BACKGROUND Acute appendicitis,a common condition with a higher prevalence among men,has shown an increasing incidence in recent years owing to lifestyle changes.It is characterized by right lower quadrant abdominal pa...BACKGROUND Acute appendicitis,a common condition with a higher prevalence among men,has shown an increasing incidence in recent years owing to lifestyle changes.It is characterized by right lower quadrant abdominal pain,rebound tenderness,and rapid onset.Its pathogenesis is complex and potentially linked to infection,environment,and genetics.Timely intervention is crucial to prevent complications.While surgery is the primary treatment,it carries risks,including postoperative infections that may necessitate re-operation.Gram-negative bacteria release endotoxin(ETX),which induces inflammation and is recognized by toll-like receptor 4(TLR4).This study evaluated ETX and TLR4 levels in patients with acute appendicitis to assess the risk of postoperative incision infections,aiding in prevention and treatment.AIM To explore ETX and TLR4 expression in the blood of patients with acute appendicitis and its association with in postoperative incision infection.METHODS A total of 153 patients with acute appendicitis treated at our hospital between April 2022 and March 2024(n=153)were included in the study.Patients were categorized into infected(n=36)and uninfected(n=117)groups according to the development of postoperative incision infections.General characteristics and blood levels of ETX and TLR4 were compared,and the factors influencing postoperative infection were identified using multivariate logistic regression.ETX and TLR4 predictive values were analyzed using receiver operating characteristic curves.RESULTS No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of sex,age,or other general characteristics(P>0.05).Compared to the uninfected group,the infected group had a higher proportion of patients with suppurative or gangrenous appendicitis,longer surgical times,longer incision lengths,and elevated ETX and TLR4 levels(P<0.05).Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified pathological type,surgical method,surgical time,and incision length as factors influencing postoperative incision infection in acute appendicitis.Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that both ETX and TLR4 levels were predictive factors for postoperative incision infection,with higher prediction efficiency when combined.CONCLUSION Pathological type,surgical method,surgical time,and incision length significantly influence postoperative incision infection risk in patients with acute appendicitis.Elevated ETX and TLR4 levels serve as valuable predictors of post-appendectomy infections.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To determine the effect of Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM)Fuzheng Xuanfei Huashi prescription(扶正宣肺化湿方,FZXF)on lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced pneumonia in mice and identify the mechanism of FZXF in ...OBJECTIVE:To determine the effect of Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM)Fuzheng Xuanfei Huashi prescription(扶正宣肺化湿方,FZXF)on lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced pneumonia in mice and identify the mechanism of FZXF in the treatment of LPS-induced lung inflammation.METHODS:The pneumonia model was established by intraperitoneal injection of 5 mg/kg LPS in mice.Cytokines were detected by enzyme-linked immuneosorbent assay(ELISA),macrophages in lung tissue were determined by immunofluorescence,and pathwayrelated data were determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qPCR)and Western blot.RESULTS:The liver,thymus,and spleen index values and the levels of aspartate aminotransferase(AST)and alanine aminotransferase(ALT)obviously increased in LPS-treated mice.FZXF decreased the white blood cell count and reduced the increase in the lung wet weight/dry weight ratio caused by LPS.The hematoxylin-eosin staining result showed that FZXF could maintain the integrity of lung tissue structure,alleviate interstitial oedema and alveolar wall thickening,and reduce inflammatory cell infiltration.Moreover,FZXF markedly reduced the expression of proinflammatory cytokines.FZXF also significantly reduced LPS-induced malondialdehyde production and increased superoxide dismutase level in the lung.By immunofluorescence,we found that FZXF could reduce macrophage infiltration.The mRNA expression levels of cyclooxygenase-2(COX-2),prostaglandin E2(PGE2),toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)and nuclear transcription factorκB(NF-κB)in the lung tissue of mice were decreased by treatment with FZXF.In addition,FZXF inhibited the protein expression of TLR4,p-p65 and COX-2.These results indicated that FZXF could inhibit the inflammatory response of LPS induced cytokine storm in mice through TLR4/NF-κB and COX-2/PGE2 signaling pathway.CONCLUSION:These findings were suggested that FZXF prescription suppresses inflammation in LPSinduced pneumonia in mice via TLR4/NF-κB and COX-2/PGE2 pathway.展开更多
BACKGROUND Hepatic manifestations in chronic lymphocytic leukemia(CLL)are common:Elevation of liver enzymes frequently occurs,and differential diagnosis is often challenging.Liver infiltration by leukemic cells,primar...BACKGROUND Hepatic manifestations in chronic lymphocytic leukemia(CLL)are common:Elevation of liver enzymes frequently occurs,and differential diagnosis is often challenging.Liver infiltration by leukemic cells,primary and secondary hepatic malignancies,drug-induced hepatotoxicity,immunological disorders,and infections have been reported.Nevertheless,syncytial giant cell hepatitis(GCH)as a manifestation of autoimmune hepatitis in patients with CLL is an extremely rare condition,currently reported only in anecdotal cases.CASE SUMMARY Here,we report the case of a 62-year-old Caucasian woman affected by CLL,who developed GCH with peculiar histopathological features.The patient was evaluated for abnormal liver test results.Liver histology revealed significant inflammatory lymphomononuclear infiltrates with a plasma cell component,widespread syncytial changes in the hepatocytes with gigantocellular features,hepatocyte rosettes,and the typical feature of emperipolesis,consistent with a diagnosis of GCH.The patient was treated with corticosteroids and mycophenolate mofetil,resulting in a complete biochemical response.CONCLUSION Early histological diagnosis of GCH is crucial in patients with CLL,with mycophenolate mofetil representing a promising treatment option.展开更多
BACKGROUND The pathophysiology of diabetic kidney disease(DKD)is complex.Interfering with the processes of pyroptosis and fibrosis is an effective strategy for slowing DKD progression.Previous studies have revealed th...BACKGROUND The pathophysiology of diabetic kidney disease(DKD)is complex.Interfering with the processes of pyroptosis and fibrosis is an effective strategy for slowing DKD progression.Previous studies have revealed that nuclear receptor subfamily 4 group A member 1(NR4A1)may serve as a novel pathogenic element in DKD;however,the specific mechanism by which it contributes to pyroptosis and fibrosis in DKD is unknown.AIM To investigate the role of NR4A1 in renal pyroptosis and fibrosis in DKD and possible molecular mechanisms.METHODS Streptozotocin 60 mg/kg was injected intraperitoneally to establish a rat model of DKD.Typically,45 mmol/L glucose[high glucose(HG)]was used to activate HK-2 cells to mimic the DKD model in vitro.HK-2 cells were transfected with NR4A1 siRNA to silence NR4A1.RESULTS NR4A1 was elevated in renal tissues of DKD rats and HG-stimulated HK-2 cells.Concurrently,NOD-like receptor protein 3(NLRP3)and phosphoinositide 3-kinase(PI3K)/protein kinase B(AKT)pathways were triggered,and pyroptosis and expression of fibrosis-linked elements was increased in vivo and in vitro.These alterations were significantly reversed via NR4A1 silencing.CONCLUSION Inhibition of NR4A1 mitigated pyroptosis and fibrosis via suppressing NLRP3 activation and the PI3K/AKT pathway in HG-activated HK-2 cells.展开更多
Previous studies have shown that Biochanin A,a flavonoid compound with estrogenic effects,can serve as a neuroprotective agent in the context of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury;howeve r,its effect on spinal cord ...Previous studies have shown that Biochanin A,a flavonoid compound with estrogenic effects,can serve as a neuroprotective agent in the context of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury;howeve r,its effect on spinal cord injury is still unclea r. In this study,a rat model of spinal cord injury was established using the heavy o bject impact method,and the rats were then treated with Biochanin A(40 mg/kg) via intrape ritoneal injection for 14 consecutive days.The res ults showed that Biochanin A effectively alleviated spinal cord neuronal injury and spinal co rd tissue injury,reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in spinal cord neuro ns,and reduced apoptosis and pyroptosis.In addition,Biochanin A inhibited the expression of inflammasome-related proteins(ASC,NLRP3,and GSDMD)and the Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-κB pathway,activated the Nrf2/heme oxygenase 1 signaling pathway,and increased the expression of the autophagy markers LC3 Ⅱ,Beclin-1,and P62.Moreove r,the therapeutic effects of Biochanin A on early post-s pinal cord injury were similar to those of methylprednisolone.These findings suggest that Biochanin A protected neurons in the injured spinal cord through the Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor κB and Nrf2/heme oxygenase 1 signaling pathways.These findings suggest that Biochanin A can alleviate post-spinal cord injury at an early stage.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To investigate the impact of Yemazhui(Herba Eupatorii Lindleyani,HEL)against lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced acute lung injury(ALI)and explore its underlying mechanism in vivo.METHODS:The chemical constituen...OBJECTIVE:To investigate the impact of Yemazhui(Herba Eupatorii Lindleyani,HEL)against lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced acute lung injury(ALI)and explore its underlying mechanism in vivo.METHODS:The chemical constituents of HEL were analyzed by ultra-high performance liquid chromatographyquadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry method.Then,HEL was found to suppress LPS-induced ALI in vivo.Six-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 6 groups:control,LPS,Dexamethasone(Dex),HEL low dose 6 g/kg(HEL-L),HEL medium dose 18 g/kg(HEL-M)and HEL high dose 54 g/kg(HEL-H)groups.The model rats were intratracheally injected with 3 mg/kg LPS to establish an ALI model.Leukocyte counts,lung wet/dry weight ratio,as well as myeloperoxidase(MPO)activity were determined followed by the detection with hematoxylin and eosin staining,enzyme linked immunosorbent assay,quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction,western blotting,immunohistochemistry,and immunofluorescence.Besides,to explore the effect of HEL on ALI-mediated intestinal flora,we performed 16s rRNA sequencing analysis of intestinal contents.RESULTS:HEL attenuated LPS-induced inflammation in lung tissue and intestinal flora disturbance.Mechanism study indicated that HEL suppressed the lung coefficient and wet/dry weight ratio of LPS-induced ALI in rats,inhibited leukocytes exudation and MPO activity,and improved the pathological injury of lung tissue.In addition,HEL reduced the expression of tumor necrosis factoralpha,interleukin-1beta(IL-1β)and interleukin-6(IL-6)in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and serum,and inhibited nuclear displacement of nuclear factor kappa-B p65(NF-κBp65).And 18 g/kg HEL also reduced the expression levels of toll-like receptor 4(TLR4),myeloid differentiation factor 88,NF-κBp65,phosphorylated inhibitor kappa B alpha(phospho-IκBα),nod-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 protein(NLRP3),IL-1β,and interleukin-18(IL-18)in lung tissue,and regulated intestinal flora disturbance.CONCLUSIONS:In summary,our findings revealed that HEL has a protective effect on LPS-induced ALI in rats,and its mechanism may be related to inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway and improving intestinal flora disturbance.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To explore the effect of acupuncture treatment on cerebral ischaemia-reperfusion injury(CIRI)and reveal the underlying mechanism of the effect based on nuclear receptor coactivator 4(NCOA4)mediated ferritino...OBJECTIVE:To explore the effect of acupuncture treatment on cerebral ischaemia-reperfusion injury(CIRI)and reveal the underlying mechanism of the effect based on nuclear receptor coactivator 4(NCOA4)mediated ferritinophagy.METHODS:Sprague-Dawley male rats were divided into four groups:the sham group,model group,acupuncture group,and sham acupuncture group.After 2 h of middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO),reperfusion was performed for 24 h to induce CIRI.The rats were treated with acupuncture at the Neiguan(PC6)and Shuigou(GV26)acupoints.Their neurological function was evaluated by taking their Bederson scores at 2 h after ischaemia and 24 h after reperfusion.Triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining was applied to assess the cerebral infarct volume at 24 h after reperfusion.The malondialdehyde(MDA)and ferrous iron(Fe^(2+))levels were observed after 24 h of reperfusion using an assay kit.Western blotting was performed to detect the expression of NCOA4 and ferritin heavy chain 1(FTH1)at 24 h after reperfusion.Moreover,the colocalization of ferritin with neurons,NCOA4 with microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3(LC3),and NCOA4 with ferritin was visualized using immunofluorescence staining.RESULTS:Acupuncture significantly improved neurological function and decreased cerebral infarct volume in the acupuncture group.Following CIRI,the expression of NCOA4,LC3 and FTH1 was increased,which enhanced ferritinophagy and induced an inappropriate accumulation of Fe^(2+)and MDA in the ischaemic brain.However,acupuncture dramatically downregulated the expression of NCOA4,LC3 and FTH1,inhibited the overactivation of ferritinophagy,and decreased the levels of MDA and Fe^(2+).CONCLUSIONS:Acupuncture can inhibit NCOA4-mediated ferritinophagy and protect neurons against CIRI in a rat model.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To investigate the effect of Taohong Siwu decoction(桃红四物汤,TSD)on atherosclerosis in rats as well as investigate the underlying mechanism based on molecular docking.METHODS:Sixty healthy male Sprague-Daw...OBJECTIVE:To investigate the effect of Taohong Siwu decoction(桃红四物汤,TSD)on atherosclerosis in rats as well as investigate the underlying mechanism based on molecular docking.METHODS:Sixty healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 6 groups with 10 rats in each group:control group,model group,atorvastatin group(AT,2.0 mg/kg),and TSD groups(20,10,5 g/kg)after 7 d of acclimation.The model of atherosclerosis was successfully established except the control group by high fat diet(HFD)and vitamin D2.Biochemical analyzers were used to detect the levels of triglyceride(TG),total cholestero(TC),low density lipoprotein-cholesterol(LDLC)and high density lipid-cholesterol(HDL-C)in blood lipid.The levels of tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α),interleukin-6(IL-6)and interleukin-1β(IL-1β)were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Sudan IV staining and Hematoxylin and eosin staining(HE staining)were performed to observe the pathological changes in aortic tissue.Molecular docking technology was used to predict the best matching between the main components of TSD and the target proteins.The expression of target proteins was further detected by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction(q RTPCR)and Western blot analysis.RESULTS:The results showed that TSD restricted atherosclerosis development and decreased the inflammatory cytokines in plasma.Molecular docking results predicted that the main components of TSD showed a strong binding ability with toll-like receptor(TLR4),myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88(My D88),and nuclear factor kappa-B(NF-κB).The results of q RT-PCR and Western blot analysis showed that the m RNA and protein expressions of TLR4,My D88 and NF-κB p65 in the aorta were reduced in atorvastatin group and TSD group.CONCLUSIONS:TSD can ameliorate atherosclerosis in rats,and the underlying mechanism is supposed be related to the suppression of inflammatory response by regulating TLR4/My D88/NF-κB signal pathway.展开更多
BACKGROUND Diabetic kidney disease(DKD)is a major complication of diabetes mellitus.Renal tubular epithelial cell(TEC)damage,which is strongly associated with the inflammatory response and mesenchymal trans-differenti...BACKGROUND Diabetic kidney disease(DKD)is a major complication of diabetes mellitus.Renal tubular epithelial cell(TEC)damage,which is strongly associated with the inflammatory response and mesenchymal trans-differentiation,plays a significant role in DKD;However,the precise molecular mechanism is unknown.The recently identified microRNA-630(miR-630)has been hypothesized to be closely associated with cell migration,apoptosis,and autophagy.However,the association between miR-630 and DKD and the underlying mechanism remain unknown.AIM To investigate how miR-630 affects TEC injury and the inflammatory response in DKD rats.METHODS Streptozotocin was administered to six-week-old male rats to create a hypergly cemic diabetic model.In the second week of modeling,the rats were divided into control,DKD,negative control of lentivirus,and miR-630 overexpression groups.After 8 wk,urine and blood samples were collected for the kidney injury assays,and renal tissues were removed for further molecular assays.The target gene for miR-630 was predicted using bioinformatics,and the association between miR-630 and toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)was confirmed using in vitro investigations and double luciferase reporter gene assays.Overexpression of miR-630 in DKD rats led to changes in body weight,renal weight index,basic blood parameters and histopathological changes.RESULTS The expression level of miR-630 was reduced in the kidney tissue of rats with DKD(P<0.05).The miR-630 and TLR4 expressions in rat renal TECs(NRK-52E)were measured using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.The mRNA expression level of miR-630 was significantly lower in the high-glucose(HG)and HG+mimic negative control(NC)groups than in the normal glucose(NG)group(P<0.05).In contrast,the mRNA expression level of TLR4 was significantly higher in these groups(P<0.05).However,miR-630 mRNA expression increased and TLR4 mRNA expression significantly decreased in the HG+miR-630 mimic group than in the HG+mimic NC group(P<0.05).Furthermore,the levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α),interleukin-1β(IL-1β),and IL-6 were significantly higher in the HG and HG+mimic NC groups than in NG group(P<0.05).However,the levels of these cytokines were significantly lower in the HG+miR-630 mimic group than in the HG+mimic NC group(P<0.05).Notably,changes in protein expression were observed.The HG and HG+mimic NC groups showed a significant decrease in E-cadherin protein expression,whereas TLR4,α-smooth muscle actin(SMA),and collagen IV protein expression increased(P<0.05).Conversely,the HG+miR-630 mimic group exhibited a significant increase in E-cadherin protein expression and a notable decrease in TLR4,α-SMA,and collagen IV protein expression than in the HG+mimic NC group(P<0.05).The miR-630 targets TLR4 gene expression.In vivo experiments demonstrated that DKD rats treated with miR-630 agomir exhibited significantly higher miR-630 mRNA expression than DKD rats injected with agomir NC.Additionally,rats treated with miR-630 agomir showed significant reductions in urinary albumin,blood glucose,TLR4,and proinflammatory markers(TNF-α,IL-1β,and IL-6)expression levels(P<0.05).Moreover,these rats exhibited fewer kidney lesions and reduced infiltration of inflammatory cells.CONCLUSION MiR-630 may inhibit the inflammatory reaction of DKD by targeting TLR4,and has a protective effect on DKD.展开更多
Diabetic nephropathy(DN),a severe complication of diabetes,is widely recognized as a primary contributor to end-stage renal disease.Recent studies indicate that the inflammation triggered by Tolllike receptor 4(TLR4)i...Diabetic nephropathy(DN),a severe complication of diabetes,is widely recognized as a primary contributor to end-stage renal disease.Recent studies indicate that the inflammation triggered by Tolllike receptor 4(TLR4)is of paramount importance in the onset and progression of DN.TLR4 can bind to various ligands,including exogenous ligands such as proteins and polysaccharides from bacteria or viruses,as well as endogenous ligands such as biglycan,fibrinogen,and hyaluronan.In DN,the expression or release of TLR4-related ligands is significantly elevated,resulting in excessive TLR4 activation and increased production of proinflammatory cytokines through downstream signaling pathways.This process is closely associated with the progression of DN.Natural compounds are biologically active products derived from natural sources that have advantages in the treatment of certain diseases.Various types of natural compounds,including alkaloids,flavonoids,polyphenols,terpenoids,glycosides,and polysaccharides,have demonstrated their ability to improve DN by affecting the TLR4 signaling pathway.In this review,we summarize the mechanism of action of TLR4 in DN and the natural compounds that can ameliorate DN by modulating the TLR4 signaling pathway.We specifically highlight the potential of compounds such as curcumin,paclitaxel,berberine,and ursolic acid to inhibit the TLR4 signaling pathway,which provides an important direction of research for the treatment of DN.展开更多
OBJECTIVE: To explore whether moxibustion exerts therapeutic effects on rheumatoid arthritis(RA) by regulating the expression of T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin-containing protein-3(TIM-3) and subsequently modulating ...OBJECTIVE: To explore whether moxibustion exerts therapeutic effects on rheumatoid arthritis(RA) by regulating the expression of T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin-containing protein-3(TIM-3) and subsequently modulating the macrophage M1 polarization toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)-myeloid differentiation factor 88(My D88)-nuclear factor kappa B(NF-κB) signaling pathway. METHODS: We utilized moxibustion treatment in RA rat models using the Zusanli(ST36) and Shenshu(BL23) acupoints. Hematoxylin and eosin(HE) staining was used to observe the pathological changes of the synovial tissue under a section light microscope, and pathological scoring was performed according to the grading standard of the degree of synovial tissue disease. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was applied to verify the efficacy of moxibustion in reducing inflammation. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(q RTPCR) was used to detect the expression of the TIM-3/TLR4-My D88-NF-κB signaling pathway-related molecules, and Western blot was used to detect the contents of synovial NF-κB. RESULTS: We established the Freund's complete adjuvant(FCA)-induced RA model in rats. The expression level of M1 polarization signaling pathway TLR4-My D88-NF-κB and the inflammatory factors interleukin-12(IL-12), tumor necrosis factor alpha(TNF-α), and tumor necrosis factor beta(TNF-β) were significantly increased in the RA model. After moxibustion treatment, the expression level of TLR4-My D88-NF-κB was significantly decreased, and the inflammatory factors IL-12, TNF-α, and TNF-β were decreased, but the expression level was significantly increased in the RA model. When TIM-3 expression was inhibited, the expression level of TLR4-My D88-NF-κB, and the inflammatory factors IL-12, TNF-α, and TNF-β were not suppressed, even after moxibustion treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Moxibustion regulates the key target TIM-3 by acting on the Zusanli(ST36) and Shenshu(BL23) points, thereby inhibiting the M1 polarization of macrophages;that is, it inhibits the TLR4-My D88-NF-κB signaling pathway, and finally achieves alleviation of pathological changes and anti-inflammatory effects.展开更多
BACKGROUND Jianpi Gushen Huayu Decoction(JPGS)has been used to clinically treat diabetic nephropathy(DN)for many years.However,the protective mechanism of JPGS in treating DN remains unclear.AIM To evaluate the therap...BACKGROUND Jianpi Gushen Huayu Decoction(JPGS)has been used to clinically treat diabetic nephropathy(DN)for many years.However,the protective mechanism of JPGS in treating DN remains unclear.AIM To evaluate the therapeutic effects and the possible mechanism of JPGS on DN.METHODS We first evaluated the therapeutic potential of JPGS on a DN mouse model.We then investigated the effect of JPGS on the renal metabolite levels of DN mice using non-targeted metabolomics.Furthermore,we examined the effects of JPGS on c-Jun N-terminal kinase(JNK)/P38-mediated apoptosis and the inflammatory responses mediated by toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)/nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)/NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3(NLRP3).RESULTS The ameliorative effects of JPGS on DN mice included the alleviation of renal injury and the control of inflammation and oxidative stress.Untargeted metabolomic analysis revealed that JPGS altered the metabolites of the kidneys in DN mice.A total of 51 differential metabolites were screened.Pathway analysis results indicated that nine pathways significantly changed between the control and model groups,while six pathways significantly altered between the model and JPGS groups.Pathways related to cysteine and methionine metabolism;alanine,tryptophan metabolism;aspartate and glutamate metabolism;and riboflavin metabolism were identified as the key pathways through which JPGS affects DN.Further experimental validation showed that JPGS treatment reduced the expression of TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathways and JNK/P38 pathway-mediated apoptosis related factors.CONCLUSION JPGS could markedly treat mice with streptozotocin(STZ)-induced DN,which is possibly related to the regulation of several metabolic pathways found in kidneys.Furthermore,JPGS could improve kidney inflammatory responses and ameliorate kidney injuries in DN mice via the TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway and inhibit JNK/P38 pathwaymediated apoptosis in DN mice.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To examine the nephroprotective mechanism of modified Huangqi Chifeng decoction(加味黄芪赤风汤,MHCD)in immunoglobulin A nephropathy(IgAN)rats.METHODS:To establish the IgAN rat model,the bovine serum albumin,...OBJECTIVE:To examine the nephroprotective mechanism of modified Huangqi Chifeng decoction(加味黄芪赤风汤,MHCD)in immunoglobulin A nephropathy(IgAN)rats.METHODS:To establish the IgAN rat model,the bovine serum albumin,lipopolysaccharide,and carbon tetrachloride 4 method was employed.The rats were then randomly assigned to the control,model,telmisartan,and high-,medium-,and low-dose MHCD groups,and were administered the respective treatments via intragastric administration for 8 weeks.The levels of 24-h urinary protein,serum creatinine(CRE),and blood urea nitrogen(BUN)were measured in each group.Pathological alterations were detected.IgA deposition was visualized through the use of immunofluorescence staining.The ultrastructure of the kidney was observed using a transmission electron microscope.The expression levels of interleukin-6(IL-6),monocyte chemoattractant protein-1(MCP-1),and transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1)were examined by immunohistochemistry and quantitative polymerase chain reaction.Levels of toll-like receptor 4(TLR4),myeloid differentiation factor 88(MyD88),and nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)P65,were examined by immunohistochemistry,Western blotting,and quantitative polymerase chain reaction.RESULTS:The 24-h urine protein level in each group increased significantly at week 6,and worsen from then on.But this process can be reversed by treatments of telmisartan,and high-,medium-,and low-dose of MHCD,and these treatments did not affect renal function.Telmisartan,and high-,and medium-dose of MHCD reduced IgA deposition.Renal histopathology demonstrated the protective effect of high-,medium-,and low-dose of MHCD against kidney injury.The expression levels of MCP-1,IL-6,and TGF-β1 in kidney tissues were downregulated by low,medium and high doses of MHCD treatment.Additionally,treatment of low,medium and high doses of MHCD decreased the protein and mRNA levels of TLR4,MyD88,and NF-κB.CONCLUSIONS:MHCD exerted nephroprotective effects on IgAN rats,and MHCD regulated the expressions of key targets in TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway,thereby alleviating renal inflammation by inhibiting MCP-1,IL-6 expressions,and ameliorating renal fibrosis by inhibiting TGF-β1 expression.展开更多
Diabetic kidney disease(DKD)is one of the complications of diabetes,affecting millions of people worldwide.The relentless progression of this condition can lead to kidney failure,requiring life-altering interventions ...Diabetic kidney disease(DKD)is one of the complications of diabetes,affecting millions of people worldwide.The relentless progression of this condition can lead to kidney failure,requiring life-altering interventions such as dialysis or transplants.Accumulating evidence suggests that immunologic and inflammatory elements play an important role in initiating and perpetuating the damage inflicted on renal tissues,exacerbating the decline in organ function.Toll-like receptors(TLRs)are a family of receptors that play a role in the activation of the innate immune system by the recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns.Recent data from in vitro and in vivo studies have highlighted the critical role of TLRs,mainly TLR2 and TLR4,in the pathogenesis of DKD.In the diabetic milieu,these TLRs recognize diabetic-associated molecular signals,triggering a proinflammatory cascade that initiates and perpetuates inflammation and fibrogenesis in the diabetic kidney.Emerging non-traditional strategies targeting TLR signaling with potential therapeutic implications in DKD have been proposed.One of these approaches is the use of microRNAs,small non-coding RNAs that can regulate gene expression.This editorial comments on the results of this approach carried out in a rat model of diabetes by Wu et al,published in this issue of the World Journal of Diabetes.The results of the experimental study by Wu et al shows that microRNA-630 decreased levels compared to non-diabetic rats.Additionally,microRNA-630 exerted anti-inflammatory effects in the kidneys of diabetic rats through the modulation of TLR4.These findings indicate that the microRNA-630/TLR4 axis might represent a pathological mechanism of DKD and a potential therapeutic target capable of curbing the destructive inflammation characteristic of DKD.展开更多
Glyphosate-based herbicides are widely used around the world, making it likely that most humans have significant exposure. Because of habitual exposure, there are concerns about toxicity including neurotoxicity that c...Glyphosate-based herbicides are widely used around the world, making it likely that most humans have significant exposure. Because of habitual exposure, there are concerns about toxicity including neurotoxicity that could result in neurological, psychiatric, or cognitive impairment. We recently found that a single injection of glyphosate inhibits long-term potentiation, a cellular model of learning and memory, in rat hippocampal slices dissected 1 day after injection, indicating that glyphosate-based herbicides can alter cognitive function. Glyphosate-based herbicides could adversely affect cognitive function either indirectly and/or directly. Indirectly, glyphosate could affect gut microbiota, and if dysbiosis results in endotoxemia(leaky gut), infiltrated bacterial by-products such as lipopolysaccharides could activate pro-inflammatory cascades. Glyphosate can also directly trigger pro-inflammatory cascades. Indeed, we observed that acute glyphosate exposure inhibits long-term potentiation in rat hippocampal slices. Interestingly, direct inhibition of long-term potentiation by glyphosate appears to be similar to that of lipopolysaccharides. There are several possible measures to control dysbiosis and neuroinflammation caused by glyphosate. Dietary intake of polyphenols, such as quercetin, which overcome the inhibitory effect of glyphosate on long-term potentiation, could be one effective strategy. The aim of this narrative review is to discuss possible mechanisms underlying neurotoxicity following glyphosate exposure as a means to identify potential treatments.展开更多
文摘BACKGROUND Acute appendicitis,a common condition with a higher prevalence among men,has shown an increasing incidence in recent years owing to lifestyle changes.It is characterized by right lower quadrant abdominal pain,rebound tenderness,and rapid onset.Its pathogenesis is complex and potentially linked to infection,environment,and genetics.Timely intervention is crucial to prevent complications.While surgery is the primary treatment,it carries risks,including postoperative infections that may necessitate re-operation.Gram-negative bacteria release endotoxin(ETX),which induces inflammation and is recognized by toll-like receptor 4(TLR4).This study evaluated ETX and TLR4 levels in patients with acute appendicitis to assess the risk of postoperative incision infections,aiding in prevention and treatment.AIM To explore ETX and TLR4 expression in the blood of patients with acute appendicitis and its association with in postoperative incision infection.METHODS A total of 153 patients with acute appendicitis treated at our hospital between April 2022 and March 2024(n=153)were included in the study.Patients were categorized into infected(n=36)and uninfected(n=117)groups according to the development of postoperative incision infections.General characteristics and blood levels of ETX and TLR4 were compared,and the factors influencing postoperative infection were identified using multivariate logistic regression.ETX and TLR4 predictive values were analyzed using receiver operating characteristic curves.RESULTS No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of sex,age,or other general characteristics(P>0.05).Compared to the uninfected group,the infected group had a higher proportion of patients with suppurative or gangrenous appendicitis,longer surgical times,longer incision lengths,and elevated ETX and TLR4 levels(P<0.05).Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified pathological type,surgical method,surgical time,and incision length as factors influencing postoperative incision infection in acute appendicitis.Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that both ETX and TLR4 levels were predictive factors for postoperative incision infection,with higher prediction efficiency when combined.CONCLUSION Pathological type,surgical method,surgical time,and incision length significantly influence postoperative incision infection risk in patients with acute appendicitis.Elevated ETX and TLR4 levels serve as valuable predictors of post-appendectomy infections.
基金Emergency Corona Virus Disease 2019(COVID-19)Response Project of Dongguan:Clinical Efficacy Observation and Mechanism Study of Fuzheng Xuanfei Huashi Formula in the Treatment of COVID-19 Based on the Lingnan Theory of Epidemic Diseases(No.202071715002124)National Natural Science Foundation of China:Study on the Mechanism of Lung Inflammatory Injury Induced by Gut-derived Lipopolysaccharide and Skatole in Spleen Deficiency Animals based on Pulmonary Alveolus Macrophage Heterogeneity(No.82274381)Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation:Development and Industrialization of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classic and Famous Prescription Compound Formulations(No.2021ZD006)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To determine the effect of Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM)Fuzheng Xuanfei Huashi prescription(扶正宣肺化湿方,FZXF)on lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced pneumonia in mice and identify the mechanism of FZXF in the treatment of LPS-induced lung inflammation.METHODS:The pneumonia model was established by intraperitoneal injection of 5 mg/kg LPS in mice.Cytokines were detected by enzyme-linked immuneosorbent assay(ELISA),macrophages in lung tissue were determined by immunofluorescence,and pathwayrelated data were determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qPCR)and Western blot.RESULTS:The liver,thymus,and spleen index values and the levels of aspartate aminotransferase(AST)and alanine aminotransferase(ALT)obviously increased in LPS-treated mice.FZXF decreased the white blood cell count and reduced the increase in the lung wet weight/dry weight ratio caused by LPS.The hematoxylin-eosin staining result showed that FZXF could maintain the integrity of lung tissue structure,alleviate interstitial oedema and alveolar wall thickening,and reduce inflammatory cell infiltration.Moreover,FZXF markedly reduced the expression of proinflammatory cytokines.FZXF also significantly reduced LPS-induced malondialdehyde production and increased superoxide dismutase level in the lung.By immunofluorescence,we found that FZXF could reduce macrophage infiltration.The mRNA expression levels of cyclooxygenase-2(COX-2),prostaglandin E2(PGE2),toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)and nuclear transcription factorκB(NF-κB)in the lung tissue of mice were decreased by treatment with FZXF.In addition,FZXF inhibited the protein expression of TLR4,p-p65 and COX-2.These results indicated that FZXF could inhibit the inflammatory response of LPS induced cytokine storm in mice through TLR4/NF-κB and COX-2/PGE2 signaling pathway.CONCLUSION:These findings were suggested that FZXF prescription suppresses inflammation in LPSinduced pneumonia in mice via TLR4/NF-κB and COX-2/PGE2 pathway.
文摘BACKGROUND Hepatic manifestations in chronic lymphocytic leukemia(CLL)are common:Elevation of liver enzymes frequently occurs,and differential diagnosis is often challenging.Liver infiltration by leukemic cells,primary and secondary hepatic malignancies,drug-induced hepatotoxicity,immunological disorders,and infections have been reported.Nevertheless,syncytial giant cell hepatitis(GCH)as a manifestation of autoimmune hepatitis in patients with CLL is an extremely rare condition,currently reported only in anecdotal cases.CASE SUMMARY Here,we report the case of a 62-year-old Caucasian woman affected by CLL,who developed GCH with peculiar histopathological features.The patient was evaluated for abnormal liver test results.Liver histology revealed significant inflammatory lymphomononuclear infiltrates with a plasma cell component,widespread syncytial changes in the hepatocytes with gigantocellular features,hepatocyte rosettes,and the typical feature of emperipolesis,consistent with a diagnosis of GCH.The patient was treated with corticosteroids and mycophenolate mofetil,resulting in a complete biochemical response.CONCLUSION Early histological diagnosis of GCH is crucial in patients with CLL,with mycophenolate mofetil representing a promising treatment option.
基金Supported by Research Fund for Academician Lin He New Medicine,No.JYHL2022FMS02.
文摘BACKGROUND The pathophysiology of diabetic kidney disease(DKD)is complex.Interfering with the processes of pyroptosis and fibrosis is an effective strategy for slowing DKD progression.Previous studies have revealed that nuclear receptor subfamily 4 group A member 1(NR4A1)may serve as a novel pathogenic element in DKD;however,the specific mechanism by which it contributes to pyroptosis and fibrosis in DKD is unknown.AIM To investigate the role of NR4A1 in renal pyroptosis and fibrosis in DKD and possible molecular mechanisms.METHODS Streptozotocin 60 mg/kg was injected intraperitoneally to establish a rat model of DKD.Typically,45 mmol/L glucose[high glucose(HG)]was used to activate HK-2 cells to mimic the DKD model in vitro.HK-2 cells were transfected with NR4A1 siRNA to silence NR4A1.RESULTS NR4A1 was elevated in renal tissues of DKD rats and HG-stimulated HK-2 cells.Concurrently,NOD-like receptor protein 3(NLRP3)and phosphoinositide 3-kinase(PI3K)/protein kinase B(AKT)pathways were triggered,and pyroptosis and expression of fibrosis-linked elements was increased in vivo and in vitro.These alterations were significantly reversed via NR4A1 silencing.CONCLUSION Inhibition of NR4A1 mitigated pyroptosis and fibrosis via suppressing NLRP3 activation and the PI3K/AKT pathway in HG-activated HK-2 cells.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.LY20H090018(to XL)and LY20H060008(to HS).
文摘Previous studies have shown that Biochanin A,a flavonoid compound with estrogenic effects,can serve as a neuroprotective agent in the context of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury;howeve r,its effect on spinal cord injury is still unclea r. In this study,a rat model of spinal cord injury was established using the heavy o bject impact method,and the rats were then treated with Biochanin A(40 mg/kg) via intrape ritoneal injection for 14 consecutive days.The res ults showed that Biochanin A effectively alleviated spinal cord neuronal injury and spinal co rd tissue injury,reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in spinal cord neuro ns,and reduced apoptosis and pyroptosis.In addition,Biochanin A inhibited the expression of inflammasome-related proteins(ASC,NLRP3,and GSDMD)and the Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-κB pathway,activated the Nrf2/heme oxygenase 1 signaling pathway,and increased the expression of the autophagy markers LC3 Ⅱ,Beclin-1,and P62.Moreove r,the therapeutic effects of Biochanin A on early post-s pinal cord injury were similar to those of methylprednisolone.These findings suggest that Biochanin A protected neurons in the injured spinal cord through the Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor κB and Nrf2/heme oxygenase 1 signaling pathways.These findings suggest that Biochanin A can alleviate post-spinal cord injury at an early stage.
基金Natural Science Foundation Project of Chongqing Municipality:a Metabolome-based Study on the Protective Mechanism of Yemazhui(Herba Eupatorii Lindleyani)Sesquiterpene Lactones Against Acute Lung Injury(No.cstc2021jcyj-msxmX0365)Science and Technology Research Program of Chongqing Municipal Education Commission:a Cytokine Storm-based Study of the Protective Effect of Yemazhui(Herba Eupatorii Lindleyani)Extract Intervention on COVID-19 Lung Injury(No.KJZD-K202215101)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To investigate the impact of Yemazhui(Herba Eupatorii Lindleyani,HEL)against lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced acute lung injury(ALI)and explore its underlying mechanism in vivo.METHODS:The chemical constituents of HEL were analyzed by ultra-high performance liquid chromatographyquadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry method.Then,HEL was found to suppress LPS-induced ALI in vivo.Six-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 6 groups:control,LPS,Dexamethasone(Dex),HEL low dose 6 g/kg(HEL-L),HEL medium dose 18 g/kg(HEL-M)and HEL high dose 54 g/kg(HEL-H)groups.The model rats were intratracheally injected with 3 mg/kg LPS to establish an ALI model.Leukocyte counts,lung wet/dry weight ratio,as well as myeloperoxidase(MPO)activity were determined followed by the detection with hematoxylin and eosin staining,enzyme linked immunosorbent assay,quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction,western blotting,immunohistochemistry,and immunofluorescence.Besides,to explore the effect of HEL on ALI-mediated intestinal flora,we performed 16s rRNA sequencing analysis of intestinal contents.RESULTS:HEL attenuated LPS-induced inflammation in lung tissue and intestinal flora disturbance.Mechanism study indicated that HEL suppressed the lung coefficient and wet/dry weight ratio of LPS-induced ALI in rats,inhibited leukocytes exudation and MPO activity,and improved the pathological injury of lung tissue.In addition,HEL reduced the expression of tumor necrosis factoralpha,interleukin-1beta(IL-1β)and interleukin-6(IL-6)in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and serum,and inhibited nuclear displacement of nuclear factor kappa-B p65(NF-κBp65).And 18 g/kg HEL also reduced the expression levels of toll-like receptor 4(TLR4),myeloid differentiation factor 88,NF-κBp65,phosphorylated inhibitor kappa B alpha(phospho-IκBα),nod-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 protein(NLRP3),IL-1β,and interleukin-18(IL-18)in lung tissue,and regulated intestinal flora disturbance.CONCLUSIONS:In summary,our findings revealed that HEL has a protective effect on LPS-induced ALI in rats,and its mechanism may be related to inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway and improving intestinal flora disturbance.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China:Mechanism of Acupuncture in Extending Thrombolytic Time Window of Cerebral Infarction Based on Nuclear Receptor Coactivator 4 Mediated Ferritinophagy(No.82205238)National Natural Science Foundation of China:Exploring the Mechanism of Acupuncture Improving Thrombolytic Safety in Cerebral Infarction through the ERK1/2-mTOR Pathway Based on Autophagy Apoptosis Interaction(No.82074525)+1 种基金Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province:Experimental Study on Acupuncture Regulation of Ferroptosis-NLRP3 Inflammasome Pathway to Reduce Hemorrhagic Transformation after Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction(No.BK20210689)Traditional Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Development Plan Project of Jiangsu Province:Clinical and Experimental Study on Acupuncture Improving the Safety of rt-PA Intravenous Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction(No.YB2020005)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To explore the effect of acupuncture treatment on cerebral ischaemia-reperfusion injury(CIRI)and reveal the underlying mechanism of the effect based on nuclear receptor coactivator 4(NCOA4)mediated ferritinophagy.METHODS:Sprague-Dawley male rats were divided into four groups:the sham group,model group,acupuncture group,and sham acupuncture group.After 2 h of middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO),reperfusion was performed for 24 h to induce CIRI.The rats were treated with acupuncture at the Neiguan(PC6)and Shuigou(GV26)acupoints.Their neurological function was evaluated by taking their Bederson scores at 2 h after ischaemia and 24 h after reperfusion.Triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining was applied to assess the cerebral infarct volume at 24 h after reperfusion.The malondialdehyde(MDA)and ferrous iron(Fe^(2+))levels were observed after 24 h of reperfusion using an assay kit.Western blotting was performed to detect the expression of NCOA4 and ferritin heavy chain 1(FTH1)at 24 h after reperfusion.Moreover,the colocalization of ferritin with neurons,NCOA4 with microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3(LC3),and NCOA4 with ferritin was visualized using immunofluorescence staining.RESULTS:Acupuncture significantly improved neurological function and decreased cerebral infarct volume in the acupuncture group.Following CIRI,the expression of NCOA4,LC3 and FTH1 was increased,which enhanced ferritinophagy and induced an inappropriate accumulation of Fe^(2+)and MDA in the ischaemic brain.However,acupuncture dramatically downregulated the expression of NCOA4,LC3 and FTH1,inhibited the overactivation of ferritinophagy,and decreased the levels of MDA and Fe^(2+).CONCLUSIONS:Acupuncture can inhibit NCOA4-mediated ferritinophagy and protect neurons against CIRI in a rat model.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China:Investigating the Mechanism of Total Saponins in Treating Gouty Arthritis Based on Toll-like Receptor/Myeloid Differentiation Factor 88/Nuclear Factor-Kappa B Signal Pathway and Nacht Leucine-Rich Repeat Protein 3-Inflammasome(No.81573670)Study on the Material Basis and Pathway of Taohong Siwu Decoction in Regulating the Release of Platelet Alpha Granules in Postpartum Blood Stasis(No.81473387)+2 种基金Study on the Regulatory Mechanism of Taohong Siwu Decoction on Experimental Cerebral Ischemia Angiogenesis Based on the Messenger Effect of Platelet Microparticles(No.81503291)Investigating the Material Basis and Molecular Mechanism of Taohong Siwu Decoction Against Vascular Dementia Based on Microdialysis Technology and NOD-Like Receptor Protein 3 Inflammasome Vascular Endothelial Cell Interaction(No.81903953)the Anhui Province Key Research and Development Program:Research on the Development and Preparation of Taohong Siwu Granules(No.1704a0802141)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To investigate the effect of Taohong Siwu decoction(桃红四物汤,TSD)on atherosclerosis in rats as well as investigate the underlying mechanism based on molecular docking.METHODS:Sixty healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 6 groups with 10 rats in each group:control group,model group,atorvastatin group(AT,2.0 mg/kg),and TSD groups(20,10,5 g/kg)after 7 d of acclimation.The model of atherosclerosis was successfully established except the control group by high fat diet(HFD)and vitamin D2.Biochemical analyzers were used to detect the levels of triglyceride(TG),total cholestero(TC),low density lipoprotein-cholesterol(LDLC)and high density lipid-cholesterol(HDL-C)in blood lipid.The levels of tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α),interleukin-6(IL-6)and interleukin-1β(IL-1β)were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Sudan IV staining and Hematoxylin and eosin staining(HE staining)were performed to observe the pathological changes in aortic tissue.Molecular docking technology was used to predict the best matching between the main components of TSD and the target proteins.The expression of target proteins was further detected by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction(q RTPCR)and Western blot analysis.RESULTS:The results showed that TSD restricted atherosclerosis development and decreased the inflammatory cytokines in plasma.Molecular docking results predicted that the main components of TSD showed a strong binding ability with toll-like receptor(TLR4),myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88(My D88),and nuclear factor kappa-B(NF-κB).The results of q RT-PCR and Western blot analysis showed that the m RNA and protein expressions of TLR4,My D88 and NF-κB p65 in the aorta were reduced in atorvastatin group and TSD group.CONCLUSIONS:TSD can ameliorate atherosclerosis in rats,and the underlying mechanism is supposed be related to the suppression of inflammatory response by regulating TLR4/My D88/NF-κB signal pathway.
基金Supported by the Huadong Medicine Joint Funds of the Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China,No.LHDMZ22H050001the Construction of Key Projects by Zhejiang Provincial Ministry,No.WKJ-ZJ-2302+3 种基金the Zhejiang Province Chinese Medicine Modernization Program,No.2020ZX001the Key Project of Scientific Research Foundation of Chinese Medicine,No.2022ZZ002the“Pioneer”and“LeadingGoose”R&D Program of Zhejiang,No.2022C03118 and 2023C03075the Key Project of Basic Scientific Research Operating Funds of Hangzhou Medical College,No.KYZD202002.
文摘BACKGROUND Diabetic kidney disease(DKD)is a major complication of diabetes mellitus.Renal tubular epithelial cell(TEC)damage,which is strongly associated with the inflammatory response and mesenchymal trans-differentiation,plays a significant role in DKD;However,the precise molecular mechanism is unknown.The recently identified microRNA-630(miR-630)has been hypothesized to be closely associated with cell migration,apoptosis,and autophagy.However,the association between miR-630 and DKD and the underlying mechanism remain unknown.AIM To investigate how miR-630 affects TEC injury and the inflammatory response in DKD rats.METHODS Streptozotocin was administered to six-week-old male rats to create a hypergly cemic diabetic model.In the second week of modeling,the rats were divided into control,DKD,negative control of lentivirus,and miR-630 overexpression groups.After 8 wk,urine and blood samples were collected for the kidney injury assays,and renal tissues were removed for further molecular assays.The target gene for miR-630 was predicted using bioinformatics,and the association between miR-630 and toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)was confirmed using in vitro investigations and double luciferase reporter gene assays.Overexpression of miR-630 in DKD rats led to changes in body weight,renal weight index,basic blood parameters and histopathological changes.RESULTS The expression level of miR-630 was reduced in the kidney tissue of rats with DKD(P<0.05).The miR-630 and TLR4 expressions in rat renal TECs(NRK-52E)were measured using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.The mRNA expression level of miR-630 was significantly lower in the high-glucose(HG)and HG+mimic negative control(NC)groups than in the normal glucose(NG)group(P<0.05).In contrast,the mRNA expression level of TLR4 was significantly higher in these groups(P<0.05).However,miR-630 mRNA expression increased and TLR4 mRNA expression significantly decreased in the HG+miR-630 mimic group than in the HG+mimic NC group(P<0.05).Furthermore,the levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α),interleukin-1β(IL-1β),and IL-6 were significantly higher in the HG and HG+mimic NC groups than in NG group(P<0.05).However,the levels of these cytokines were significantly lower in the HG+miR-630 mimic group than in the HG+mimic NC group(P<0.05).Notably,changes in protein expression were observed.The HG and HG+mimic NC groups showed a significant decrease in E-cadherin protein expression,whereas TLR4,α-smooth muscle actin(SMA),and collagen IV protein expression increased(P<0.05).Conversely,the HG+miR-630 mimic group exhibited a significant increase in E-cadherin protein expression and a notable decrease in TLR4,α-SMA,and collagen IV protein expression than in the HG+mimic NC group(P<0.05).The miR-630 targets TLR4 gene expression.In vivo experiments demonstrated that DKD rats treated with miR-630 agomir exhibited significantly higher miR-630 mRNA expression than DKD rats injected with agomir NC.Additionally,rats treated with miR-630 agomir showed significant reductions in urinary albumin,blood glucose,TLR4,and proinflammatory markers(TNF-α,IL-1β,and IL-6)expression levels(P<0.05).Moreover,these rats exhibited fewer kidney lesions and reduced infiltration of inflammatory cells.CONCLUSION MiR-630 may inhibit the inflammatory reaction of DKD by targeting TLR4,and has a protective effect on DKD.
基金sponsored by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.:32371185)the Shanghai Science and Technology Plan Project,China(Project No.:23010504200)+3 种基金the“Shuguang Program”(Program No.:20SG50)funded by Shanghai Education Development FoundationShanghai Municipale Education Commission,China,the Shanghai Talent Development Fund,China(Grant No.:2020125)the Key Lab of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education(Shanghai University of Sport,China)(Grant No.:2022KF001)the Shanghai Key Lab of Human Performance(Shanghai University of Sport,China)(Grant No.:11DZ2261100).
文摘Diabetic nephropathy(DN),a severe complication of diabetes,is widely recognized as a primary contributor to end-stage renal disease.Recent studies indicate that the inflammation triggered by Tolllike receptor 4(TLR4)is of paramount importance in the onset and progression of DN.TLR4 can bind to various ligands,including exogenous ligands such as proteins and polysaccharides from bacteria or viruses,as well as endogenous ligands such as biglycan,fibrinogen,and hyaluronan.In DN,the expression or release of TLR4-related ligands is significantly elevated,resulting in excessive TLR4 activation and increased production of proinflammatory cytokines through downstream signaling pathways.This process is closely associated with the progression of DN.Natural compounds are biologically active products derived from natural sources that have advantages in the treatment of certain diseases.Various types of natural compounds,including alkaloids,flavonoids,polyphenols,terpenoids,glycosides,and polysaccharides,have demonstrated their ability to improve DN by affecting the TLR4 signaling pathway.In this review,we summarize the mechanism of action of TLR4 in DN and the natural compounds that can ameliorate DN by modulating the TLR4 signaling pathway.We specifically highlight the potential of compounds such as curcumin,paclitaxel,berberine,and ursolic acid to inhibit the TLR4 signaling pathway,which provides an important direction of research for the treatment of DN.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China:Study on Immunoregulatory Mechanism of Moxibustion"Regulating Weiqi"to Regulate the Intrasynovial Environment Steady State in Rheumatoid Arthritis Model Rats based on the Skin-resident Memory T cells-Growth Arrest-specific 6/Mer Tyrosine Kinase (No. 82374587)the National Natural Science Foundation of China:Study on the Immune Mechanisms of Macrophage M1/M2 Polarization in the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis by Moxibustion"Strengthening Body Resistance and Eliminating Evil"(No. 81973959)+1 种基金the National Key R&D Program of China:Research on the Functional Characteristics of"Special Effects"and"Common Effects"of Acupoints (No. 2019YFC1709001)Science and Technology Innovation Seedling Project of Sichuan Province:based on Macrophage M1 Polarization Signaling Pathway Toll-like receptor 4/Myeloid differentiation factor 88/Nuclear factor kappa B and its Regulatory Molecule T-cell Immunoglobulin and Mucin-containing Protein-3 Exploring the Effect Mechanism of Moxibustion on Experimental Rheumatoid Arthritis Model (No. 2022037)。
文摘OBJECTIVE: To explore whether moxibustion exerts therapeutic effects on rheumatoid arthritis(RA) by regulating the expression of T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin-containing protein-3(TIM-3) and subsequently modulating the macrophage M1 polarization toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)-myeloid differentiation factor 88(My D88)-nuclear factor kappa B(NF-κB) signaling pathway. METHODS: We utilized moxibustion treatment in RA rat models using the Zusanli(ST36) and Shenshu(BL23) acupoints. Hematoxylin and eosin(HE) staining was used to observe the pathological changes of the synovial tissue under a section light microscope, and pathological scoring was performed according to the grading standard of the degree of synovial tissue disease. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was applied to verify the efficacy of moxibustion in reducing inflammation. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(q RTPCR) was used to detect the expression of the TIM-3/TLR4-My D88-NF-κB signaling pathway-related molecules, and Western blot was used to detect the contents of synovial NF-κB. RESULTS: We established the Freund's complete adjuvant(FCA)-induced RA model in rats. The expression level of M1 polarization signaling pathway TLR4-My D88-NF-κB and the inflammatory factors interleukin-12(IL-12), tumor necrosis factor alpha(TNF-α), and tumor necrosis factor beta(TNF-β) were significantly increased in the RA model. After moxibustion treatment, the expression level of TLR4-My D88-NF-κB was significantly decreased, and the inflammatory factors IL-12, TNF-α, and TNF-β were decreased, but the expression level was significantly increased in the RA model. When TIM-3 expression was inhibited, the expression level of TLR4-My D88-NF-κB, and the inflammatory factors IL-12, TNF-α, and TNF-β were not suppressed, even after moxibustion treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Moxibustion regulates the key target TIM-3 by acting on the Zusanli(ST36) and Shenshu(BL23) points, thereby inhibiting the M1 polarization of macrophages;that is, it inhibits the TLR4-My D88-NF-κB signaling pathway, and finally achieves alleviation of pathological changes and anti-inflammatory effects.
基金Supported by the Scientific Foundation of Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Hebei Province,China,No.2023257.
文摘BACKGROUND Jianpi Gushen Huayu Decoction(JPGS)has been used to clinically treat diabetic nephropathy(DN)for many years.However,the protective mechanism of JPGS in treating DN remains unclear.AIM To evaluate the therapeutic effects and the possible mechanism of JPGS on DN.METHODS We first evaluated the therapeutic potential of JPGS on a DN mouse model.We then investigated the effect of JPGS on the renal metabolite levels of DN mice using non-targeted metabolomics.Furthermore,we examined the effects of JPGS on c-Jun N-terminal kinase(JNK)/P38-mediated apoptosis and the inflammatory responses mediated by toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)/nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)/NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3(NLRP3).RESULTS The ameliorative effects of JPGS on DN mice included the alleviation of renal injury and the control of inflammation and oxidative stress.Untargeted metabolomic analysis revealed that JPGS altered the metabolites of the kidneys in DN mice.A total of 51 differential metabolites were screened.Pathway analysis results indicated that nine pathways significantly changed between the control and model groups,while six pathways significantly altered between the model and JPGS groups.Pathways related to cysteine and methionine metabolism;alanine,tryptophan metabolism;aspartate and glutamate metabolism;and riboflavin metabolism were identified as the key pathways through which JPGS affects DN.Further experimental validation showed that JPGS treatment reduced the expression of TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathways and JNK/P38 pathway-mediated apoptosis related factors.CONCLUSION JPGS could markedly treat mice with streptozotocin(STZ)-induced DN,which is possibly related to the regulation of several metabolic pathways found in kidneys.Furthermore,JPGS could improve kidney inflammatory responses and ameliorate kidney injuries in DN mice via the TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway and inhibit JNK/P38 pathwaymediated apoptosis in DN mice.
基金Joint Innovation Fundation of JIICM:Health Management of Chronic Kidney Disease Based on Integrated Traditional Chinese And Western Medicine(No.2021IR009)Natural Science Foundation-funded Project:the Mechanism of Modified Huangqi Chifeng Decoction Protect Damaged Podocyte via Cross-Talking of PI3K/AKT/mTOR and AMPK/mTOR/ULK1 Signaling Pathway Regulate Autophapy(No.81873300)+1 种基金the Central Publicinterest Scientific Institution Basal Research Fund of the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences:Comprehensive Evaluation of Clinical efficacy of Modified Huangqi Chifeng Decoction on IgA Nephropathy(No.ZZ11-023)the Beijing Municipal of Science and Technology Major Project:Evaluation of Clinical Efficacy of Modified Huangqi Chifeng Decoction in Treating Proteinuria in IgA Nephropathy Based on"Deficiency-Wind-Blood-Stasis-Toxicity"Mechanism in Chinese Medicine(No.Z191100006619063)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To examine the nephroprotective mechanism of modified Huangqi Chifeng decoction(加味黄芪赤风汤,MHCD)in immunoglobulin A nephropathy(IgAN)rats.METHODS:To establish the IgAN rat model,the bovine serum albumin,lipopolysaccharide,and carbon tetrachloride 4 method was employed.The rats were then randomly assigned to the control,model,telmisartan,and high-,medium-,and low-dose MHCD groups,and were administered the respective treatments via intragastric administration for 8 weeks.The levels of 24-h urinary protein,serum creatinine(CRE),and blood urea nitrogen(BUN)were measured in each group.Pathological alterations were detected.IgA deposition was visualized through the use of immunofluorescence staining.The ultrastructure of the kidney was observed using a transmission electron microscope.The expression levels of interleukin-6(IL-6),monocyte chemoattractant protein-1(MCP-1),and transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1)were examined by immunohistochemistry and quantitative polymerase chain reaction.Levels of toll-like receptor 4(TLR4),myeloid differentiation factor 88(MyD88),and nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)P65,were examined by immunohistochemistry,Western blotting,and quantitative polymerase chain reaction.RESULTS:The 24-h urine protein level in each group increased significantly at week 6,and worsen from then on.But this process can be reversed by treatments of telmisartan,and high-,medium-,and low-dose of MHCD,and these treatments did not affect renal function.Telmisartan,and high-,and medium-dose of MHCD reduced IgA deposition.Renal histopathology demonstrated the protective effect of high-,medium-,and low-dose of MHCD against kidney injury.The expression levels of MCP-1,IL-6,and TGF-β1 in kidney tissues were downregulated by low,medium and high doses of MHCD treatment.Additionally,treatment of low,medium and high doses of MHCD decreased the protein and mRNA levels of TLR4,MyD88,and NF-κB.CONCLUSIONS:MHCD exerted nephroprotective effects on IgAN rats,and MHCD regulated the expressions of key targets in TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway,thereby alleviating renal inflammation by inhibiting MCP-1,IL-6 expressions,and ameliorating renal fibrosis by inhibiting TGF-β1 expression.
文摘Diabetic kidney disease(DKD)is one of the complications of diabetes,affecting millions of people worldwide.The relentless progression of this condition can lead to kidney failure,requiring life-altering interventions such as dialysis or transplants.Accumulating evidence suggests that immunologic and inflammatory elements play an important role in initiating and perpetuating the damage inflicted on renal tissues,exacerbating the decline in organ function.Toll-like receptors(TLRs)are a family of receptors that play a role in the activation of the innate immune system by the recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns.Recent data from in vitro and in vivo studies have highlighted the critical role of TLRs,mainly TLR2 and TLR4,in the pathogenesis of DKD.In the diabetic milieu,these TLRs recognize diabetic-associated molecular signals,triggering a proinflammatory cascade that initiates and perpetuates inflammation and fibrogenesis in the diabetic kidney.Emerging non-traditional strategies targeting TLR signaling with potential therapeutic implications in DKD have been proposed.One of these approaches is the use of microRNAs,small non-coding RNAs that can regulate gene expression.This editorial comments on the results of this approach carried out in a rat model of diabetes by Wu et al,published in this issue of the World Journal of Diabetes.The results of the experimental study by Wu et al shows that microRNA-630 decreased levels compared to non-diabetic rats.Additionally,microRNA-630 exerted anti-inflammatory effects in the kidneys of diabetic rats through the modulation of TLR4.These findings indicate that the microRNA-630/TLR4 axis might represent a pathological mechanism of DKD and a potential therapeutic target capable of curbing the destructive inflammation characteristic of DKD.
基金supported by MH101874 (to CFZ)MH122379 (to CFZ)the Taylor Family Institute for Innovative Psychiatric Research and the Bantly Foundation (to CFZ)。
文摘Glyphosate-based herbicides are widely used around the world, making it likely that most humans have significant exposure. Because of habitual exposure, there are concerns about toxicity including neurotoxicity that could result in neurological, psychiatric, or cognitive impairment. We recently found that a single injection of glyphosate inhibits long-term potentiation, a cellular model of learning and memory, in rat hippocampal slices dissected 1 day after injection, indicating that glyphosate-based herbicides can alter cognitive function. Glyphosate-based herbicides could adversely affect cognitive function either indirectly and/or directly. Indirectly, glyphosate could affect gut microbiota, and if dysbiosis results in endotoxemia(leaky gut), infiltrated bacterial by-products such as lipopolysaccharides could activate pro-inflammatory cascades. Glyphosate can also directly trigger pro-inflammatory cascades. Indeed, we observed that acute glyphosate exposure inhibits long-term potentiation in rat hippocampal slices. Interestingly, direct inhibition of long-term potentiation by glyphosate appears to be similar to that of lipopolysaccharides. There are several possible measures to control dysbiosis and neuroinflammation caused by glyphosate. Dietary intake of polyphenols, such as quercetin, which overcome the inhibitory effect of glyphosate on long-term potentiation, could be one effective strategy. The aim of this narrative review is to discuss possible mechanisms underlying neurotoxicity following glyphosate exposure as a means to identify potential treatments.
