, inoculation of AMO-associated K. variicola in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis murine model mice also confirmed that K. variicola colonization exacerbated inflammation as assessed by increased TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-17a, and disease activity (DAI) levels; decreased colon length and bodyweight; and a disrupted Th1/Treg balance. The results of our study demonstrate that AMO enhances Klebsiella virulence in mice by disrupting the T cell equilibrium to exacerbate colitis, thereby providing a reference for proper antibiotic prescription.

Proinflammation, profibrosis, and arterial aging

Aging is a major risk factor for quintessential cardiovascular diseases, which are closely related to arterial proinflammation. The age-related alterations of the amount, distribution, and properties of the collagen fibers, such as cross-links and degradation in the arterial wall, are the major sequelae of proinflammation. In the aging arterial wall, collagen types I, II, and III are predominant,  and are mainly produced by stiffened vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) governed by proinflammatory signaling, leading to profibrosis. Profibrosis is regulated by an increase in the proinflammatory molecules angiotensin II, milk fat globule-EGF-VIII, and transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) signaling and a decrease in the vasorin signaling cascade. The release of these proinflammatory factors triggers the activation of matrix metalloproteinase type II (MMP-2) and activates profibrogenic TGF-β1 signaling, contributing to profibrosis. The age-associated increase in activated MMP-2 cleaves latent TGF-β and subsequently increases TGF-β1 activity leading to collagen deposition in the arterial wall. Furthermore, a blockade of the proinflammatory signaling pathway alleviates the fibrogenic signaling, reduces profibrosis, and prevents arterial stiffening with aging. Thus, age-associated proinflammatory-profibrosis coupling is the underlying molecular mechanism of arterial stiffening with advancing age.

Amyloids in Site-Specific Autoimmune Reactions and Inflammatory Responses

Amyloid deposition is a histological hallmark of common human disorders including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and type 2 diabetes. Although some reports highlight that amyloid fibrils might activate the innate immunity system via pattern recognition receptors, here, we provide multiple lines of evidence for the protection by site-specific amyloid protein analogs and fibrils against autoimmune attacks: (1) strategies targeting clearance of the AD-related brain amyloid plaque induce high risk of deadly autoimmune destructions in subjects with cognitive dysfunction; (2) administration of amyloidogenic peptides with either full length or core hexapeptide structure consistently ameliorates signs of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis; (3) experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis is exacerbated following genetic deletion of amyloid precursor proteins; (4) absence of islet amyloid coexists with T-cell-mediated insulitis in autoimmune diabetes and autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome; (5) use of islet amyloid polypeptide agonists rather than antagonists improves diabetes care; and (6) common suppressive signaling pathways by regulatory T cells are activated in both local and systemic amyloidosis. These findings indicate dual modulation activity mediated by amyloid protein monomers, oligomers, and fibrils to maintain immune homeostasis. The protection from autoimmune destruction by amyloid proteins offers a novel therapeutic approach to regenerative medicine for common degenerative diseases.

Calorie Restriction Curbs Proinflammation That Accompanies Arterial Aging, Preserving a Youthful Phenotype

Background

Aging exponentially increases the incidence of morbidity and mortality of quintessential cardiovascular disease mainly due to arterial proinflammatory shifts at the molecular, cellular, and tissue levels within the arterial wall. Calorie restriction (CR) in rats improves arterial function and extends both health span and life span. How CR affects the proinflammatory landscape of molecular, cellular, and tissue phenotypic shifts within the arterial wall in rats, however, remains to be elucidated.

Methods and Results

Aortae were harvested from young (6‐month‐old) and old (24‐month‐old) Fischer 344 rats, fed ad libitum and a second group maintained on a 40% CR beginning at 1 month of age. Histopathologic and morphometric analysis of the arterial wall demonstrated that CR markedly reduced age‐associated intimal medial thickening, collagen deposition, and elastin fractionation/degradation within the arterial walls. Immunostaining/blotting showed that CR effectively prevented an age‐associated increase in the density of platelet‐derived growth factor, matrix metalloproteinase type II activity, and transforming growth factor beta 1 and its downstream signaling molecules, phospho‐mothers against decapentaplegic homolog‐2/3 (p‐SMAD‐2/3) in the arterial wall. In early passage cultured vascular smooth muscle cells isolated from AL and CR rat aortae, CR alleviated the age‐associated vascular smooth muscle cell phenotypic shifts, profibrogenic signaling, and migration/proliferation in response to platelet‐derived growth factor.

Conclusions

CR reduces matrix and cellular proinflammation associated with aging that occurs within the aortic wall and that are attributable to platelet‐derived growth factor signaling. Thus, CR reduces the platelet‐derived growth factor–associated signaling cascade, contributing to the postponement of biological aging and preservation of a more youthful aortic wall phenotype.

Systemic proinflammation after Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection was correlated to the gut microbiome in HIV-uninfected humans

BACKGROUND

The dysbiosis of gut microbiome and interaction with host immunity after Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) infection are under investigation. We had found fatigue symptom concurrent with dysbiosis by decreasing the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes (F/B ratio) in active tuberculosis (TB). The study aims to assess the inflammatory biomarkers and their interaction with gut microbiome in active TB and latent TB infection before starting anti-TB regimens.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1B), IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, CD3+, CD4+, CD8+ T cells and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) releasing assay (IGRA) were measured in 25 active TB patients, 32 LTBI subjects and 23 healthy controls (HC). Gut microbiome profiles were obtained using 16S rRNA MiSeq sequencing method.

RESULTS

The leucocytosis (7032 ± 387 cell/cum, P < 0.05), increase in IL-6 (229.7 ± 104 µg/dL, P < 0.05), and decrease in IL-4 (0.27 µg/dL ± 0.1, P < 0.05) were presented in active TB. The proportion of polymorphic neutrophil (PMN) in peripheral blood was positively related to the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes in LTBI and active TB (R²  = 0.23, P < 0.05). The F/B ratio was positively related to the detectable IL-1B in TB (R²  = 0.97, P < 0.01) and to the IL-4 in LTBI (R²  = 0.27, P < 0.05). In LTBI, the relative abundances of Coriobacteriaceae were positively related to the secretion of IFN-gamma against MTB-antigens more likely associated with of CD4+ T cell (R²  = 0.42, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

In active TB, dysbiosis with higher relative abundances of Bacteroidetes in stool and low F/B ratio was related to systemic proinflammation. In LTBI, dose-response relationship between peripheral PMN and relative abundances of Bacteroidetes was remained but not leads to systemic inflammation.

Dysregulation of miR-431 and target gene FOXA1 in intestinal tissues of infants with necrotizing enterocolitis

The level of microRNA (miR)-431 was found to be markedly up-regulated in intestinal tissue of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). The objective of this study was to identify the target gene of miR-431 and to investigate the role of the miR-431-FOXA1 axis in the pathophysiology of NEC. The target gene of miR-431 was identified by in silico target prediction bioinformatics, luciferase assay, and Western blotting. Effects of miR-431 on downstream expression signals, cell proliferation, and apoptosis were investigated by overexpression in Caco-2 cells upon stimulation by LPS or lipoteichoic acid (LTA). FOXA1 was identified as the target gene of miR-431. Overexpression of miR-431 in Caco-2 cells significantly inhibited FOXA1, ESRRG, and HNF4A and activated IL-6, LGR5, NFKB2, PLA2G2A, PRKCZ, and TNF. IL-8 and - 10 were enhanced when costimulated with LPS or LTA. These potential downstream genes were also significantly dysregulated in primary NEC tissues compared with surgical-control tissues. Overexpression of miR-431 significantly decreased proliferation and increased apoptosis of Caco-2 cells. A proposed network of miR-431-FOXA1 interaction with LPS and LTA receptors demonstrates dysregulation of transcription factors, inflammatory mediators, epithelium tight junction regulators, and cell proliferation and apoptosis signals. The miR-431-FOXA1 axis could in part be responsible for the intensification of the inflammatory response in NEC tissues and contribute to the proinflammatory pathophysiology.-Wu, Y. Z., Chan, K. Y. Y., Leung, K. T., Lam, H. S., Tam, Y. H., Lee, K. H., Li, K., Ng, P. C. Dysregulation of miR-431 and target gene FOXA1 in intestinal tissues of infants with necrotizing enterocolitis.

Rapamycin alleviates proinflammatory cytokines and nociceptive behavior induced by chemotherapeutic paclitaxel

Background/Aims: Paclitaxel is largely used as a chemotherapeutic agent for the treatment of several types of cancers. However, one of the significant limiting complications of paclitaxel is painful peripheral neuropathy during its therapy. The purposes of this study were to examine (1) the effects of blocking mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) on mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity evoked by paclitaxel; and (2) the underlying mechanisms responsible for the role of mTOR in regulating paclitaxel-induced neuropathic pain. Methods: Behavioral test was performed to determine mechanical and thermal sensitivity in rats. ELISA was used to examine the levels of proinflammatory cytokines (PICs including IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) and substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the dorsal root ganglion (DGR); and Western blot analysis was used to examine expression of mTOR signal pathway. Results: Paclitaxel increased mechanical and thermal sensitivity as compared with vehicle control animals (P < 0.05 vs. controls). Paclitaxel also amplified the expression of p-mTOR, mTOR-mediated phosphorylation of p70 ribosomal S6 protein kinase 1 (p-S6K1), 4E-binding protein 1 (p-4E-BP1) in the DRG. Blocking mTOR using rapamycin attenuated peripheral painful neuropathy observed in paclitaxel rats (P < 0.05 vs. without rapamycin). This inhibitory effect was accompanied with decreases of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α as well as substance P and CGRP. In addition, inhibition of phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase (p-PI3K) attenuated expression of p-mTOR and PICs/substance P/CGRP in paclitaxel rats and this further attenuated mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity. Conclusions: The data revealed specific signaling pathways leading to paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathic pain, including the activation of PI3K-mTOR, PIC signal, and substance P and CGRP. Inhibition of these pathways alleviates neuropathic pain. Targeting one or more of these molecular mediators may present new opportunities for treatment and management of neuropathic pain observed during chemotherapeutic application of paclitaxel.

SslE (YghJ), a Cell-Associated and Secreted Lipoprotein of Neonatal Septicemic Escherichia coli, Induces Toll-Like Receptor 2-Dependent Macrophage Activation and Proinflammation through NF-κB and MAP Kinase Signaling

SslE (YghJ), a cell surface-associated and secreted lipoprotein, was identified as a potential vaccine candidate for extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli, providing nearly complete protection from sepsis in a mouse model. We earlier found that SslE from neonatal septicemic E. coli could trigger the secretion of various proinflammatory cytokines in murine macrophages, the signaling pathway of which is still obscure. In this study, we showed that SslE specifically binds to Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2)/TLR1 heterodimers and recruits downstream adaptors MyD88, TIRAP, and TRAF6. In addition, SslE stimulates nuclear translocation of NF-κB and activates different mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase signaling cascades specific to the secretion of each cytokine in murine macrophages, which becomes impaired in TLR2 small interfering RNA (siRNA)-transfected cells and in cells blocked with a monoclonal antibody (MAb) against TLR2, suggesting the involvement of TLR2 in NF-κB and MAP kinase activation and subsequent cytokine secretion. Furthermore, our study is the first to show that SslE can stimulate TLR2-dependent production of other proinflammatory hallmarks, such as reactive nitrogen and oxygen species as well as type 1 chemokines, which contribute to the anti-infection immune response of the host. Also, the overexpression of major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II) and other costimulatory molecules (CD80 and CD86) in macrophages essentially indicates that SslE promotes macrophage activation and M1 polarization, which are crucial in framing the host's innate immune response to this protein, and hence, SslE could be a potent immunotherapeutic target against E. coli sepsis.

Pregnancy late in rodent life has detrimental effects on the heart

During pregnancy, the heart undergoes significant and numerous changes, including hypertrophy, that are usually described as physiological and reversible. Two aspects of the cardiac response to pregnancy are relatively understudied: advanced maternal age and multiple pregnancies (multiparity). Repeated breeder (RB) mice that have undergone five to seven consecutive pregnancies were euthanized 21 days after the weaning of their last pups and compared with age-matched primiparous, one-time pregnant (O1P) mice. The ages of the older mouse groups were similar (12 ± 1 mo). Pregnancy at a later age resulted in reduced fertility (40%); resorption was 29%, maternal mortality was 10%, and mortality of the pups was 17%. Contractile function as indicated by percent fractional shortening was significantly decreased in O1P and RB groups compared with the old nonpregnant control (ONP) group. There was no pathological induction of the fetal program of gene expression, with the exception of β-myosin heavy chain mRNA, which was induced in O1P compared with ONP mice ( P < 0.05) but not in RB mice. MicroRNA-208a was significantly increased in O1P compared with ONP mice ( P < 0.05) but significantly decreased in RB compared with ONP mice ( P < 0.05). mRNA of genes regulating angiogenesis (i.e., vascular endothelial growth factor-A) were significantly downregulated, whereas proinflammatory genes [i.e., interleukin-6, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2, and Cd36] were significantly upregulated in O1P ( P < 0.05) but not in RB mice. Overall, our results suggest that rather than multiparity, pregnancy in advanced age is a much more stressful event in both pregnant dams and fetuses, as evidenced by increased mortality, lower fertility, downregulation of angiogenesis, upregulation of inflammation, and cardiac dysfunction. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Pregnancy in older mice significantly decreases cardiac function, although repeated breeder mice demonstrated increased wall hypertrophy and dilated chamber size compared with one-time pregnant mice. Interestingly, many of the molecular changes were altered in one-time pregnant mice but not in repeated breeder mice, which may contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes in a first pregnancy at a later age.

Modulatory effect of cadmium on the expression of phospholipase A2 and proinflammatory genes in rat testis

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic metal that is hazardous to health, and its exposure showed a significant reduction in mitochondrial phospholipid function in the rat testes. Cd induction enhanced phospholipases (PLA2 s) activities, specifically the secretory PLA2 and cytosolic PLA2 . There was a reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential and significant decline in the respiratory complexes, which was confirmed by 2D blue native gel. The mRNA expression of cyclooxygenase and proinflammatory cytokine genes interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and interferon-γ increased and that of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 reduced with Cd exposure in a time-dependent manner. The gene expression of the proapoptotic factor Bax was elevated, and in parallel, the antiapoptotic factor Bcl2 was down-regulated. Hence, this study explored the testes under Cd toxicity and observed alterations in PLA2 s and mitochondrial membrane composition/function and further explored the impact of these alterations on proinflammation and apoptosis. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 31: 1176-1184, 2016.

Relationship between Proinflammatory and Antioxidant Proteins with the Severity of Cardiovascular Disease in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients are at significant risk of cardiovascular disease, however, the pathophysiology of these complications is complex and incompletely known in this population. The aim of this study was to compare the serum proteome of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus presenting or not presenting cardiovascular disease with non-diabetic subjects to find essential proteins related to these cardiovascular complications. This cross-sectional study compares the serum proteome by a combination of protein depletion with 2D-DIGE (2-dimension Difference Gel Electrophoresis) methodology. The proteins differentially expressed were identified by MALDI TOF/TOF (Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization and Time-Of-Flight ion detector) or LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography coupled to Mass-Mass Spectrometry). Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with cardiovascular disease showed higher expression of plasma retinol binding protein and glutathione peroxidase-3 compared to those without cardiovascular disease and non-diabetic controls. These results show that proteins related to the inflammatory and redox state appear to play an important role in the pathogenesis of the cardiovascular disease in the type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.

High levels of chorionic gonadotrophin attenuate insulin sensitivity and promote inflammation in adipocytes

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) presents with moderate inflammation, insulin resistance and impaired glucose uptake, which may result from increased maternal fat mass and increased circulation of placental hormones and adipokines. In this study, we set out to test whether the surge in chorionic gonadotrophin (CG) secretion is a cause of inflammation and impaired insulin sensitivity in GDM. We first found that LH/chorionic gonadotrophin receptors (CG/LHR) were expressed at low levels in insulin-sensitive murine 3T3-L1 adipocytes and murine C2C12 myocytes. CG treatment not only directly reduced insulin-responsive gene expression, including that of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4), but also impaired insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 cells. Moreover, CG treatment increased the expression of the proinflammatory cytokine monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP1) and upregulated nuclear factor κ-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) activity in 3T3-L1 cells. Clinically, pregnant women who had higher CG levels and elevated MCP1 developed GDM. Above all, apart from prepregnancy BMI and MCP1 level, CG level was associated with abnormal glucose tolerance. In summary, our findings confirmed that higher CG levels in pregnancy possibly played a role in GDM development partly by impairing the functions of insulin, such those involved in as glucose uptake, while promoting inflammation in adipocyte.

Sulforaphane inhibits TNF-α-induced adhesion molecule expression through the Rho A/ROCK/NF-κB signaling pathway

Endothelial dysfunction is an early indicator of cardiovascular diseases. Increased stimulation of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) triggers the inflammatory mediator secretion of endothelial cells, leading to atherosclerotic risk. In this study, we investigated whether sulforaphane (SFN) affected the expression of intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) in TNF-α-induced ECV 304 endothelial cells. Our data showed that SFN attenuated TNF-α-induced expression of ICAM-1 in ECV 304 cells. Pretreatment of ECV 304 cells with SFN inhibited dose-dependently the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-8. SFN inhibited TNF-α-induced nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) DNA binding activity. Furthermore, SFN decreased TNF-α-mediated phosphorylation of IκB kinase (IKK) and IκBα, Rho A, ROCK, ERK1/2, and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) levels. Collectively, SFN inhibited the NF-κB DNA binding activity and downregulated the TNF-α-mediated induction of ICAM-1 in endothelial cells by inhibiting the Rho A/ROCK/NF-κB signaling pathway, suggesting the beneficial effects of SFN on suppression of inflammation within the atherosclerotic lesion.

Proinflammation: the key to arterial aging

Arterial aging is the major contributing factor to increases in the incidence and prevalence of cardiovascular disease, due mainly to the presence of chronic, low-grade, 'sterile' arterial inflammation. Inflammatory signaling driven by the angiotensin II cascade perpetrates adverse age-associated arterial structural and functional remodeling. The aged artery is characterized by endothelial disruption, enhanced vascular smooth muscle cell (VMSC) migration and proliferation, extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, elastin fracture, and matrix calcification/amyloidosis/glycation. Importantly, the molecular mechanisms of arterial aging are also relevant to the pathogenesis of hypertension and atherosclerosis. Age-associated arterial proinflammation is to some extent mutable, and interventions to suppress or delay it may have the potential to ameliorate or retard age-associated arterial diseases.

Genetic association analyses of atopic illness and proinflammatory cytokine genes with type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND

The genetic basis of the autoimmune disease type 1 diabetes (T1D) has now been largely determined, so now we can compare these findings with emerging genetic knowledge of disorders and phenotypes that have been negatively or positively associated with T1D historically. Here, we assessed the role in T1D of variants previously reported to be associated with atopic diseases and epithelial barrier function, profilaggrin (FLG), and those that affect the expression levels of the proinflammatory cytokines tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, interferon (IFN)γ and IL-18.

METHODS

We genotyped single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs): -105/rs28665122 in SELS or SEPS1 (selenoprotein), three single nucleotide polymorphisms in IL18 (-105/rs360717, +183/rs5744292 and +1467/rs574456) and R501X/rs61816761 in FLG, the major locus associated with atopic dermatitis and predisposing to asthma, in a minimum of 6743 T1D cases and 7864 controls.

RESULTS

No evidence of T1D association was found for any of the SNPs we genotyped at FLG, SELS or IL18 (p≥0.03), nor with haplotypes of IL18 (p=0.82). Review of previous T1D genome-wide association results revealed that four (human leucocyte antigen (HLA), gasdermin B/ORM1 (Saccharomyces cerevisiae)-like/gasdermin B/, GSDMB/ORMDL3/GSDMA and IL2RB) of ten loci recently reported to be associated with asthma were associated with T1D (p≤0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

These results show that there are shared genetic associations for atopy-related traits and T1D, and this might help in the future to understand the mechanisms, pathways and environmental factors that underpin the rapid rise in incidence of both disorders in children.

Central Arterial Aging and Angiotensin II Signaling

Arterial remodeling over time is a cornerstone of normal systemic aging. The age-associated arterial structural and functional changes in the intima, the media, and the adventitia are closely linked to angiotensin II (Ang II) signaling. A growing line of evidence indicates that essential elements of Ang II signaling, which encompasses milk fat globule epidermal growth factor-8, calpain-1, transforming growth factor-β1, matrix metalloproteinase-2/9, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-oxidase, and reactive oxygen species, are upregulated within the central arterial wall in rats, nonhuman primates, and humans during aging. In vitro studies show that the elevation of Ang II signaling induces the accumulation of collagen and advanced glycated end-products, the degradation of elastin, and the increased cell cycle disorder, invasion, and hypertrophy of endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells. Further, in vivo studies demonstrate that increased Ang II signaling accelerates arterial aging. Conversely, attenuating Ang II signaling via an inhibition of angiotensin conversing enzyme or a blockade of AT1 activation retards age-associated arterial remodeling. This review attempts to integrate complex facts of Ang II signaling within the aged central arterial wall and may shed light on new therapeutic targets for arterial aging.