●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 tre...●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.展开更多
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease featured by patches on the skin.It is caused by malfunction of immune cells and keratinocytes with inflammation as one of its key features.Apigenin(API)is a natural flavonoid ...Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease featured by patches on the skin.It is caused by malfunction of immune cells and keratinocytes with inflammation as one of its key features.Apigenin(API)is a natural flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties.Therefore,we speculated that API can ameliorate psoriasis,and determined its effect on the development of psoriasis by using imiquimod(IMQ)-induced psoriasis mouse model.Our results showed that API attenuated IMQ-induced phenotypic changes,such as erythema,scaling and epidermal thickening,and improved splenic hyperplasia.Abnormal differentiation of immune cells was restored in API-treated mice.Mechanistically,we revealed that API is a key regulator of signal transducer activator of transcription 3(STAT3).API regulated immune responses by reducing interleukin-23(IL-23)/STAT3/IL-17A axis.Moreover,it suppressed IMQ-caused cell hyperproliferation by inactivating STAT3 through regulation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 and nuclear factor-κB(NF-κB)pathway.Furthermore,API reduced expression of inflammatory cytokines through inactivation of NF-κB.Taken together,our study demonstrates that API can ameliorate psoriasis and may be considered as a strategy for psoriasis treatment.展开更多
BACKGROUND Jianpi Gushen Huayu Decoction(JPGS)has been used to clinically treat diabetic nephropathy(DN)for many years.However,the protective mechanism of JPGS in treating DN remains unclear.AIM To evaluate the therap...BACKGROUND Jianpi Gushen Huayu Decoction(JPGS)has been used to clinically treat diabetic nephropathy(DN)for many years.However,the protective mechanism of JPGS in treating DN remains unclear.AIM To evaluate the therapeutic effects and the possible mechanism of JPGS on DN.METHODS We first evaluated the therapeutic potential of JPGS on a DN mouse model.We then investigated the effect of JPGS on the renal metabolite levels of DN mice using non-targeted metabolomics.Furthermore,we examined the effects of JPGS on c-Jun N-terminal kinase(JNK)/P38-mediated apoptosis and the inflammatory responses mediated by toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)/nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)/NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3(NLRP3).RESULTS The ameliorative effects of JPGS on DN mice included the alleviation of renal injury and the control of inflammation and oxidative stress.Untargeted metabolomic analysis revealed that JPGS altered the metabolites of the kidneys in DN mice.A total of 51 differential metabolites were screened.Pathway analysis results indicated that nine pathways significantly changed between the control and model groups,while six pathways significantly altered between the model and JPGS groups.Pathways related to cysteine and methionine metabolism;alanine,tryptophan metabolism;aspartate and glutamate metabolism;and riboflavin metabolism were identified as the key pathways through which JPGS affects DN.Further experimental validation showed that JPGS treatment reduced the expression of TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathways and JNK/P38 pathway-mediated apoptosis related factors.CONCLUSION JPGS could markedly treat mice with streptozotocin(STZ)-induced DN,which is possibly related to the regulation of several metabolic pathways found in kidneys.Furthermore,JPGS could improve kidney inflammatory responses and ameliorate kidney injuries in DN mice via the TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway and inhibit JNK/P38 pathwaymediated apoptosis in DN mice.展开更多
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by cognitive decline and chronic inflammation within the brain.The ketogenic diet,a widely recognized therapeutic intervention for refractor...Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by cognitive decline and chronic inflammation within the brain.The ketogenic diet,a widely recognized therapeutic intervention for refractory epilepsy,has recently been proposed as a potential treatment for a variety of neurological diseases,including Alzheimer's disease.However,the efficacy of ketogenic diet in treating Alzheimer's disease and the underlying mechanism remains unclear.The current investigation aimed to explore the effect of ketogenic diet on cognitive function and the underlying biological mechanisms in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.Male amyloid precursor protein/presenilin 1(APP/PS1)mice were randomly assigned to either a ketogenic diet or control diet group,and received their respective diets for a duration of 3 months.The findings show that ketogenic diet administration enhanced cognitive function,attenuated amyloid plaque formation and proinflammatory cytokine levels in APP/PS1 mice,and augmented the nuclear factor-erythroid 2-p45 derived factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 signaling pathway while suppressing the nuclear factor-kappa B pathway.Collectively,these data suggest that ketogenic diet may have a therapeutic potential in treating Alzheimer's disease by ameliorating the neurotoxicity associated with Aβ-induced inflammation.This study highlights the urgent need for further research into the use of ketogenic diet as a potential therapy for Alzheimer's disease.展开更多
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 malignanc...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)展开更多
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 i...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.展开更多
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 i...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.展开更多
We have observed earlier that testosterone at physiological concentrations can stimulate tissue factor pathway inhibitor(TFPI)gene expression through the androgen receptor in endothelial cells.This study further inves...We have observed earlier that testosterone at physiological concentrations can stimulate tissue factor pathway inhibitor(TFPI)gene expression through the androgen receptor in endothelial cells.This study further investigated the impact of testosterone on TFPI levels in response to inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α).Cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells were incubated in the presence or absence of testosterone or TNF-α.TFPI protein and mRNA levels were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.To study the cellular mechanism of testosterone’s action,nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)translocation was confirmed by electrophoretic mobility shift assays.We found that after NF-κB was activated by TNF-α,TFPI protein levels declined significantly by 37.3%compared with controls(P<0.001),and the mRNA levels of TFPI also decreased greatly(P<0.001).A concentration of 30 nmol L-1 testosterone increased the secretion of TFPI compared with the TNF-α-treated group.NF-κB DNA-binding activity was significantly suppressed by testosterone(P<0.05).This suggests that physiological testosterone concentrations may exert their antithrombotic effects on TFPI expression during inflammation by downregulating NF-κB activity.展开更多
Previous studies have confirmed that the anti-virus effects of Shuanghuanglian injection may be associated with nuclear factor-kappa B activity. This study observed nuclear factor-kappa B expression in mice with viral...Previous studies have confirmed that the anti-virus effects of Shuanghuanglian injection may be associated with nuclear factor-kappa B activity. This study observed nuclear factor-kappa B expression in mice with viral encephalitis, and showed significant decreases in nuclear factor-kappa B protein and mRNA levels following Shuanghuanglian injection. The inhibitory effect was more significant with prolonged intervention duration and increased treatment dose. These findings verify that Shuanghuanglian injection plays a therapeutic role in viral encephalitis by reducing expression of nuclear factor-kappa B in a time- and dose-dependent manner.展开更多
A mouse model of viral encephalitis was induced by intracranial injection of a Coxsackie virus B3 suspension. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR and western blot assay were applied to detect mRNA and pro...A mouse model of viral encephalitis was induced by intracranial injection of a Coxsackie virus B3 suspension. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR and western blot assay were applied to detect mRNA and protein expression of intelectin-2 and nuclear factor-kappa B in the viral encephalitis and control groups. Nuclear factor-kappa B and intelectin-2 mRNA and protein expression were significantly increased in mice with viral encephalitis. After intraperitoneal injection of Shuanghuanglian at a dose of 1.5 mg/kg for 5 successive days, intelectin-2 and nuclear factor-kappa B protein and mRNA expression were significantly decreased. To elucidate the relationship between intelectin-2 and nuclear factor-kappa B, mice with viral encephalitis were administered an intracerebral injection of 107 pfu recombinant lentivirus expressing intelectin shRNA. Both protein and mRNA levels of intelectin and nuclear factor-kappa B in brain tissue of mice were significantly decreased. Experimental findings suggest that Shuanghuanglian injection may downregulate nuclear factor-kappa B production via suppression of intelectin production, thus inhibiting inflammation associated with viral encephalitis.展开更多
Objective: To explore the underlying molecular mechanisms of cellular response to the challenge by 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+)-induced apoptosis of PC12 cells, an in vitro cell model for Parkinson’s disease, a...Objective: To explore the underlying molecular mechanisms of cellular response to the challenge by 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+)-induced apoptosis of PC12 cells, an in vitro cell model for Parkinson’s disease, and the effect of NF-κB activation on the protection of Parkinson’s disease by Isoflavone (I). Methods: PC12 cells were used to establish the cell model of Parkinson’s disease, and are divided into five groups: control group;MPP+ group;I (Isoflavone) + MPP+ group;I group;SN-50 + MPP+ group. The content of NF-κB in PC12 cells was determined by immunocytochemistry;The viability of PC12 cells after treated with cell-permeable NF-κB inhibitor SN-50 and cell viability were measured by MTT assay;the expression levels of NF-κB p65 in cytoplasm and nuclear fractions were evaluated by western blot analysis;the mRNA expression of NF-κB p65 was analyzed by in situ hybridization (ISH). Results: Compared with the control group, the protein of NF-κB p65 both in cytoplasm and in nuclei was significantly higher than in I + MPP+ and MPP+ groups;similarly, the mRNA expression level of NF-κB p65 gene was also significantly higher;moreover, the protein expression of NF-κB p65 was much lower in I group (P + group, the protein of NF-κB p65 was significantly lower in I + MPP+ group, the mRNA expression level of NF-κB p65 gene was also significantly lower, and the protein expression level of NF-κB p65 was much lower in I + MPP+ group (P + group (P > 0.05). Conclusion: NF-κB activation is essential to MPP+-induced apoptosis in PC12 cells;but Isoflavone can inhibit the cell damage to some extent to execute its protective function, which may be involved in nigral neurodegeneration in patients with Parkinson’s disease.展开更多
The effects of five chito-oligomers, from dimer to hexamer （chitobiose, chitotriose, chitotetraose, chitopentaose, chitohexaose） separated from chitosan oligosaccharides, on nuclear factor -kappaB （NF-rd3） signali...The effects of five chito-oligomers, from dimer to hexamer （chitobiose, chitotriose, chitotetraose, chitopentaose, chitohexaose） separated from chitosan oligosaccharides, on nuclear factor -kappaB （NF-rd3） signaling pathway were investigated by using luciferase assay and laser scanning microscopy. The expression of NF-rd3 downstream genes （cyclin DI, TNFa and IL-6） were tested by real time PCR. We found that all five chitosan oligosaccharides increased NF-KB-dependent luciferase gene expression and NF-KB downstream genes transcription, and the most significant were chitotetraose and chitohexaose. In addition, laser scanning microscopy experiments showed that chitotetraose and chitohexaose also activated the p65 subunite of NF-kB translocating from cytoplasm to nucleus, which suggested that they were the most potent activators of NF-kB signaling pathway.展开更多
BACKGROUND： It has been reported that nuclear factor-kappa B （NF- κB）, activated after spinal cord injury in rats, plays a key role in inflammatory responses in the central nervous system. OBJECTIVE： To investiga...BACKGROUND： It has been reported that nuclear factor-kappa B （NF- κB）, activated after spinal cord injury in rats, plays a key role in inflammatory responses in the central nervous system. OBJECTIVE： To investigate the effects of transplantation of microencapsulated rabbit sciatic nerve on NF- κB expression and motor function after spinal cord injury in rats, and to compare the results with the transplantation of rabbit sciatic nerve alone. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING： This completely randomized, controlled study was performed at the Department of Neurobiology, Medical College of Nanchang University between December 2007 and July 2008. MATERIALS： A rabbit anti-NF- κB P65 monoclonal antibody was made by the Santa Cruz Company, USA and a streptavidin peroxidase immunohistochemical kit was provided by the Sequoia Company, China. METHODS： Eight rabbits were used to prepare a sciatic nerve cell suspension that was divided into two parts： one stored for transplantation, and the other mixed with a 1.5% sodium alginate solution. One hundred and twenty adult Sprague Dawley rats weighing 220-250 g were randomly divided into four groups： the microencapsulated cell group （n = 36）, the non-encapsulated cell group （n = 36）, the saline group （n = 36） and the sham operation group （n = 12）. The first three groups underwent a right hemisection injury of the spinal cord at the T10 level, into which was transplanted a gelatin sponge soaked with 10 μL of a microencapsulated nerve tissue/cell suspension （microencapsulated cell group）, a tissue/cell suspension （non-encapsulated cell group） or physiological saline （saline group）. In the sham operation group the vertebrae were exposed, but the spinal cord was not injured, and no implantation was given. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES： Pathological changes were detected using hematoxylin-eosin staining; NF- κB expression was quantified using immunohistochemical staining; motor function was assessed using the Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan （BBB） scale. RESULTS： Spinal cord injuries, such as neuronal death and inflammatory cell infiltration, were found in the microencapsulated cell group, the non-encapsulated cell group and the saline group. However, the damage in the microencapsulated cell group was milder than in the non-encapsulated cell or saline groups. NF- κB expression in the microencapsulated cell group, the non-encapsulated cell group and the saline group was increased after spinal cord injury; it reached a peak after 24 hours, gradually decreased after 3 days, and was close to normal levels after 7 days. NF- κB expression in the microencapsulated cell group was significantly lower than in the saline group and the non-encapsulated cell group （P 〈 0.05）. With time, the motor function of the animals in each group improved to a certain extent, but did not reach normal levels. There were no significant differences in BBB scores between the different groups on post-operative day 3; however, the BBB scores for the microencapsulated cell group and the non-encapsulated cell group were significantly higher than the saline group on post-operative day 7 （P 〈 0.05）. In addition, the motor function recovered better in the microencapsulated cell group than in the non-encapsulated cell group （P 〈 0.05）. CONCLUSION： The transplantation of microencapsulated rabbit sciatic nerve can inhibit NF- κB expression and inflammatory reactions and promote recovery of motor function after spinal cord injury in rats. The effects of microencapsulated cell transplantation are superior to those of transplantation of cells alone.展开更多
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81770889)Zhuhai Science and Technology Program(No.ZH22036201210134PWC).
文摘●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.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC)(81973316,82173807)the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2020M681914)+1 种基金the Fund from Tianjin Municipal Health Commission(ZC200093)the Open Fund of Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology/Tianjin Key Laboratory of human development and reproductive regulation(2021XHY01)。
文摘Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease featured by patches on the skin.It is caused by malfunction of immune cells and keratinocytes with inflammation as one of its key features.Apigenin(API)is a natural flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties.Therefore,we speculated that API can ameliorate psoriasis,and determined its effect on the development of psoriasis by using imiquimod(IMQ)-induced psoriasis mouse model.Our results showed that API attenuated IMQ-induced phenotypic changes,such as erythema,scaling and epidermal thickening,and improved splenic hyperplasia.Abnormal differentiation of immune cells was restored in API-treated mice.Mechanistically,we revealed that API is a key regulator of signal transducer activator of transcription 3(STAT3).API regulated immune responses by reducing interleukin-23(IL-23)/STAT3/IL-17A axis.Moreover,it suppressed IMQ-caused cell hyperproliferation by inactivating STAT3 through regulation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 and nuclear factor-κB(NF-κB)pathway.Furthermore,API reduced expression of inflammatory cytokines through inactivation of NF-κB.Taken together,our study demonstrates that API can ameliorate psoriasis and may be considered as a strategy for psoriasis treatment.
基金Supported by the Scientific Foundation of Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Hebei Province,China,No.2023257.
文摘BACKGROUND Jianpi Gushen Huayu Decoction(JPGS)has been used to clinically treat diabetic nephropathy(DN)for many years.However,the protective mechanism of JPGS in treating DN remains unclear.AIM To evaluate the therapeutic effects and the possible mechanism of JPGS on DN.METHODS We first evaluated the therapeutic potential of JPGS on a DN mouse model.We then investigated the effect of JPGS on the renal metabolite levels of DN mice using non-targeted metabolomics.Furthermore,we examined the effects of JPGS on c-Jun N-terminal kinase(JNK)/P38-mediated apoptosis and the inflammatory responses mediated by toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)/nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)/NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3(NLRP3).RESULTS The ameliorative effects of JPGS on DN mice included the alleviation of renal injury and the control of inflammation and oxidative stress.Untargeted metabolomic analysis revealed that JPGS altered the metabolites of the kidneys in DN mice.A total of 51 differential metabolites were screened.Pathway analysis results indicated that nine pathways significantly changed between the control and model groups,while six pathways significantly altered between the model and JPGS groups.Pathways related to cysteine and methionine metabolism;alanine,tryptophan metabolism;aspartate and glutamate metabolism;and riboflavin metabolism were identified as the key pathways through which JPGS affects DN.Further experimental validation showed that JPGS treatment reduced the expression of TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathways and JNK/P38 pathway-mediated apoptosis related factors.CONCLUSION JPGS could markedly treat mice with streptozotocin(STZ)-induced DN,which is possibly related to the regulation of several metabolic pathways found in kidneys.Furthermore,JPGS could improve kidney inflammatory responses and ameliorate kidney injuries in DN mice via the TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway and inhibit JNK/P38 pathwaymediated apoptosis in DN mice.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82171401,81971187(to SC)and 81971183(to YT)grants from Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Major Project,No.2018SHZDZX05(to SC)Shanghai Municipal Education Commission,No.2017-01-07-00-01-E00046(to SC)。
文摘Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by cognitive decline and chronic inflammation within the brain.The ketogenic diet,a widely recognized therapeutic intervention for refractory epilepsy,has recently been proposed as a potential treatment for a variety of neurological diseases,including Alzheimer's disease.However,the efficacy of ketogenic diet in treating Alzheimer's disease and the underlying mechanism remains unclear.The current investigation aimed to explore the effect of ketogenic diet on cognitive function and the underlying biological mechanisms in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.Male amyloid precursor protein/presenilin 1(APP/PS1)mice were randomly assigned to either a ketogenic diet or control diet group,and received their respective diets for a duration of 3 months.The findings show that ketogenic diet administration enhanced cognitive function,attenuated amyloid plaque formation and proinflammatory cytokine levels in APP/PS1 mice,and augmented the nuclear factor-erythroid 2-p45 derived factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 signaling pathway while suppressing the nuclear factor-kappa B pathway.Collectively,these data suggest that ketogenic diet may have a therapeutic potential in treating Alzheimer's disease by ameliorating the neurotoxicity associated with Aβ-induced inflammation.This study highlights the urgent need for further research into the use of ketogenic diet as a potential therapy for Alzheimer's disease.
基金supported by grants from the Project of Elitist Peak in Six Fields(No.2006-B-063)the Project of Medical Sciences(H200727),the Bureau of Health,Jiangsu Province,China
文摘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)
文摘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.
基金supported by grants from the Project of Elitist Peak in Six Fields(No.2006-B-063)the Projectof Medical Sciences(H200727),the Bureau of Health,Jiangsu Province,China
文摘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.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.30670842)the Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province,China(No.5300582).
文摘We have observed earlier that testosterone at physiological concentrations can stimulate tissue factor pathway inhibitor(TFPI)gene expression through the androgen receptor in endothelial cells.This study further investigated the impact of testosterone on TFPI levels in response to inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α).Cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells were incubated in the presence or absence of testosterone or TNF-α.TFPI protein and mRNA levels were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.To study the cellular mechanism of testosterone’s action,nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)translocation was confirmed by electrophoretic mobility shift assays.We found that after NF-κB was activated by TNF-α,TFPI protein levels declined significantly by 37.3%compared with controls(P<0.001),and the mRNA levels of TFPI also decreased greatly(P<0.001).A concentration of 30 nmol L-1 testosterone increased the secretion of TFPI compared with the TNF-α-treated group.NF-κB DNA-binding activity was significantly suppressed by testosterone(P<0.05).This suggests that physiological testosterone concentrations may exert their antithrombotic effects on TFPI expression during inflammation by downregulating NF-κB activity.
基金the Health Research Fund from Health Department of Shaanxi Province,China,No. 04015
文摘Previous studies have confirmed that the anti-virus effects of Shuanghuanglian injection may be associated with nuclear factor-kappa B activity. This study observed nuclear factor-kappa B expression in mice with viral encephalitis, and showed significant decreases in nuclear factor-kappa B protein and mRNA levels following Shuanghuanglian injection. The inhibitory effect was more significant with prolonged intervention duration and increased treatment dose. These findings verify that Shuanghuanglian injection plays a therapeutic role in viral encephalitis by reducing expression of nuclear factor-kappa B in a time- and dose-dependent manner.
基金funded by the Health Research Fund from the Health Department of Shanxi Province, China, No.04015
文摘A mouse model of viral encephalitis was induced by intracranial injection of a Coxsackie virus B3 suspension. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR and western blot assay were applied to detect mRNA and protein expression of intelectin-2 and nuclear factor-kappa B in the viral encephalitis and control groups. Nuclear factor-kappa B and intelectin-2 mRNA and protein expression were significantly increased in mice with viral encephalitis. After intraperitoneal injection of Shuanghuanglian at a dose of 1.5 mg/kg for 5 successive days, intelectin-2 and nuclear factor-kappa B protein and mRNA expression were significantly decreased. To elucidate the relationship between intelectin-2 and nuclear factor-kappa B, mice with viral encephalitis were administered an intracerebral injection of 107 pfu recombinant lentivirus expressing intelectin shRNA. Both protein and mRNA levels of intelectin and nuclear factor-kappa B in brain tissue of mice were significantly decreased. Experimental findings suggest that Shuanghuanglian injection may downregulate nuclear factor-kappa B production via suppression of intelectin production, thus inhibiting inflammation associated with viral encephalitis.
文摘Objective: To explore the underlying molecular mechanisms of cellular response to the challenge by 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+)-induced apoptosis of PC12 cells, an in vitro cell model for Parkinson’s disease, and the effect of NF-κB activation on the protection of Parkinson’s disease by Isoflavone (I). Methods: PC12 cells were used to establish the cell model of Parkinson’s disease, and are divided into five groups: control group;MPP+ group;I (Isoflavone) + MPP+ group;I group;SN-50 + MPP+ group. The content of NF-κB in PC12 cells was determined by immunocytochemistry;The viability of PC12 cells after treated with cell-permeable NF-κB inhibitor SN-50 and cell viability were measured by MTT assay;the expression levels of NF-κB p65 in cytoplasm and nuclear fractions were evaluated by western blot analysis;the mRNA expression of NF-κB p65 was analyzed by in situ hybridization (ISH). Results: Compared with the control group, the protein of NF-κB p65 both in cytoplasm and in nuclei was significantly higher than in I + MPP+ and MPP+ groups;similarly, the mRNA expression level of NF-κB p65 gene was also significantly higher;moreover, the protein expression of NF-κB p65 was much lower in I group (P + group, the protein of NF-κB p65 was significantly lower in I + MPP+ group, the mRNA expression level of NF-κB p65 gene was also significantly lower, and the protein expression level of NF-κB p65 was much lower in I + MPP+ group (P + group (P > 0.05). Conclusion: NF-κB activation is essential to MPP+-induced apoptosis in PC12 cells;but Isoflavone can inhibit the cell damage to some extent to execute its protective function, which may be involved in nigral neurodegeneration in patients with Parkinson’s disease.
基金Funded by the State High-Technology R&D Project of China (863 Program) ( 2007AA091603)
文摘The effects of five chito-oligomers, from dimer to hexamer （chitobiose, chitotriose, chitotetraose, chitopentaose, chitohexaose） separated from chitosan oligosaccharides, on nuclear factor -kappaB （NF-rd3） signaling pathway were investigated by using luciferase assay and laser scanning microscopy. The expression of NF-rd3 downstream genes （cyclin DI, TNFa and IL-6） were tested by real time PCR. We found that all five chitosan oligosaccharides increased NF-KB-dependent luciferase gene expression and NF-KB downstream genes transcription, and the most significant were chitotetraose and chitohexaose. In addition, laser scanning microscopy experiments showed that chitotetraose and chitohexaose also activated the p65 subunite of NF-kB translocating from cytoplasm to nucleus, which suggested that they were the most potent activators of NF-kB signaling pathway.
基金Supported by:the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.30060034
文摘BACKGROUND： It has been reported that nuclear factor-kappa B （NF- κB）, activated after spinal cord injury in rats, plays a key role in inflammatory responses in the central nervous system. OBJECTIVE： To investigate the effects of transplantation of microencapsulated rabbit sciatic nerve on NF- κB expression and motor function after spinal cord injury in rats, and to compare the results with the transplantation of rabbit sciatic nerve alone. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING： This completely randomized, controlled study was performed at the Department of Neurobiology, Medical College of Nanchang University between December 2007 and July 2008. MATERIALS： A rabbit anti-NF- κB P65 monoclonal antibody was made by the Santa Cruz Company, USA and a streptavidin peroxidase immunohistochemical kit was provided by the Sequoia Company, China. METHODS： Eight rabbits were used to prepare a sciatic nerve cell suspension that was divided into two parts： one stored for transplantation, and the other mixed with a 1.5% sodium alginate solution. One hundred and twenty adult Sprague Dawley rats weighing 220-250 g were randomly divided into four groups： the microencapsulated cell group （n = 36）, the non-encapsulated cell group （n = 36）, the saline group （n = 36） and the sham operation group （n = 12）. The first three groups underwent a right hemisection injury of the spinal cord at the T10 level, into which was transplanted a gelatin sponge soaked with 10 μL of a microencapsulated nerve tissue/cell suspension （microencapsulated cell group）, a tissue/cell suspension （non-encapsulated cell group） or physiological saline （saline group）. In the sham operation group the vertebrae were exposed, but the spinal cord was not injured, and no implantation was given. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES： Pathological changes were detected using hematoxylin-eosin staining; NF- κB expression was quantified using immunohistochemical staining; motor function was assessed using the Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan （BBB） scale. RESULTS： Spinal cord injuries, such as neuronal death and inflammatory cell infiltration, were found in the microencapsulated cell group, the non-encapsulated cell group and the saline group. However, the damage in the microencapsulated cell group was milder than in the non-encapsulated cell or saline groups. NF- κB expression in the microencapsulated cell group, the non-encapsulated cell group and the saline group was increased after spinal cord injury; it reached a peak after 24 hours, gradually decreased after 3 days, and was close to normal levels after 7 days. NF- κB expression in the microencapsulated cell group was significantly lower than in the saline group and the non-encapsulated cell group （P 〈 0.05）. With time, the motor function of the animals in each group improved to a certain extent, but did not reach normal levels. There were no significant differences in BBB scores between the different groups on post-operative day 3; however, the BBB scores for the microencapsulated cell group and the non-encapsulated cell group were significantly higher than the saline group on post-operative day 7 （P 〈 0.05）. In addition, the motor function recovered better in the microencapsulated cell group than in the non-encapsulated cell group （P 〈 0.05）. CONCLUSION： The transplantation of microencapsulated rabbit sciatic nerve can inhibit NF- κB expression and inflammatory reactions and promote recovery of motor function after spinal cord injury in rats. The effects of microencapsulated cell transplantation are superior to those of transplantation of cells alone.
