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
Streptococcus mutans(S. mutans), a major aetiologic agent of dental caries, is involved in systemic diseases, such as bacterial endocarditis, if it enters the bloodstream through temporary bacteraemia. Interleukin(IL...Streptococcus mutans(S. mutans), a major aetiologic agent of dental caries, is involved in systemic diseases, such as bacterial endocarditis, if it enters the bloodstream through temporary bacteraemia. Interleukin(IL)-1β, a proinflammatory cytokine, is related to the host defences against pathogens, and its synthesis, maturation, and secretion are tightly regulated by the activation of the inflammasome, an inflammatory signalling complex. This study examined the signalling mechanism of IL-1β secretion and the inflammasome pathway induced by S. mutans to explain the molecular mechanism through which systemic infection by oral streptococci can occur. After infection of THP-1 cells with S. mutans, the expression of inflammasome components was detected using various methods. S. mutans induced IL-1β secretion via caspase-1 activation, and S. mutans-induced IL-1β secretion required absent in melanoma(AIM2), NLR family pyrin domain-containing 3(NLRP3) and NLR family CARD domain-containing 4(NLRC4)inflammasome activation. In particular, the S. mutans-induced NLRP3 inflammasome was mediated by adenosine triphosphate(ATP) release, potassium depletion and lysosomal damage. Our study provides novel insight into the innate immune response against S. mutans infection.展开更多
Inflammation plays an important role in atherosclerosis.Inflammasomes play a crucial role in innate immunity,which mediates the body’s response to various pathogens.Of the different types of inflammasomes,NLRP3 has b...Inflammation plays an important role in atherosclerosis.Inflammasomes play a crucial role in innate immunity,which mediates the body’s response to various pathogens.Of the different types of inflammasomes,NLRP3 has been implicated in atherosclerosis through the production of proinfl ammatory cytokines,IL-1β and IL-18.This review describes the role of the NLRP3 infl ammasome in atherosclerosis and discusses potential therapeutic targets in the infl ammasome pathway.展开更多
Major depressive disorder(MDD)is highly prevalent and is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide.Currently,conventional pharmacological treatments for MDD produce temporary remission in<50%of patie...Major depressive disorder(MDD)is highly prevalent and is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide.Currently,conventional pharmacological treatments for MDD produce temporary remission in<50%of patients;therefore,there is an urgent need for a wider spectrum of novel antidepressants to target newly discovered underlying disease mechanisms.Accumulated evidence has shown that immune inflammation,particularly inflammasome activity,plays an important role in the pathophysiology of MDD.In this review,we summarize the evidence on nuclear receptors(NRs),such as glucocorticoid receptor,mineralocorticoid receptor,estrogen receptor,aryl hydrocarbon receptor,and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor,in modulating the inflammasome activity and depression-associated behaviors.This review provides evidence from an endocrine perspective to understand the role of activated NRs in the pathophysiology of MDD,and to provide insight for the discovery of antidepressants with novel mechanisms for this devastating disorder.展开更多
Neuroinflammation is a crucial factor in the progression of various diseases,ranging from immune-related conditions such as sepsis to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease(AD)(Ravichandran and Henek...Neuroinflammation is a crucial factor in the progression of various diseases,ranging from immune-related conditions such as sepsis to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease(AD)(Ravichandran and Heneka,2024).This perspective article,which draws on insights from diverse fields including neuroscience,immunology,and pathology,p rovides a critical analysis of ongoing research efforts in inflammasome biology,with specific emphasis on Nod-like receptor(NLR)and pyrin domain-containing protein 3(NLRP3).展开更多
Cerebral small vessel disease is a major vascular contributor to cognitive impairment and dementia.However,there remains a lack of effective preventative or therapeutic regimens for cerebral small vessel disease.In th...Cerebral small vessel disease is a major vascular contributor to cognitive impairment and dementia.However,there remains a lack of effective preventative or therapeutic regimens for cerebral small vessel disease.In this study,we investigated the potential therapeutic effects of MCC950,a selective NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing protein 3 inhibitor,on cerebral small vessel disease pathogenesis and cognitive decline in spontaneously hypertensive rats.Our results showed that chronic administration of MCC950(10 mg/kg)to spontaneously hypertensive rats inhibited NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing protein 3 inflammasome activation,thereby considerably suppressing the production of pyroptosis executive protein gasdermin D and pro-inflammatory factors,including interleukin-1βand-18.A decrease in astrocytic and microglial activation was also observed.We also found that MCC950 significantly inhibited autophagy.More importantly,behavioral assessment indicated that MCC950 administration ameliorated impaired neurocognitive function,which was associated with improvements in neuropathological hallmarks in the cerebral small vessel disease brain,such as blood‒brain barrier breakdown,white matter damage,and endothelial dysfunction.Thus,our findings revealed that the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing protein 3 inflammasome is a key contributor to the onset or progression of cerebral small vessel disease and suggested the potential of NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing protein 3-based therapy as a potential novel strategy for treating cerebral small vessel disease.展开更多
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
Skeletal muscle health and function are essential determinants of metabolic health,physical performance,and overall quality of life.The quality of skeletal muscle is heavily dependent on the complex mitochondrial reti...Skeletal muscle health and function are essential determinants of metabolic health,physical performance,and overall quality of life.The quality of skeletal muscle is heavily dependent on the complex mitochondrial reticulum that contributes toward its unique adaptability.It is now recognized that mitochondrial perturbations can activate various innate immune pathways,such as the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain(NOD)-like receptor protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome complex by propagating inflammatory signaling in response to damage-associated molecular patterns(DAMPs).The NLRP3 inflammasome is a multimeric protein complex and is a prominent regulator of innate immunity and cell death by mediating the activation of caspase-1,pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1βand interleukin-18 and pro-pyroptotic protein gasdermin-D.While several studies have begun to demonstrate the relationship between various mitochondrial DAMPs(mtDAMPs)and NLRP3 inflammasome activation,the influence of various metabolic states on the production of these DAMPs and subsequent inflammatory profile remains poorly understood.This narrative review aimed to address this by highlighting the effects of skeletal muscle use and disuse on mitochondrial quality mechanisms including mitochondrial biogenesis,fusion,fission and mitophagy.Secondly,this review summarized the impact of alterations in mitochondrial quality control mechanisms following muscle denervation,aging,and exercise training in relation to NLRP3 inflammasome activation.By consolidating the current body of literature,this work aimed to further the understanding of innate immune signaling within skeletal muscle,which can highlight areas for future research and therapeutic strategies to regulate NLRP3 inflammasome activation during divergent metabolic conditions.展开更多
Over a century ago,the first clinical and neuropathological insights into major neurodegenerative diseases began to emerge:the description of Alzheimer’s disease(AD)by Alois Alzheimer in 1906,frontotemporal dementia ...Over a century ago,the first clinical and neuropathological insights into major neurodegenerative diseases began to emerge:the description of Alzheimer’s disease(AD)by Alois Alzheimer in 1906,frontotemporal dementia by Arnold Pick in the same years,and Lewy bodies by Friedrich Lewy in 1912.These foundational studies laid the groundwork for the classification of what we now recognize as distinct neurodegenerative entities(Allali,2024).展开更多
The unfolded protein response is a cellular pathway activated to maintain proteostasis and prevent cell death when the endoplasmic reticulum is overwhelmed by unfolded proteins.However,if the unfolded protein response...The unfolded protein response is a cellular pathway activated to maintain proteostasis and prevent cell death when the endoplasmic reticulum is overwhelmed by unfolded proteins.However,if the unfolded protein response fails to restore endoplasmic reticulum homeostasis,it can trigger proinflammatory and pro-death signals,which are implicated in various malignancies and are currently being investigated for their role in retinal degenerative diseases.This paper reviews the role of the unfolded protein responsein addressing endoplasmic reticulumstress in retinal degenerative diseases.The accumulation of ubiquitylated misfolded proteins can lead to rapid destabilization of the proteome and cellular demise.Targeting endoplasmic reticulum stress to alleviate retinal pathologies involves multiple strategies,including the use of chemical chaperones such as 4-phenylbutyric acid and tauroursodeoxycholic acid,which enhance protein folding and reduce endoplasmic reticulum stress.Small molecule modulators that influence endoplasmic reticulum stress sensors,including those that increase the expression of the endoplasmic reticulum stress regulator X-box binding protein 1,are also potential therapeutic agents.Additionally,inhibitors of the RNAse activity of inositol-requiring transmembrane kinase/endoribonuclease 1,a key endoplasmic reticulum stress sensor,represent another class of drugs that could prevent the formation of toxic aggregates.The activation of nuclear receptors,such as PPAR and FXR,may also help mitigate ER stress.Furthermore,enhancing proteolysis through the induction of autophagy or the inhibition of deubiquitinating enzymes can assist in clearing misfolded proteins.Combination treatments that involve endoplasmicreticulum-stress-targeting drugs and gene therapies are also being explored.Despite these potential therapeutic strategies,significant challenges remain in targeting endoplasmic reticulum stress for the treatment of retinal degeneration,and further research is essential to elucidate the mechanisms underlying human retinal diseases and to develop effective,well-tolerated drugs.The use of existing drugs that target inositol-requiring transmembrane kinase/endoribonuclease 1 and X-box binding protein 1 has been associated with adverse side effects,which have hindered their clinical translation.Moreover,signaling pathways downstream of endoplasmic reticulum stress sensors can contribute to therapy resistance.Addressing these limitations is crucial for developing drugs that can be effectively used in treating retinal dystrophies.In conclusion,while the unfolded protein response is a promising therapeutic target in retinal degenerative diseases,additional research and development efforts are imperative to overcome the current limitations and improve patient outcomes.展开更多
Background:This study investigated the role of polydatin in regulating macrophage-epithelial cell(EC)interactions during asthma.An asthma model was induced in BALB/c mice using ovalbumin(20μg).Methods:The therapeutic...Background:This study investigated the role of polydatin in regulating macrophage-epithelial cell(EC)interactions during asthma.An asthma model was induced in BALB/c mice using ovalbumin(20μg).Methods:The therapeutic effects of polydatin(20 and 40 mg/kg)were evaluated in this asthmatic mouse model.To assess the underlying mechanisms,Bronchial Epithelium Adenovirus 12-SV402B(BEAS-2B)cells were cocultured with Tohoku Hospital for Pediatrics-1(THP-1)macrophages,in which toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)was either overexpressed or knocked down,and subsequently stimulated with lipopoly-saccharide(LPS)and ATP.THP-1 cells underwent a 1-h pretreatment with polydatin(50 and 100μmol/L),Class Lipid Inhibitor-095(CLI-095,TLR4 inhibitor,1μg/mL),or A438079(P2X7R antagonist,10μmol/L)prior to LPS/ATP challenge.Results:Findings from Western blotting,enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay,flow cytometry,real-time polymerase chain reaction,and immunofluorescence assays demonstrated that modulating TLR4 expression significantly altered interleukin-1β(IL-1β)secretion from THP-1 macrophages and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species(mtROS)production in BEAS-2B ECs.In the mouse asthma model,polydatin significantly alleviated airway inflammation,oxidative stress,and apoptosis,likely by interfering with TLR4/P2X7R-mediated signaling and suppressing the activation of the NOD-like receptor protein inflammasome.Additionally,polydatin significantly reduced IL-1βand IL-18 levels and inhibited the infiltration of macrophages and eosinophils.Correspondingly,polydatin significantly attenuated TLR4/P2X7R signaling in THP-1 cells stimulated with ATP and LPS,thereby reducing IL-1βand IL-18 secretion,calcium influx,mtROS production,and apoptosis in BEAS-2B ECs.Conclusions:Polydatin is a promising therapeutic candidate for asthma,possibly by targeting macrophage-epithelium cross-talk via the TLR4/P2X7R axis.Future formulations as capsules or sprays may effectively alleviate airway inflammation and remodeling.展开更多
Innate immune responses are the host's first line of defense against human immunodeficiency virus type 1(HIV-1)infection,with pattern recognition receptors detecting viral specific pathogen-associatedmolecular pat...Innate immune responses are the host's first line of defense against human immunodeficiency virus type 1(HIV-1)infection,with pattern recognition receptors detecting viral specific pathogen-associatedmolecular patterns and initiating antiviral responses.In response to HIV-1 nucleic acids or proteins,some pattern recognition receptors have the ability to assemble a large multiprotein complex called the inflammasome,which triggers pro-inflammatory cytokine release and a form of lytic programmed cell death called pyroptosis.Here,we review our current understanding of the mechanism of the inflammasome in sensing HIV-1 infection.Furthermore,we discuss the contribution of inflammasome activation in HIV-1 pathogenesis as well as potential strategies of targeting inflammasome activation for the treatment of HIV-1 infection.展开更多
Multiple sclerosis is a severe autoimmune disorder that is mainly mediated by pathogenic cluster of CD4^(+)T cell subsets.Despite advancements in the management of multiple sclerosis,there is a critical need for more ...Multiple sclerosis is a severe autoimmune disorder that is mainly mediated by pathogenic cluster of CD4^(+)T cell subsets.Despite advancements in the management of multiple sclerosis,there is a critical need for more effective and safer treatments.In the present study,we administered Lycium barbarum glycopeptide to a mouse model of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis-an animal model of multiple sclerosis-and evaluated its effects on pathogenic CD4^(+)T cell activation both in vivo and in vitro.Lycium barbarum glycopeptide significantly mitigated the clinical severity of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis,as demonstrated by reduced demyelination and neuroinflammation.Moreover,Lycium barbarum glycopeptide treatment decreased the infiltration of peripheral leukocytes into the central nervous system and suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokine expression.Lycium barbarum glycopeptide also modulated pathogenic CD4^(+)T cell activation by inhibiting T helper 1/T helper 17 cell differentiation while promoting regulatory T cell expansion.Notably,no side effects were observed,suggesting the long-term safety and tolerability of Lycium barbarum glycopeptide.Furthermore,RNA sequencing data indicated that Lycium barbarum glycopeptide inhibits activator protein-1,an essential regulator of T cell activation and differentiation.This finding was supported by the reversal of T helper/T helper 17 cell response suppression upon AP-1 blockade.Collectively,these results highlight the potential of Lycium barbarum glycopeptide as an innovative therapeutic agent for CD4^(+)T cell-associated autoimmune or inflammatory diseases,such as multiple sclerosis.展开更多
Autoimmune diseases are immune disorders in which the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks the normal cells,tissues,and organs of the patients.The etiology of autoimmune diseases is complex and multifactorial....Autoimmune diseases are immune disorders in which the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks the normal cells,tissues,and organs of the patients.The etiology of autoimmune diseases is complex and multifactorial.This review aims to provide a general introduction to the immunological functions of inflammasomes and describe the role of inflammasomes in disorders characterized by self-directed inflammation,with a particular focus on several common autoimmune diseases.We reviewed current research on the mechanisms of inflammasome activation and inflammasomes'contribution to autoimmune diseases.Inhibitors targeting inflammasome components were also explored for their potential in therapeutic applications.With increasing research on mechanisms of inflammation of the pathologic conditions,accumulated evidence suggests that the aberrant or uncontrolled activation of inflammasomes contributes to the pathogenesis and development of autoimmune diseases.Additionally,inflammasome-targeting drugs have shown promise in treating autoimmune diseases.Insights into the mechanisms governing inflammasome activation and their roles in autoimmune diseases could contribute to the development of novel anti-inflammatory drugs for the prevention and treatment of autoimmune diseases with enhanced targeting precision and reduced adverse reactions.展开更多
Infiammasomes play essential roles in immune protection against microbial infections. However, excessive inflammation is implicated in various human diseases, including autoinflammatory syndromes, diabetes, multiple s...Infiammasomes play essential roles in immune protection against microbial infections. However, excessive inflammation is implicated in various human diseases, including autoinflammatory syndromes, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, cardiovascular disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, precise regulation of inflammasome activities is critical for adequate immune protection while limiting collateral tissue damage. In this review, we focus on the emerging roles of post-translational modifications （PTMs） that regulate activation of the NLRP3, NLRP1, NLRC4, AIM2 and IFI16 inflammasomes. We anticipate that these types of PTMs will be identified in other types of and less well-characterized inflammasomes. Because these highly diverse and versatile PTMs shape distinct inflammatory responses in response to infections and tissue damage, targeting the enzymes involved in these PTMs will undoubtedly offer opportunities for precise modulation of inflammasome activities under various pathophysiological conditions.展开更多
Inflammasomes are multi-protein complexes that regulate the innate immune response by facilitating the release of inflammatory cytokines in response to pathogen exposure or cellular damage. Pro-inflammatory inflammaso...Inflammasomes are multi-protein complexes that regulate the innate immune response by facilitating the release of inflammatory cytokines in response to pathogen exposure or cellular damage. Pro-inflammatory inflammasome signaling is vital to host defense and helps initiate the process of tissue repair following an insult to the host, but can be injurious, when excessive or chronic. As such, inflammasome activity is tightly regulated. Here we discuss one critical mechanism of inflammasome regulation, ubiquitination, that functions as a universal modulator of protein stability and trafficking. Recent studies have provided important insights into the regulation of inflammasome activation by protein ubiquitination. We review the molecular regulation of inflammasome function, specifically, as it relates to ubiquitination, and discuss the implications for the development of theraoeutics to soecificallv target aberrant inflammasome signaling.展开更多
Acute myocardial infarction(MI),one of the most common cardiovascular emergencies,is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality.Ample evidence has revealed an essential role for inflammasome activation and autophagy i...Acute myocardial infarction(MI),one of the most common cardiovascular emergencies,is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality.Ample evidence has revealed an essential role for inflammasome activation and autophagy in the pathogenesis of acute MI.Tax1-binding protein 1(TAX1BP1),an adaptor molecule involved in termination of proinflammatory signaling,serves as an important selective autophagy adaptor,but its role in cardiac ischemia remains elusive.This study examined the role of TAX1BP1 in myocardial ischemic stress and the underlying mechanisms involved.Levels of TAX1BP1 were significantly downregulated in heart tissues of patients with ischemic heart disease and in a left anterior descending(LAD)ligation-induced model of acute MI.Adenovirus carrying TAX1BP1 was delivered into the myocardium.The acute MI induced procedure elicited an infarct and cardiac dysfunction,the effect of which was mitigated by TAX1BP1 overexpression with little effect from viral vector alone.TAX1BP1 nullified acute MI-induced activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and associated mitochondrial dysfunction.TAX1BP1 overexpression suppressed NLRP3 mitochondrial localization by inhibiting the interaction of NLRP3 with mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein(MAVS).Further investigation revealed that ring finger protein 34(RNF34)was recruited to interact with TAX1BP1 thereby facilitating autophagic degradation of MAVS through K27-linked polyubiquitination of MAVS.Knockdown of RNF34 using siRNA nullified TAX1BP1 yielded protection against hypoxia-induced MAVS mitochondrial accumulation,NLRP3 inflammasome activation and associated loss of mitochondrial membrane potential.Taken together,our results favor a cardioprotective role for TAX1BP1 in acute MI through repression of inflammasome activation in a RNF34/MAVS-dependent manner.展开更多
Background:Chronic Gulf War Illness(GWI)is characterized by cognitive and mood impairments,as well as persistent neuroinflammation and oxidative stress.This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of Epidiolex®,a...Background:Chronic Gulf War Illness(GWI)is characterized by cognitive and mood impairments,as well as persistent neuroinflammation and oxidative stress.This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of Epidiolex®,a Food and Drug Administration(FDA)-approved cannabidiol(CBD),in improving brain function in a rat model of chronic GWI.Methods:Six months after exposure to low doses of GWI-related chemicals[pyridostigmine bromide,N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide(DEET),and permethrin(PER)]along with moderate stress,rats with chronic GWI were administered either vehicle(VEH)or CBD(20 mg/kg,oral)for 16 weeks.Neurobehavioral tests were conducted on 11 weeks after treatment initiation to evaluate the performance of rats in tasks related to associative recognition memory,object location memory,pattern separation,and sucrose preference.The effect of CBD on hyperalgesia was also examined.The brain tissues were processed for immunohistochemical and molecular studies following behavioral tests.Results:GWI rats treated with VEH exhibited impairments in all cognitive tasks and anhedonia,whereas CBD-treated GWI rats showed improvements in all cognitive tasks and no anhedonia.Additionally,CBD treatment alleviated hyperalgesia in GWI rats.Analysis of hippocampal tissues from VEH-treated rats revealed astrocyte hypertrophy and increased percentages of activated microglia presenting NOD-,LRR-and pyrin domain-containing protein 3(NLRP3)complexes as well as elevated levels of proteins involved in NLRP3 inflammasome activation and Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of the transcription(JAK/STAT)signaling.Furthermore,there were increased concentrations of proinflammatory and oxidative stress markers along with decreased neurogenesis.In contrast,the hippocampus from CBD-treated GWI rats displayed reduced levels of proteins mediating the activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes and JAK/STAT signaling,normalized concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers,and improved neurogenesis.Notably,CBD treatment did not alter the concentration of endogenous cannabinoid anandamide in the hippocampus.Conclusions:The use of an FDA-approved CBD(Epidiolex®)has been shown to effectively alleviate cognitive and mood impairments as well as hyperalgesia associated with chronic GWI.Importantly,the improvements observed in rats with chronic GWI in this study were attributed to the ability of CBD to significantly suppress signaling pathways that perpetuate chronic neuroinflammation.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
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A National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant funded by the government of South Korea (MEST no. 2012R1A2A2A01015470) supported this research
文摘Streptococcus mutans(S. mutans), a major aetiologic agent of dental caries, is involved in systemic diseases, such as bacterial endocarditis, if it enters the bloodstream through temporary bacteraemia. Interleukin(IL)-1β, a proinflammatory cytokine, is related to the host defences against pathogens, and its synthesis, maturation, and secretion are tightly regulated by the activation of the inflammasome, an inflammatory signalling complex. This study examined the signalling mechanism of IL-1β secretion and the inflammasome pathway induced by S. mutans to explain the molecular mechanism through which systemic infection by oral streptococci can occur. After infection of THP-1 cells with S. mutans, the expression of inflammasome components was detected using various methods. S. mutans induced IL-1β secretion via caspase-1 activation, and S. mutans-induced IL-1β secretion required absent in melanoma(AIM2), NLR family pyrin domain-containing 3(NLRP3) and NLR family CARD domain-containing 4(NLRC4)inflammasome activation. In particular, the S. mutans-induced NLRP3 inflammasome was mediated by adenosine triphosphate(ATP) release, potassium depletion and lysosomal damage. Our study provides novel insight into the innate immune response against S. mutans infection.
文摘Inflammation plays an important role in atherosclerosis.Inflammasomes play a crucial role in innate immunity,which mediates the body’s response to various pathogens.Of the different types of inflammasomes,NLRP3 has been implicated in atherosclerosis through the production of proinfl ammatory cytokines,IL-1β and IL-18.This review describes the role of the NLRP3 infl ammasome in atherosclerosis and discusses potential therapeutic targets in the infl ammasome pathway.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.31650005.
文摘Major depressive disorder(MDD)is highly prevalent and is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide.Currently,conventional pharmacological treatments for MDD produce temporary remission in<50%of patients;therefore,there is an urgent need for a wider spectrum of novel antidepressants to target newly discovered underlying disease mechanisms.Accumulated evidence has shown that immune inflammation,particularly inflammasome activity,plays an important role in the pathophysiology of MDD.In this review,we summarize the evidence on nuclear receptors(NRs),such as glucocorticoid receptor,mineralocorticoid receptor,estrogen receptor,aryl hydrocarbon receptor,and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor,in modulating the inflammasome activity and depression-associated behaviors.This review provides evidence from an endocrine perspective to understand the role of activated NRs in the pathophysiology of MDD,and to provide insight for the discovery of antidepressants with novel mechanisms for this devastating disorder.
基金supported by Texas Alzheimer’s Research and Care Consortium-TARCC 2022-26,The National Football League Players Association-NFLPA,NIH/NIA Grant 1R01 AG072491 to TB and FDP.
文摘Neuroinflammation is a crucial factor in the progression of various diseases,ranging from immune-related conditions such as sepsis to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease(AD)(Ravichandran and Heneka,2024).This perspective article,which draws on insights from diverse fields including neuroscience,immunology,and pathology,p rovides a critical analysis of ongoing research efforts in inflammasome biology,with specific emphasis on Nod-like receptor(NLR)and pyrin domain-containing protein 3(NLRP3).
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82201626(to CC)the Natural Science Foundation of LiaoningProvince,No.2022-MS-442(to CC)the Dalian Municipal Medical Key Specialty Climbing Project,No.2024ZZ040(to MZ).
文摘Cerebral small vessel disease is a major vascular contributor to cognitive impairment and dementia.However,there remains a lack of effective preventative or therapeutic regimens for cerebral small vessel disease.In this study,we investigated the potential therapeutic effects of MCC950,a selective NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing protein 3 inhibitor,on cerebral small vessel disease pathogenesis and cognitive decline in spontaneously hypertensive rats.Our results showed that chronic administration of MCC950(10 mg/kg)to spontaneously hypertensive rats inhibited NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing protein 3 inflammasome activation,thereby considerably suppressing the production of pyroptosis executive protein gasdermin D and pro-inflammatory factors,including interleukin-1βand-18.A decrease in astrocytic and microglial activation was also observed.We also found that MCC950 significantly inhibited autophagy.More importantly,behavioral assessment indicated that MCC950 administration ameliorated impaired neurocognitive function,which was associated with improvements in neuropathological hallmarks in the cerebral small vessel disease brain,such as blood‒brain barrier breakdown,white matter damage,and endothelial dysfunction.Thus,our findings revealed that the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing protein 3 inflammasome is a key contributor to the onset or progression of cerebral small vessel disease and suggested the potential of NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing protein 3-based therapy as a potential novel strategy for treating cerebral small vessel disease.
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.
文摘Skeletal muscle health and function are essential determinants of metabolic health,physical performance,and overall quality of life.The quality of skeletal muscle is heavily dependent on the complex mitochondrial reticulum that contributes toward its unique adaptability.It is now recognized that mitochondrial perturbations can activate various innate immune pathways,such as the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain(NOD)-like receptor protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome complex by propagating inflammatory signaling in response to damage-associated molecular patterns(DAMPs).The NLRP3 inflammasome is a multimeric protein complex and is a prominent regulator of innate immunity and cell death by mediating the activation of caspase-1,pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1βand interleukin-18 and pro-pyroptotic protein gasdermin-D.While several studies have begun to demonstrate the relationship between various mitochondrial DAMPs(mtDAMPs)and NLRP3 inflammasome activation,the influence of various metabolic states on the production of these DAMPs and subsequent inflammatory profile remains poorly understood.This narrative review aimed to address this by highlighting the effects of skeletal muscle use and disuse on mitochondrial quality mechanisms including mitochondrial biogenesis,fusion,fission and mitophagy.Secondly,this review summarized the impact of alterations in mitochondrial quality control mechanisms following muscle denervation,aging,and exercise training in relation to NLRP3 inflammasome activation.By consolidating the current body of literature,this work aimed to further the understanding of innate immune signaling within skeletal muscle,which can highlight areas for future research and therapeutic strategies to regulate NLRP3 inflammasome activation during divergent metabolic conditions.
文摘Over a century ago,the first clinical and neuropathological insights into major neurodegenerative diseases began to emerge:the description of Alzheimer’s disease(AD)by Alois Alzheimer in 1906,frontotemporal dementia by Arnold Pick in the same years,and Lewy bodies by Friedrich Lewy in 1912.These foundational studies laid the groundwork for the classification of what we now recognize as distinct neurodegenerative entities(Allali,2024).
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Shaanxi Province(Key Program),No.2021JZ-60(to HZ)。
文摘The unfolded protein response is a cellular pathway activated to maintain proteostasis and prevent cell death when the endoplasmic reticulum is overwhelmed by unfolded proteins.However,if the unfolded protein response fails to restore endoplasmic reticulum homeostasis,it can trigger proinflammatory and pro-death signals,which are implicated in various malignancies and are currently being investigated for their role in retinal degenerative diseases.This paper reviews the role of the unfolded protein responsein addressing endoplasmic reticulumstress in retinal degenerative diseases.The accumulation of ubiquitylated misfolded proteins can lead to rapid destabilization of the proteome and cellular demise.Targeting endoplasmic reticulum stress to alleviate retinal pathologies involves multiple strategies,including the use of chemical chaperones such as 4-phenylbutyric acid and tauroursodeoxycholic acid,which enhance protein folding and reduce endoplasmic reticulum stress.Small molecule modulators that influence endoplasmic reticulum stress sensors,including those that increase the expression of the endoplasmic reticulum stress regulator X-box binding protein 1,are also potential therapeutic agents.Additionally,inhibitors of the RNAse activity of inositol-requiring transmembrane kinase/endoribonuclease 1,a key endoplasmic reticulum stress sensor,represent another class of drugs that could prevent the formation of toxic aggregates.The activation of nuclear receptors,such as PPAR and FXR,may also help mitigate ER stress.Furthermore,enhancing proteolysis through the induction of autophagy or the inhibition of deubiquitinating enzymes can assist in clearing misfolded proteins.Combination treatments that involve endoplasmicreticulum-stress-targeting drugs and gene therapies are also being explored.Despite these potential therapeutic strategies,significant challenges remain in targeting endoplasmic reticulum stress for the treatment of retinal degeneration,and further research is essential to elucidate the mechanisms underlying human retinal diseases and to develop effective,well-tolerated drugs.The use of existing drugs that target inositol-requiring transmembrane kinase/endoribonuclease 1 and X-box binding protein 1 has been associated with adverse side effects,which have hindered their clinical translation.Moreover,signaling pathways downstream of endoplasmic reticulum stress sensors can contribute to therapy resistance.Addressing these limitations is crucial for developing drugs that can be effectively used in treating retinal dystrophies.In conclusion,while the unfolded protein response is a promising therapeutic target in retinal degenerative diseases,additional research and development efforts are imperative to overcome the current limitations and improve patient outcomes.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China,Grant/Award Number:82260007Jilin Province Health Commission,Grant/Award Number:2024A062+1 种基金Jilin Provincial Department of Education,Grant/Award Number:JJKH20240698KJJilin Province Science and Technology Department,Grant/Award Number:20240404025ZP and 20240602100RC。
文摘Background:This study investigated the role of polydatin in regulating macrophage-epithelial cell(EC)interactions during asthma.An asthma model was induced in BALB/c mice using ovalbumin(20μg).Methods:The therapeutic effects of polydatin(20 and 40 mg/kg)were evaluated in this asthmatic mouse model.To assess the underlying mechanisms,Bronchial Epithelium Adenovirus 12-SV402B(BEAS-2B)cells were cocultured with Tohoku Hospital for Pediatrics-1(THP-1)macrophages,in which toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)was either overexpressed or knocked down,and subsequently stimulated with lipopoly-saccharide(LPS)and ATP.THP-1 cells underwent a 1-h pretreatment with polydatin(50 and 100μmol/L),Class Lipid Inhibitor-095(CLI-095,TLR4 inhibitor,1μg/mL),or A438079(P2X7R antagonist,10μmol/L)prior to LPS/ATP challenge.Results:Findings from Western blotting,enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay,flow cytometry,real-time polymerase chain reaction,and immunofluorescence assays demonstrated that modulating TLR4 expression significantly altered interleukin-1β(IL-1β)secretion from THP-1 macrophages and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species(mtROS)production in BEAS-2B ECs.In the mouse asthma model,polydatin significantly alleviated airway inflammation,oxidative stress,and apoptosis,likely by interfering with TLR4/P2X7R-mediated signaling and suppressing the activation of the NOD-like receptor protein inflammasome.Additionally,polydatin significantly reduced IL-1βand IL-18 levels and inhibited the infiltration of macrophages and eosinophils.Correspondingly,polydatin significantly attenuated TLR4/P2X7R signaling in THP-1 cells stimulated with ATP and LPS,thereby reducing IL-1βand IL-18 secretion,calcium influx,mtROS production,and apoptosis in BEAS-2B ECs.Conclusions:Polydatin is a promising therapeutic candidate for asthma,possibly by targeting macrophage-epithelium cross-talk via the TLR4/P2X7R axis.Future formulations as capsules or sprays may effectively alleviate airway inflammation and remodeling.
文摘Innate immune responses are the host's first line of defense against human immunodeficiency virus type 1(HIV-1)infection,with pattern recognition receptors detecting viral specific pathogen-associatedmolecular patterns and initiating antiviral responses.In response to HIV-1 nucleic acids or proteins,some pattern recognition receptors have the ability to assemble a large multiprotein complex called the inflammasome,which triggers pro-inflammatory cytokine release and a form of lytic programmed cell death called pyroptosis.Here,we review our current understanding of the mechanism of the inflammasome in sensing HIV-1 infection.Furthermore,we discuss the contribution of inflammasome activation in HIV-1 pathogenesis as well as potential strategies of targeting inflammasome activation for the treatment of HIV-1 infection.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundational of China,Nos.U24A20692(to CJZ),82371355(to CJZ),and 82101414(to MH)National NaturalScience Foundational of China for Excellent Young Scholars,No.82022019(to CJZ)+5 种基金Sichuan Special Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars,No.24NSFJQ0052(to CJZ)The Innovationand Entrepreneurial Team of Sichuan Tianfu Emei Program,No.CZ2024018(to CJZ)Funding for Distinguished Young Scholars of Sichuan Provincial People’sHospital,No.30420230005Funding for Distinguished Young Scholars of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China,No.A1098531023601381(toCJZ)Sichuan Science and Technology Support Project,No.2023YFS0212(to BH)Project of Sichuan Provincial Health Commission,No.19PJ265(to LD).
文摘Multiple sclerosis is a severe autoimmune disorder that is mainly mediated by pathogenic cluster of CD4^(+)T cell subsets.Despite advancements in the management of multiple sclerosis,there is a critical need for more effective and safer treatments.In the present study,we administered Lycium barbarum glycopeptide to a mouse model of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis-an animal model of multiple sclerosis-and evaluated its effects on pathogenic CD4^(+)T cell activation both in vivo and in vitro.Lycium barbarum glycopeptide significantly mitigated the clinical severity of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis,as demonstrated by reduced demyelination and neuroinflammation.Moreover,Lycium barbarum glycopeptide treatment decreased the infiltration of peripheral leukocytes into the central nervous system and suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokine expression.Lycium barbarum glycopeptide also modulated pathogenic CD4^(+)T cell activation by inhibiting T helper 1/T helper 17 cell differentiation while promoting regulatory T cell expansion.Notably,no side effects were observed,suggesting the long-term safety and tolerability of Lycium barbarum glycopeptide.Furthermore,RNA sequencing data indicated that Lycium barbarum glycopeptide inhibits activator protein-1,an essential regulator of T cell activation and differentiation.This finding was supported by the reversal of T helper/T helper 17 cell response suppression upon AP-1 blockade.Collectively,these results highlight the potential of Lycium barbarum glycopeptide as an innovative therapeutic agent for CD4^(+)T cell-associated autoimmune or inflammatory diseases,such as multiple sclerosis.
基金supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People's Republic of China,Grant/Award Number:2023YFC2306102National Natural Science Foundation of China,Grant/Award Number:32130038.
文摘Autoimmune diseases are immune disorders in which the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks the normal cells,tissues,and organs of the patients.The etiology of autoimmune diseases is complex and multifactorial.This review aims to provide a general introduction to the immunological functions of inflammasomes and describe the role of inflammasomes in disorders characterized by self-directed inflammation,with a particular focus on several common autoimmune diseases.We reviewed current research on the mechanisms of inflammasome activation and inflammasomes'contribution to autoimmune diseases.Inhibitors targeting inflammasome components were also explored for their potential in therapeutic applications.With increasing research on mechanisms of inflammation of the pathologic conditions,accumulated evidence suggests that the aberrant or uncontrolled activation of inflammasomes contributes to the pathogenesis and development of autoimmune diseases.Additionally,inflammasome-targeting drugs have shown promise in treating autoimmune diseases.Insights into the mechanisms governing inflammasome activation and their roles in autoimmune diseases could contribute to the development of novel anti-inflammatory drugs for the prevention and treatment of autoimmune diseases with enhanced targeting precision and reduced adverse reactions.
文摘Infiammasomes play essential roles in immune protection against microbial infections. However, excessive inflammation is implicated in various human diseases, including autoinflammatory syndromes, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, cardiovascular disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, precise regulation of inflammasome activities is critical for adequate immune protection while limiting collateral tissue damage. In this review, we focus on the emerging roles of post-translational modifications （PTMs） that regulate activation of the NLRP3, NLRP1, NLRC4, AIM2 and IFI16 inflammasomes. We anticipate that these types of PTMs will be identified in other types of and less well-characterized inflammasomes. Because these highly diverse and versatile PTMs shape distinct inflammatory responses in response to infections and tissue damage, targeting the enzymes involved in these PTMs will undoubtedly offer opportunities for precise modulation of inflammasome activities under various pathophysiological conditions.
文摘Inflammasomes are multi-protein complexes that regulate the innate immune response by facilitating the release of inflammatory cytokines in response to pathogen exposure or cellular damage. Pro-inflammatory inflammasome signaling is vital to host defense and helps initiate the process of tissue repair following an insult to the host, but can be injurious, when excessive or chronic. As such, inflammasome activity is tightly regulated. Here we discuss one critical mechanism of inflammasome regulation, ubiquitination, that functions as a universal modulator of protein stability and trafficking. Recent studies have provided important insights into the regulation of inflammasome activation by protein ubiquitination. We review the molecular regulation of inflammasome function, specifically, as it relates to ubiquitination, and discuss the implications for the development of theraoeutics to soecificallv target aberrant inflammasome signaling.
基金This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(2017YFA0506001,81900233,81770261,81521001,and 91749128)the Postdoctoral Science Foundation of China(2019M661375).
文摘Acute myocardial infarction(MI),one of the most common cardiovascular emergencies,is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality.Ample evidence has revealed an essential role for inflammasome activation and autophagy in the pathogenesis of acute MI.Tax1-binding protein 1(TAX1BP1),an adaptor molecule involved in termination of proinflammatory signaling,serves as an important selective autophagy adaptor,but its role in cardiac ischemia remains elusive.This study examined the role of TAX1BP1 in myocardial ischemic stress and the underlying mechanisms involved.Levels of TAX1BP1 were significantly downregulated in heart tissues of patients with ischemic heart disease and in a left anterior descending(LAD)ligation-induced model of acute MI.Adenovirus carrying TAX1BP1 was delivered into the myocardium.The acute MI induced procedure elicited an infarct and cardiac dysfunction,the effect of which was mitigated by TAX1BP1 overexpression with little effect from viral vector alone.TAX1BP1 nullified acute MI-induced activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and associated mitochondrial dysfunction.TAX1BP1 overexpression suppressed NLRP3 mitochondrial localization by inhibiting the interaction of NLRP3 with mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein(MAVS).Further investigation revealed that ring finger protein 34(RNF34)was recruited to interact with TAX1BP1 thereby facilitating autophagic degradation of MAVS through K27-linked polyubiquitination of MAVS.Knockdown of RNF34 using siRNA nullified TAX1BP1 yielded protection against hypoxia-induced MAVS mitochondrial accumulation,NLRP3 inflammasome activation and associated loss of mitochondrial membrane potential.Taken together,our results favor a cardioprotective role for TAX1BP1 in acute MI through repression of inflammasome activation in a RNF34/MAVS-dependent manner.
基金supported by grants from Jazz Pharmaceuticals Inc.the Texas A&M University of School of Medicine to AKS
文摘Background:Chronic Gulf War Illness(GWI)is characterized by cognitive and mood impairments,as well as persistent neuroinflammation and oxidative stress.This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of Epidiolex®,a Food and Drug Administration(FDA)-approved cannabidiol(CBD),in improving brain function in a rat model of chronic GWI.Methods:Six months after exposure to low doses of GWI-related chemicals[pyridostigmine bromide,N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide(DEET),and permethrin(PER)]along with moderate stress,rats with chronic GWI were administered either vehicle(VEH)or CBD(20 mg/kg,oral)for 16 weeks.Neurobehavioral tests were conducted on 11 weeks after treatment initiation to evaluate the performance of rats in tasks related to associative recognition memory,object location memory,pattern separation,and sucrose preference.The effect of CBD on hyperalgesia was also examined.The brain tissues were processed for immunohistochemical and molecular studies following behavioral tests.Results:GWI rats treated with VEH exhibited impairments in all cognitive tasks and anhedonia,whereas CBD-treated GWI rats showed improvements in all cognitive tasks and no anhedonia.Additionally,CBD treatment alleviated hyperalgesia in GWI rats.Analysis of hippocampal tissues from VEH-treated rats revealed astrocyte hypertrophy and increased percentages of activated microglia presenting NOD-,LRR-and pyrin domain-containing protein 3(NLRP3)complexes as well as elevated levels of proteins involved in NLRP3 inflammasome activation and Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of the transcription(JAK/STAT)signaling.Furthermore,there were increased concentrations of proinflammatory and oxidative stress markers along with decreased neurogenesis.In contrast,the hippocampus from CBD-treated GWI rats displayed reduced levels of proteins mediating the activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes and JAK/STAT signaling,normalized concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers,and improved neurogenesis.Notably,CBD treatment did not alter the concentration of endogenous cannabinoid anandamide in the hippocampus.Conclusions:The use of an FDA-approved CBD(Epidiolex®)has been shown to effectively alleviate cognitive and mood impairments as well as hyperalgesia associated with chronic GWI.Importantly,the improvements observed in rats with chronic GWI in this study were attributed to the ability of CBD to significantly suppress signaling pathways that perpetuate chronic neuroinflammation.
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.
