BACKGROUND Chronic atrophic gastritis(CAG)is a clinically refractory gastric disease often characterized by high recurrence rates and adverse drug reactions.Anwei decoction(AWD),a traditional Chinese medicine formula,...BACKGROUND Chronic atrophic gastritis(CAG)is a clinically refractory gastric disease often characterized by high recurrence rates and adverse drug reactions.Anwei decoction(AWD),a traditional Chinese medicine formula,has been shown to significantly improve clinical symptoms in patients with CAG,as demonstrated by a multicenter cohort study(overall effective rate:82.5%,P<0.01).However,the unclear molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets of AWD limit its international acceptance.AIM To investigate the therapeutic mechanisms of AWD against CAG from an integrated perspective.METHODS In this study,N-methyl-N’-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine was used to establish a CAG rat model.Serum-derived constituents transferred from AWD were first identified using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry.The concentrations of inflammatory cytokines in serum samples were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Moreover,gastric mucosal tissues were analyzed by quantitative realtime polymerase chain reaction to measure messenger RNA(mRNA)levels of the NLRP3 inflammasome.Western blotting was used to detect the protein expression of NLRP3,caspase-1,and interleukin(IL)-1β.To elucidate the regulatory mechanisms underlying AWD treatment,structural alterations of the gut microbiota(GM)and associated metabolites were analyzed using integrated high-throughput sequencing(16S rRNA)and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry based untargeted metabolomics.This comprehensive approach systematically clarified AWD’s multi-target therapeutic mechanisms against CAG.RESULTS AWD notably reduced serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines,such as IL-1β,IL-18,tumor necrosis factor-α,and lipopolysaccharide,demonstrating significant statistical differences(all P<0.01).Additionally,AWD substantially inhibited NLRP3 mRNA expression in gastric mucosal tissue(P<0.01)and concurrently decreased the protein abundance of NLRP3,IL-1β,and caspase-1(all P<0.01),thereby suppressing inflammasome signaling activation.GM analysis indicated that AWD intervention significantly increased the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria.Associated microbial metabolites likely inhibited the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway by modulating immune cell function.Non-targeted metabolomics further indicated that AWD exerted anti-inflammatory effects by regulating critical metabolic pathways,including the Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus infection pathway,autophagy processes,and glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchor biosynthesis.CONCLUSION AWD alleviates the pathological progression of CAG through multi-target synergistic mechanisms.On one hand,AWD directly suppresses gastric mucosal inflammation by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation.On the other hand,AWD remodels intestinal microbiota-metabolite homeostasis,enhances intestinal barrier function,and regulates mucosal immune responses.展开更多
Neurotoxic astrocytes are a promising therapeutic target for the attenuation of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury.Low-density lipoprotein receptor,a classic cholesterol regulatory receptor,has been found to inhibit...Neurotoxic astrocytes are a promising therapeutic target for the attenuation of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury.Low-density lipoprotein receptor,a classic cholesterol regulatory receptor,has been found to inhibit NLR family pyrin domain containing protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome activation in neurons following ischemic stroke and to suppress the activation of microglia and astrocytes in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.However,little is known about the effects of low-density lipoprotein receptor on astrocytic activation in ischemic stroke.To address this issue in the present study,we examined the mechanisms by which low-density lipoprotein receptor regulates astrocytic polarization in ischemic stroke models.First,we examined low-density lipoprotein receptor expression in astrocytes via immunofluorescence staining and western blotting analysis.We observed significant downregulation of low-density lipoprotein receptor following middle cerebral artery occlusion reperfusion and oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation.Second,we induced the astrocyte-specific overexpression of low-density lipoprotein receptor using astrocyte-specific adeno-associated virus.Low-density lipoprotein receptor overexpression in astrocytes improved neurological outcomes in middle cerebral artery occlusion mice and reversed neurotoxic astrocytes to create a neuroprotective phenotype.Finally,we found that the overexpression of low-density lipoprotein receptor inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation in oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation injured astrocytes and that the addition of nigericin,an NLRP3 agonist,restored the neurotoxic astrocyte phenotype.These findings suggest that low-density lipoprotein receptor could inhibit the NLRP3-meidiated neurotoxic polarization of astrocytes and that increasing low-density lipoprotein receptor in astrocytes might represent a novel strategy for treating cerebral ischemic stroke.展开更多
Traumatic brain injury, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, and Alzheimer's disease are three distinct neurological disorders that share common pathophysiological mechanisms involving neuroinflammation. One sequela ...Traumatic brain injury, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, and Alzheimer's disease are three distinct neurological disorders that share common pathophysiological mechanisms involving neuroinflammation. One sequela of neuroinflammation includes the pathologic hyperphosphorylation of tau protein, an endogenous microtubule-associated protein that protects the integrity of neuronal cytoskeletons. Tau hyperphosphorylation results in protein misfolding and subsequent accumulation of tau tangles forming neurotoxic aggregates. These misfolded proteins are characteristic of traumatic brain injury, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, and Alzheimer's disease and can lead to downstream neuroinflammatory processes, including assembly and activation of the inflammasome complex. Inflammasomes refer to a family of multimeric protein units that, upon activation, release a cascade of signaling molecules resulting in caspase-induced cell death and inflammation mediated by the release of interleukin-1β cytokine. One specific inflammasome, the NOD-like receptor protein 3, has been proposed to be a key regulator of tau phosphorylation where it has been shown that prolonged NOD-like receptor protein 3 activation acts as a causal factor in pathological tau accumulation and spreading. This review begins by describing the epidemiology and pathophysiology of traumatic brain injury, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, and Alzheimer's disease. Next, we highlight neuroinflammation as an overriding theme and discuss the role of the NOD-like receptor protein 3 inflammasome in the formation of tau deposits and how such tauopathic entities spread throughout the brain. We then propose a novel framework linking traumatic brain injury, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, and Alzheimer's disease as inflammasomedependent pathologies that exist along a temporal continuum. Finally, we discuss potential therapeutic targets that may intercept this pathway and ultimately minimize long-term neurological decline.展开更多
Aminoglycosides are a widely used class of antibacterials renowned for their effectiveness and broad antimicrobial spectrum.However,their use leads to irreversible hearing damage by causing apoptosis of hair cells as ...Aminoglycosides are a widely used class of antibacterials renowned for their effectiveness and broad antimicrobial spectrum.However,their use leads to irreversible hearing damage by causing apoptosis of hair cells as their direct target.In addition,the hearing damage caused by aminoglycosides involves damage of spiral ganglion neurons upon exposure.To investigate the mechanisms underlying spiral ganglion neuron degeneration induced by aminoglycosides,we used a C57BL/6J mouse model treated with kanamycin.We found that the mice exhibited auditory deficits following the acute loss of outer hair cells.Spiral ganglion neurons displayed hallmarks of pyroptosis and exhibited progressive degeneration over time.Transcriptomic profiling of these neurons showed significant upregulation of genes associated with inflammation and immune response,particularly those related to the NLRP3 inflammasome.Activation of the canonical pyroptotic pathway in spiral ganglion neurons was observed,accompanied by infiltration of macrophages and the release of proinflammatory cytokines.Pharmacological intervention targeting NLRP3 using Mcc950 and genetic intervention using NLRP3 knockout ameliorated spiral ganglion neuron degeneration in the injury model.These findings suggest that NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis plays a role in aminoglycoside-induced spiral ganglion neuron degeneration.Inhibition of this pathway may offer a potential therapeutic strategy for treating sensorineural hearing loss by reducing spiral ganglion neuron degeneration.展开更多
AIM:To determine the therapeutic benefits of fenofibrate(Feno)on the dysfunction of high glucose(HG)-induced human retinal microvascular endothelial cells(HRMECs)and to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanism.MET...AIM:To determine the therapeutic benefits of fenofibrate(Feno)on the dysfunction of high glucose(HG)-induced human retinal microvascular endothelial cells(HRMECs)and to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanism.METHODS:HRMEC dysfunction model was established by 48h glucose(30 mmol/L)treatment and treated with Feno/NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome activator(Nigericin).Cell viability/apoptosis were assessed by cell counting kit-8(CCK-8)/terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling assay(TUNEL)staining and flow cytometry assays.Levels of apoptosis-(Bcl-2-associated X protein,Bax/B-cell lymphoma 2,Bcl-2),vascular permeability-(vascular endothelial growth factor,VEGF)and inflammasome activation-related proteins(NLRP3/cleaved caspase-1/apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD,ASC),as well as inflammatory factors(interleukin,IL-6/IL-1β/tumor necrosis factor,TNF-α/IL-18)were determined with Western blot/enzyme linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA).Cell permeability/reactive oxygen species(ROS)level/superoxide dismutase(SOD)activity/malondialdehyde(MDA)content were assessed by Evans blue staining/2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate(DCFH-DA)fluorescent probe/SOD kit/MDA kit.RESULTS:HRMEC dysfunction was successfully induced by HG,evidenced by decreased viability(P<0.001),increased apoptosis(P<0.001),permeability(P<0.001),and inflammatory factor levels(P<0.001).Feno treatment significantly ameliorated HG-induced HRMEC dysfunction(P<0.01).Meanwhile,HG induction increased ROS production(P<0.001)and MDA content(P<0.001)in HRMECs,while reducing SOD activity(P<0.001),indicative of oxidative stress.This was,however,abolished by Feno(P<0.05).Moreover,Feno eliminated activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes(P<0.05)in HG-induced HRMECs.Strikingly,activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes partially averted the inhibition of Feno on HG-induced HRMEC dysfunction(P<0.05).CONCLUSION:Feno represses oxidative stress and NLRP3 inflammasome activation,consequently alleviating HG-induced HRMEC dysfunction.展开更多
The NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome is an intracellular protein complex containing a nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain,leucine-rich repeats,and a pyrin domain.It i...The NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome is an intracellular protein complex containing a nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain,leucine-rich repeats,and a pyrin domain.It is a key regulator of inflammation in viral pneumonia(VP).Small-molecule inhibitors targeting various NLRP3 binding sites are advancing into early clinical trials,but their therapeutic utility is incompletely established.Xuanfei Baidu Formula(XF),clinically used for VP treatment,attenuates NLRP3 activation by hampering caspase-11 to impede polarization of pro-inflammatory macrophages in a model of lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced lung injury inmice.Herein,we demonstrate that XF attenuated influenza A virus(IAV)-induced lung inflammation as well as lung injury in immunocompetent(but not in macrophage-depleted)mice.RNA sequencing of sorted lung macrophages from IAV-infected mice revealed that XF inhibited activation of the NLRP3 inflammation and interleukin(IL)-1βproduction.Quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance of XF enabled us to develop XF-Comb1,a fixed-ratio combination of five bioactive compounds that recapitulated the bioactivity of XF in suppressing NLRP3 activation in macrophages in vitro and in vivo.Interestingly,XF-Comb1 inhibited assembly of the NLRP3 inflammasome through multi-site interactions with functional residues of NLRP3,apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing caspase recruitment domain(ASC),and caspase-1.Taken together,this work advances the development of NLRP3 inhibitors by translating a complex herbal formula into defined bioactive compounds.展开更多
NLRP3 inflammasome activation is pivotal for cytokine secretion and pyroptosis in response to diverse stimuli,playing a crucial role in innate immunity.While extensively studied in mammals,the regulatory mechanisms go...NLRP3 inflammasome activation is pivotal for cytokine secretion and pyroptosis in response to diverse stimuli,playing a crucial role in innate immunity.While extensively studied in mammals,the regulatory mechanisms governing NLRP3 activation in non-mammalian vertebrates remain largely unexplored.Teleosts,as basal vertebrates,represent an ideal model for exploring the evolutionary trajectory of inflammasome regulation.In this study,ABE assays,confocal microscopy,and biochemical analyses were applied to systematically characterize the mechanisms underlying NLRP3 inflammasome in teleosts,using large yellow croakers(Larimichthys crocea,Lc)and zebrafish(Danio rerio,Dr)as representative models.Our findings revealed a previously unrecognized palmitoylation-dependent regulatory mechanism essential for teleost NLRP3 activation.Specifically,zDHHC18-mediated palmitoylation at a teleost-specific cysteine residue(C946 in LcNLRP3,C1037 in DrNLRP3)was required for the translocation of NLRP3 to the dispersed trans-Golgi network,facilitating its subsequent recruitment to the microtubule-organizing center.This membrane trafficking was crucial for inflammasome assembly and downstream inflammatory responses.These findings provide new insights into the distinct regulatory mechanisms of NLRP3 activation in teleosts,highlighting an evolutionary divergence that contributes to innate immunity adaptation in early vertebrates.展开更多
Curcumin,a bioactive compound extracted from Curcuma longa.L.,demonstrates significant therapeutic potential in inflammatory diseases.This study aims to explore the effects of curcumin on hyperuricemia with acute gout...Curcumin,a bioactive compound extracted from Curcuma longa.L.,demonstrates significant therapeutic potential in inflammatory diseases.This study aims to explore the effects of curcumin on hyperuricemia with acute gout and associated renal dysfunction in a mouse model.The results show that curcumin treatment alleviates ankle joint swelling,reduces inflammatory cytokines IL-1βand TNF-α,and lowers serum uric acid concentrations.High-dose curcumin notably inhibits xanthine oxidase(XOD)activity,a key enzyme in uric acid production,while it enhances the renal expression of the urate transporter ABCG2,thereby promoting uric acid excretion.Furthermore,curcumin effectively mitigates renal injury as evidenced by reduced serum creatinineand blood urea nitrogen levels and suppresses renal inflammation.At the molecular level,curcumin exerts potent antioxidant effects by lowering reactive oxygen species(ROS)levels in both cultured HK-2 human renal tubular epithelial cells and RAW264.7 mouse macrophages.The curcumin-mediated effects are associated with the disruption of NEK7-NLRP3 complex formation,leading to the suppression of the ROS/NEK7-NLRP3 inflammasome pathway.This,in turn,inhibits pyroptosis and the subsequent release of mature IL-1β.These findings suggest that curcumin not only reduces uric acid production but also modulates inflammation through ROSscavenging properties and its ability to inhibit the NLRP3 inflammasome.展开更多
BACKGROUND Activation of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT),a pivotal process in tumor metastasis and evasion,as well as the NLRP3 inflammasome,both promote colorectal cancer(CRC)progression.Recent studies hav...BACKGROUND Activation of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT),a pivotal process in tumor metastasis and evasion,as well as the NLRP3 inflammasome,both promote colorectal cancer(CRC)progression.Recent studies have shown that Transmembrane protein 176B(TMEM176B)regulates NLRP3 and promotes CRC malignant phenotypes.AIM To investigate the role of TMEM176B in modulating NLRP3 inflammasome and its implications on EMT and tumor progression in CRC.METHODS CRC in situ mouse and co-cultured cell models were established using CT26 cells,BALB/c mice,and primary cultured mouse natural killer(NK)cells.Short hairpin RNA knocked down TMEM176B and NLRP3 expression in CT26 cells.Fluorescence imaging,Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assays,immunohistochemistry staining,flow cytometry,and molecular assays were used to investigate the effects of TMEM176B knockdown on the NLRP3 inflammasome in NK cells to assess tumor metastasis,apoptosis,and EMT indicators.RESULTS Silencing TMEM176B in CRC mice significantly reduced tumor metastasis,proliferation,and EMT,while activating apoptosis,NLRP3 inflammasome,and NK cell activity.Furthermore,silencing TMEM176B in co-cultured cell models inhibited cell migration and invasion,and promoted apoptosis.The interference of NLRP3 reversed these effects by modulating key proteins such as phosphorylated nuclear factor kappa B subunit 1 p65,matrix metallopeptidase 9,and transforming growth factor-β.CONCLUSION This study highlights the critical role of TMEM176B/NLRP3 in CRC progression and provides a basis for targeting this axis as a novel therapeutic approach to manage CRC progression and metastasis.展开更多
Background:Alzheimer's disease(AD)is a progressive neurodegenerative disease with no effective therapies.It is well known that chronic neuroinflammation plays a critical role in the onset and progression of AD.Wel...Background:Alzheimer's disease(AD)is a progressive neurodegenerative disease with no effective therapies.It is well known that chronic neuroinflammation plays a critical role in the onset and progression of AD.Well-balanced neuronal-microglial interactions are essential for brain functions.However,determining the role of microglia—the primary immune cells in the brain—in neuroinflammation in AD and the associated molecular basis has been challenging.Methods:Inflammatory factors in the sera of AD patients were detected and their association with microglia activation was analyzed.The mechanism for microglial inflammation was investigated.IL6 and TNF-α were found to be significantly increased in the AD stage.Results:Our analysis revealed that microglia were extensively activated in AD cerebra,releasing sufficient amounts of cytokines to impair the neural stem cells(NSCs)function.Moreover,the ApoD-induced NLRC4 inflammasome was activated in microglia,which gave rise to the proinflammatory phenotype.Targeting the microglial ApoD promoted NSC self-renewal and inhibited neuron apoptosis.These findings demonstrate the critical role of ApoD in microglial inflammasome activation,and for the first time reveal that microglia-induced inflammation suppresses neuronal proliferation.Conclusion:Our studies establish the cellular basis for microglia activation in AD progression and shed light on cellular interactions important for AD treatment.展开更多
The nod-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3(NLRP3)inflammasome plays a crucial role in the prognosis of subarachnoid hemorrhage(SAH).WNK1 kinase negatively regulates NLRP3 in various inflammatory conditions...The nod-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3(NLRP3)inflammasome plays a crucial role in the prognosis of subarachnoid hemorrhage(SAH).WNK1 kinase negatively regulates NLRP3 in various inflammatory conditions,but its role in early brain injury(EBI)after SAH remains unclear.In this study,we used an in vivo SAH model in rats/mice and AAV-WNK1 intraventricular injection to investigate its neuroprotective mechanisms.WNK1 expression was significantly reduced in SAH patient blood and SAH model brain tissue,correlating negatively with microglial activation.AAV-WNK1 alleviated brain edema,neuronal necrosis,behavioral deficits,and inflammation by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation.In hemin-stimulated BV-2 cells,WNK1 overexpression reduced NLRP3 activation and inflammatory cytokines.Chloride counteracted WNK1’s inhibitory effects,and WNK1 suppressed P2X7R-induced NLRP3 activation.Mechanistically,WNK1 functioned via the OXSR1/STK39 pathway.These findings highlight WNK1 as a key regulator of intracellular chloride balance and neuroinflammation,presenting a potential therapeutic target for SAH treatment.展开更多
Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease(MAFLD),characterized by fatty acid overload,secondary chronic inflammation,and fibrosis,has become the most prevalent chronic liver disease globally.While no effect...Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease(MAFLD),characterized by fatty acid overload,secondary chronic inflammation,and fibrosis,has become the most prevalent chronic liver disease globally.While no effective pharmacotherapy exists for MAFLD,mitigating inflammatory responses represents a promising approach to preventing the progression from steatosis to severe steatohepatitis.The NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3(NLRP3)inflammasome,which detects endogenous danger and stress signals,has emerged as a significant target for inflammatory disease treatment,as transcriptional inactivation of its components demonstrates the therapeutic potential for MAFLD.Natural products targeting NLRP3 inflammasome activation have shown promising efficacy in MAFLD therapy.This review synthesizes the current understanding of NLRP3 inflammasome activation and therapeutic targets for NLRP3 homeostasis.Additionally,natural products reported to inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome for MAFLD improvement are categorized according to their mechanisms of action.The review also addresses limitations and future directions regarding natural products targeting NLRP3 inflammasome in MAFLD treatment.Enhanced understanding of NLRP3 inflammasome activation mechanisms in MAFLD and the identification of novel natural products supported by mechanistic research will significantly advance MAFLD treatment.展开更多
Background:Noninfectious uveitis,a chronic ocular inflammatory disease,is char-acterized by the activation of immune cells in the eye,with most studies focusing on the role of the adaptive immune system in the disease...Background:Noninfectious uveitis,a chronic ocular inflammatory disease,is char-acterized by the activation of immune cells in the eye,with most studies focusing on the role of the adaptive immune system in the disease.However,limited data exist on the potential contribution of the innate immune system,specifically the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain and leucine-rich repeat receptor-3(NLRP3)inflamma-some pathway.This pathway has previously been identified as a driver of inflammation in several low-grade,progressive inflammatory eye diseases such as diabetic retin-opathy.The aim of this study was to determine whether the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway plays a role in the pathogenesis and chronicity of experimental autoimmune uveitis(EAU).Methods:EAU was induced in C57BL/6J mice via intraperitoneal pertussis toxin and subcutaneous interphotoreceptor retinoid-binding protein injections.After 12 weeks,eyes were enucleated,and whole eye sections were assessed for inflammasome,macrophage,and microglial markers in the retina,ciliary body,and cornea using immunohistochemistry.Results:Our study confirmed higher NLRP3 inflammasome activation(increased ex-pression of NLRP3 and cleaved caspase 1 labeling)in EAU mouse retinas compared to controls.This correlated with increased astrogliosis and microglial activation through-out the eye.Migratory innate and adaptive peripheral immune cells(macrophages and leukocytes)were also found within the retina and ciliary body of EAU mice.Connexin43 proteins,which form hexameric hemichannels that can release adeno-sine triphosphate(ATP),an upstream inflammasome priming signal,were also found upregulated in the retina and cornea of EAU mice.Conclusion:Overall,our findings support the idea that in the EAU model there is active inflammation,even 12 weeks post induction,and that it can be correlated to inflammasome activation.This contributes to the pathogenesis and chronicity of non-infectious uveitis,and our results emphasize that targeting the inflammasome path-way could be efficacious for noninfectious uveitis treatment.展开更多
Heavy alcohol consumption results in alcoholic liver disease(ALD)with inadequate therapeutic options.Here,we first report the potential beneficial effects of ginsenoside Rk2(Rk2),a rare dehydroprotopanaxadiol saponin ...Heavy alcohol consumption results in alcoholic liver disease(ALD)with inadequate therapeutic options.Here,we first report the potential beneficial effects of ginsenoside Rk2(Rk2),a rare dehydroprotopanaxadiol saponin isolated from streamed ginseng,against alcoholic liver injury in mice.Chronic-plus-single-binge ethanol feeding caused severe liver injury,as manifested by significantly elevated serum aminotransferase levels,hepatic histological changes,increased lipid accumulation,oxidative stress,and inflammation in the liver.These deleterious effects were alleviated by the treatment with Rk2(5 and 30 mg/kg).Acting as an nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3(NLRP3)inhibitor,Rk2 ameliorates alcohol-induced liver inflammation by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome signaling in the liver.Meanwhile,the treatment with Rk2 alleviated the alcohol-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction via enhancing NLRP6 inflammasome in the intestine.Our findings indicate that Rk2 is a promising agent for the prevention and treatment of ALD and other NLPR3-driven diseases.展开更多
This article provides commentary on the article by Zhang et al.In this original research,Zhang et al investigated the therapeutic potential of teneligliptin for diabetic cardiomyopathy(DCM),which was mediated by targe...This article provides commentary on the article by Zhang et al.In this original research,Zhang et al investigated the therapeutic potential of teneligliptin for diabetic cardiomyopathy(DCM),which was mediated by targeting the NOD-like receptor protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome.Through the use of both in vivo and in vitro models,the study demonstrated that teneligliptin alleviates cardiac hyper-trophy,reduces myocardial injury,and mitigates the inflammatory responses as-sociated with DCM.These findings suggest that teneligliptin’s cardioprotective effects are mediated through the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation,positioning it as a promising therapeutic option for managing DCM in diabetic patients.展开更多
BACKGROUND About one-third of refractory irritable bowel syndrome(IBS)cases are caused by gastrointestinal(GI)infection/inflammation,known as post-infectious/postinflammatory IBS(PI-IBS).Although it is known that inte...BACKGROUND About one-third of refractory irritable bowel syndrome(IBS)cases are caused by gastrointestinal(GI)infection/inflammation,known as post-infectious/postinflammatory IBS(PI-IBS).Although it is known that intestinal microbiota and host NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 6(NLRP6)inflammsome signaling are closely related to PI-IBS and moxibustion has a therapeutic effect on PI-IBS,whether moxibustion regulates the intestinal flora and host NLRP6 events in PI-IBS remains unclear.AIM To examine the regulatory effect of moxibustion on intestinal microbiota and host NLRP6 inflammatory signaling in PI-IBS.METHODS Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into a normal control group,a model control group,a mild moxibustion group,and a sham mild moxibustion group.PI-IBS rats in the mild moxibustion group were treated with moxibusiton at bilateral Tianshu(ST 25)and Zusanli(ST36)for 7 consecutive days for 10 min each time.The sham group rats were given the same treatment as the mild moxibustion group except the moxa stick was not ignited.Abdominal withdrawal reflex(AWR)score was measured to assess the visceral sensitivity,and colon histopathology and ultrastructure,colonic myeloperoxidase(MPO)activity,and serum C-reactive protein(CRP)level were measured to evaluate low-grade colonic inflammation in rats.The relative abundance of selected intestinal bacteria in rat feces was detected by 16S rDNA PCR and the NLRP6 inflammsome signaling in the colon was detected by immunofluorescence,qRTPCR,and Western blot.RESULTS The AWR score was significantly decreased and the low-grade intestinal inflammation reflected by serum CRP and colonic MPO levels was inhibited in the mild moxibustion group compared with the sham group.Mild moxibustion remarkably increased the relative DNA abundances of Lactobacillus,Bifidobacterium,and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii but decreased that of Escherichia coli in the gut of PI-IBS rats.Additionally,mild moxibustion induced mRNA and protein expression of intestine lectin 1 but inhibited the expression of IL-1β,IL-18,and resistance-like moleculeβby promoting the NLRP6 and reducing the mRNA and protein expression of apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing CARD(ASC)and cysteinyl-aspartate-specific proteinase 1(Caspase-1).The relative DNA abundances of Lactobacillus,Bifidobacteria,Faecalibacterium prausnitzii,and Escherichia coli in each group were correlated with the mRNA and protein expression of NLRP6,ASC,and Caspase-1 in the colon.CONCLUSION These findings indicated that mild moxibustion can relieve low-grade GI inflammation and alleviate visceral hypersensitivity in PI-IBS by regulating intestinal microbes and controlling NLRP6 inflammasome signaling.展开更多
Inflammasomes are multiprotein intracellular complexes which are responsible for the activation of inflammatory responses. Among various subtypes of inflammasomes, NLRP3 has been a subject of intensive investigation. ...Inflammasomes are multiprotein intracellular complexes which are responsible for the activation of inflammatory responses. Among various subtypes of inflammasomes, NLRP3 has been a subject of intensive investigation. NLRP3 is considered to be a sensor of microbial and other danger signals and plays a crucial role in mucosal immune responses, promoting the maturation of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin 1β(IL-1β) and IL-18. NLRP3 inflammasome has been associated with a variety of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, including inflammatory bowel diseases(IBD). The role of NLRP3 in IBD is not yet fully elucidated as it seems to demonstrate both pathogenic and protective effects. Studies have shown a relationship between genetic variants and mutations in NLRP3 gene with IBD pathogenesis. A complex interaction between the NLRP3 inflammasome and the mucosal immune response has been reported. Activation of the inflammasome is a key function mediated by the innate immune response and in parallel the signaling through IL-1β and IL-18 is implicated in adaptive immunity. Further research is needed to delineate the precise mechanisms of NLRP3 function in regulating immune responses. Targeting NLRP3 inflammasome and its downstream signaling will provide new insights into the development of future therapeutic strategies.展开更多
The aim of this study was to explore the neuroprotective effect and mechanism of XingNaoJing injections(XNJ) on cerebral ischemia injury and blood-brain barrier(BBB) disruption. Middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO) ...The aim of this study was to explore the neuroprotective effect and mechanism of XingNaoJing injections(XNJ) on cerebral ischemia injury and blood-brain barrier(BBB) disruption. Middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO) method was applicated to establish the model of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion(I/R) injury in rats. BBB permeability after I/R injury was assessed with the leaking amount of Evans Blue and the expression of occludin and ZO-1. The expression of NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain containing(NLRP3) was checked to explore the inhibition of inflammation by XNJ. The results showed that XNJ could significantly increase the survival percent, decrease the infarct area and ameliorate neurological deficits and brain damage after I/R injury. Leaking amount of Evans Blue was reduced by XNJ, and the expression of tight junction protein, occludin and ZO-1 was also up-regulated by XNJ, which showed a role of protection on BBB disruption. The expression of NLRP3 was inhibited after exposure of XNJ, which was associated with inhibition of the inflammatory response. In summary, XNJ could suppress NLRP3 inflammasomes and improve BBB disruption and brain damage in rats after cerebral I/R injury, which provided a beneficial insight to further explore XNJ.展开更多
Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-like 2(TREML2)is a newly identified susceptibility gene for Alzheimer's disease(AD).It encodes a microglial inflammation-associated receptor.To date,the potential rol...Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-like 2(TREML2)is a newly identified susceptibility gene for Alzheimer's disease(AD).It encodes a microglial inflammation-associated receptor.To date,the potential role of mic roglial TREML2 in neuroinflammation in the context of AD remains unclear.In this study,APP/PS1 mice were used to investigate the dynamic changes of TREML2 levels in brain during AD progression.In addition,lipopolysaccharide(LPS)stimulation of primary microglia as well as a lentivirus-mediated TREML2 overexpression and knockdown were employed to explore the role of TREML2 in neuroinflammation in the context of AD.Our res ults show that TREML2 levels gradually increased in the brains of AP P/PS1 mice during disease progression.LPS stimulation of primary microglia led to the release of inflammato ry cytokines including interleukin-1β,inte rleukin-6,and tumor necrosis factor-a in the culture medium.The LPS-induced mic roglial release of inflammatory cytokines was enhanced by TREML2 overexpression and was attenuated by TREML2 knoc kdown.LPS increased the levels of mic roglial M1-type polarization marker inducible nitric oxide synthase.This effect was enhanced by TREML2 overexpression and ameliorated by TREML2 knockdown.Furthermore,the levels of microglial M2-type polarization markers CD206 and ARG1 in the primary microglia were reduced by TREML2 overexpression and elevated by TREML2 knockdown.LPS stimulation increased the levels of NLRP3 in primary microglia.The LPS-induced increase in NLRP3 was further elevated by TREML2 overexpression and alleviated by TREML2 knockdown.In summary,this study provides the first evidence that TREML2 modulates inflammation by regulating microglial polarization and NLRP3 inflammasome activation.These findings reveal the mechanisms by which TREML2 regulates microglial inflammation and suggest that TREML2 inhibition may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for AD.展开更多
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81860843Guangxi Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Project,No.GZSY23-36 and No.GXZYA20240150。
文摘BACKGROUND Chronic atrophic gastritis(CAG)is a clinically refractory gastric disease often characterized by high recurrence rates and adverse drug reactions.Anwei decoction(AWD),a traditional Chinese medicine formula,has been shown to significantly improve clinical symptoms in patients with CAG,as demonstrated by a multicenter cohort study(overall effective rate:82.5%,P<0.01).However,the unclear molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets of AWD limit its international acceptance.AIM To investigate the therapeutic mechanisms of AWD against CAG from an integrated perspective.METHODS In this study,N-methyl-N’-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine was used to establish a CAG rat model.Serum-derived constituents transferred from AWD were first identified using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry.The concentrations of inflammatory cytokines in serum samples were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Moreover,gastric mucosal tissues were analyzed by quantitative realtime polymerase chain reaction to measure messenger RNA(mRNA)levels of the NLRP3 inflammasome.Western blotting was used to detect the protein expression of NLRP3,caspase-1,and interleukin(IL)-1β.To elucidate the regulatory mechanisms underlying AWD treatment,structural alterations of the gut microbiota(GM)and associated metabolites were analyzed using integrated high-throughput sequencing(16S rRNA)and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry based untargeted metabolomics.This comprehensive approach systematically clarified AWD’s multi-target therapeutic mechanisms against CAG.RESULTS AWD notably reduced serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines,such as IL-1β,IL-18,tumor necrosis factor-α,and lipopolysaccharide,demonstrating significant statistical differences(all P<0.01).Additionally,AWD substantially inhibited NLRP3 mRNA expression in gastric mucosal tissue(P<0.01)and concurrently decreased the protein abundance of NLRP3,IL-1β,and caspase-1(all P<0.01),thereby suppressing inflammasome signaling activation.GM analysis indicated that AWD intervention significantly increased the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria.Associated microbial metabolites likely inhibited the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway by modulating immune cell function.Non-targeted metabolomics further indicated that AWD exerted anti-inflammatory effects by regulating critical metabolic pathways,including the Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus infection pathway,autophagy processes,and glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchor biosynthesis.CONCLUSION AWD alleviates the pathological progression of CAG through multi-target synergistic mechanisms.On one hand,AWD directly suppresses gastric mucosal inflammation by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation.On the other hand,AWD remodels intestinal microbiota-metabolite homeostasis,enhances intestinal barrier function,and regulates mucosal immune responses.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82201460(to YH)Nanjing Medical University Science and Technology Development Fund,No.NMUB20210202(to YH).
文摘Neurotoxic astrocytes are a promising therapeutic target for the attenuation of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury.Low-density lipoprotein receptor,a classic cholesterol regulatory receptor,has been found to inhibit NLR family pyrin domain containing protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome activation in neurons following ischemic stroke and to suppress the activation of microglia and astrocytes in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.However,little is known about the effects of low-density lipoprotein receptor on astrocytic activation in ischemic stroke.To address this issue in the present study,we examined the mechanisms by which low-density lipoprotein receptor regulates astrocytic polarization in ischemic stroke models.First,we examined low-density lipoprotein receptor expression in astrocytes via immunofluorescence staining and western blotting analysis.We observed significant downregulation of low-density lipoprotein receptor following middle cerebral artery occlusion reperfusion and oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation.Second,we induced the astrocyte-specific overexpression of low-density lipoprotein receptor using astrocyte-specific adeno-associated virus.Low-density lipoprotein receptor overexpression in astrocytes improved neurological outcomes in middle cerebral artery occlusion mice and reversed neurotoxic astrocytes to create a neuroprotective phenotype.Finally,we found that the overexpression of low-density lipoprotein receptor inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation in oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation injured astrocytes and that the addition of nigericin,an NLRP3 agonist,restored the neurotoxic astrocyte phenotype.These findings suggest that low-density lipoprotein receptor could inhibit the NLRP3-meidiated neurotoxic polarization of astrocytes and that increasing low-density lipoprotein receptor in astrocytes might represent a novel strategy for treating cerebral ischemic stroke.
文摘Traumatic brain injury, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, and Alzheimer's disease are three distinct neurological disorders that share common pathophysiological mechanisms involving neuroinflammation. One sequela of neuroinflammation includes the pathologic hyperphosphorylation of tau protein, an endogenous microtubule-associated protein that protects the integrity of neuronal cytoskeletons. Tau hyperphosphorylation results in protein misfolding and subsequent accumulation of tau tangles forming neurotoxic aggregates. These misfolded proteins are characteristic of traumatic brain injury, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, and Alzheimer's disease and can lead to downstream neuroinflammatory processes, including assembly and activation of the inflammasome complex. Inflammasomes refer to a family of multimeric protein units that, upon activation, release a cascade of signaling molecules resulting in caspase-induced cell death and inflammation mediated by the release of interleukin-1β cytokine. One specific inflammasome, the NOD-like receptor protein 3, has been proposed to be a key regulator of tau phosphorylation where it has been shown that prolonged NOD-like receptor protein 3 activation acts as a causal factor in pathological tau accumulation and spreading. This review begins by describing the epidemiology and pathophysiology of traumatic brain injury, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, and Alzheimer's disease. Next, we highlight neuroinflammation as an overriding theme and discuss the role of the NOD-like receptor protein 3 inflammasome in the formation of tau deposits and how such tauopathic entities spread throughout the brain. We then propose a novel framework linking traumatic brain injury, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, and Alzheimer's disease as inflammasomedependent pathologies that exist along a temporal continuum. Finally, we discuss potential therapeutic targets that may intercept this pathway and ultimately minimize long-term neurological decline.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.81800919(to YX),82171140(to PW)the International Cooperation and Exchange of the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82020108008(to HS),81720108010(to SY).
文摘Aminoglycosides are a widely used class of antibacterials renowned for their effectiveness and broad antimicrobial spectrum.However,their use leads to irreversible hearing damage by causing apoptosis of hair cells as their direct target.In addition,the hearing damage caused by aminoglycosides involves damage of spiral ganglion neurons upon exposure.To investigate the mechanisms underlying spiral ganglion neuron degeneration induced by aminoglycosides,we used a C57BL/6J mouse model treated with kanamycin.We found that the mice exhibited auditory deficits following the acute loss of outer hair cells.Spiral ganglion neurons displayed hallmarks of pyroptosis and exhibited progressive degeneration over time.Transcriptomic profiling of these neurons showed significant upregulation of genes associated with inflammation and immune response,particularly those related to the NLRP3 inflammasome.Activation of the canonical pyroptotic pathway in spiral ganglion neurons was observed,accompanied by infiltration of macrophages and the release of proinflammatory cytokines.Pharmacological intervention targeting NLRP3 using Mcc950 and genetic intervention using NLRP3 knockout ameliorated spiral ganglion neuron degeneration in the injury model.These findings suggest that NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis plays a role in aminoglycoside-induced spiral ganglion neuron degeneration.Inhibition of this pathway may offer a potential therapeutic strategy for treating sensorineural hearing loss by reducing spiral ganglion neuron degeneration.
基金Supported by grants from the Tianjin Key Medical Discipline(Specialty)Construction Project(No.TJYXZDXK-037A).
文摘AIM:To determine the therapeutic benefits of fenofibrate(Feno)on the dysfunction of high glucose(HG)-induced human retinal microvascular endothelial cells(HRMECs)and to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanism.METHODS:HRMEC dysfunction model was established by 48h glucose(30 mmol/L)treatment and treated with Feno/NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome activator(Nigericin).Cell viability/apoptosis were assessed by cell counting kit-8(CCK-8)/terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling assay(TUNEL)staining and flow cytometry assays.Levels of apoptosis-(Bcl-2-associated X protein,Bax/B-cell lymphoma 2,Bcl-2),vascular permeability-(vascular endothelial growth factor,VEGF)and inflammasome activation-related proteins(NLRP3/cleaved caspase-1/apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD,ASC),as well as inflammatory factors(interleukin,IL-6/IL-1β/tumor necrosis factor,TNF-α/IL-18)were determined with Western blot/enzyme linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA).Cell permeability/reactive oxygen species(ROS)level/superoxide dismutase(SOD)activity/malondialdehyde(MDA)content were assessed by Evans blue staining/2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate(DCFH-DA)fluorescent probe/SOD kit/MDA kit.RESULTS:HRMEC dysfunction was successfully induced by HG,evidenced by decreased viability(P<0.001),increased apoptosis(P<0.001),permeability(P<0.001),and inflammatory factor levels(P<0.001).Feno treatment significantly ameliorated HG-induced HRMEC dysfunction(P<0.01).Meanwhile,HG induction increased ROS production(P<0.001)and MDA content(P<0.001)in HRMECs,while reducing SOD activity(P<0.001),indicative of oxidative stress.This was,however,abolished by Feno(P<0.05).Moreover,Feno eliminated activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes(P<0.05)in HG-induced HRMECs.Strikingly,activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes partially averted the inhibition of Feno on HG-induced HRMEC dysfunction(P<0.05).CONCLUSION:Feno represses oxidative stress and NLRP3 inflammasome activation,consequently alleviating HG-induced HRMEC dysfunction.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82141201,82405164,82204878,and 32170872)the Haihe Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine(Research and development of a universal treatment formula for respiratory viral infections)+3 种基金the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2021YFC1712905,2021YFC1712904,2020YFA0708004,2021YFE0200300,and 2023YFC2306202)the Innovation Team and Talents Cultivation Program of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine(ZYYCXTD-D-202002,ZYYCXTD-D-202001)the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2023M742626)the Postdoctoral Fellowship Program of China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(CPSF)(GZC20231927).
文摘The NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome is an intracellular protein complex containing a nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain,leucine-rich repeats,and a pyrin domain.It is a key regulator of inflammation in viral pneumonia(VP).Small-molecule inhibitors targeting various NLRP3 binding sites are advancing into early clinical trials,but their therapeutic utility is incompletely established.Xuanfei Baidu Formula(XF),clinically used for VP treatment,attenuates NLRP3 activation by hampering caspase-11 to impede polarization of pro-inflammatory macrophages in a model of lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced lung injury inmice.Herein,we demonstrate that XF attenuated influenza A virus(IAV)-induced lung inflammation as well as lung injury in immunocompetent(but not in macrophage-depleted)mice.RNA sequencing of sorted lung macrophages from IAV-infected mice revealed that XF inhibited activation of the NLRP3 inflammation and interleukin(IL)-1βproduction.Quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance of XF enabled us to develop XF-Comb1,a fixed-ratio combination of five bioactive compounds that recapitulated the bioactivity of XF in suppressing NLRP3 activation in macrophages in vitro and in vivo.Interestingly,XF-Comb1 inhibited assembly of the NLRP3 inflammasome through multi-site interactions with functional residues of NLRP3,apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing caspase recruitment domain(ASC),and caspase-1.Taken together,this work advances the development of NLRP3 inhibitors by translating a complex herbal formula into defined bioactive compounds.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (32473194)Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province (LY23C190002)+1 种基金Natural Science Foundation of Ningbo City (202003N4011)One Health Interdisciplinary Research Project of Ningbo University (HZ202201)。
文摘NLRP3 inflammasome activation is pivotal for cytokine secretion and pyroptosis in response to diverse stimuli,playing a crucial role in innate immunity.While extensively studied in mammals,the regulatory mechanisms governing NLRP3 activation in non-mammalian vertebrates remain largely unexplored.Teleosts,as basal vertebrates,represent an ideal model for exploring the evolutionary trajectory of inflammasome regulation.In this study,ABE assays,confocal microscopy,and biochemical analyses were applied to systematically characterize the mechanisms underlying NLRP3 inflammasome in teleosts,using large yellow croakers(Larimichthys crocea,Lc)and zebrafish(Danio rerio,Dr)as representative models.Our findings revealed a previously unrecognized palmitoylation-dependent regulatory mechanism essential for teleost NLRP3 activation.Specifically,zDHHC18-mediated palmitoylation at a teleost-specific cysteine residue(C946 in LcNLRP3,C1037 in DrNLRP3)was required for the translocation of NLRP3 to the dispersed trans-Golgi network,facilitating its subsequent recruitment to the microtubule-organizing center.This membrane trafficking was crucial for inflammasome assembly and downstream inflammatory responses.These findings provide new insights into the distinct regulatory mechanisms of NLRP3 activation in teleosts,highlighting an evolutionary divergence that contributes to innate immunity adaptation in early vertebrates.
基金supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(DUT24YG142).
文摘Curcumin,a bioactive compound extracted from Curcuma longa.L.,demonstrates significant therapeutic potential in inflammatory diseases.This study aims to explore the effects of curcumin on hyperuricemia with acute gout and associated renal dysfunction in a mouse model.The results show that curcumin treatment alleviates ankle joint swelling,reduces inflammatory cytokines IL-1βand TNF-α,and lowers serum uric acid concentrations.High-dose curcumin notably inhibits xanthine oxidase(XOD)activity,a key enzyme in uric acid production,while it enhances the renal expression of the urate transporter ABCG2,thereby promoting uric acid excretion.Furthermore,curcumin effectively mitigates renal injury as evidenced by reduced serum creatinineand blood urea nitrogen levels and suppresses renal inflammation.At the molecular level,curcumin exerts potent antioxidant effects by lowering reactive oxygen species(ROS)levels in both cultured HK-2 human renal tubular epithelial cells and RAW264.7 mouse macrophages.The curcumin-mediated effects are associated with the disruption of NEK7-NLRP3 complex formation,leading to the suppression of the ROS/NEK7-NLRP3 inflammasome pathway.This,in turn,inhibits pyroptosis and the subsequent release of mature IL-1β.These findings suggest that curcumin not only reduces uric acid production but also modulates inflammation through ROSscavenging properties and its ability to inhibit the NLRP3 inflammasome.
基金Ministry of Education Industry-University Co-operation Collaborative Education Project,No.202102242020.
文摘BACKGROUND Activation of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT),a pivotal process in tumor metastasis and evasion,as well as the NLRP3 inflammasome,both promote colorectal cancer(CRC)progression.Recent studies have shown that Transmembrane protein 176B(TMEM176B)regulates NLRP3 and promotes CRC malignant phenotypes.AIM To investigate the role of TMEM176B in modulating NLRP3 inflammasome and its implications on EMT and tumor progression in CRC.METHODS CRC in situ mouse and co-cultured cell models were established using CT26 cells,BALB/c mice,and primary cultured mouse natural killer(NK)cells.Short hairpin RNA knocked down TMEM176B and NLRP3 expression in CT26 cells.Fluorescence imaging,Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assays,immunohistochemistry staining,flow cytometry,and molecular assays were used to investigate the effects of TMEM176B knockdown on the NLRP3 inflammasome in NK cells to assess tumor metastasis,apoptosis,and EMT indicators.RESULTS Silencing TMEM176B in CRC mice significantly reduced tumor metastasis,proliferation,and EMT,while activating apoptosis,NLRP3 inflammasome,and NK cell activity.Furthermore,silencing TMEM176B in co-cultured cell models inhibited cell migration and invasion,and promoted apoptosis.The interference of NLRP3 reversed these effects by modulating key proteins such as phosphorylated nuclear factor kappa B subunit 1 p65,matrix metallopeptidase 9,and transforming growth factor-β.CONCLUSION This study highlights the critical role of TMEM176B/NLRP3 in CRC progression and provides a basis for targeting this axis as a novel therapeutic approach to manage CRC progression and metastasis.
基金supported by the Guiding Science and Technology Development Grant in the Social Sector of Luoyang(2101083A)。
文摘Background:Alzheimer's disease(AD)is a progressive neurodegenerative disease with no effective therapies.It is well known that chronic neuroinflammation plays a critical role in the onset and progression of AD.Well-balanced neuronal-microglial interactions are essential for brain functions.However,determining the role of microglia—the primary immune cells in the brain—in neuroinflammation in AD and the associated molecular basis has been challenging.Methods:Inflammatory factors in the sera of AD patients were detected and their association with microglia activation was analyzed.The mechanism for microglial inflammation was investigated.IL6 and TNF-α were found to be significantly increased in the AD stage.Results:Our analysis revealed that microglia were extensively activated in AD cerebra,releasing sufficient amounts of cytokines to impair the neural stem cells(NSCs)function.Moreover,the ApoD-induced NLRC4 inflammasome was activated in microglia,which gave rise to the proinflammatory phenotype.Targeting the microglial ApoD promoted NSC self-renewal and inhibited neuron apoptosis.These findings demonstrate the critical role of ApoD in microglial inflammasome activation,and for the first time reveal that microglia-induced inflammation suppresses neuronal proliferation.Conclusion:Our studies establish the cellular basis for microglia activation in AD progression and shed light on cellular interactions important for AD treatment.
基金supported by Grants from the Basic Research Program of Jiangsu(BK20240492)Lianyungang Science and Technology Plan Project(JCYJ2304)+2 种基金Lianyungang Aging Health Research Project(L202301)Doctoral Research Start-up Fund of the First Peopel’Hospital of Lianyungang City(BS202314)The funders had no role in study design,data collection and analysis,decision to publish,or preparation of the manuscript.
文摘The nod-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3(NLRP3)inflammasome plays a crucial role in the prognosis of subarachnoid hemorrhage(SAH).WNK1 kinase negatively regulates NLRP3 in various inflammatory conditions,but its role in early brain injury(EBI)after SAH remains unclear.In this study,we used an in vivo SAH model in rats/mice and AAV-WNK1 intraventricular injection to investigate its neuroprotective mechanisms.WNK1 expression was significantly reduced in SAH patient blood and SAH model brain tissue,correlating negatively with microglial activation.AAV-WNK1 alleviated brain edema,neuronal necrosis,behavioral deficits,and inflammation by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation.In hemin-stimulated BV-2 cells,WNK1 overexpression reduced NLRP3 activation and inflammatory cytokines.Chloride counteracted WNK1’s inhibitory effects,and WNK1 suppressed P2X7R-induced NLRP3 activation.Mechanistically,WNK1 functioned via the OXSR1/STK39 pathway.These findings highlight WNK1 as a key regulator of intracellular chloride balance and neuroinflammation,presenting a potential therapeutic target for SAH treatment.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82304587)Young Elite Scientists Sponsorship Program by Henan Association for Science and Technology(No.2025HYTP076)+2 种基金Introduction Program Project of Henan Province for Foreign Expert(No.HNGD2022032)Henan Science and Technology Project(No.242102310507,No.252102310496)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(No.2024M750816)。
文摘Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease(MAFLD),characterized by fatty acid overload,secondary chronic inflammation,and fibrosis,has become the most prevalent chronic liver disease globally.While no effective pharmacotherapy exists for MAFLD,mitigating inflammatory responses represents a promising approach to preventing the progression from steatosis to severe steatohepatitis.The NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3(NLRP3)inflammasome,which detects endogenous danger and stress signals,has emerged as a significant target for inflammatory disease treatment,as transcriptional inactivation of its components demonstrates the therapeutic potential for MAFLD.Natural products targeting NLRP3 inflammasome activation have shown promising efficacy in MAFLD therapy.This review synthesizes the current understanding of NLRP3 inflammasome activation and therapeutic targets for NLRP3 homeostasis.Additionally,natural products reported to inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome for MAFLD improvement are categorized according to their mechanisms of action.The review also addresses limitations and future directions regarding natural products targeting NLRP3 inflammasome in MAFLD treatment.Enhanced understanding of NLRP3 inflammasome activation mechanisms in MAFLD and the identification of novel natural products supported by mechanistic research will significantly advance MAFLD treatment.
基金funded by a Maurice and Phyllis Paykel Trust Grant(203134)supported by a Buchanan Ocular Therapeutics Unit Doctoral Scholarship.Odunayo O.Mugisho is supported by a Neurological Foundation First Postdoctoral Research Fellowship(2001 FFE)+2 种基金an Auckland Medical Research Foundation Grant(1121013)an Auckland Medical Research Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship(1323001)supported by the Buchanan Charitable Foundation,with part of her salary also supported by the Health Research Council of New Zealand(20/317).
文摘Background:Noninfectious uveitis,a chronic ocular inflammatory disease,is char-acterized by the activation of immune cells in the eye,with most studies focusing on the role of the adaptive immune system in the disease.However,limited data exist on the potential contribution of the innate immune system,specifically the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain and leucine-rich repeat receptor-3(NLRP3)inflamma-some pathway.This pathway has previously been identified as a driver of inflammation in several low-grade,progressive inflammatory eye diseases such as diabetic retin-opathy.The aim of this study was to determine whether the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway plays a role in the pathogenesis and chronicity of experimental autoimmune uveitis(EAU).Methods:EAU was induced in C57BL/6J mice via intraperitoneal pertussis toxin and subcutaneous interphotoreceptor retinoid-binding protein injections.After 12 weeks,eyes were enucleated,and whole eye sections were assessed for inflammasome,macrophage,and microglial markers in the retina,ciliary body,and cornea using immunohistochemistry.Results:Our study confirmed higher NLRP3 inflammasome activation(increased ex-pression of NLRP3 and cleaved caspase 1 labeling)in EAU mouse retinas compared to controls.This correlated with increased astrogliosis and microglial activation through-out the eye.Migratory innate and adaptive peripheral immune cells(macrophages and leukocytes)were also found within the retina and ciliary body of EAU mice.Connexin43 proteins,which form hexameric hemichannels that can release adeno-sine triphosphate(ATP),an upstream inflammasome priming signal,were also found upregulated in the retina and cornea of EAU mice.Conclusion:Overall,our findings support the idea that in the EAU model there is active inflammation,even 12 weeks post induction,and that it can be correlated to inflammasome activation.This contributes to the pathogenesis and chronicity of non-infectious uveitis,and our results emphasize that targeting the inflammasome path-way could be efficacious for noninfectious uveitis treatment.
基金supported by grants from the Research Committee of the University of Macao(Grant No.:MYRG2022-00020-ICMS)the Science and Technology Development Fund,Macao SAR,China(File No.:0074/2021/AFJ and 0052/2022/A1).
文摘Heavy alcohol consumption results in alcoholic liver disease(ALD)with inadequate therapeutic options.Here,we first report the potential beneficial effects of ginsenoside Rk2(Rk2),a rare dehydroprotopanaxadiol saponin isolated from streamed ginseng,against alcoholic liver injury in mice.Chronic-plus-single-binge ethanol feeding caused severe liver injury,as manifested by significantly elevated serum aminotransferase levels,hepatic histological changes,increased lipid accumulation,oxidative stress,and inflammation in the liver.These deleterious effects were alleviated by the treatment with Rk2(5 and 30 mg/kg).Acting as an nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3(NLRP3)inhibitor,Rk2 ameliorates alcohol-induced liver inflammation by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome signaling in the liver.Meanwhile,the treatment with Rk2 alleviated the alcohol-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction via enhancing NLRP6 inflammasome in the intestine.Our findings indicate that Rk2 is a promising agent for the prevention and treatment of ALD and other NLPR3-driven diseases.
文摘This article provides commentary on the article by Zhang et al.In this original research,Zhang et al investigated the therapeutic potential of teneligliptin for diabetic cardiomyopathy(DCM),which was mediated by targeting the NOD-like receptor protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome.Through the use of both in vivo and in vitro models,the study demonstrated that teneligliptin alleviates cardiac hyper-trophy,reduces myocardial injury,and mitigates the inflammatory responses as-sociated with DCM.These findings suggest that teneligliptin’s cardioprotective effects are mediated through the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation,positioning it as a promising therapeutic option for managing DCM in diabetic patients.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81503656the National Key Basic Research Program of China(973 Program),No.2015CB554501 and No.2009CB522900
文摘BACKGROUND About one-third of refractory irritable bowel syndrome(IBS)cases are caused by gastrointestinal(GI)infection/inflammation,known as post-infectious/postinflammatory IBS(PI-IBS).Although it is known that intestinal microbiota and host NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 6(NLRP6)inflammsome signaling are closely related to PI-IBS and moxibustion has a therapeutic effect on PI-IBS,whether moxibustion regulates the intestinal flora and host NLRP6 events in PI-IBS remains unclear.AIM To examine the regulatory effect of moxibustion on intestinal microbiota and host NLRP6 inflammatory signaling in PI-IBS.METHODS Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into a normal control group,a model control group,a mild moxibustion group,and a sham mild moxibustion group.PI-IBS rats in the mild moxibustion group were treated with moxibusiton at bilateral Tianshu(ST 25)and Zusanli(ST36)for 7 consecutive days for 10 min each time.The sham group rats were given the same treatment as the mild moxibustion group except the moxa stick was not ignited.Abdominal withdrawal reflex(AWR)score was measured to assess the visceral sensitivity,and colon histopathology and ultrastructure,colonic myeloperoxidase(MPO)activity,and serum C-reactive protein(CRP)level were measured to evaluate low-grade colonic inflammation in rats.The relative abundance of selected intestinal bacteria in rat feces was detected by 16S rDNA PCR and the NLRP6 inflammsome signaling in the colon was detected by immunofluorescence,qRTPCR,and Western blot.RESULTS The AWR score was significantly decreased and the low-grade intestinal inflammation reflected by serum CRP and colonic MPO levels was inhibited in the mild moxibustion group compared with the sham group.Mild moxibustion remarkably increased the relative DNA abundances of Lactobacillus,Bifidobacterium,and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii but decreased that of Escherichia coli in the gut of PI-IBS rats.Additionally,mild moxibustion induced mRNA and protein expression of intestine lectin 1 but inhibited the expression of IL-1β,IL-18,and resistance-like moleculeβby promoting the NLRP6 and reducing the mRNA and protein expression of apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing CARD(ASC)and cysteinyl-aspartate-specific proteinase 1(Caspase-1).The relative DNA abundances of Lactobacillus,Bifidobacteria,Faecalibacterium prausnitzii,and Escherichia coli in each group were correlated with the mRNA and protein expression of NLRP6,ASC,and Caspase-1 in the colon.CONCLUSION These findings indicated that mild moxibustion can relieve low-grade GI inflammation and alleviate visceral hypersensitivity in PI-IBS by regulating intestinal microbes and controlling NLRP6 inflammasome signaling.
文摘Inflammasomes are multiprotein intracellular complexes which are responsible for the activation of inflammatory responses. Among various subtypes of inflammasomes, NLRP3 has been a subject of intensive investigation. NLRP3 is considered to be a sensor of microbial and other danger signals and plays a crucial role in mucosal immune responses, promoting the maturation of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin 1β(IL-1β) and IL-18. NLRP3 inflammasome has been associated with a variety of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, including inflammatory bowel diseases(IBD). The role of NLRP3 in IBD is not yet fully elucidated as it seems to demonstrate both pathogenic and protective effects. Studies have shown a relationship between genetic variants and mutations in NLRP3 gene with IBD pathogenesis. A complex interaction between the NLRP3 inflammasome and the mucosal immune response has been reported. Activation of the inflammasome is a key function mediated by the innate immune response and in parallel the signaling through IL-1β and IL-18 is implicated in adaptive immunity. Further research is needed to delineate the precise mechanisms of NLRP3 function in regulating immune responses. Targeting NLRP3 inflammasome and its downstream signaling will provide new insights into the development of future therapeutic strategies.
基金surported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81803608)the Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Jilin Province,China(No.2019133)
文摘The aim of this study was to explore the neuroprotective effect and mechanism of XingNaoJing injections(XNJ) on cerebral ischemia injury and blood-brain barrier(BBB) disruption. Middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO) method was applicated to establish the model of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion(I/R) injury in rats. BBB permeability after I/R injury was assessed with the leaking amount of Evans Blue and the expression of occludin and ZO-1. The expression of NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain containing(NLRP3) was checked to explore the inhibition of inflammation by XNJ. The results showed that XNJ could significantly increase the survival percent, decrease the infarct area and ameliorate neurological deficits and brain damage after I/R injury. Leaking amount of Evans Blue was reduced by XNJ, and the expression of tight junction protein, occludin and ZO-1 was also up-regulated by XNJ, which showed a role of protection on BBB disruption. The expression of NLRP3 was inhibited after exposure of XNJ, which was associated with inhibition of the inflammatory response. In summary, XNJ could suppress NLRP3 inflammasomes and improve BBB disruption and brain damage in rats after cerebral I/R injury, which provided a beneficial insight to further explore XNJ.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of china,No.81974156(to TJ)the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province,No.BK20201117(to YDZ)。
文摘Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-like 2(TREML2)is a newly identified susceptibility gene for Alzheimer's disease(AD).It encodes a microglial inflammation-associated receptor.To date,the potential role of mic roglial TREML2 in neuroinflammation in the context of AD remains unclear.In this study,APP/PS1 mice were used to investigate the dynamic changes of TREML2 levels in brain during AD progression.In addition,lipopolysaccharide(LPS)stimulation of primary microglia as well as a lentivirus-mediated TREML2 overexpression and knockdown were employed to explore the role of TREML2 in neuroinflammation in the context of AD.Our res ults show that TREML2 levels gradually increased in the brains of AP P/PS1 mice during disease progression.LPS stimulation of primary microglia led to the release of inflammato ry cytokines including interleukin-1β,inte rleukin-6,and tumor necrosis factor-a in the culture medium.The LPS-induced mic roglial release of inflammatory cytokines was enhanced by TREML2 overexpression and was attenuated by TREML2 knoc kdown.LPS increased the levels of mic roglial M1-type polarization marker inducible nitric oxide synthase.This effect was enhanced by TREML2 overexpression and ameliorated by TREML2 knockdown.Furthermore,the levels of microglial M2-type polarization markers CD206 and ARG1 in the primary microglia were reduced by TREML2 overexpression and elevated by TREML2 knockdown.LPS stimulation increased the levels of NLRP3 in primary microglia.The LPS-induced increase in NLRP3 was further elevated by TREML2 overexpression and alleviated by TREML2 knockdown.In summary,this study provides the first evidence that TREML2 modulates inflammation by regulating microglial polarization and NLRP3 inflammasome activation.These findings reveal the mechanisms by which TREML2 regulates microglial inflammation and suggest that TREML2 inhibition may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for AD.
