Autophagy plays a protective role in advanced glycation end products-induced apoptosis of chondrocytes via regulation of tumor necrosis factor-α,nuclear factor-κ B and reactive oxygen species

Objective: To study the adverse effects of advanced glycation end products(AGEs) on chondrocytes and the role of autophagy in this process. Methods: Chondrocytes were harvested from the human articular cartilage tissues in surgery. AGEs were administered during chondrocytes culture. The rapamycin was used to induce autophagy. The cell viability was determined by 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide(MTT) assay.The expression of tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α) and nuclear factor-κ B(NF-κ B) was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The reactive oxygen species(ROS) production and apoptosis of the chondrocytes were determined by fluorescent probe and flow cytometer, respectively. Results: The chondrocytes viability was significantly reduced after 12 h incubation with AGEs(P<0.01)). In contrast, rapamycin pretreatment increased the chondrocytes viability through autophagy. AGEs increased TNF-α and NF-κ B mRNA expression of chondrocytes and autophagy receded or proceeded the change. AGEs increased intracellular ROS accumulation and autophagy reversed the change. AGEs accelerated chondrocytes apoptosis and autophagy suspended apoptosis. Conclusions: Accumulation of AGEs may have an adverse role for chondrocytes by increasing TNF-α and NF-κB expression, ROS accumulation and apoptosis; meanwhile, autophagy ameliorates the AGEsinduced adverse effects.

Propofol induces apoptosis and increases gemcitabine sensitivity in pancreatic cancer cells in vitro by inhibition of nuclear factor-κ B activity

AIM:To investigate the effect of propofol on human pancreatic cells and the molecular mechanism of propofol action.METHODS:We used the human pancreatic cancer cell line MIAPaCa-2 for in vitro studies measuring growth inhibition and degree of apoptotic cell death induced by propofol alone,gemcitabine alone,or propofol followed by gemcitabine.All experiments were conducted in triplicate and carried out on three or more separate occasions.Data were means of the three or more independent experiments±SE.Statistically significant differences were determined by two-tailed unpaired Student’s t test and defined as P<0.05.RESULTS:Pretreatment of cells with propofol for 24 h followed by gemcitabine resulted in 24%-75% growth inhibition compared with 6%-18%when gemcitabine was used alone.Overall growth inhibition was directly correlated with apoptotic cell death.We also showed that propofol potentiated gemcitabine-induced killing by downregulation of nuclear factor-κB(NF-κB).In contrast,NF-κB was upregulated when pancreatic cancer cells were exposed to gemcitabine alone,suggesting a potential mechanism of acquired chemoresistance.CONCLUSION:Inactivation of the NF-κB signaling pathway by propofol might abrogate gemcitabineinduced activation of NF-κB,resulting in chemosensitization of pancreatic tumors to gemcitabine.

Silencing of Jumonji domain-containing 1C inhibits the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells via nuclear factor-κB signaling

BACKGROUND Osteoporosis is a common metabolic bone disorder induced by an imbalance between osteoclastic activity and osteogenic activity.During osteoporosis,bone mesenchymal stem cells(BMSCs)exhibit an increased ability to differentiate into adipocytes and a decreased ability to differentiate into osteoblasts,resulting in bone loss.Jumonji domain-containing 1C(JMJD1C)has been demonstrated to suppress osteoclastogenesis.AIM To examine the effect of JMJD1C on the osteogenesis of BMSCs and the potential underlying mechanism.METHODS BMSCs were isolated from mouse bone marrow tissues.Oil Red O staining,Alizarin red staining,alkaline phosphatase staining and the expression of adipo-genic and osteogenic-associated genes were assessed to determine the differen-tiation of BMSCs.Bone marrow-derived macrophages(BMMs)were incubated with receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaΒligand to induce osteoclast differentiation,and osteoclast differen-tiation was confirmed by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining.Other related genes were measured via reverse transcription coupled to the quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting.Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were used to measure the levels of inflammatory cytokines,including tumor necrosis factor alpha,interleukin-6 and interleukin-1 beta.RESULTS The osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation potential of BMSCs isolated from mouse bone marrow samples was evaluated.JMJD1C mRNA and protein expression was upregulated in BMSCs after osteoblast induction,while p-nuclear factor-κB(NF-κB)and inflammatory cytokines were not significantly altered.Knockdown of JMJD1C repressed osteogenic differentiation and enhanced NF-κB activation and inflammatory cytokine release in BMSCs.Moreover,JMJD1C expression decreased during BMM osteoclast differentiation.CONCLUSION The JMJD1C/NF-κB signaling pathway is potentially involved in BMSC osteogenic differentiation and may play vital roles in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis.

Semaphorin 7A impairs barrier function in cultured human corneal epithelial cells in a manner dependent on nuclear factor-kappa B

●AIM:To evaluate the role of semaphorin 7A(Sema7A)and its associated regulatory mechanisms in modulating the barrier function of cultured human corneal epithelial cells(HCEs).●METHODS:Barrier models of HCEs were treated with recombinant human Sema7A at concentrations of 0,125,250,or 500 ng/mL for 24,48,or 72h in vitro.Transepithelial electrical resistance(TEER)as well as Dextran-fluorescein isothiocyanate(FITC)permeability assays were conducted to assess barrier function.To quantify tight junctions(TJs)such as occludin and zonula occludens-1(ZO-1)at the mRNA level,reverse transcriptionpolymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR)analysis was performed.Immunoblotting was used to examine the activity of the nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)signaling pathway and the production of TJs proteins.Immunofluorescence analyses were employed to localize the TJs.Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA)and RT-PCR were utilized to observe changes in interleukin(IL)-1βlevels.To investigate the role of NF-κB signaling activation and IL^(-1)βin Sema7A’s anti-barrier mechanism,we employed 0.1μmol/L IκB kinase 2(IKK2)inhibitor IV or 500 ng/mL IL^(-1)receptor(IL-1R)antagonist.●RESULTS:Treatment with Sema7A resulted in decreased TEER and increased permeability of Dextran-FITC in HCEs through down-regulating mRNA and protein levels of TJs in a time-and dose-dependent manner,as well as altering the localization of TJs.Furthermore,Sema7A stimulated the activation of inhibitor of kappa B alpha(IκBα)and expression of IL-1β.The anti-barrier function of Sema7A was significantly suppressed by treatment with IKK2 inhibitor IV or IL-1R antagonists.●CONCLUSION:Sema7A disrupts barrier function through its influence on NF-κB-mediated expression of TJ proteins,as well as the expression of IL-1β.These findings suggest that Sema7A could be a potential therapeutic target for the diseases in corneal epithelium.

五味子乙素通过TLR4/NF-κB信号通路对急性胰腺炎大鼠肺部损伤的影响

目的:探讨五味子乙素通过Toll样受体4(TLR4)/核转录因子-κB(NF-κB)信号通路对急性胰腺炎(AP)大鼠肺部损伤的影响。方法:取SD大鼠,通过胆胰管内逆行注射5%牛磺胆酸钠方法诱导建立AP肺损伤模型,经随机数表法分为模型组、五味子乙素组、TLR4过表达载体组、TLR4空载组、五味子乙素+TLR4过表达载体组,每组12只大鼠,再取12只SD大鼠仅翻动肠管不注射5%牛磺胆酸钠,作为假手术组。以药物分别干预大鼠后,检测各组大鼠肺功能及各组大鼠腹水量与肺组织湿重/干重(W/D);HE染色检测各组大鼠肺组织病理形态并评分;检测各组大鼠动脉血气;全自动生化分析仪检测大鼠血清淀粉酶,ELISA检测炎症细胞因子IL-6、IL-18水平;蛋白免疫印迹法检测肺组织TLR4/NF-κB通路蛋白表达;免疫组织化学染色检测肺组织TLR4蛋白表达。结果:与假手术组相比,模型组大鼠肺组织出现病理损伤改变,模型组大鼠MV、PEF、PaO_(2)、OI显著降低(P<0.05),Ri、腹水量与W/D、PaCO_(2)、Holfbauer评分、血清淀粉酶、IL-6与IL-18水平、肺组织TLR4阳性细胞比例、TLR4与MYD88蛋白表达、p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65水平显著升高(P<0.05)。与模型组、五味子乙素+TLR4过表达载体组分别相比,五味子乙素组大鼠肺组织病理损伤改变程度均减轻,MV、PEF、PaO_(2)、OI均升高(P<0.05),Ri、腹水量与W/D、PaCO_(2)、Holfbauer评分、血清淀粉酶、IL-6与IL-18水平、肺组织TLR4阳性细胞比例、TLR4与MYD88蛋白表达、p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65水平均降低(P<0.05);TLR4过表达载体组大鼠肺组织病理损伤改变程度均加重,MV、PEF、PaO_(2)、OI均降低(P<0.05),Ri、腹水量与W/D、PaCO_(2)、Holfbauer评分、血清淀粉酶、IL-6与IL-18水平、肺组织TLR4阳性细胞比例、TLR4与MYD88蛋白表达、p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65水平均升高(P<0.05)。与模型组相比,TLR4空载组大鼠各指标差异无统计学意义(P>0.05)。结论:五味子乙素可通过下调TLR4/NF-κB信号通路,抑制炎症,减轻AP大鼠肺部损伤,修复肺功能。

创伤性脑损伤患者血清AQP4和NF-κB p65表达与神经功能缺损程度及预后的关系

目的探讨创伤性脑损伤(TBI)患者血清水通道蛋白4(AQP4)和核因子κB(NF-κB p65)表达与神经功能缺损程度及预后的关系。方法选取2021年3月至2023年3月于河南科技大学第一附属医院开元急诊科收治的128例TBI患者作为研究对象(观察组),根据美国国立卫生院神经缺损评估量表(NIHSS)将患者分为重度组31例、中度组45例和轻度组52例;根据格拉斯哥预后量表(GOS)评分将患者分为预后不良组37例和预后良好组91例。另选取同期于本院体检的128例健康志愿者作为对照组。比较各组受检者的一般资料及血清AQP4和NF-κB p65水平,采用Spearman法分析血清AQP4、NF-κB p65水平与NIHSS评分的相关性,采用受试者工作特征曲线(ROC)分析血清AQP4、NF-κB p65对TBI患者预后不良的预测价值。结果观察组患者的血清AQP4、NF-κB p65水平分别为(27.37±6.34)μg/L、(2.27±0.24)ng/mL,明显高于对照组的(12.65±3.21)μg/L、(0.36±0.11)ng/mL,差异均具有统计学意义(P<0.05)。Spearman相关性分析结果显示,TBI患者血清AQP4、NF-κB p65水平与NIHSS评分均呈正相关(r=0.605、0.612,P<0.05)。入院24 h血清AQP4、NF-κB p65水平比较,重度组>中度组>轻度组,48 h、72 h有同样的趋势,差异均具有统计学意义(P<0.05)。预后不良组患者的血清AQP4、NF-κB p65水平分别为(34.65±7.51)μg/L、(2.71±0.40)ng/mL,明显高于预后良好组的(24.41±6.48)μg/L、(2.09±0.22)ng/mL,差异均有统计学意义(P<0.05)。血清AQP4、NF-κB p65两者联合预测TBI患者预后不良的曲线下面积(AUC)为0.938,高于各单一指标的0.873、0.830,联合预测的敏感度为91.89%,特异度为85.71%,两者联合优于血清AQP4、NF-κB p65各自单独预测(Z两者联合-AQP4=2.564、Z两者联合-NF-κB p65=2.555,P=0.010、0.011)。结论TBI患者血清AQP4、NF-κB p65水平上升与神经功能缺损程度和不良预后有关,可作为预测预后的潜在标志物。

黄芪阳和汤调控PI3K/AKT/NF-κB信号通路促进糖尿病足溃疡大鼠创面愈合

目的基于磷脂酰肌醇3-激酶(PI3K)/蛋白激酶B(AKT)/核因子-κB(NF-κB)信号通路探究黄芪阳和汤对糖尿病足溃疡(DFU)大鼠创面愈合的影响。方法构建DFU大鼠模型,将建模成功的48只大鼠随机分为模型组,黄芪阳和汤低(8.5 g/kg)、高(17 g/kg)剂量组,黄芪阳和汤高剂量(17 g/kg)+LY294002(PI3K/AKT通路抑制剂,0.3 mg/kg)组;每组12只;另取12只大鼠为对照组。各组大鼠给予对应药物干预,连续4周。第14、28天给药后,观察大鼠一般状态及创面变化,计算创面愈合率,检测大鼠空腹血糖(FBG)水平和大鼠创面周围组织经皮氧分压(TcpO2);酶联免疫吸附试验检测大鼠血清血管内皮生长因子(VEGF)、缺氧诱导因子-1α(HIF-1α)、C反应蛋白(CRP)、白细胞介素(IL)-6水平;苏木素-伊红染色观察大鼠创面组织病理学变化;免疫组织化学染色测定大鼠创面组织微血管密度;蛋白免疫印迹法检测大鼠创面组织中PI3K、磷酸化PI3K(p-PI3K)、AKT、磷酸化AKT(p-AKT)、NF-κB p65、磷酸化NF-κB p65(p-NF-κB p65)、NF-κB抑制蛋白α(IκB-α)蛋白表达。结果对照组大鼠毛色光滑,饮食、饮水、排泄均正常,较活跃,创面愈合快,创面组织炎症反应较轻,新生血管较多,肉芽组织中成纤维细胞及胶原基质丰富;模型组大鼠毛色暗淡无光泽,活动减少,且出现多饮、多食、多尿症状,创面颜色较深,且周围组织出现水肿、溃疡,创面组织可见大量炎性细胞浸润,伴组织坏死、渗出,新生血管及成纤维细胞较少,创面愈合率、创面周围组织TcpO2、血清VEGF、HIF-1α、创面组织微血管密度、p-PI3K、p-AKT、IκB-α蛋白表达水平降低,FBG、血清CRP、IL-6、创面组织p-NF-κB p65蛋白表达升高(P<0.05);与模型组相比,黄芪阳和汤低、高剂量组大鼠状态逐渐改善,创面组织病变程度依次减轻,创面愈合率、创面周围组织TcpO2、血清VEGF、HIF-1α、创面组织微血管密度、p-PI3K、p-AKT、IκB-α蛋白表达水平依次升高,FBG、血清CRP、IL-6、创面组织p-NF-κB p65蛋白表达依次降低(P<0.05);LY294002能部分逆转高剂量黄芪阳和汤对DFU大鼠的治疗作用(P<0.05)。结论黄芪阳和汤能调控PI3K/AKT/NF-κB信号通路,抑制DFU大鼠炎症反应,促进血管新生,从而促进创面愈合。

PCNA、Bcl-2及EGFR在喉癌组织中的表达及与临床病理特征、生存的关系

目的探讨增殖细胞核抗原(PCNA)、B淋巴细胞瘤-2(Bcl-2)及表皮生长因子受体(EGFR)在喉癌组织中的表达及与临床病理特征、生存的关系。方法选取2017年3月—2020年1月在苏州大学附属第一医院因喉癌行手术治疗的92例患者的喉癌组织及对应癌旁组织标本。检测癌组织与癌旁组织PCNA mRNA、Bcl-2mRNA、EGFR mRNA相对表达量,多元线性回归分析其癌组织表达与临床病理特征的关系。随访3年,采用Kaplain-Maier曲线分析不同PCNA、Bcl-2、EGFR表达水平患者生存情况差异。结果癌组织PCNA mRNA、Bcl-2 mRNA、EGFR mRNA相对表达量高于癌旁组织(P<0.05)。不同年龄、肿瘤部位患者PCNA mRNA、Bcl-2 mRNA、EGFR mRNA相对表达量比较,差异无统计学意义(P>0.05);低分化,临床分期Ⅲ、Ⅳ期及淋巴结转移患者PCNA mRNA、Bcl-2 mRNA、EGFR mRNA相对表达量分别高于中、高分化,临床分期Ⅰ、Ⅱ期,无淋巴结转移患者(P<0.05)。多元线性回归分析结果显示,肿瘤分化程度、临床分期、淋巴结转移是喉癌组织PCNA mRNA、Bcl-2 mRNA、EGFR mRNA表达的影响因素。Kaplain-Maier曲线分析结果显示,PCNA mRNA高表达患者3年无进展生存率、总生存率分别为59.57%和70.21%,低于低表达患者的80.00%和88.89%(P<0.05);Bcl-2 mRNA高表达患者3年无进展生存率、总生存率分别为60.78%和70.59%,低于低表达患者的80.49%和90.24%(P<0.05);EGFR mRNA高表达患者3年无进展生存率、总生存率分别为59.09%和70.45%,低于低表达患者的79.17%、87.50%(P<0.05)。结论喉癌组织PCNA、Bcl-2、EGFR呈高表达,且其高表达状态与肿瘤分期高、分化程度低、淋巴结转移有关,PCNA、Bcl-2、EGFR表达水平可在一定程度上反映患者预后。

Integrin-linked kinase overexpression promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition via nuclear factor-κB signaling in colorectal cancer cells

AIM: To investigate the effect of integrin-linked kinase(ILK) on proliferation, metastasis, and invasion of the colorectal cancer cell line SW480. METHODS: In this study, the colorectal cancer cell line SW480 was stably transfected with ILK plasmids, and small interfering RNA(si RNA) was used to knockdown expression of nuclear factor(NF)-κB/p65. Methylthiazole tetrazolium(MTT) assay was performed to measure proliferation, and the wound healing migration assay and matrigel invasion assay were used to test the metastasis and invasion ability of SW480 cells. To explore the epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT) process, embryonic development, and the invasion and metastasis of tumors, the protein level of E-cadherin, vimentin, snail, and slug was detected by western blot. Immunofluorescence was also used to detect E-cadherin expression. Western blot was used to determine the level of phosphorylated-inhibitor of kappa B(IκB)a, inhibitor of gamma B(IγB)a, and nuclear factor kappa B(NF-κB) expressions and toexplore the ILK signaling pathway. RESULTS: Western blot results revealed that ILK expression significantly increased when ILK was overexpressed in SW480 cells(P < 0.05). Proliferation, metastasis, and invasion ability were improved in the vector-ILK group compared to the vector group(P < 0.05). Immunofluorescence results revealed that E-cadherin fluorescence intensity decreased after ILK was overexpressed(P < 0.05). Western blot results revealed that the protein expression of E-cadherin was reduced, while vimentin, snail, and slug were upregulated when ILK was overexpressed in SW480 cells(P < 0.05). In order to determine the role of the NF-κB signaling pathway in ILK overexpression promoted EMT occurrence, we overexpressed ILK in SW480 cells and found that levels of NF-κB/p65 and cytoplasmic phosphorylated-IκBa were increased and that cytoplasmic IкBa levels were decreased compared to the control group(P < 0.05). Furthermore, NF-κB/p65 knockout revealed that E-cadherin was increased in the overexpressed ILK group. CONCLUSION: ILK overexpression improved the proliferation, metastasis, and invasion ability of SW480 cells, and this effect may be mediated by the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Delayed hepatocarcinogenesis through antiangiogenic intervention in the nuclear factor-kappa B activation pathway in rats

BACKGROUND: The active form of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) is involved in the initiation, generation, and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and is up-regulated in inflammation-associated malignancies. We investigated the dynamic expression of NF-kappa B and its influences on the occurrence of HCC through antiangiogenic (thalidomide) intervention in NF-kappa B activation. METHODS : Hepatoma models were induced with 2-fluorenylacetamide (2-FAA, 0.05%) in male Sprague-Dawley rats, and thalidomide (100 mg/kg body weight) was administered intragastrically to intervene in NF-kappa B activation. The pathological changes in the liver of sacrificed rats were assessed after hematoxylin and eosin staining. NF-kappa B mRNA was amplified by RT-nested PCR. The alterations of NF-kappa B and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting. RESULTS: Rat hepatocytes showed denatured, precancerous, and cancerous stages in hepatocarcinogenesis, with an increasing tendency of hepatic NF-kappa B, NF-kappa B mRNA, and VEGF expression, and their values in the HCC group were higher than those in controls (P<0.001). In the thalidomide-treated group, the morphologic changes generated only punctiform denaturation and necrosis at the early or middle stages, and nodular hyperplasia or a little atypical hyperplasia at the final stages, with the expression of NF-kappa B (chi(2)=9.93, P<0.001) and VEGF (chi(2)=8.024, P<0.001) lower than that in the 2-FAA group. CONCLUSION: NF-kappa B is overexpressed in hepatocarcinogenesis and antiangiogenic treatment down-regulates the expression of NF-kappa B and VEGF, and delays the occurrence of HCC. (Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2010; 9: 169-174)

Helicobacter pylori tumor necrosis factor-α inducing protein promotes cytokine expression via nuclear factor-κB

AIM:To study the effects of Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori)tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF)inducing protein (Tip-α)on cytokine expression and its mechanism. METHODS:We cloned Tip-αfrom the H.pylori strain 26695,transformed Escherichia coli with an expression plasmid,and then confirmed the expression product by Western blotting.Using different concentrations of Tip-αthat affected SGC7901 and GES-1 cells at different times,we assessed cytokine levels using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.We blocked SGC7901 cells with pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate(PDTC),a specific inhibitor of nuclear factorκB(NF-κB).We then detected interleukin(IL)-1βand TNF-αlevels in SGC7901 cells. RESULTS:Western blot analysis using an anti-Tip-α antibody revealed a 23-kDa protein,which indicated that recombinant Tip-αprotein was recombined successfully.The levels of IL-1β,IL-8 and TNF-αwere sig-nificantly higher following Tip-αinterference,whether GES-1 cells or SGC-7901 cells were used(P<0.05).However,the levels of cytokines(including IL-1β,IL-8 and TNF-α)secreted by SGC-7901 cells were greater than those secreted by GES-1 cells following treatment with Tip-αat the same concentration and for the same duration(P<0.05).After blocking NF-κB with PDTC, the cells(GES-1 cells and SGC-7901 cells)underwent interference with Tip-α.We found that IL-1βand TNF-αlevels were significantly decreased compared to cells that only underwent Tip-αinterference(P<0.05). CONCLUSION:Tip-αplays an important role in cyto-kine expression through NF-κB.

Urinary trypsin inhibitor attenuates hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury by reducing nuclear factor-kappa B activation

BACKGROUND: Urinary trypsin inhibitor (UTI) inhibits the inflammatory response and protects against ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. The inflammatory response is mediated by nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) and its related target genes and products such as vascular endothelial cell adhesion molecule and CXC chemokines. We aimed to assess the roles of those mediators in a UTI-treated mouse model of hepatic I/R injury. METHODS: Treatment group 1 (UTI given 5 minutes prior to liver ischemia), treatment group 2 (UTI given 5 minutes after the anhepatic phase) and a control group were investigated. Blood and liver samples were obtained and compared at 1, 3, 6 and 24 hours after reperfusion. RESULTS: Attenuation of pathological hepatocellular damage was greater in the treatment groups than in the control group (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the UTI treatment groups showed significantly lower serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels, decreased myeloperoxidase activity, and reduced NF-kappa B activation. Also downregulated was the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant, and macrophage inflammatory protein-2 at the mRNA level. P-selectin protein and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 protein expression were also downregulated. In addition, the treatment group I showed a better protective effect against I/R injury than the treatment group 2. CONCLUSIONS: UTI reduces NF-kappa B activation and downregulates the expression of its related mediators, followed by the inhibition of neutrophil aggregation and infiltration in hepatic I/R injury. The protective role of UTI is more effective in prevention than in treatment.

Total polysaccharides of the Sijunzi decoction attenuate tumor necrosis factor-α-induced damage to the barrier function of a Caco-2 cell monolayer via the nuclear factor-κB-myosin light chain kinase-myosin light chain pathway

AIM To explore the protective effects and underlying mechanisms of total polysaccharides of the Sijunzi decoction(TPSJ) on the epithelial barriers in vitro. METHODS Caco-2 cell monolayers were treated with or without TPSJ in the presence or absence of TNF-α, and paracellular permeability and transepithelial electrical resistance(TEER) were measured to evaluate the epithelial barrier function. Immunofluorescence and western blotting were respecti-vely used to evaluate the distribution and expression of the tight junction proteins claudin 1, claudin 2, zo3, and occludin in Caco-2 cells. western blotting was also used to evaluate the cellular expression of myosin light chain(MLC), phosphorylated MLC(pM LC), MLC kinase(MLCK), and nuclear factor(NF)-κB p65. RESULTS TPSJ promoted the proliferation of Caco-2 cells and inhibited TNF-α-induced secretion of pro-inflammatory cyto-kines. Furthermore, TPSJ significantly ameliorated both the reduction of TEER and the increased paracellular permeability observed in tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α-damaged Caco-2 monolayers. Furthermore, TPSJ remarkably attenuated TNF-α-induced morphological changes, downregulated the expression of claudin 1, claudin 2, zo3, and occludin, and markedly suppressed TNF-α-mediated upregulation of p-MLC and MLCK expression. Finally, TPSJ inhibited the activation and expression of NF-κB p65. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate that TPSJ alleviates the TNF-α-induced impairment of the intestinal epithelial cell barrier function by suppressing NF-κB p65-mediated phosphorylation of MLCK and MLC.

Characteristics of hepatic nuclear-transcription factor-kappa B expression and quantitative analysis in rat hepatocarcinogenesis

BACKGROUND: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors. We analyzed the expression of miclear-transcription factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) during hepatocarcinogenesis in order to evaluate its dynamic expression and its clinical value in the development and diagnosis of HCC. METHODS: Hepatoma models were induced by oral administration of 2-acetamidoflurene (2-FAA) to male Sprague-Dawley rats. Morphological changes were observed after hematoxylin and eosin staining. The cellular distribution of NF-kappa B expression during different stages of cancer development was investigated by immunohistochemistry, and the level of NF-kappa B expression in liver tissues was quantitatively analyzed by ELISA. The gene fragments of hepatic NF-kappa B were amplified by nested-polymerase chain reaction assay. RESULTS: Hepatocytes showed vacuole-like degeneration during the early stages, then had a hyperplastic nodal appearance during the middle stages, and finally progressed to tubercles of cancerous nests with high differentiation. The NF-kappa B-positive material was buff-colored, fine particles localized in the nucleus, and the incidence of NF-kappa B-positive cells was 81.8% in degeneration, 83.3% in precancerous lesions, and 100% in cancerous tissues. All of these values were higher than those in controls (P<0.01). Hepatic NF-kappa B expression and hepatic NF-kappa B-mRNA were also higher during the course of HCC development (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: The NF-kappa B signal transduction pathway is activated during the early stages of HCC development, and its abnormal expression may be associated with the occurrence of HCC.

Effects of ω-3 fatty acids on toll-like receptor 4 and nuclear factor-κB p56 in lungs of rats with severe acute pancreatitis

AIM To determine the effects of ω-3 fatty acids(ω-3FA) on the toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)/nuclear factor κB p56(NF-κBp56) signal pathway in the lungs of rats with severe acute pancreatitis(SAP).METHODS A total of 56 Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: control group, SAP-saline group, SAP-soybean oil group and SAP-ω-3FA group. SAP was induced by the retrograde infusion of sodium taurocholate into the pancreatic duct. The expression of TLR4 and NF-κBp56 in the lungs was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis. The levels of inflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in the lungs were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS The expression of TLR4 and NF-κBp56 in lungs and of inflammatory cytokines in serum significantly increased in the SAP group compared with the control group(P < 0.05), but was significantly decreased in the ω-3FA group compared with the soybean oil group at 12 and 24 h(P < 0.05).CONCLUSION During the initial stage of SAP, ω-3FA can efficiently lower the inflammatory response and reduce lung injury by triggering the TLR4/NF-κBp56 signal pathway.

CYLD deletion triggers nuclear factor-κB-signaling and increases cell death resistance in murine hepatocytes

AIM:To analyze the role of CYLD for receptor-mediated cell death of murine hepatocytes in acute liver injury models.METHODS:Hepatocyte cell death in CYLD knockout mice(CYLD-/-)was analyzed by application of liver injury models for CD95-(Jo2)and tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α-[D-Gal N/lipopolysaccharide(LPS)]induced apoptosis.Liver injury was assessed by measurement of serum transaminases and histological analysis.Apoptosis induction was quantified by cleaved PARP staining and Western blotting of activated caspases.Nuclear factor(NF)-κB,ERK,Akt and jun amino-terminal kinases signaling were assessed.Primary Hepatocytes were isolated by two step-collagenase perfusion and treated with recombinant TNF-αand with the CD95-ligand Jo2.Cell viability was analyzed by MTT-assay.RESULTS:Livers of CYLD-/-mice showed increased anti-apoptotic NF-κB signaling.In both applied liver injury models CYLD-/-mice showed a significantly reduced apoptosis sensitivity.After D-Gal N/LPS treatment CYLD-/-mice exhibited significantly lower levels of alanine aminotransferase(ALT)(295 U/L vs 859 U/L,P<0.05)and aspartate aminotransferase(AST)(560 U/L vs 1025 U/L,P<0.01).After Jo injection CYLD-/-mice showed 2-fold lower ALT(50 U/L vs 110 U/L,P<0.01)and lower AST(250 U/L vs 435 U/L,P<0.01)serumlevels compared to WT mice.In addition,isolated CYLD-/-primary murine hepatocytes(PMH)were less sensitive towards death receptor-mediated apoptosis and showed increased levels of Bcl-2,XIAP,c IAP1/2,survivin and c-FLIP expression upon TNF-and CD95-receptor triggering,respectively.Inhibition of NF-κB activation by the inhibitor of NF-κB phosphorylation inhibitor BAY 11-7085 inhibited the expression of antiapoptotic proteins and re-sensitized CYLD-/-PMH towards TNF-and CD95-receptor mediated cell death.CONCLUSION:CYLD is a central regulator of apoptotic cell death in murine hepatocytes by controlling NF-κB dependent anti-apoptotic signaling.

Effect of Ganoderma lucidum spore on expression of insulin-like growth factor-1, nuclear factor-kappa B, and neuronal apoptosis in the epileptic rat brain

BACKGROUND：It has been reported that Ganoderma lucidum spore powder, a very well known Chinese traditional medicine, can affect immunoregulation, free radical scavenging, and anti-hypoxia responses. OBJECTIVE： To investigate the effect of Ganoderma lucidum spore powder on expression of insulin-like growth factor-1 （IGF-1）, nuclear factor-κB （NF-κB） and neuronal apoptosis in rats with pentylenetetrazol （PTZ）-induced epilepsy. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING： A cellular and molecular biology experiment with randomized controlled study design was performed at the Central Laboratory of Basic Medical College of Jiamusi University from June to August 2005. MATERIALS： Thirty healthy, adult, male, Wistar rats were selected and randomly divided into 3 groups （10 rats per group）： control, epilepsy model, and Ganoderma lucidum spore powder. A sub-eclampsia PTZ dose （35 mg/kg） was intraperitoneally injected to induce epilepsy in the latter two groups. Wild Ganoderma lucidum spore powder （30 g/L） was provided by the wild Ganoderma lucidum plant nursery at Jiamusi, China. Immunohistochemical detection and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediate dUTP nick end-labeling （TUNEL） kits were purchased from Wuhan Boster Biological Technology Co., Ltd., China. METHODS： Ganoderma lucidum spore powder was intragastrically administered at a dose of 10.0 mL/kg, once a day for 28 days. In the epilepsy and control groups, an equivalent volume of normal saline was intragastrically administered. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES： Immunoreactivity for IGF-1 and NF-κB/P65 were detected by immunohistochemical staining. Neuronal apoptosis was detected using TUNEL methods. RESULTS： The hippocampus and cerebral cortex of rats with PTZ-induced epilepsy exhibited a higher number of apoptotic cells at high magnification （×400）, compared with the control group. Expression of IGF-1 and NF-κB were higher in the epilepsy group, compared with the control group （P 〈 0.01）. In Ganoderma lucidum spore-treated rats, fewer apoptotic cells were observed in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex, expression of NF-κB/P65 was lower, and immunoreactivity to IGF-1 increased more distinctly, compared with the epilepsy group. In addition, seizure latency was longer on 17, 21, and 25 days post-PTZ treatment in the Ganoderma lucidum spore powder group, compared with the epilepsy group （P 〈 0.05-0.01）. CONCLUSION： Ganoderma lucidum spore powder down-regulated expression of NF-κB in brain tissues of rats with PTZ-induced epilepsy, increased immunoreactivity to IGF-1, and inhibited neuronal apoptosis. These results indicated that Ganoderma lucidum spore powder has a neuroprotective effect.

Antidepressants can treat inflammatory bowel disease through regulation of the nuclear factor-κB/nitric oxide pathway and inhibition of cytokine production:A hypothesis

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of inflammatory disorders mainly affecting the colon and small intestine. The main types of IBD are Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). UC is restricted to the large intestine whereas CD can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract. Treating this disorder depends on the form and level of severity. Common treatment involves an anti-inflammatory drug, such as mesalazine, and an immunosuppressant, such as prednisone. Several signaling pathways, including nuclear factor (NF)-κB and nitric oxide (NO), and genetic and environmental factors are believed to play an important role in IBD. Amitriptyline is a commonly used antidepressant with known anti-inflammatory activities. Amitriptyline also acts on the NF-κB/NO pathway or cytokine production. Therefore, we hypothesize that antidepressants like amitriptyline can be pioneered and considered effective as an innovative and effective therapeutic in the treatment and attenuation of development of IBD in adjusted doses.

Iguratimod promotes transformation of mononuclear macrophages in elderly patients with rheumatoid arthritis by nuclear factor-κB pathway

BACKGROUND The role of macrophages in rheumatoid arthritis(RA)and its mechanism have attracted much attention in RA pathogenesis.Macrophages accumulate in the synoviums of RA,and the proportion of M1 type pro-inflammatory macrophages is higher than that of M2 type anti-inflammatory macrophages,leading to the secretion of inflammatory molecules and the aggravation of inflammatory reaction,which has made macrophages a potential target of RA drugs.Iguratimod is a kind of cyclo-oxygenase-2 inhibitor that affects macrophage polarity.It is speculated that its anti-inflammatory and anti-rheumatic effects may be related to the regulation of macrophage M1/M2 ratio.AIM To investigate the effects of Iguratimod on the polarity of mononuclear macrophages in elderly patients with RA.METHODS Elderly patients with RA and joint effusion were selected,including 10 men and 25 women,with an average age of 66.37±4.42 years.Patients were treated with oral administration of 25 mg Iguratimod(Iremod,State Food and Drug Administration Approval No.H20110084)twice daily for 12 wk.Disease Activity Score 28 and Health Assessment Questionnaire score were collected according to the disease severity before and after treatment.Venous blood and joint effusion fluid were collected,mononuclear macrophages were extracted and expression of cell surface markers CD86,CD64,CD163,and CD206 was analyzed by flow cytometry.The concentration of inflammatory factors interleukin(IL)-6,IL-1β,transforming growth factor-β,and IL-4 in the joint effusion fluid was analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Expression of mononuclear cells inhibitor of nuclear factor-κB(IκB)and phosphorylated IκB in peripheral blood was analyzed by western blotting.RESULTS Disease Activity Score 28 score and Health Assessment Questionnaire score of patients treated with Iguratimod decreased significantly.The percentage of cell surface markers CD86 and CD64 decreased significantly,and the percentage of CD163 and CD206 increased significantly(P<0.05).The inflammatory factors IL-6 and IL-1βdecreased significantly,and transforming growth factor-βand IL-4 increased significantly.Western blot analysis showed that mononuclear cell inhibitor of nuclear factor-κB in peripheral blood was significantly increased after treatment,and its phosphorylation level was significantly decreased(P<0.05).CONCLUSION Iguratimod can promote the transformation of mononuclear macrophages from M1 to M2 in elderly patients with RA by inhibiting the nuclear factor-κB pathway,thus improving symptoms of RA.

Effects of Ginsenoside Rg1 on nuclear factor-kappa B activity in beta amyloid protein-treated neural cells

BACKGROUND： Modern pharmacological studies have shown that Ginsenoside Rgl is one of the active components of ginseng that promote intelligence in the nervous system. Ginsenoside Rgl can improve memory and learning in mouse models of β-amyloid protein （Aβ）-induced dementia. OBJECTIVE： To investigate whether effects of Ginsenoside Rgl against Aβ are associated with activity of nuclear factor-kappa B （NF-κB）. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING： The randomized performed at the DME Center, Institute of Clinica controlled, cell biological experiment was Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, China from July 2005 to May 2006. MATERIALS： Beta-amyloid fragment 25-35 （Aβ25-35） was supplied by the Neural Biochemical Laboratory, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, China. Ginsenoside Rgl was obtained from National Institute for the Control of Pharmaceutical and Biological Products, China. Rabbit anti-rat NF-κB p65 antibody was purchased from Santa Cruz Biotechnology, USA. METHODS： Hippocampal neurons and cortical astrocytes of neonatal Sprague Dawley rats were harvested and treated with various concentrations （0, 5, 10, 20, and 40 μmol/L） of Aβ for 6, 12, and 24 hours to establish cellular models of Alzheimer＇s disease. Cellular models were pretreated with various concentrations of Ginsenoside Rgl （1,2, 4, 8, and 16 μmol/L）. According to cell morphology and activity, the following conditions were selected： 40 μmol/L Aβ for 24 hours, as well as 2, 4, and 8 μmol/L Ginsenoside Rg1. NF-κB activity was observed using immunofluorescence and cytochemical staining. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES： Morphology and viability of hippocampal neurons and cortical astrocytes, and activities of NF-κB were measured. RESULTS： Hippocampal neuron activity was significantly greater in the normal and 2 and 4 μmol/L Ginsenoside Rgl groups compared with the model group （P 〈 0.05）. Astrocyte activity was significantly greater in the normal, 1,2, 4, 8, and 16 μmol/L Ginsenoside Rgl groups compared with the model group （P 〈 0.05）. NF-κB activity of hippocampal neurons was significantly greater in the normal, 2, 4, and 8 μmol/L Ginsenoside Rgl groups compared with the model group （P 〈 0.01）. NF-κB activity of astrocytes was significantly less in the normal, 2, 4, and 8 μmol/L Ginsenoside Rgl groups compared with the model group （P 〈 0.01 or P 〈 0.05）. No significant difference in NF-κB activity was determined between the 2 μmol/L Ginsenoside Rgl and normal groups （P 〉 0.05）. CONCLUSION： Ginsenoside Rgl protected neural cells by upregulating NF-κB activity in neurons and downregulating NF-κB activity in astrocytes. Ginsenoside Rgl （2 μmol/L） maintained cell activity and NF-κB activity at normal levels.