Mechanism of Sanshi decoction in the treatment of gouty arthritis by NLRP3 inflammasome

Objective:To observe the effect of Sanshi decoction on P2X7R/PKR pathway-mediated activation of macrophage NLRP3 inflammasome to elucidate the molecular mechanism of Sanshi decoction in the treatment of gouty arthritis.Methods:THP-1 macrophages were divided into control group,model group,low dose group,medium dose group,high dose group of Sanshi decoction and inhibitor group.The remaining groups were induced with monosodium urate crystals to establish a gouty arthritis cell model except the control group.Flow cytometry was used to detect macrophage ROS levels in each group,ELISA to detect MDA levels and SOD and GSH-PX activities in each group,and Western blot to detect P2X7R/PKR pathway and NLRP3 inflammasome-associated protein expression.We also used CCK-8 and flow cytometry to measure MH7A activity and apoptotic levels.Results:Compared with the control group,the ROS level,the content of MDA,the activities of SOD and GSH-PX were significantly increased,and the expression levels of NLRP3,full-length IL-1β,pro-IL-1β,full-length IL-18,pro-IL-18,full-length caspase-1,GSDMD-NT,P2X7R and p-PKR protein expression levels were significantly upregulated,and GSDMD-FL protein expression was significantly downregulated in the model group,and that the differences between them were statistically significant(P<0.05 and P<0.01).Compared with the model group,Sanshi decoction could reduce macrophage ROS levels,MDA content,SOD and GSHPX activities,and downregulate macrophage NLRP3,mature IL-1β,pro IL-1β,mature IL-18,pro IL-18,mature caspase-1,GSDMD-NT,P2X7R and p-PKR protein expression,and upregulate GSDMD-FL protein expression,with statistically significant differences(P<0.05 and P<0.01).In addition,MH7A activity was downregulated,and apoptosis level was upregulated in the model group in comparison with the control group,and differences were all significantly different(P<0.05).As compared to the model group,Sanshi decoction could significantly increase the activity of MH7A and inhibit the level of apoptosis,and that the differences between them were statistically significant(P<0.05 and P<0.01).Conclusion:Sanshi decoction can achieve the therapeutic effect of gouty arthritis by inhibiting P2X7R/PKR pathway activation,thus reducing the activation level of NLRP3.

Biomimetic Integrated Nanozyme for Flare and Recurrence of Gouty Arthritis

Flare and multiple recurrences pose significant challenges in gouty arthritis.Traditional treatments provide temporary relief from inflammation but fail to promptly alleviate patient pain or effectively prevent subsequent recurrences.It should also be noted that both anti-inflammation and metabolism of uric acid are necessary for gouty arthritis,calling for therapeutic systems to achieve these two goals simultaneously.In this study,we propose a biomimetic integrated nanozyme,HMPB-Pt@MM,comprising platinum nanozyme and hollow Prussian blue.It demonstrates anti-inflammatory properties by eliminating reactive oxygen species and reducing infiltration of inflammatory macrophages.Additionally,it rapidly targets inflamed ankles through the camouflage of macrophage membranes.Furthermore,HMPB-Pt@MM exhibits urate oxidase-like capabilities,continuously metabolizing locally elevated uric acid concentrations,ultimately inhibiting multiple recurrences of gouty arthritis.In summary,HMPB-Pt@MM integrates ROS clearance with uric acid metabolism,offering a promising platform for the treatment of gouty arthritis.

Efficacy and safety of Jiawei Simiao powder combined with celecoxib for acute gouty arthritis:A meta-analysis

Objective:To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Jiawei Simiao powder(JWSMP)combined with celecoxib for the treatment of acute gouty arthritis by conducting a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials(RCTs).Methods: The Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure Databases,Chinese Scientific Journal Database,Wanfang,Cochrane Library,EMBASE,PubMed,and Web of Science databases were searched from inception until December 2023.Continuous variables were analyzed using the mean difference(MD)for analysis,and dichotomous variables were used as risk ratios.Data with similar characteristics were pooled for meta-analysis,and heterogeneity was assessed using I2.The Cochrane Handbook was used to assess the risk of bias and quality.RevMan 5.3 software was used to perform the meta-analysis.Results: Thirteen RCTs involving 1007 patients were included in the study.The quality of the included studies was low(unclear randomization processes and insufficient blinding reporting).The group receiving JWSMP combined with celecoxib showed significantly lower levels of serum uric acid(SUA,MD=−66.32,95%confidence interval(CI):−80.97 to−51.67,P<.001),erythrocyte sedimentation rate(ESR,MD=−6.05,95%CI:−8.29 to−3.82,P<.001),C-reactive protein(CRP,MD=−7.39,95%CI:−11.15,−3.63,P<.001),and joint pain score(VAS score,MD=−2.14,95%CI:−2.4 to−1.88,P<.001)compared to celecoxib alone.Additionally,the JWSMP combined group had a higher total effective rate(risk ratio=1.22,95%CI:1.14 to 1.29,P<.001)and fewer adverse compared to celecoxib alone.Conclusions: JWSMP combined with celecoxib is more effective than celecoxib alone in improving the total efficacy rate,alleviating joint pain,and improving SUA,ESR,and CRP levels.JWSMP also reduced the occurrence of adverse events caused by celecoxib.However,the quality of the included studies was low,highlighting the need for further high-quality research with larger sample sizes and robust methodologies,such as double-blind randomization,to confirm these findings.

Arthroscopic synovectomy for synovial hyperplasia in chronic knee gouty arthritis:A case report

BACKGROUND Chronic synovitis due to chronic knee gouty arthritis(KGA)resulting in synovial hyperplasia has not been documented in the current literature,and thus the optimal management for this condition remains unclear.This case report discusses a 34-year-old man with a history of chronic KGA who presented with recurrent knee effusion resulting from synovial hyperplasia.CASE SUMMARY A 34-year-old man presented to our outpatient clinic with a 5-year recurrent knee effusion and a history of chronic KGA.Symptoms persisted despite serial aspiration and urate-lowering medication(febuxostat 80 mg once daily)for 2 months.Diagnostic arthroscopy was performed due to the recalcitrant symptoms.Intraoperatively,tophi deposition and excessive thickening of the synovial membrane were observed.Synovial biopsy and partial synovectomy were performed,revealing chronic synovitis with synovial hyperplasia that was consistent with chronic KGA.At follow-up after 6 months,the patient reported no further episode of knee effusion.CONCLUSION Arthroscopic synovectomy for synovial hyperplasia in chronic KGA sufficiently eradicates the symptoms of recurrent knee effusion.

FORTY-EIGHT CASES OF ACUTE GOUTY ARTHRITIS TREATED COMPREHENSIVELY WITH ELECTROACUPUNCTURE AND WARMING MOXIBUSTION

Objective To probe into the effects on acute gouty arthritis treated comprehensively with electroacupuncture (EA) and warming moxibustion. Methods 70 cases were randomized into treatment group (48 cases), in which the EA+warming moxibustion was applied; and controlled group (22 cases), in which, colchicine was prescribed for oral administration. Results The statistical outcomes after 1 course treatment in treatment group: 28 cases were cured (58.33%), 18 cases improved (37.50%) and the total effective rate was 95.83%. In controlled group: 12 cases (54.55%) were cured, 8 cases improved (36.36%) and the total effective rate was 90.91%. The therapeutic effects of two groups were basically consistent, without significant different (P>0.05). But, concerning to side effect, there was no any toxic side effects in the group treated with EA+warming moxibustion, and the occurrence rate in the group treated with colchicine was 40.91%. Conclusion Electroacupuncture+warming moxibustion achieves good therapeutic effects without any side effects.

Treatment of 60 Cases of Gouty Arthritis with Modified Simiao Tang

Objective:To observe the clinical effect of a modified Simiao Tang (加味四妙汤 Modified Decoction of Four Wonderful Drugs) for gouty arthritis and its influence on uric acid in blood. Methods: 120 cases of gouty arthritis were randomly divided into the treatment group and control group with 60 cases in each group. Modified Simiao Tang (MST) was orally administered to the patients in the treatment group and allopurinol tablet was orally administered to the patients in the control group. The clinical effects of two groups were evaluated after one-week treatment and uric acid (UA) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in blood were determined after 1-month treatment. Results: The total effective rate in the treatment group was significantly higher than in the control group, 86.7% vs. 68.3% (P< 0.01). And the treatment group was also significantly better than the control group in decreasing UA and CRP (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Conclusions: MST can significantly improve the symptoms and signs of gouty arthritis and decrease the levels of UA and CRP. It is good for gouty arthritis.

Research Progress of External Treatment of Acute Gouty Arthritis with Traditional Chinese Medicine

External application of traditional Chinese medicine has a long history and definite curative effect on gout.By searching the latest literature on the treatment of acute gouty arthritis by external treatment of traditional Chinese medicine,the research progress of external treatment of acute gouty arthritis in recent years was summarized.According to the existing research results,the external treatment of Chinese medicine in the treatment of acute gout has better efficacy and higher safety,and has a broad application prospect.

Effect of Simiao Liangxue Granule on Acute Gouty Arthritis in Rats

[Objectives]To study the anti-inflammatory effect of Simiao Liangxue granule on the rats with acute gouty arthritis(AGA).[Methods]A total of 60 male SD rats were randomly divided into 6 groups with 10 rats in each group.The rats in the colchicine group were intragastrically administered with 0.65 mg/kg colchicine,and the rats in low,medium and high dose groups of Simiao Liangxue granule were intragastrically administered with Simiao Liangxue granule with mass concentration of 0.4,0.8 and 1.6 g/kg,respectively.The rats in the normal control group and the model group were given the same amount of normal saline for 7 d,and the acute gouty arthritis model was prepared 1 h after administration on the 5th d.At the end of the experiment,the degree of joint swelling and joint inflammation index,the content of interleukin-1β,tumor necrosis factor-a and cyclooxygenase-2 in articular cartilage,and the content of interleukin-8,NO and UA in serum of rats were measured,and the histomorphological observation was performed.[Results]Compared with the normal control group,the joints of rats were swollen to different degrees,the inflammation score was significantly increased,and the content of IL-1β,TNF-αand COX-2 in the soft tissue of the joints was significantly increased in each group(P<0.05);compared with the model group,the joint swelling degree and inflammation score of rats in the colchicine group and Simiao Liangxue granule group were significantly decreased,the content of IL-1β,TNF-αand COX-2 in the joint soft tissue was also significantly decreased(P<0.05),and the indexes of each dose group of Simiao Liangxue granule were similar to those of the colchicine group;compared with the normal control group,the content of IL-8,NO and UA in the joint soft tissue of rats was significantly increased in each group(P<0.05);compared with the model group,the content of all indexes in joint soft tissue of rats in normal control group,colchicine group and Simiao Liangxue granule group were significantly decreased(P<0.05);the content of various indexes in the joint soft tissue of rats in the low and medium dose groups of Simiao Liangxue granule was higher than that in the colchicine group,and decreased significantly with the increase of the dose of Simiao Liangxue granule(P<0.05);the inflammatory index decreased significantly with the increase of the dose of Simiao Liangxue granule(P<0.05);the inflammation and degeneration in each dose group of Simiao Liangxue granule were milder than those in the model group,and the symptoms were relieved to some extent with the increase of dose(P<0.05).[Conclusions]Simiao Liangxue granule has the effect of anti-inflammation and detumescence,and its mechanism may be related to the content of factors that reduce inflammation including IL-1β,TNF-α,C0X-2,IL-8,NO and UA.

Study on anti-inflammatory mechanism and effects of Flemingia Roxb.exAit extract intervene acute gouty arthritis in rats

Objective:To investigate the effect and anti-inflammatory mechanism the effect of Flemingia Roxb.exAit extract on acute gouty arthritis.Methods:Sixty SD rats were randomly divided into 6 groups by weight,control and model group,(100、150、200 mg/kg)of Flemingia Roxb.exAit extract group and colchicine group.The rats of each group were given by intragastric for 7 days of continuous administration,meanwhile,there were given 0.9%NaCl solution instead as control and model group.The acute gouty arthritis model was constructed through right ankle joint cavity injection of sodium urate crystal solutionon day 5 after 1 h,but rats in the negative control group were injected with 0.9%NaCl solution into the articular cavity of the right foot.The general condition of rats and the degree of joint swelling,and the gait was observed after constructed model.To detected the joint fluid IL-1β、TNF-α、IL-6 indicators,and the expression of NLRP3,Caspase-1 protein in ankle joint tissue for 2 hours after the last administration.Results:Groups of Flemingia Roxb.exAit extract could markedly reduce the joint swelling on acute gouty arthritis rat model,improve gait in a dose-dependent manner,high dose group of Flemingia Roxb.exAit extract did particularly well(Pjoint swelling<0.01;Pgait<0.05),close to the therapeutic effect colchicine group.Further mechanism studies show that the joint fluid IL-1β、TNF-α、IL-6 level was reduced by Flemingia Roxb.exAit extract group,the expressions of NLRP3、Caspase-1 protein of Flemingia Roxb.exAit extract group was decreased observbly than model group,but the most obvious is that high dose group as well as colchicine group(PNALP3<0.01;PCaspase-1<0.01).Conclusion:Flemingia Roxb.exAit extract has the effect of treating acute gouty arthritis and its mechanism may be related toinhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation and inhibiting inflammatory response.

Concomitant Septic Arthritis on Gouty Arthropathy: A Case Report

We’re reporting the case of an arthritis to banal germ occurred in concomitance with an advanced polyarticular of gout. It was about a patient of 59 years with alcoholic and gouty chronicle more than 10 years, but without specialized medical follow-up. He has been admitted in hospitalization for a big inflammatory and stiff right knee, letting rising the pus through two cutaneous fistulas in a context of non-febrile change of his peripheral polyarthritis of the big and small articulations. Gout was at distal predominance, bilateral, distorting, tophaceous and active. Inflammatory syndrome was important (ESR = 50 mm in the 1st hour and CRP = 28 mg/l) and uricemia was high, at 84 mg/l. The glycaemia, the hepatic, the viral, renal and serological evaluation (HIV and B, C hepatitis) were normal. The bacteriological analysis of the pus collected after puncture of the knee and cleaning identified a negative gram bacillus, Morganella morganii, multi-resistant, but sensitive to the Imipeneme and to the aminosides. The evolution was lethal in a picture of multivisceral failing in spite of a bi-antibiotherapy and under hypo-uricemia treatment prescription.

Anti-inflammatory effect of luteolin in acute gouty arthritis rat model

Objective: To explore the anti-inflammatory effect of luteolin on rats with acute gout arthritis. Methods: A total of forty-eight rats were chosen and randomly divided into six groups. The acute gout arthritis model of rats was established by injecting monosodium urate at the concentration of 25 mg/mL into the ankle joint cavity. Changes of joint swelling index at different time points and the levels of IL-1β, IL-17, TNF-α, IL-6 in serum and synovial were measured. Results: Compared with the control group, the swelling index of ankle joint and gait score in the model group was significantly enhanced at different time points (all P<0.01). Compared with the MSU group, luteolin improved the ankle swelling index of rats with acute gout arthritis (P<0.05), and significantly down-regulated the levels of IL-1β, IL-17, TNF-α, IL-6 (P<0.01). Conclusion: Luteolin can alleviate the inflammatory response of acute gouty arthritis and may be an effective drug for acute gouty arthritis.

Mechanism of Sanshi decoction inhibits macrophage pyroptosis by inhibiting BRD4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway in the treatment of gouty arthritis

Objective:To observe the effect of Sanshi decoction on BRD4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathwaymediated macrophage pyroptosis,so as to elucidate the molecular mechanism of Sanshi decoction in the treatment of gouty arthritis.Methods:THP-1 was induced into macrophages with foboside and the divided into the control group,model group,low-dose,medium-dose,high-dose group of Sanshi decoction,and BRD4 inhibitor group.Except for the control group,the remaining groups were induced with monosodium urate crystals to construct a gouty arthritis cell model.The activity of macrophages was detected by CCK8,the level of macrophage pyroptosis was detected by flow cytometry,the activity of LDH,the content of IL-1β and IL-18 were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay,and the expression of related proteins in the BRD4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway was detected by Western blot.Results:Compared with the control group,macrophage activity was decreased in the model group,and the level of pyroptosis,LDH activity,contents of IL-1β and IL-18,expression levels of BRD4,p-NF-kB p65,NLRP3,Caspase-1 p20,and IL-1β protein were significantly up-regulated,the differences were statistically significant(P<0.05 and P<0.01).Compared with the model group,macrophage activity was up-regulated in the Sanshi Decoction,and the level of pyroptosis,LDH activity,IL-1β and IL-18 contents,expression levels of BRD4,p-NF-kB p65,NLRP3,Caspase-1 p20,and IL-1β protein were significantly decreased with statistically significant differences(P<0.05 and P<0.01).Conclusion:Sanshi decoction inhibits macrophage pyroptosis by inhibiting BRD4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway activation,thus improving the inflammation level of gouty arthritis.

Research Progress on Modern Biological Mechanism of Chinese Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Gouty Nephropathy

Chinese medicine prevention and treatment of gouty nephropathy often uses single drugs and compound formulae to regulate uric acid,which has the effect of lowering uric acid,protecting the kidneys and improving clinical symptoms.In conclusion,the mechanism of action of Chinese medicine against gouty nephropathy mainly involves oxidative stress,inflammatory response,etc.,with a view to providing new ideas and methods for the prevention and treatment of gouty nephropathy by Chinese medicine.

Correlation Analysis Between Changes of D-Dimer Level and Rheumatoid Arthritis Complicated with Interstitial Lung Disease

Objective:To explore the correlation between the change of D-dimer level and rheumatoid arthritis complicated with interstitial lung disease.Methods:From January 2022 to February 2024,20 rheumatoid arthritis patients complicated with interstitial lung disease(interstitial lung disease group),20 rheumatoid arthritis patients without interstitial lung disease(without interstitial lung disease group),and 20 healthy people(control group)in Xijing Hospital were selected for this study.The fasting venous blood of the three groups of subjects was collected and their D-dimer,C-reactive protein(CRP),rheumatoid factor(RF),and erythrocyte sedimentation rate(ESR)were detected.Subsequently,the correlation between each index and rheumatoid arthritis complicated with interstitial lung disease was analyzed.Results:The D-dimer level of the interstitial lung disease group was significantly higher than the other two groups(P<0.05).The D-dimer level of the group without interstitial lung disease was significantly higher than the control group(P<0.05).CRP levels in the interstitial lung disease group and the group without interstitial lung disease were significantly higher than those of the control group(P<0.05).The ESR and RF levels of the interstitial lung disease group were significantly higher than the other two groups(P<0.05).The levels of ESR and RF levels of the group without interstitial lung disease were significantly higher than the control group(P<0.05).Conclusion:D-dimer levels of rheumatoid arthritis patients are higher than those of healthy individuals,and those complicated with interstitial lung disease present even higher levels.This finding shows that there is a correlation between D-dimer levels and rheumatoid arthritis with interstitial lung disease,which may facilitate the evaluation and diagnosis of this disease.

Development of biomedical hydrogels for rheumatoid arthritis treatment

Rheumatoid Arthritis(RA)is an autoimmune disorder that hinders the normal functioning of bones and joints and reduces the quality of human life.Every year,millions of people are diagnosed with RA worldwide,particularly among elderly individuals and women.Therefore,there is a global need to develop new biomaterials,medicines and therapeutic methods for treating RA.This will improve the Healthcare Access and Quality Index and also relieve administrative and financial burdens on healthcare service providers at a global scale.Hydrogels are soft and cross-linked polymeric materials that can store a chunk of fluids,drugs and biomolecules for hydration and therapeutic applications.Hydrogels are biocompatible and exhibit excellent mechanical properties,such as providing elastic cushions to articulating joints by mimicking the natural synovial fluid.Hence,hydrogels create a natural biological environment within the synovial cavity to reduce autoimmune reactions and friction.Hydrogels also lubricate the articulating joint surfaces to prevent degradation of synovial surfaces of bones and cartilage,thus exhibiting high potential for treating RA.This work reviews the progress in injectable and implantable hydrogels,synthesis methods,types of drugs,advantages and challenges.Additionally,it discusses the role of hydrogels in targeted drug delivery,mechanistic behaviour and tribological performance for RA treatment.

Synergistic chemotherapy/PTT/oxygen enrichment by multifunctional liposomal polydopamine nanoparticles for rheumatoid arthritis treatment

Amultifunctional liposomal polydopamine nanoparticle(MPM@Lipo)was designed in this study,to combine chemotherapy,photothermal therapy(PTT)and oxygen enrichment to clear hyperproliferating inflammatory cells and improve the hypoxic microenvironment for rheumatoid arthritis(RA)treatment.MPM@Lipo significantly scavenged intracellular reactive oxygen species and relieved joint hypoxia,thus contributing to the repolarization of M1 macrophages into M2 phenotype.Furthermore,MPM@Lipo could accumulate at inflammatory joints,inhibit the production of inflammatory factors,and protect cartilage in vivo,effectively alleviating RA progression in a rat adjuvant-induced arthritis model.Moreover,upon laser irradiation,MPM@Lipo can elevate the temperature to not only significantly obliterate excessively proliferating inflammatory cells but also accelerate the production of methotrexate and oxygen,resulting in excellent RA treatment effects.Overall,the use of synergistic chemotherapy/PTT/oxygen enrichment therapy to treat RA is a powerful potential strategy.

Serum Zinc and Copper Level in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) Patients and Its Correlation with Disease Duration-A Tertiary Hospital Study

Background: Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is the most prevalent rheumatic disease in children. It is associated with abnormal levels of serum zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) as during inflammation serum copper concentration increases and zinc decreases. Objective: To assess the serum Zn and Cu levels in different sub-types of JIA patients and their correlation with the disease duration. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted over twelve months at the Pediatric Rheumatology Division, Department of Paediatrics, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University. Sixty-nine JIA cases that fulfilled the International League of Association for Rheumatology (ILAR) criteria were taken as cases and age and sex-matched healthy children were considered as controls. The serum Zn and Cu tests were done using the spectrophotometric method with INDIKO PLUS Drug Analyzer. Data were recorded in a pre-designed questionnaire. Data were checked, verified and analyzed manually where continuous variables were analyzed using unpaired t-test and categorical variables using the ANOVA test. Pearson’s correlation coefficient test was used to see the correlation of serum zinc and copper levels with disease duration. Results: Boys were predominant in both case and control groups, with the majority within the 10 to 16-year-age group. Enthesitis-related arthritis (ERA) was the most common subtype followed by sJIA, Oligo JIA, Poly JIA (RF-) and unclassified subtypes. Disease duration was found less than 12 months in 30.4% of JIA patients. Serum analysis revealed a statistically significant reduction in mean zinc levels and increased copper levels in JIA patients compared to controls. This study observed a negative correlation between serum zinc levels and disease duration, whereas serum copper levels exhibited a positive correlation with disease duration. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study revealed that JIA patients exhibit alterations in serum zinc and copper levels. Serum copper levels showed a positive correlation and serum zinc levels showed a negative correlation with the duration of the disease.

Interleukin 6 and Bone Erosions in Rheumatoid Arthritis in an African Hospital

Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, erosive and deforming inflammatory rheumatic disease. In the era of biotherapies and the arrival of biosimilars in sub-Saharan Africa, the objective of this study was to describe plasma IL-6 variations in RA patients at Cité Verte District Hospital (Cameroon). Material and Methods: Descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study from December 1, 2021 to May 31, 2022. We included patients over 18 years old suffering from RA (ACR/EULAR 2010). Patients with an infection were not included. The data collected were age, sex, smoking status, family history, disease duration, disease activity by DAS28, CRP, rheumatoid factor, and plasma level of IL-6. Bone erosion was sought on radiography and ultrasound. Result: We included 31 patients, 25 of whom were women (80.6%). The mean age was 47.27 ± 17.97 years. Disease activity was predominantly moderate (32.3%) and severe (32.3%). Mean IL-6 level was 15.29 ± 2.36 pg/ml (extremes: 11.26 pg/ml and 20.15 pg/ml). IL-6 levels were higher in patients with a history of smoking. Similarly, IL-6 levels were higher in patients with mildly active RA in remission than in moderately and severely active RA. Mean IL-6 levels were significantly higher in patients with erosive RA (16.3 pg/ml VS 14.6 pg/ml). Conclusion: IL-6 levels were significantly elevated in men, weaned smokers and patients with bone erosions.

Attenuation of the Activation of NLRP3 Inflammasome in Fibroblast Like Synoviocytes of Rheumatoid Arthritis by Baicalin through Regulating the Let-7i-3p/PI3K/Akt/NF-κB Signaling Axis

[Objectives]To study the effect and mechanism of baicalin on the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in human fibroblast like synoviocytes of rheumatoid arthritis(HFLS-RA).[Methods]To confirm that baicalin alleviated the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in HFLS-RA,the expression of NLRP3 before and after baicalin treatment was observed by immunofluorescence.Western blot was used to detect the protein expression of p-PI3K,p-Akt,NF-κB p65,NLRP3,ASC and caspase-1 after baicalin treatment for 48 h,and the contents of IL-1 and IL-18 in the supernatents were detected by ELISA.In order to explore the mechanism of baicalin alleviating the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome,the corresponding relationship between let-7i-3p and PIK3CA was verified by double luciferin and Westen blot analysis.The expression of let-7i-3p and PI3K before and after baicalin intervention was detected by RT-qPCR.let-7i-3p interference was used to verify whether baicalin mitigated the activation of enhanced NLRP3 inflammasome.[Results]Baicalin(50 and 100 mg/L)significantly reduced the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome,inhibited the protein expressions of p-PI3K,p-Akt,NF-κB p65,NLRP3,ASC and caspase-1,and the secretion of IL-1 and IL-18.let-7i-3p and PIK3CA had a targeted correspondence,and baicalin up-regulated the expression of let-7i-3p and down-regulated the expression of PIK3CA.Baicalin attenuated the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome enhanced by let-7i-3p interference.[Conclusions]Baicalin can up-regulate let-7i-3p expression,inhibit PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signal transduction,and thus reduce the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in HFLS-RA.

Native and prosthetic septic arthritis in a university hospital in Saudi Arabia:A retrospective study

BACKGROUND Septic arthritis,whether native or prosthetic,poses a significant challenge in clinical practice due to its potentially devastating consequences.Despite its clinical importance,there remains a dearth of comprehensive studies and standardized diagnostic criteria,particularly in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.AIM To investigate the epidemiology,microbiological profiles,and clinical characteristics of native and prosthetic septic joints in the Saudi Arabian population.METHODS Medical records of patients diagnosed with septic arthritis between January 1,2015,and December 31,2022,were retrospectively reviewed.Data regarding patient demographics,clinical presentation,microbiological cultures,treatment modalities,and outcomes were analyzed.RESULTS In a retrospective review of 52 cases of septic arthritis,a balanced gender distribution was observed(1:1 ratio),with the knee being the most commonly affected joint(80.8%).Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus predominated in native joints(24.2%),while Brucella spp.was more prevalent in prosthetic joints(21.1%).Joint preservation was achieved in most cases(84.6%),with no significant difference in clinical features between native and prosthetic joints.However,certain comorbidities were more common in native joint cases,including renal impairment(P=0.002),hemodialysis(P=0.004),heart disease(P=0.013),and chronic liver disease(P=0.048).At the same time,osteoarthritis was more prevalent in prosthetic joint cases(P=0.013).Vancomycin was the most frequently used antibiotic(26.9%),and most patients received antibiotics before joint aspiration(57.7%).Surgical intervention,predominantly arthrotomy,was required in most cases(32.7%).Notably,a significant association was found between joint type and mortality(odds ratio=0.587,P=0.048),as well as the Charlson comorbidity index and mortality(P=0.001).CONCLUSION This study highlighted distinctive microbiological profiles and etiological factors in septic arthritis cases in the Saudi Arabian population.