Hesperidin ameliorates H_(2)O_(2)-induced bovine mammary epithelial cell oxidative stress via the Nrf2 signaling pathway

Background Hesperidin is a citrus flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential. However, its protective effects on bovine mammary epithelial cells(b MECs) exposed to oxidative stress have not been elucidated.Results In this study, we investigated the effects of hesperidin on H_(2)O_(2)-induced oxidative stress in b MECs and the underlying molecular mechanism. We found that hesperidin attenuated H_(2)O_(2)-induced cell damage by reducing reactive oxygen species(ROS) and malondialdehyde(MDA) levels, increasing catalase(CAT) activity, and improving cell proliferation and mitochondrial membrane potential. Moreover, hesperidin activated the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway by inducing the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and the expression of its downstream genes NQO1 and HO-1, which are antioxidant enzymes involved in ROS scavenging and cellular redox balance. The protective effects of hesperidin were blocked by the Nrf2 inhibitor ML385, indicating that they were Nrf2 dependent.Conclusions Our results suggest that hesperidin could protect b MECs from oxidative stress injury by activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway, suggesting that hesperidin as a natural antioxidant has positive potential as a feed additive or plant drug to promote the health benefits of bovine mammary.

Enhancement of porcine in vitro embryonic development through luteolin‑mediated activation of the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway

Background Oxidative stress,caused by an imbalance in the production and elimination of intracellular reactive oxygen species(ROS),has been recognized for its detrimental effects on mammalian embryonic development.Luteolin(Lut)has been documented for its protective effects against oxidative stress in various studies.However,its specific role in embryonic development remains unexplored.This study aims to investigate the influence of Lut on porcine embryonic development and to elucidate the underlying mechanism.Results After undergoing parthenogenetic activation(PA)or in vitro fertilization,embryos supplemented with 0.5μmol/L Lut displayed a significant enhancement in cleavage and blastocyst formation rates,with an increase in total cell numbers and a decrease in the apoptosis rate compared to the control.Measurements on D2 and D6 revealed that embryos with Lut supplementation had lower ROS levels and higher glutathione levels compared to the control.Moreover,Lut supplementation significantly augmented mitochondrial content and membrane potential.Intriguingly,activation of the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway was observed in embryos supplemented with Lut,leading to the upregulation of antioxidant-related gene transcription levels.To further validate the relationship between the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway and effects of Lut in porcine embryonic development,we cultured PA embryos in a medium supplemented with brusatol,with or without the inclusion of Lut.The positive effects of Lut on developmental competence were negated by brusatol treatment.Conclusions Our findings indicate that Lut-mediated activation of the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway contributes to the enhanced production of porcine embryos with high developmental competence,and offers insight into the mechanisms regulating early embryonic development.

Aszonapyrone A Isolated from Neosartorya spinosa IFM 47025 Inhibits the NF-κB Signaling Pathway Activated by Expression of the Ependymoma-Causing Fusion Protein ZFTA-RELA

Ependymoma is a rare and chemotherapy-resistant brain tumor, which has resulted in a delay in the development of drugs to treat it. A subclass of supratentorial ependymomas (ST-EPN), designated ST-EPN-zinc finger-translocation-associated (ZFTA, ST-EPN-ZFTA), exhibits the expression of a fusion protein comprising ZFTA and v-rel reticuloendotheliosis viral oncogene homolog A (RELA), an effector transcription factor of the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway (ZFTA-RELA). The expression of ZFTA-RELA results in the hyperactivation of the oncogenic NF-κB signaling pathway, which ultimately leads to the development of ST-EPN-ZFTA. To identify inhibitors of the NF-κB signaling pathway activated by the expression of ZFTA-RELA, we used a doxycycline-inducible ZFTA-RELA-expressing NF-κB reporter cell line and found that extracts of the fungus Neosartorya spinosa IFM 47025 exhibited NF-κB inhibitory activity. We identified eight compounds [aszonapyrone A (2), sartorypyrone A (3), epiheveadride (4), acetylaszonalenin (5), (R)-benzodiazepinedione (6), aszonalenin (7), sartorypyrone E (8) and (Z, Z)-N,N’-(1,2-bis[(4-methoxyphenyl)methylene]-1,2-ethanediyl)bis-formamide (9)] from N. spinosa IFM 47025 culture extract using a variety of chromatographic techniques. The structures of these compounds were identified through the analysis of various instrumental data (1D, 2D-NMR, MS, and optical rotation). The NF-κB responsive reporter assay indicated that compounds 2, 3, 5, 7, and 9 exhibited inhibitory activity. We further evaluated the inhibitory activity of these compounds against the expression of endogenous NF-κB responsive genes (CCND1, L1CAM, ICAM1, and TNF) and found that compound 2 showed significant inhibitory activity. Further studies are required to elucidate the mechanism of action of compound 2, which may serve as a lead compound for the development of a novel therapy for ST-EPN-ZFTA.

Downregulation of MUC1 Inhibits Proliferation and Promotes Apoptosis by Inactivating NF-κB Signaling Pathway in Human Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

Objective To investigate the effect of mucin 1(MUC1)on the proliferation and apoptosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma(NPC)and its regulatory mechanism.Methods The 60 NPC and paired para-cancer normal tissues were collected from October 2020 to July 2021 in Quanzhou First Hospital.The expression of MUC1 was measured by real-time quantitative PCR(qPCR)in the patients with PNC.The 5-8F and HNE1 cells were transfected with siRNA control(si-control)or siRNA targeting MUC1(si-MUC1).Cell proliferation was analyzed by cell counting kit-8 and colony formation assay,and apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry analysis in the 5-8F and HNE1 cells.The qPCR and ELISA were executed to analyze the levels of TNF-αand IL-6.Western blot was performed to measure the expression of MUC1,NFкB and apoptosis-related proteins(Bax and Bcl-2).Results The expression of MUC1 was up-regulated in the NPC tissues,and NPC patients with the high MUC1 expression were inclined to EBV infection,growth and metastasis of NPC.Loss of MUC1 restrained malignant features,including the proliferation and apoptosis,downregulated the expression of p-IкB、p-P65 and Bcl-2 and upregulated the expression of Bax in the NPC cells.Conclusion Downregulation of MUC1 restrained biological characteristics of malignancy,including cell proliferation and apoptosis,by inactivating NF-κB signaling pathway in NPC.

Reduction of the oxidative damage to H_(2)O_(2)-induced HepG2 cells via the Nrf2 signalling pathway by plant flavonoids Quercetin and Hyperoside

Hyperoside and quercetin are similar in molecular structures.In this study,the antioxidant regulatory targets of hyperoside and quercetin are mainly in the nuclear factor(erythroid-2-derived)-related factor 2(Nrf2)pathway predicted by network pharmacology.And the antioxidant effect and mechanism of hyperoside and quercetin were measured and compared in H_(2)O_(2)-induced Hep G2 cells and Caenorhabditis elegans.The findings indicated that quercetin was more effective than hyperoside in reducing oxidative damage,which was proved by improved cell viability,decreased reactive oxygen species(ROS)production,decreased cellular apoptosis,and alleviated mitochondrial damage.In addition,quercetin was more efficient than hyperoside in enhancing the expression of Nrf2-associated m RNAs,increasing the activities of superoxide dismutase(SOD),glutathione peroxidase(GSH-Px),and catalase(CAT),and reducing the cellular malondialdehyde(MDA)content.Quercetin was superior to hyperoside in prolonging the lifespan of worms,decreasing the accumulation of lipofuscin,inhibiting ROS production,and increasing the proportion of skn-1 in the nucleus.With the Nrf2 inhibitor ML385,we verified that quercetin and hyperoside primarily protected the cells against oxidative damage via the Nrf2 signalling pathway.Furthermore,molecular docking and dynamics simulations demonstrated that the quercetin-Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1(Keap1)complex was more stable than the hyperoside-Keap1 complex.The stable structure of the complex might hinder the binding of Nrf2 and Keap1 to release Nrf2 and facilitate its entry into the nucleus to play an antioxidant role.Overall,quercetin had a better antioxidant than hyperoside.

Apatinib reduces liver cancer cell multidrug resistance by modulating NF-κB signaling pathway

Objectives:This investigation aimed to elucidate the inhibitory impact of apatinib on the multidrug resistance of liver cancer both in vivo and in vitro.Methods:To establish a Hep3B/5-Fu resistant cell line,5-Fu concentrations were gradually increased in the culture media.Hep3B/5-Fu cells drug resistance and its alleviation by apatinib were confirmed via flow cytometry and Cell Counting Kit 8(CCK8)test.Further,Nuclear factor kappa B(NF-κB)siRNA was transfected into Hep3B/5-Fu cells to assess alterations in the expression of multidrug resistance(MDR)-related genes and proteins.Nude mice were injected with Hep3B/5-Fu cells to establish subcutaneous xenograft tumors and then categorized into 8 treatment groups.The treatments included oxaliplatin,5-Fu,and apatinib.In the tumor tissues,the expression of MDRrelated genes was elucidated via qRT-PCR,immunohistochemistry,and Western blot analyses.Results:The apatinibtreated mice indicated slower tumor growth with smaller size compared to the control group.Both the in vivo and in vitro investigations revealed that the apatinib-treated groups had reduced expression of MDR genes GST-pi,LRP,MDR1,and p-p65.Conclusions:Apatinib effectively suppresses MDR in human hepatic cancer cells by modulating the expression of genes related to MDR,potentially by suppressing the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Kuicolong-yu enema decoction retains traditional Chinese medicine enema attenuates inflammatory response ulcerative colitis through TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway

BACKGROUND Ulcer colitis(UC)is a chronic,nonspecific,and noninfectious inflammatory bowel disease.Recently,Toll-like receptors(TLRs)have been found to be closely associated with clinical inflammatory diseases.Achieving complete remission in patients with intermittent periods of activity followed by dormancy is challenging.Moreover,no study has explored the mechanism by which Kuicolong-yu enema decoction retains traditional Chinese medicine enemas to attenuate the inflammatory response in UC.AIM To explore the mechanism by which Kuicolong-yu enema decoction retains traditional Chinese medicine enemas to attenuate the inflammatory response in UC.METHODS This prospective clinical study included patients who met the exclusion criteria in 2020 and 2021.The patients with UC were divided into two groups(control and experimental).The peripheral blood of the experimental and control groups were collected under aseptic conditions.The expression of TLR4 protein,NF-κB,IL-6,and IL-17 was detected in the peripheral blood of patients in the experimental group and control group before and 1 month after taking the drug.Linear co rrelation analysis was used to analyze the relationship between the expression level of TLR4 protein and the expression levels of downstream signal NF-κB and inflammatory factors IL-6 and IL-17,and P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.RESULTS There were no significant differences in the patient characteristics between the control and experimental groups.The results showed that the expression levels of TLR4 and NF-κB in the experimental group were significantly lower than those in the control group(P<0.05).The levels of IL-6 and IL-17 in the experimental group were significantly lower than those in the control group(P<0.05).The TLR4 protein expression in the experimental group was positively correlated with the expression level of downstream signal NF-κB and was positively correlated with the levels of downstream inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IL-17(r=0.823,P<0.05).CONCLUSION Kuicolong-yu enema decoction retains traditional Chinese medicine enema attenuates the inflammatory response of UC through the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Calcitriol attenuates liver fibrosis through hepatitis C virus nonstructural protein 3-transactivated protein 1-mediated TGF β1/Smad3 and NF-κB signaling pathways

BACKGROUND Hepatic fibrosis is a serious condition,and the development of hepatic fibrosis can lead to a series of complications.However,the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrosis remains unclear,and effective therapy options are still lacking.Our group identified hepatitis C virus nonstructural protein 3-transactivated protein 1(NS3TP1) by suppressive subtractive hybridization and bioinformatics analysis,but its role in diseases including hepatic fibrosis remains undefined.Therefore,additional studies on the function of NS3TP1 in hepatic fibrosis are urgently needed to provide new targets for treatment.AIM To elucidate the mechanism of NS3TP1 in hepatic fibrosis and the regulatory effects of calcitriol on NS3TP1.METHODS Twenty-four male C57BL/6 mice were randomized and separated into three groups,comprising the normal,fibrosis,and calcitriol treatment groups,and liver fibrosis was modeled by carbon tetrachloride(CCl4).To evaluate the level of hepatic fibrosis in every group,serological and pathological examinations of the liver were conducted.TGF-β1 was administered to boost the in vitro cultivation of LX-2 cells.NS3TP1,α-smooth muscle actin(α-SMA),collagen I,and collagen Ⅲ in every group were examined using a Western blot and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction.The activity of the transforming growth factor beta 1(TGFβ1)/Smad3 and NF-κB signaling pathways in each group of cells transfected with pcDNA-NS3TP1 or siRNA-NS3TP1 was detected.The statistical analysis of the data was performed using the Student’s t test.RESULTS NS3TP1 promoted the activation,proliferation,and differentiation of hepatic stellate cells(HSCs)and enhanced hepatic fibrosis via the TGFβ1/Smad3 and NF-κB signaling pathways,as evidenced by the presence of α-SMA,collagen I,collagen Ⅲ,p-smad3,and p-p65 in LX-2 cells,which were upregulated after NS3TP1 overexpression and downregulated after NS3TP1 interference.The proliferation of HSCs was lowered after NS3TP1 interference and elevated after NS3TP1 overexpression,as shown by the luciferase assay.NS3TP1 inhibited the apoptosis of HSCs.Moreover,both Smad3 and p65 could bind to NS3TP1,and p65 increased the promoter activity of NS3TP1,while NS3TP1 increased the promoter activity of TGFβ1 receptor I,as indicated by coimmunoprecipitation and luciferase assay results.Both in vivo and in vitro,treatment with calcitriol dramatically reduced the expression of NS3TP1.Calcitriol therapy-controlled HSCs activation,proliferation,and differentiation and substantially suppressed CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice.Furthermore,calcitriol modulated the activities of the above signaling pathways via downregulation of NS3TP1.CONCLUSION Our results suggest that calcitriol may be employed as an adjuvant therapy for hepatic fibrosis and that NS3TP1 is a unique,prospective therapeutic target in hepatic fibrosis.

基于NF-κB与NRF2/ARE通路探索紫杉醇-比伐卢定介入涂层抗血管再狭窄的有效性及分子机制

目的明确紫杉醇-比伐卢定介入涂层(Luo Fengning,LFN)对管腔再狭窄的影响及分子机制。方法体内动物实验分组:WT假手术组、WT血管拉伤组、NRF2-/-血管拉伤组、NF-κB-/-血管拉伤组、WT血管拉伤+LFN干预组、NRF2-/-血管拉伤+LFN干预组、NF-κB-/-血管拉伤+LFN干预组;体外细胞实验分组:第一批分组:Control组、LPS造模组、LPS+LFN组、LPS+LFN+NF-κB敲减组、LPS+LFN+IκB敲减组、LPS+LFN+NF-κB过表达组、LPS+LFN+IκB过表达组。第二批分组:Control组、LPS造模组、LPS+LFN组、LPS+LFN+NRF2敲减组、LPS+LFN+Keap1敲减组、LPS+LFN+NRF2过表达组、LPS+LFN+Keap1过表达组。采用HE染色法检测血管组织病理变化、免疫荧光染色检测血管组织增殖活性、CCK-8法检测细胞增殖率、Transwell法检测细胞迁移和侵袭能力、Q-PCR和Western blot法测定血管组织和细胞中NF-κB与NRF2/ARE通路关键靶标及配体的基因和蛋白表达。结果LFN对血管拉伤模型大鼠的血管内膜增生过程具有显著抑制作用,可在有效阻断管腔再狭窄的同时拮抗血栓形成。与WT血管拉伤组相比,LFN干预后可上调IκB、NRF2、NQO-1和HO-1基因与蛋白表达(P<0.05,P<0.01),下调Keap-1基因和蛋白表达量(P<0.05,P<0.01),此调控作用在NRF2-/-突变型大鼠中可被逆转。NF-κB、NRF2及其配体敲减或过表达可影响LFN对HCASMC模型迁移和侵袭能力的拮抗作用,并可不同程度削弱其对细胞内NF-κB与NRF2/ARE通路关键蛋白和基因表达的调控能力。结论LFN抗血管再狭窄具备体内应用有效性,该效应的部分机制是LFN通过对NF-κB和NRF2/ARE通路上核转录因子及其关键配体的表达进行双通道正反两个方向的统一调控而实现。

青藤碱调节GSK3β/Nrf2/HO-1及NF-κB信号通路对帕金森病小鼠的神经保护作用

目的基于GSK3β/Nrf2/HO-1及NF-κB信号通路探讨青藤碱(Sinomenine,SIN)对帕金森病(Parkinson’s disease,PD)小鼠的干预作用及机制。方法将C57BL/6小鼠,随机分为6组:正常组、模型组、阳性药组(左旋多巴,75 mg·kg^(-1))及青藤碱低、中、高剂量组(20、40、80 mg·kg^(-1)),每组8只。腹腔注射20 mg·kg^(-1)1-甲基-4-苯基-1,2,3,6-四氢吡啶(MPTP),每天1次,共造模5 d。在注射MPTP后1 h进行灌胃给药,每天1次,共12 d。在给药第11天对小鼠进行爬杆实验,第12天进行转棒实验,测试小鼠行为学变化。采用ELISA法检测血清肿瘤坏死因子α(TNF-α)、白细胞介素1β(IL-1β)、IL-6含量;RT-qPCR法检测脑组织中TNF-α、IL-1β、IL-6 mRNA表达水平;Western Blot法检测脑组织中TH、Nrf2、HO-1、p-GSK3β、GSK3β、p-IκB、IκB、p-NF-κB、NF-κB蛋白表达水平。结果与正常组比较,模型组小鼠的自动转身潜伏期(T-turn)明显延长(P<0.05),掉落次数显著增多(P<0.001);脑组织中TH蛋白表达水平显著降低(P<0.01),IL-1β、TNF-α、IL-6 mRNA表达水平显著升高(P<0.001);血清TNF-α、IL-1β、IL-6水平明显升高(P<0.05,P<0.01);脑组织中p-GSK3β/GSK3β、Nrf2、HO-1蛋白表达水平显著降低(P<0.05,P<0.001),p-IκB/IκB、p-NF-κB/NF-κB蛋白表达比值显著升高(P<0.001)。与模型组比较,青藤碱中、高剂量组小鼠的T-turn明显缩短(P<0.05,P<0.001),掉落潜伏期明显延长(P<0.05,P<0.01),掉落次数显著减少(P<0.001),脑组织中TH蛋白表达水平显著升高(P<0.01,P<0.001),血清TNF-α水平明显降低(P<0.05);各给药组小鼠脑组织中IL-1β、TNF-α、IL-6 mRNA表达水平均显著降低(P<0.001),血清IL-1β、IL-6水平显著降低(P<0.01,P<0.001),脑组织中p-GSK3β/GSK3β、Nrf2、HO-1蛋白表达水平显著升高(P<0.05,P<0.01,P<0.001),p-IκB/IκB、p-NF-κB/NF-κB蛋白表达比值显著降低(P<0.001)。结论青藤碱可通过调节帕金森病小鼠脑内GSK3β/Nrf2/HO-1和NF-κB通路,增强抗氧化应激能力和抑制神经炎症,从而发挥神经保护作用。

宁泌泰胶囊通过调节Nrf2和NF-κB信号通路减轻慢性前列腺炎/慢性盆腔疼痛综合征大鼠的症状

目的:评价宁泌泰胶囊治疗大鼠慢性前列腺炎/慢性盆腔疼痛综合征(CP/CPPS)的疗效及机制。方法:6~8周龄雄性Wistar大鼠15只,将大鼠随机分为假手术组、模型组对照组和宁泌泰治疗组,每组5只。假手术组大鼠前列腺腹叶处注射无菌PBS,术后第2天起施用纯净水灌胃(3 ml/d);模型对照组大鼠前列腺腹叶处注射50μl完全弗氏佐剂(CFA),术后第2天起施用纯净水灌胃(3 ml/d);宁泌泰治疗组大鼠前列腺腹叶处注射50μl CFA,术后第2天起施用3 ml宁泌泰[400 mg/(kg·d)]混悬液灌胃。4周后处死大鼠获取血清和前列腺组织样本,通过HE染色采用慢性前列腺炎的组织病理学分级系统评估前列腺炎的严重程度,通过实时定量PCR检测组织炎症因子的mRNA表达水平,通过试剂盒检测相关抗氧化酶活力,通过Western印迹实验检测信号通路相关靶点的表达水平。结果:组织形态学分析发现模型对照组间质有不同程度的炎性细胞浸润、炎性空泡、不规则状腺泡及水肿表现,与假手术组相比炎症评分显著增加(P<0.05),宁泌泰治疗组中浸润淋巴细胞和炎性空泡减少,与模型对照组相比炎症评分显著降低(P<0.05);与假手术组相比,模型对照组中炎症因子相关基因IL-1β、IL-6、IL-10、IL-17A、TNFα、IFNγ mRNA表达水平显著上调(P<0.05),超氧化物歧化酶(SOD)、过氧化氢酶(CAT)、谷胱甘肽过氧化物酶(GSH-Px)含量显著降低(P<0.05),丙二醛(MDA)表达水平显著升高(P<0.05);经过宁泌泰治疗后与模型对照组相比,宁泌泰治疗组中炎症因子相关基因IL-1β、IL-6、IL-10、IL-17A、TNFα、IFNγ mRNA表达水平显著降低(P<0.05),SOD、CAT、GSH-Px含量显著升高(P<0.05),MDA表达水平显著降低(P<0.05),核因子红系2相关因子2 (n-Nrf2)、血红素氧合酶1 (HO-1)的表达显著上调(P<0.05),NF-κB p-p65的表达显著下调(P<0.05)。结论:宁泌泰能够在大鼠CP/CPPS的发病机制中发挥抗炎和抗氧化应激作用,其机制可能通过激活Nrf2和抑制NF-κB信号通路实现。

血根碱通过调控Nrf2/NF-κB通路缓解小鼠溃疡性结肠炎

目的探讨血根碱(SA)对葡聚糖硫酸钠(DSS)诱导的溃疡性结肠炎(UC)的作用机制。方法随机将56只雄性C57BL/6小鼠分为空白对照组、模型组(DSS组)、SA低剂量组(DSS+SA-L,SA 1 mg/kg)、SA中剂量组(DSS+SA-M,SA 5 mg/kg)、SA高剂量组(DSS+SA-H,SA 10 mg/kg)、柳氮磺吡啶组(DSS+SASP,SASP 400 mg/kg)、SA高剂量组+Nrf2抑制剂ML385组(DSS+SA-H+ML385,SA 10 mg/kg+ML38530 mg/kg),8只/组。除空白对照组外,均采用3.5%DSS诱导建立UC模型,SA干预组和柳氮磺吡啶组给与对应药物灌胃治疗,通路抑制剂组SA 10 mg/kg灌胃同时腹腔注射ML38530 mg/kg。通过监测小鼠体质量变化、疾病活动指数(DAI)评分、结肠长度测量、HE染色评估小鼠炎症;检测结肠组织中活性氧(ROS)水平;比色法检测结肠组织中丙二醛含量(MDA);RT-qPCR检测结肠组织中炎性因子;Western blotting法检测结肠组织中核因子E2相关因子2(Nrf2)、血红素加氧酶1(HO-1)、Kelch样环氧氯丙烷相关蛋白1(Keap-1)、磷酸化p65蛋白(p-p65)、p65、紧密连接蛋白(occludin、ZO-1)蛋白表达。结果与DSS组相比,SA治疗可缓解DSS组小鼠体质量下降、结肠长度缩短、DAI评分升高(P<0.05)。HE染色显示,DSS组结肠腺体结构破坏,SA可明显改善结肠隐窝结构。RT-qPCR显示,SA干预组结肠组织中TNF-α、IL-1β和IL-6水平下降(P<0.05),ROS、MDA下降(P<0.05)。Western blotting结果显示,结肠组织中Nrf2、HO-1、occludin、ZO-1蛋白表达上升(P<0.05),Keap-1、p-p65蛋白表达下降(P<0.05),p65无明显变化(P>0.05),且DSS+SA-L、DSS+SA-M、DSS+SA-H组各指标变化呈剂量依赖性。Nrf2通路抑制剂ML385降低高剂量组SA对UC小鼠结肠黏膜的改善作用。结论SA可改善UC样小鼠肠炎,作用机制可能与激活Nrf2通路,抑制Nrf2介导的NF-κB通路有关。

红花提取物通过调控Nrf2/STAT3/NF-κB信号通路对酒精性肝病的作用机制研究

目的探讨红花提取物(Carthamus tinctorius L.extract,CTLE)对乙醇诱导的酒精性肝病小鼠氧化应激和炎症水平的影响及其作用机制。方法SPF级C57BL/6雄性小鼠随机分为4组:对照组、模型组、红花提取物低剂量组(50 mg·kg^(-1))、红花提取物高剂量组(100 mg·kg^(-1))。对照组给予Lieber-Decarli液体饲料,其他组给予Lieber-Decarli酒精饲料构建小鼠慢性酒精性肝损伤模型。收集小鼠血清和肝组织,检测小鼠血清生化指标。通过HE和油红O染色观察小鼠肝组织病理变化。qRT-PCR和Western Blot法检测Keap1/Nrf2和STAT3/NF-κB通路相关因子的mRNA和蛋白表达水平。结果与模型组比较,给药组丙氨酸转氨酶(ALT)、天冬氨酸转氨酶(AST)、低密度脂蛋白胆固醇(LDL-C)、丙二醛(MDA)的水平明显降低(P<0.05,P<0.01),而高密度脂蛋白胆固醇(HDL-C)、超氧化物歧化酶(SOD)和谷胱甘肽(GSH)的水平明显升高(P<0.05,P<0.01),表明红花提取物对小鼠酒精性肝损伤具有一定的保护和抗氧化作用;HE染色和油红O染色观察到小鼠肝脏病变和脂质沉积有所改善。并且通过激活Keap1/Nrf2通路相关抗氧化因子的mRNA和蛋白表达水平,抑制STAT3/NF-κB通路及相关炎症因子的mRNA和蛋白表达水平(P<0.05,P<0.01),从而增强机体的抗氧化和抗炎作用。结论红花提取物可以通过调节Keap1/Nrf2和STAT3/NF-κB信号通路发挥抗氧化应激和抗炎作用,减轻小鼠的酒精性肝损伤,为治疗酒精性肝病和后续分子机制研究提供新的思路。

基于Nrf2/HO-1和NF-κB信号通路探讨羟基酪醇对环磷酰胺诱导的卵巢储备功能不足小鼠的影响

目的探讨羟基酪醇(HT)对环磷酰胺(CTX)诱导的卵巢储备功能不足(DOR)小鼠卵巢损伤的影响及其改善DOR小鼠卵巢功能的作用机制。方法将40只7~8周龄的雌性C57BL/6L小鼠随机分为对照组、模型组(CTX组)、HT低剂量实验组(CTX+L-HT组,50 mg·kg^(-1)·d^(-1))以及HT高剂量实验组(CTX+H-HT组,100 mg·kg^(-1)·d^(-1)),每组10只。腹腔注射CTX(50 mg·kg^(-1)·d^(-1))建立DOR小鼠模型,采用HE染色观察小鼠卵巢组织形态学变化及各级卵泡数量,酶联免疫吸附法(ELISA)测定小鼠血清中性激素、氧化应激因子指标和炎性因子指标,通过Western blot检测卵巢组织中Nrf2、HO-1、p-NF-κB以及NF-κB蛋白表达水平。结果与对照组相比,CTX组各级卵泡数量显著减少,而闭锁卵泡数量显著增加(P<0.05),颗粒细胞层减少,黄体减少,血清中FSH、LH的水平显著升高(P<0.05),雌二醇(E_(2))和抗苗勒管激素(AMH)的水平显著降低(P<0.05);CTX组卵巢组织中超氧化物歧化酶(SOD)、过氧化氢酶(CAT)以及谷胱甘肽过氧化物酶(GSH-Px)活性均显著降低(P<0.05),而丙二醛(MDA)含量显著增加(P<0.05),卵巢组织中促炎因子水平(TNF-α、IL-6及IL-1β)显著增加(P<0.05),而抗炎因子(IL-10)水平显著减少(P<0.05),卵巢组织中Nrf2和HO-1蛋白表达量显著减少(P<0.05),而p-NF-κB/NF-κB蛋白表达水平比率显著增加(P<0.05)。与CTX组相比,CTX+L-HT组和CTX+H-HT组各级卵泡数目均显著增加(P<0.05),而闭锁卵泡数目均显著减少(P<0.05),小鼠血清中FSH、LH水平均显著减少(P<0.05),而E_(2)和AMH水平均显著增加(P<0.05);其次,CTX+L-HT组和CTX+H-HT组卵巢组织中SOD、CAT以及GSH-Px活性均显著增加(P<0.05),MDA含量显著减少(P<0.05),卵巢组织中促炎因子水平显著减少(P<0.05),而抗炎因子水平显著增加(P<0.05),小鼠卵巢组织中Nrf2和HO-1蛋白表达量均显著增加(P<0.05),而p-NF-κB/NF-κB蛋白表达水平比率均显著减少(P<0.05)。与CTX+L-HT组相比,CTX+H-HT组IL-10水平显著增加(P<0.05)。结论羟基酪醇对DOR小鼠卵巢损伤具有保护功能,其机制可能与激活Nrf2/HO-1信号通路、抑制NF-κB信号通路以及减少氧化应激和炎症反应有关。

Involvement of ayu NOD2 in NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways: Insights into functional conservation of NOD2 in antibacterial innate immunity

Nucleotide oligomerization domain 2(NOD2) is a major cytoplasmic sensor for pathogens and is critical for the clearance of cytosolic bacteria in mammals.However, studies regarding NOD2, especially the initiated signaling pathways, are scarce in teleost species. In this study, we identified a NOD2 molecule(PaNOD2) from ayu(Plecoglossus altivelis).Bioinformatics analysis showed the structure of NOD2 to be highly conserved during vertebrate evolution. Dual-luciferase reporter assays examined the activation of NF-κB signaling and Western blotting analysis detected the phosphorylation of three MAP kinases(p-38, Erk1/2, and JNK1/2).Functional study revealed that, like its mammalian counterparts, PaNOD2 was the receptor of the bacterial cell wall component muramyl dipeptide(MDP), and the leucine-rich repeat motif was responsible for the recognition and binding of Pa NOD2 with the ligand. Overexpression of PaNOD2 activated the NF-κB signaling pathway, leading to the upregulation of inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α and IL-1β in HEK293 T cells and ayu head kidney-derived monocytes/macrophages(MO/MΦ).Particularly, we found that PaNOD2 activated the MAPK signaling pathways, as indicated by the increased phosphorylation of p-38, Erk1/2, and JNK1/2, which have not been characterized in any teleost species previously. Our findings proved that the NOD2 molecule and initiated pathways are conserved between mammals and ayu. Therefore, ayu could be used as an animal model to investigate NOD2-based diseases and therapeutic applications.

Immunoregulatory polysaccharides from Apocynum venetum L.flowers stimulate phagocytosis and cytokine expression via activating the NF-κB/MAPK signaling pathways in RAW264.7 cells

Two immunomodulatory polysaccharides(Vp2a-Ⅱ and Vp3) were isolated and identified from Apocynum venetum L. flowers, and their innate immune-stimulating functions and working mechanisms were evaluated in RAW264.7 cells. Both the level of released nitric oxide(NO) and expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase(iNOS) m RNA were significantly enhanced in the RAW264.7 macrophages cells treated by Vp2a-Ⅱ and Vp3. Vp2a-Ⅱ(100–800 μg/m L) and Vp3(400 μg/mL) could significantly increase the phagocytic activity of RAW264.7 cells and the secretion and m RNA expression of TNF-α and IL-6 in a concentrationdependent manner through affecting mitogen-activated protein kinase(MAPK) activity and nuclear factor κB(NF-κB) nuclear translocation. Vp2a-Ⅱ might activate the MAPK signaling pathways and induce the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65, whilst Vp3 likely activated the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways without influencing the p38 MAPK route.

Acupuncture at Back-Shu point improves insomnia by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the ERK/NF-κB signaling pathway

BACKGROUND Insomnia is a disease where individuals cannot maintain a steady and stable sleep state or fail to fall asleep.Western medicine mainly uses sedatives and hypnotic drugs to treat insomnia,and long-term use is prone to drug resistance and other adverse reactions.Acupuncture has a good curative effect and unique advantages in the treatment of insomnia.AIM To explore the molecular mechanism of acupuncture at Back-Shu point for the treatment of insomnia.METHODS We first prepared a rat model of insomnia,and then carried out acupuncture for 7 consecutive days.After treatment,the sleep time and general behavior of the rats were determined.The Morris water maze test was used to assess the learning ability and spatial memory ability of the rats.The expression levels of inflammatory cytokines in serum and the hippocampus were detected by ELISA.qRTPCR was used to detect the mRNA expression changes in the ERK/NF-κB signaling pathway.Western blot and immunohistochemistry were carried out to evaluate the protein expression levels of RAF-1,MEK-2,ERK1/2 and NF-κB.RESULTS Acupuncture can prolong sleep duration,and improve mental state,activity,diet volume,learning ability and spatial memory.In addition,acupuncture increased the release of 1L-1β,1L-6 and TNF-αin serum and the hippocampus and inhibited the mRNA and protein expression of the ERK/NF-κB signaling pathway.CONCLUSION These findings suggest that acupuncture at Back-Shu point can inhibit the ERK/NF-κB signaling pathway and treat insomnia by increasing the release of inflammatory cytokines in the hippocampus.

Flavone improves liver damage in nicotine-exposed rats via the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway

Objective:To assess the hepatoprotective effects of flavone on nicotine-induced liver damage.Methods:Thirty-six rats were allocated into six groups:the control group,the nicotine group,the flavone alone groups(10 and 25 mg/kg/body weight),and the nicotine groups treated with flavone(10 and 25 mg/kg/body weight).Liver function,oxidative stress,Nrf2 pathway(HO-1,Nrf2,and Keap-1),and inflammatory markers(IL-17,TNF-α,and NF-κB)were evaluated.Additionally,a histopathological examination of liver tissues was performed.Results:Nicotine increased liver damage,inflammation,and oxidative stress.However,flavone suppressed nicotine-induced liver enzymes,oxidative stress,and inflammation,as manifested by increased antioxidants and decreased malondialdehyde level,liver enzymatic activities,and inflammatory markers.Flavone(10 and 25 mg/kg/body weight)also reduced the level of Keap-1 and increased HO-1 and Nrf2 levels in the liver of nicotine-exposed rats.Conclusions:Flavone has hepatoprotective properties and may slow the progression of liver injury by reducing oxidative stress,liver enzymes,and inflammation possibly via the Nrf2 pathway.

Capsosiphon fulvescens suppresses LPS-stimulated inflammatory responses by suppressing TLR4/NF-κB activation in RAW264.7 murine macrophages

Objective:To evaluate the effects of Capsosiphon fulvescens(C.fulvescens)ethanolic extract on inflammation in lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced RAW296.7 macrophages.Methods:The protective effects of C.fulvescens ethanolic extract on LPS-induced inflammation in RAW264.7 macrophages were assessed using biochemical analysis,including enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay,quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction,and Western blot analysis.To examine reactive oxygen species(ROS)production,flow cytometry analysis,and immunofluorescence staining were used.Furthermore,the modulatory effect of C.fulvescens ethanolic extract on NF-κB activation was investigated.Results:C.fulvescens ethanolic extract significantly attenuated LPS-induced levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and notably reduced the secretion and mRNA levels of LPS-mediated matrix metalloproteinases.In addition,C.fulvescens ethanolic extract decreased ROS production and suppressed the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.Conclusions:C.fulvescens ethanolic extract alleviates inflammation as well as oxidative stress by modulating the TLR4/NF-κB signaling in LPS-induced RAW264.7 macrophages.C.fulvescens can be used as a potential therapeutic agent to suppress inflammation and oxidative stress-associated diseases.

β-arrestin 2 attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced liver injury via inhibition of TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathwaymediated inflammation in mice

AIM To study the role and the possible mechanism of β-arrestin 2 in lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced liver injury in vivo and in vitro.METHODS Male β-arrestin 2^(+/+) and β-arrestin 2^(-/-)C57 BL/6 J mice were used for in vivo experiments, and the mouse macrophage cell line RAW264.7 was used for in vitro experiments. The animal model was established via intraperitoneal injection of LPS or physiological sodium chloride solution. Blood samples and liver tissues were collected to analyze liver injury and levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Cultured cell extracts were collected to analyze the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and expression of key molecules involved in the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.RESULTS Compared with wild-type mice, the β-arrestin 2 knockout mice displayed more severe LPS-induced liver injury and significantly higher levels of proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin(IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α, and IL-10. Compared with the control group, pro-inflammatory cytokines(including IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10) produced by RAW264.7 cells in the β-arrestin 2 si RNA group were significantly increased at 6 h after treatment with LPS. Further, key molecules involved in the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway, including phosphoIκBα and phosho-p65, were upregulated.CONCLUSION β-arrestin 2 can protect liver tissue from LPS-induced injury via inhibition of TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathwaymediated inflammation.