Strokes include both ischemic stroke,which is mediated by a blockade or reduction in the blood supply to the brain,and hemorrhagic stroke,which comprises intracerebral hemorrhage and subarachnoid hemorrhage and is cha...Strokes include both ischemic stroke,which is mediated by a blockade or reduction in the blood supply to the brain,and hemorrhagic stroke,which comprises intracerebral hemorrhage and subarachnoid hemorrhage and is characterized by bleeding within the brain.Stroke is a lifethreatening cerebrovascular condition characterized by intricate pathophysiological mechanisms,including oxidative stress,inflammation,mitochondrial dysfunction,and neuronal injury.Critical transcription factors,such as nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and nuclear factor kappa B,play central roles in the progression of stroke.Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 is sensitive to changes in the cellular redox status and is crucial in protecting cells against oxidative damage,inflammatory responses,and cytotoxic agents.It plays a significant role in post-stroke neuroprotection and repair by influencing mitochondrial function,endoplasmic reticulum stress,and lysosomal activity and regulating metabolic pathways and cytokine expression.Conversely,nuclear factor-kappa B is closely associated with mitochondrial dysfunction,the generation of reactive oxygen species,oxidative stress exacerbation,and inflammation.Nuclear factor-kappa B contributes to neuronal injury,apoptosis,and immune responses following stroke by modulating cell adhesion molecules and inflammatory mediators.The interplay between these pathways,potentially involving crosstalk among various organelles,significantly influences stroke pathophysiology.Advancements in single-cell sequencing and spatial transcriptomics have greatly improved our understanding of stroke pathogenesis and offer new opportunities for the development of targeted,individualized,cell typespecific treatments.In this review,we discuss the mechanisms underlying the involvement of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and nuclear factor-kappa B in both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke,with an emphasis on their roles in oxidative stress,inflammation,and neuroprotection.展开更多
Colorectal cancer(CRC)is the third most common malignancy.However,the efficacy of current treatment strategies remains limited.In recent years,monomeric compounds from traditional Chinese medicine have received extens...Colorectal cancer(CRC)is the third most common malignancy.However,the efficacy of current treatment strategies remains limited.In recent years,monomeric compounds from traditional Chinese medicine have received extensive attention in cancer therapy.Rosmarinic acid(RA),a natural phenolic acid,has multiple biological activities and exhibits anti-oncogenic effects in several cancers.Liu et al previously uncovered that RA could serve as a dual-action therapeutic agent in CRC.By suppressing nuclear factor-kappa B signaling via direct inhibition of inhibitory kappa B kinase beta,RA not only impedes tumor progression but also synergizes with first-line chemotherapeutics(5-fluorouracil/oxaliplatin)to reverse drug resistance.The authors demonstrate RA’s capacity to downregulate nuclear factor-kappa B-driven oncogenes and enhance chemotherapeutic cytotoxicity in vitro through integrative approaches,including molecular docking,luciferase assays,and functional validation.While these findings position RA as a cost-effective adjuvant in precision oncology,critical clinical translational gaps remain,including optimizing RA’s in vivo bioavailability,validating systemic safety in combinatorial regimens,and elucidating its immunomodulatory effects within the tumor microenvironment.This underscores the urgency of bridging phytochemistry and clinical oncology,advocating for biomarker-driven animal studies and phase I trials to translate RA’s potential into actionable CRC therapies.By addressing these hurdles,RA could emerge as a paradigm-shifting agent,harmonizing natural product efficacy with modern therapeutic precision.展开更多
BACKGROUND Rosmarinic acid(RA)is a natural polyphenol carboxylic acid known for its role in chemoprevention.Given its widespread use as a food additive,we are interested in whether RA affects the development of colore...BACKGROUND Rosmarinic acid(RA)is a natural polyphenol carboxylic acid known for its role in chemoprevention.Given its widespread use as a food additive,we are interested in whether RA affects the development of colorectal cancer(CRC).AIM To examine the anti-tumor effects of RA on various CRC cell lines,and to further investigate the possible mechanisms.METHODS Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and optical microscopy imaging were used to evaluate the viability of CRC cell lines.Western blot,quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction,and flow cytometry analyses were performed to assess cell viability and activation of nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)signaling.Molecular modeling was used to assess the interaction between RA and inhibitory kappa B kinase beta.Luciferase assay was used to examine the activity of NF-κB-driven transcription.The combinations of RA with 5-fluorouracil or oxaliplatin were utilized to evaluate the potential synergistic action of RA with the chemotherapeutics.RESULTS RA exerted potent cytotoxic actions on all six CRC cell lines examined.RA was docked nicely into the binding pocket of inhibitory kappa B kinase beta by molecular modeling.The activity of NF-κB-driven luciferase and the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 were decreased after exposure to the compound.Lipopolysaccharide-induced NF-κB activation was effectively inhibited by RA,too.Further,RA downregulated the expression of cell proliferationrelated cyclin D1 and MYC,which are target genes of NF-κB.Of note,the cytotoxic actions of 5-fluorouracil and oxaliplatin were markedly enhanced by RA in those CRC cells.CONCLUSION Our results indicate that RA inhibits NF-κB signaling and induces apoptosis in CRC cells.It enhances the cytotoxic actions of chemotherapeutics and might help to improve the chemotherapy of CRC.展开更多
BACKGROUND Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD)has emerged as a prominent and pervasive global health challenge.Bicuculline(BIC),which is a key active component of the anti-MASLD prescriptio...BACKGROUND Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD)has emerged as a prominent and pervasive global health challenge.Bicuculline(BIC),which is a key active component of the anti-MASLD prescription"Eight Zhes Decoction",has been preliminarily shown by our research team to have significant potential in treating MASLD.AIM To determine BIC's efficacy in treating MASLD by regulating lipid metabolism and suppressing hepatic inflammation via nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)pathway,identifying it as a therapeutic candidate.METHODS This study explored the potential of BIC in preventing and treating MASLD using zebrafish,cellular(HepG2 and AML12),and mouse models.RESULTS Our results indicate that BIC significantly reduces lipid accumulation and inflammation both in vivo and in vitro.Transcriptomic analysis suggested that the anti-MASLD effects of BIC are linked to the inhibition of the NF-κB pathway,which plays a critical role in mitigating inflammation and lipid deposition.CONCLUSION This study is the first to demonstrate that BIC specifically alleviates lipid accumulation and hepatic steatosis in MASLD models via the NF-κB signaling pathway.Overall,BIC has emerged as a promising candidate for treating MASLD.展开更多
BACKGROUND In vivo degradation of bone scaffolds is significantly influenced by osteoclast(OC)activity,which is orchestrated by the interplay between receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand(RANKL)and osteo...BACKGROUND In vivo degradation of bone scaffolds is significantly influenced by osteoclast(OC)activity,which is orchestrated by the interplay between receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand(RANKL)and osteoprotegerin(OPG).The ratio of RANKL/OPG is a crucial determinant of OC-mediated bone resorption,which plays an integral role in bone remodeling and scaffold degradation.Elevated levels of RANKL relative to OPG enhance osteoclastogenesis,thereby accelerating the degradation process essential for integrating bone scaffolds into the host tissue.AIM To elucidate the effects of OPG gene silencing on osteoclastogenesis within rat bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells(BMSCs).By investigating these effects,the study aimed to provide deeper insights into the regulatory mechanisms that influence bone scaffold degradation,potentially leading to improved bone repair and regeneration strategies.METHODS We employed recombinant lentiviral plasmids to silence the OPG gene in rat BMSCs to achieve the aims.The efficacy of gene silencing was assessed using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis to measure the expression levels of OPG and RANKL.Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining was utilized to evaluate the formation of OCs.Additionally,co-immunoprecipitation assays were conducted to explore the interactions between RANKL and OPG proteins,further assessing the biochemical pathways involved in osteoclastogenesis.RESULTS The silencing of the OPG gene in BMSCs resulted in a significant increase in the RANKL/OPG ratio,evidenced by decreased expression levels of OPG and increased levels of RANKL.Enhanced osteoclastogenesis was observed through tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining,which indicated a substantial rise in OC formation in response to the altered RANKL/OPG balance.The co-immunoprecipitation assays provided concrete evidence of the direct interaction between RANKL and OPG proteins,substantiating their pivotal roles in regulating OC activity.CONCLUSION The findings from this study underscore the critical role of the RANKL/OPG axis in osteoclastogenesis.Silencing of the OPG gene in BMSCs effectively increases the RANKL/OPG ratio,promoting OC activity and potentially enhancing bone scaffold degradation.This regulatory mechanism offers a promising avenue for modulating bone remodeling processes,which is essential for effective bone repair and the successful integration of bone scaffolds into damaged sites.Future research might focus on optimizing the control of this axis to better facilitate bone tissue engineering and regenerative therapies.展开更多
BACKGROUND: The active form of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) is involved in the initiation, generation, and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and is up-regulated in inflammation-associated malignanc...BACKGROUND: The active form of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) is involved in the initiation, generation, and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and is up-regulated in inflammation-associated malignancies. We investigated the dynamic expression of NF-kappa B and its influences on the occurrence of HCC through antiangiogenic (thalidomide) intervention in NF-kappa B activation. METHODS : Hepatoma models were induced with 2-fluorenylacetamide (2-FAA, 0.05%) in male Sprague-Dawley rats, and thalidomide (100 mg/kg body weight) was administered intragastrically to intervene in NF-kappa B activation. The pathological changes in the liver of sacrificed rats were assessed after hematoxylin and eosin staining. NF-kappa B mRNA was amplified by RT-nested PCR. The alterations of NF-kappa B and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting. RESULTS: Rat hepatocytes showed denatured, precancerous, and cancerous stages in hepatocarcinogenesis, with an increasing tendency of hepatic NF-kappa B, NF-kappa B mRNA, and VEGF expression, and their values in the HCC group were higher than those in controls (P<0.001). In the thalidomide-treated group, the morphologic changes generated only punctiform denaturation and necrosis at the early or middle stages, and nodular hyperplasia or a little atypical hyperplasia at the final stages, with the expression of NF-kappa B (chi(2)=9.93, P<0.001) and VEGF (chi(2)=8.024, P<0.001) lower than that in the 2-FAA group. CONCLUSION: NF-kappa B is overexpressed in hepatocarcinogenesis and antiangiogenic treatment down-regulates the expression of NF-kappa B and VEGF, and delays the occurrence of HCC. (Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2010; 9: 169-174)展开更多
BACKGROUND: Urinary trypsin inhibitor (UTI) inhibits the inflammatory response and protects against ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. The inflammatory response is mediated by nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) and i...BACKGROUND: Urinary trypsin inhibitor (UTI) inhibits the inflammatory response and protects against ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. The inflammatory response is mediated by nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) and its related target genes and products such as vascular endothelial cell adhesion molecule and CXC chemokines. We aimed to assess the roles of those mediators in a UTI-treated mouse model of hepatic I/R injury. METHODS: Treatment group 1 (UTI given 5 minutes prior to liver ischemia), treatment group 2 (UTI given 5 minutes after the anhepatic phase) and a control group were investigated. Blood and liver samples were obtained and compared at 1, 3, 6 and 24 hours after reperfusion. RESULTS: Attenuation of pathological hepatocellular damage was greater in the treatment groups than in the control group (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the UTI treatment groups showed significantly lower serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels, decreased myeloperoxidase activity, and reduced NF-kappa B activation. Also downregulated was the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant, and macrophage inflammatory protein-2 at the mRNA level. P-selectin protein and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 protein expression were also downregulated. In addition, the treatment group I showed a better protective effect against I/R injury than the treatment group 2. CONCLUSIONS: UTI reduces NF-kappa B activation and downregulates the expression of its related mediators, followed by the inhibition of neutrophil aggregation and infiltration in hepatic I/R injury. The protective role of UTI is more effective in prevention than in treatment.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors. We analyzed the expression of miclear-transcription factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) during hepatocarcinogenesis in order to evaluate i...BACKGROUND: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors. We analyzed the expression of miclear-transcription factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) during hepatocarcinogenesis in order to evaluate its dynamic expression and its clinical value in the development and diagnosis of HCC. METHODS: Hepatoma models were induced by oral administration of 2-acetamidoflurene (2-FAA) to male Sprague-Dawley rats. Morphological changes were observed after hematoxylin and eosin staining. The cellular distribution of NF-kappa B expression during different stages of cancer development was investigated by immunohistochemistry, and the level of NF-kappa B expression in liver tissues was quantitatively analyzed by ELISA. The gene fragments of hepatic NF-kappa B were amplified by nested-polymerase chain reaction assay. RESULTS: Hepatocytes showed vacuole-like degeneration during the early stages, then had a hyperplastic nodal appearance during the middle stages, and finally progressed to tubercles of cancerous nests with high differentiation. The NF-kappa B-positive material was buff-colored, fine particles localized in the nucleus, and the incidence of NF-kappa B-positive cells was 81.8% in degeneration, 83.3% in precancerous lesions, and 100% in cancerous tissues. All of these values were higher than those in controls (P<0.01). Hepatic NF-kappa B expression and hepatic NF-kappa B-mRNA were also higher during the course of HCC development (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: The NF-kappa B signal transduction pathway is activated during the early stages of HCC development, and its abnormal expression may be associated with the occurrence of HCC.展开更多
AIM:To assess the prognostic significance of nuclear factor-kB (NF-kB) and its target genes in gastric cancer. METHODS:The tumor tissues of 115 patients with gastric cancer were immunohistochemically evaluated using m...AIM:To assess the prognostic significance of nuclear factor-kB (NF-kB) and its target genes in gastric cancer. METHODS:The tumor tissues of 115 patients with gastric cancer were immunohistochemically evaluated using monoclonal antibodies against NF-kB RelA. Preoperative serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), interleukin-6 (IL-6) were assessed via enzyme-linked immuno-sorbent assay. C-reactive protein (CRP) and serum amyloid A (SAA) were measured via immunotrubidimetry. RESULTS:Positive rate of NF-kB RelA was 42.6%. NF-kB RelA expression in tumor tissues was also related to serum levels of IL-6 (P = 0.044) and CRP (P = 0.010). IL-6, SAA, CRP were related to depth of invasion, VEGF and SAA were correlated with lymph node metastasis. IL-6, VEGF, SAA and CRP were related to the stage. Univariate analysis demonstrated that immunostaining of NF-kB RelA, levels of IL-6, VEGF, SAA were significantly related with both disease free survival and over-all survival (OS). Multivariate analysis verified that NF-kB RelA [hazard ratio (HR): 3.40, P = 0.024] and SAA (HR: 3.39, P = 0.045) were independently associated with OS. CONCLUSION: Increased expression of NF-kB RelA and high levels of serum SAA were associated with poor OS in gastric cancer patients.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the effect of different dietary fatty acids on hepatic inflammasome activation.METHODS: Wild-type C57BL/6 mice were fed either a high-fat diet or polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)-enriched diet. Pr...AIM: To investigate the effect of different dietary fatty acids on hepatic inflammasome activation.METHODS: Wild-type C57BL/6 mice were fed either a high-fat diet or polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)-enriched diet. Primary hepatocytes were treated with either saturated fatty acids (SFAs) or PUFAs as well as combined with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The expression of NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) was determined by real-time PCR and Western blot. The activity of Caspase-1 and interleukine-1β production were measured.RESULTS: High-fat diet-induced hepatic steatosis was sufficient to induce and activate hepatic NLRP3 inflammasome. SFA palmitic acid (PA) directly activated NLRP3 inflammasome and increased sensitization to LPS-induced inflammasome activation in hepatocytes. In contrast, PUFA docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) had the potential to inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome expression in hepatocytes and partly abolished LPS-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Furthermore, a high-fat diet increased but PUFA-enriched diet decreased sensitization to LPS-induced hepatic NLRP3 inflammasome activation in vivo. Moreover, PA increased but DHA decreased phosphorylated NF-κB p65 protein expression in hepatocytes.CONCLUSION: Hepatic NLRP3 inflammasome activation played an important role in the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Dietary SFAs and PUFAs oppositely regulated the activity of NLRP3 inflammasome through direct activation or inhibition of NF-κB.展开更多
Previous studies have confirmed that the anti-virus effects of Shuanghuanglian injection may be associated with nuclear factor-kappa B activity. This study observed nuclear factor-kappa B expression in mice with viral...Previous studies have confirmed that the anti-virus effects of Shuanghuanglian injection may be associated with nuclear factor-kappa B activity. This study observed nuclear factor-kappa B expression in mice with viral encephalitis, and showed significant decreases in nuclear factor-kappa B protein and mRNA levels following Shuanghuanglian injection. The inhibitory effect was more significant with prolonged intervention duration and increased treatment dose. These findings verify that Shuanghuanglian injection plays a therapeutic role in viral encephalitis by reducing expression of nuclear factor-kappa B in a time- and dose-dependent manner.展开更多
We have observed earlier that testosterone at physiological concentrations can stimulate tissue factor pathway inhibitor(TFPI)gene expression through the androgen receptor in endothelial cells.This study further inves...We have observed earlier that testosterone at physiological concentrations can stimulate tissue factor pathway inhibitor(TFPI)gene expression through the androgen receptor in endothelial cells.This study further investigated the impact of testosterone on TFPI levels in response to inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α).Cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells were incubated in the presence or absence of testosterone or TNF-α.TFPI protein and mRNA levels were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.To study the cellular mechanism of testosterone’s action,nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)translocation was confirmed by electrophoretic mobility shift assays.We found that after NF-κB was activated by TNF-α,TFPI protein levels declined significantly by 37.3%compared with controls(P<0.001),and the mRNA levels of TFPI also decreased greatly(P<0.001).A concentration of 30 nmol L-1 testosterone increased the secretion of TFPI compared with the TNF-α-treated group.NF-κB DNA-binding activity was significantly suppressed by testosterone(P<0.05).This suggests that physiological testosterone concentrations may exert their antithrombotic effects on TFPI expression during inflammation by downregulating NF-κB activity.展开更多
BACKGROUND：It has been reported that Ganoderma lucidum spore powder, a very well known Chinese traditional medicine, can affect immunoregulation, free radical scavenging, and anti-hypoxia responses. OBJECTIVE： To in...BACKGROUND：It has been reported that Ganoderma lucidum spore powder, a very well known Chinese traditional medicine, can affect immunoregulation, free radical scavenging, and anti-hypoxia responses. OBJECTIVE： To investigate the effect of Ganoderma lucidum spore powder on expression of insulin-like growth factor-1 （IGF-1）, nuclear factor-κB （NF-κB） and neuronal apoptosis in rats with pentylenetetrazol （PTZ）-induced epilepsy. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING： A cellular and molecular biology experiment with randomized controlled study design was performed at the Central Laboratory of Basic Medical College of Jiamusi University from June to August 2005. MATERIALS： Thirty healthy, adult, male, Wistar rats were selected and randomly divided into 3 groups （10 rats per group）： control, epilepsy model, and Ganoderma lucidum spore powder. A sub-eclampsia PTZ dose （35 mg/kg） was intraperitoneally injected to induce epilepsy in the latter two groups. Wild Ganoderma lucidum spore powder （30 g/L） was provided by the wild Ganoderma lucidum plant nursery at Jiamusi, China. Immunohistochemical detection and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediate dUTP nick end-labeling （TUNEL） kits were purchased from Wuhan Boster Biological Technology Co., Ltd., China. METHODS： Ganoderma lucidum spore powder was intragastrically administered at a dose of 10.0 mL/kg, once a day for 28 days. In the epilepsy and control groups, an equivalent volume of normal saline was intragastrically administered. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES： Immunoreactivity for IGF-1 and NF-κB/P65 were detected by immunohistochemical staining. Neuronal apoptosis was detected using TUNEL methods. RESULTS： The hippocampus and cerebral cortex of rats with PTZ-induced epilepsy exhibited a higher number of apoptotic cells at high magnification （×400）, compared with the control group. Expression of IGF-1 and NF-κB were higher in the epilepsy group, compared with the control group （P 〈 0.01）. In Ganoderma lucidum spore-treated rats, fewer apoptotic cells were observed in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex, expression of NF-κB/P65 was lower, and immunoreactivity to IGF-1 increased more distinctly, compared with the epilepsy group. In addition, seizure latency was longer on 17, 21, and 25 days post-PTZ treatment in the Ganoderma lucidum spore powder group, compared with the epilepsy group （P 〈 0.05-0.01）. CONCLUSION： Ganoderma lucidum spore powder down-regulated expression of NF-κB in brain tissues of rats with PTZ-induced epilepsy, increased immunoreactivity to IGF-1, and inhibited neuronal apoptosis. These results indicated that Ganoderma lucidum spore powder has a neuroprotective effect.展开更多
A mouse model of viral encephalitis was induced by intracranial injection of a Coxsackie virus B3 suspension. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR and western blot assay were applied to detect mRNA and pro...A mouse model of viral encephalitis was induced by intracranial injection of a Coxsackie virus B3 suspension. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR and western blot assay were applied to detect mRNA and protein expression of intelectin-2 and nuclear factor-kappa B in the viral encephalitis and control groups. Nuclear factor-kappa B and intelectin-2 mRNA and protein expression were significantly increased in mice with viral encephalitis. After intraperitoneal injection of Shuanghuanglian at a dose of 1.5 mg/kg for 5 successive days, intelectin-2 and nuclear factor-kappa B protein and mRNA expression were significantly decreased. To elucidate the relationship between intelectin-2 and nuclear factor-kappa B, mice with viral encephalitis were administered an intracerebral injection of 107 pfu recombinant lentivirus expressing intelectin shRNA. Both protein and mRNA levels of intelectin and nuclear factor-kappa B in brain tissue of mice were significantly decreased. Experimental findings suggest that Shuanghuanglian injection may downregulate nuclear factor-kappa B production via suppression of intelectin production, thus inhibiting inflammation associated with viral encephalitis.展开更多
BACKGROUND： Modern pharmacological studies have shown that Ginsenoside Rgl is one of the active components of ginseng that promote intelligence in the nervous system. Ginsenoside Rgl can improve memory and learning i...BACKGROUND： Modern pharmacological studies have shown that Ginsenoside Rgl is one of the active components of ginseng that promote intelligence in the nervous system. Ginsenoside Rgl can improve memory and learning in mouse models of β-amyloid protein （Aβ）-induced dementia. OBJECTIVE： To investigate whether effects of Ginsenoside Rgl against Aβ are associated with activity of nuclear factor-kappa B （NF-κB）. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING： The randomized performed at the DME Center, Institute of Clinica controlled, cell biological experiment was Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, China from July 2005 to May 2006. MATERIALS： Beta-amyloid fragment 25-35 （Aβ25-35） was supplied by the Neural Biochemical Laboratory, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, China. Ginsenoside Rgl was obtained from National Institute for the Control of Pharmaceutical and Biological Products, China. Rabbit anti-rat NF-κB p65 antibody was purchased from Santa Cruz Biotechnology, USA. METHODS： Hippocampal neurons and cortical astrocytes of neonatal Sprague Dawley rats were harvested and treated with various concentrations （0, 5, 10, 20, and 40 μmol/L） of Aβ for 6, 12, and 24 hours to establish cellular models of Alzheimer＇s disease. Cellular models were pretreated with various concentrations of Ginsenoside Rgl （1,2, 4, 8, and 16 μmol/L）. According to cell morphology and activity, the following conditions were selected： 40 μmol/L Aβ for 24 hours, as well as 2, 4, and 8 μmol/L Ginsenoside Rg1. NF-κB activity was observed using immunofluorescence and cytochemical staining. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES： Morphology and viability of hippocampal neurons and cortical astrocytes, and activities of NF-κB were measured. RESULTS： Hippocampal neuron activity was significantly greater in the normal and 2 and 4 μmol/L Ginsenoside Rgl groups compared with the model group （P 〈 0.05）. Astrocyte activity was significantly greater in the normal, 1,2, 4, 8, and 16 μmol/L Ginsenoside Rgl groups compared with the model group （P 〈 0.05）. NF-κB activity of hippocampal neurons was significantly greater in the normal, 2, 4, and 8 μmol/L Ginsenoside Rgl groups compared with the model group （P 〈 0.01）. NF-κB activity of astrocytes was significantly less in the normal, 2, 4, and 8 μmol/L Ginsenoside Rgl groups compared with the model group （P 〈 0.01 or P 〈 0.05）. No significant difference in NF-κB activity was determined between the 2 μmol/L Ginsenoside Rgl and normal groups （P 〉 0.05）. CONCLUSION： Ginsenoside Rgl protected neural cells by upregulating NF-κB activity in neurons and downregulating NF-κB activity in astrocytes. Ginsenoside Rgl （2 μmol/L） maintained cell activity and NF-κB activity at normal levels.展开更多
Pulpitis is a common infective oral disease in clinical situations.The regulatory mechanisms of immune defense in pulpitis are still being investigated.Osteomodulin(OMD)is a small leucine-rich proteoglycan family memb...Pulpitis is a common infective oral disease in clinical situations.The regulatory mechanisms of immune defense in pulpitis are still being investigated.Osteomodulin(OMD)is a small leucine-rich proteoglycan family member distributed in bones and teeth.It is a bioactive protein that promotes osteogenesis and suppresses the apoptosis of human dental pulp stem cells(hDPSCs).In this study,the role of OMD in pulpitis and the OMD-induced regulatory mechanism were investigated.The OMD expression in normal and inflamed human pulp tissues was detected via immunofluorescence staining.Intriguingly,the OMD expression decreased in the inflammatory infiltration area of pulpitis specimens.The cellular experiments demonstrated that recombined human OMD could resist the detrimental effects of lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced inflammation.A conditional Omd knockout mouse model with pulpal inflammation was established.LPS-induced inflammatory impairment significantly increased in conditional Omd knockout mice,whereas OMD administration exhibited a protective effect against pulpitis.Mechanistically,the transcriptome alterations of OMD overexpression showed significant enrichment in the nuclear factor-κB(NF-κB)signaling pathway.Interleukin-1 receptor 1(IL1R1),a vital membrane receptor activating the NF-κB pathway,was significantly downregulated in OMD-overexpressing hDPSCs.Additionally,the interaction between OMD and IL1R1 was verified using co-immunoprecipitation and molecular docking.In vivo,excessive pulpal inflammation in Omd-deficient mice was rescued using an IL1R antagonist.Overall,OMD played a protective role in the inflammatory response via the IL1R1/NF-κB signaling pathway.OMD may optimize the immunomodulatory functions of hDPSCs and can be used for regenerative endodontics.展开更多
BACKGROUND Radiation induced pulmonary fibrosis(RIPF)is a long-term lung condition with a bleak outlook and few treatment possibilities.Mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)-derived exosomes(MSCs-exosomes)possess tissue repair...BACKGROUND Radiation induced pulmonary fibrosis(RIPF)is a long-term lung condition with a bleak outlook and few treatment possibilities.Mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)-derived exosomes(MSCs-exosomes)possess tissue repair and regenerative pro-perties,but their exact mechanisms in RIPF remain unclear.This study explores whether MSCs-exosomes can alleviate RIPF by modulating inflammation,ex-tracellular matrix(ECM)accumulation,and epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT)via the protein kinase B(Akt)/nuclear factor kappa B(NF-κB)pathway.Sprague-Dawley rats were received 30 Gy X-ray radiation on the right chest to induce RIPF,while RLE-6TN and BEAS-2B cell lines were exposed to 10 Gy X-rays.Using differential centrifugation,MSCs-exosomes were isolated,and their protective effects were examined both in vivo and in vitro.Inflammatory cytokine concentrations were measured using Luminex liquid chip detection and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay.ECM and EMT-related proteins were analyzed using immunohistochemistry,western blotting,and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction.Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were also used to investigate the mechanisms underlying MSCs-exosomes’effects in RIPF.RESULTS Administration of MSCs-exosomes significantly mitigated RIPF,reduced collagen deposition,and decreased levels of various inflammatory cytokines.Additionally,MSCs-exosomes prevented radiation-induced ECM accumulation and EMT.Treatment with MSCs-exosomes notably promoted cell proliferation,suppressed inflammation,and reversed ECM deposition and EMT in radiation-exposed alveolar epithelial cells.Mechanistic analysis further revealed that MSCs-exosomes exerted their anti-RIPF effects by inhibiting the Akt/NF-κB pathway,as shown in both in vivo and in vitro models.CONCLUSION MSCs-exosomes mitigate RIPF by suppressing inflammation,ECM deposition,and EMT through Akt/NF-κB inhibition,highlighting their potential as a therapeutic strategy.展开更多
The effects of five chito-oligomers, from dimer to hexamer （chitobiose, chitotriose, chitotetraose, chitopentaose, chitohexaose） separated from chitosan oligosaccharides, on nuclear factor -kappaB （NF-rd3） signali...The effects of five chito-oligomers, from dimer to hexamer （chitobiose, chitotriose, chitotetraose, chitopentaose, chitohexaose） separated from chitosan oligosaccharides, on nuclear factor -kappaB （NF-rd3） signaling pathway were investigated by using luciferase assay and laser scanning microscopy. The expression of NF-rd3 downstream genes （cyclin DI, TNFa and IL-6） were tested by real time PCR. We found that all five chitosan oligosaccharides increased NF-KB-dependent luciferase gene expression and NF-KB downstream genes transcription, and the most significant were chitotetraose and chitohexaose. In addition, laser scanning microscopy experiments showed that chitotetraose and chitohexaose also activated the p65 subunite of NF-kB translocating from cytoplasm to nucleus, which suggested that they were the most potent activators of NF-kB signaling pathway.展开更多
In order to investigate the effect of nuclear factor kappa B (NF κB) on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) mRNA expression of human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (HPASMCs) in hypoxia, the cultured HPA...In order to investigate the effect of nuclear factor kappa B (NF κB) on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) mRNA expression of human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (HPASMCs) in hypoxia, the cultured HPASMCs in vitro were stimulated with pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC), an inhibitor of NF κB. The NF κB p65 nuclei positive expression was detected by immunocytochemical technique. The IκBα protein expression was measured by Western blot. RT PCR was used to detect the VEGF mRNA expression of HPASMCs. The results showed that no significant change was observed in the NF κB p65 nuclei positive expression of cultured HPASMCs during 6 h-24 h in normoxia, but the levels of NF κB p65 nuclei positive expression of cultured HPASMCs were significantly increased in hypoxia groups as compared with those in all normoxia groups ( P <0.05). The IκBα protein expression of cultured HPASMCs showed no significant change during 6 h-24 h in normoxia, but significantly decreased in hypoxia as comapred with that in normoxia groups ( P <0.05). PDTC (1 to 100 μmol/L) could inhibit the VEGF mRNA expression of HPASMCs in a concentration dependent manner in hypoxia. In conclusion, NF κB can be partly translocation activated from cytoplasm into nuclei in the cultured HPASMCs under hypoxia. The inhibition of NF κB activation can decrease the VEGF mRNA expression. It is suggested that the activation of NF κB is involved in the VEGF mRNA expression of HPASMCs under hypoxia.展开更多
BACKGROUND Mesenchymal stromal cells(MSCs)are renowned for their immunosuppressive properties,which make them widely used in managing excessive inflammation.Although CD146+and CD146-MSCs exhibit similar morphological ...BACKGROUND Mesenchymal stromal cells(MSCs)are renowned for their immunosuppressive properties,which make them widely used in managing excessive inflammation.Although CD146+and CD146-MSCs exhibit similar morphological traits and surface marker expression levels,the specific characteristics and differential regulatory mechanisms of these two subtypes remain poorly understood.This knowledge gap has limited the precise application of MSCs in targeted thera-peutic strategies.AIM To compare the functional differences between CD146+and CD146-MSCs and investigate the underlying mechanisms.METHODS In this study,magnetic beads were used to sort umbilical cord-derived MSCs into CD146+and CD146-subsets.The pro-angiogenic factors(hepatocyte growth factor,prostaglandin E2,vascular endothelial growth factor,angiopoietin-1)production and immunomodulatory effects on T lymphocyte subsets were evaluated in vitro.The therapeutic efficacy was assessed in an acute respiratory distress syndrome(ARDS)mouse model via tail vein injection.RESULTS Cytokine secretion and angiogenesis:CD146+MSCs significantly increased the production of hepatocyte growth factor,prostaglandin E2,vascular endothelial growth factor,and angiopoietin-1 and exhibited increased pro-angiogenic activity in vitro.Immunomodulatory effects:CD146+MSCs potently inhibited the differentiation and proliferation of pro-inflammatory T helper type 1/T helper type 17 cells while promoting the expansion of regulatory T cells during T lymphocyte activation.ARDS therapy:In a mouse ARDS model,compared with CD146-MSCs,CD146+MSCs demonstrated superior therapeutic efficacy,as evidenced by improved clinical scores.Mechanistically,CD146+MSCs activated the nuclear factor kappa B pathway,upregulated cyclooxygenase 2 expression,and facilitated damaged epithelial cell repair.CONCLUSION CD146+MSCs show stronger ARDS therapeutic potential than CD146-MSCs via pro-angiogenic/immunomodulatory traits.Nuclear factor kappa B/cyclooxygenase 2 activation aids epithelial repair,highlighting CD146+MSCs as promising targets.展开更多
基金supported by grants from the Zhejiang Provincial TCM Science and Technology Plan Project,No.2023ZL156(to YH)Ningbo Top Medical and Health Research Program,No.2022020304(to XG)+1 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Ningbo,No.2023J019(to YH)Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Atherosclerotic Diseases of Zhejiang Province,No.2022E10026(to YH)。
文摘Strokes include both ischemic stroke,which is mediated by a blockade or reduction in the blood supply to the brain,and hemorrhagic stroke,which comprises intracerebral hemorrhage and subarachnoid hemorrhage and is characterized by bleeding within the brain.Stroke is a lifethreatening cerebrovascular condition characterized by intricate pathophysiological mechanisms,including oxidative stress,inflammation,mitochondrial dysfunction,and neuronal injury.Critical transcription factors,such as nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and nuclear factor kappa B,play central roles in the progression of stroke.Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 is sensitive to changes in the cellular redox status and is crucial in protecting cells against oxidative damage,inflammatory responses,and cytotoxic agents.It plays a significant role in post-stroke neuroprotection and repair by influencing mitochondrial function,endoplasmic reticulum stress,and lysosomal activity and regulating metabolic pathways and cytokine expression.Conversely,nuclear factor-kappa B is closely associated with mitochondrial dysfunction,the generation of reactive oxygen species,oxidative stress exacerbation,and inflammation.Nuclear factor-kappa B contributes to neuronal injury,apoptosis,and immune responses following stroke by modulating cell adhesion molecules and inflammatory mediators.The interplay between these pathways,potentially involving crosstalk among various organelles,significantly influences stroke pathophysiology.Advancements in single-cell sequencing and spatial transcriptomics have greatly improved our understanding of stroke pathogenesis and offer new opportunities for the development of targeted,individualized,cell typespecific treatments.In this review,we discuss the mechanisms underlying the involvement of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and nuclear factor-kappa B in both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke,with an emphasis on their roles in oxidative stress,inflammation,and neuroprotection.
文摘Colorectal cancer(CRC)is the third most common malignancy.However,the efficacy of current treatment strategies remains limited.In recent years,monomeric compounds from traditional Chinese medicine have received extensive attention in cancer therapy.Rosmarinic acid(RA),a natural phenolic acid,has multiple biological activities and exhibits anti-oncogenic effects in several cancers.Liu et al previously uncovered that RA could serve as a dual-action therapeutic agent in CRC.By suppressing nuclear factor-kappa B signaling via direct inhibition of inhibitory kappa B kinase beta,RA not only impedes tumor progression but also synergizes with first-line chemotherapeutics(5-fluorouracil/oxaliplatin)to reverse drug resistance.The authors demonstrate RA’s capacity to downregulate nuclear factor-kappa B-driven oncogenes and enhance chemotherapeutic cytotoxicity in vitro through integrative approaches,including molecular docking,luciferase assays,and functional validation.While these findings position RA as a cost-effective adjuvant in precision oncology,critical clinical translational gaps remain,including optimizing RA’s in vivo bioavailability,validating systemic safety in combinatorial regimens,and elucidating its immunomodulatory effects within the tumor microenvironment.This underscores the urgency of bridging phytochemistry and clinical oncology,advocating for biomarker-driven animal studies and phase I trials to translate RA’s potential into actionable CRC therapies.By addressing these hurdles,RA could emerge as a paradigm-shifting agent,harmonizing natural product efficacy with modern therapeutic precision.
基金Supported by Natural Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province of China Under Grant,No.PL2024H020High-Quality Innovation Platform of Science and Education Innovation Zone in Suzhou Industrial Park-Key Platform Project,No.YZCXPT2023104.
文摘BACKGROUND Rosmarinic acid(RA)is a natural polyphenol carboxylic acid known for its role in chemoprevention.Given its widespread use as a food additive,we are interested in whether RA affects the development of colorectal cancer(CRC).AIM To examine the anti-tumor effects of RA on various CRC cell lines,and to further investigate the possible mechanisms.METHODS Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and optical microscopy imaging were used to evaluate the viability of CRC cell lines.Western blot,quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction,and flow cytometry analyses were performed to assess cell viability and activation of nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)signaling.Molecular modeling was used to assess the interaction between RA and inhibitory kappa B kinase beta.Luciferase assay was used to examine the activity of NF-κB-driven transcription.The combinations of RA with 5-fluorouracil or oxaliplatin were utilized to evaluate the potential synergistic action of RA with the chemotherapeutics.RESULTS RA exerted potent cytotoxic actions on all six CRC cell lines examined.RA was docked nicely into the binding pocket of inhibitory kappa B kinase beta by molecular modeling.The activity of NF-κB-driven luciferase and the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 were decreased after exposure to the compound.Lipopolysaccharide-induced NF-κB activation was effectively inhibited by RA,too.Further,RA downregulated the expression of cell proliferationrelated cyclin D1 and MYC,which are target genes of NF-κB.Of note,the cytotoxic actions of 5-fluorouracil and oxaliplatin were markedly enhanced by RA in those CRC cells.CONCLUSION Our results indicate that RA inhibits NF-κB signaling and induces apoptosis in CRC cells.It enhances the cytotoxic actions of chemotherapeutics and might help to improve the chemotherapy of CRC.
基金Supported by Joint TCM Science&Technology Projects of National Demonstration Zones for Comprehensive TCM Reform,No.GZYKJS-ZJ-2025-044Ningbo Top Medical and Health Research Program,No.2023020612.
文摘BACKGROUND Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD)has emerged as a prominent and pervasive global health challenge.Bicuculline(BIC),which is a key active component of the anti-MASLD prescription"Eight Zhes Decoction",has been preliminarily shown by our research team to have significant potential in treating MASLD.AIM To determine BIC's efficacy in treating MASLD by regulating lipid metabolism and suppressing hepatic inflammation via nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)pathway,identifying it as a therapeutic candidate.METHODS This study explored the potential of BIC in preventing and treating MASLD using zebrafish,cellular(HepG2 and AML12),and mouse models.RESULTS Our results indicate that BIC significantly reduces lipid accumulation and inflammation both in vivo and in vitro.Transcriptomic analysis suggested that the anti-MASLD effects of BIC are linked to the inhibition of the NF-κB pathway,which plays a critical role in mitigating inflammation and lipid deposition.CONCLUSION This study is the first to demonstrate that BIC specifically alleviates lipid accumulation and hepatic steatosis in MASLD models via the NF-κB signaling pathway.Overall,BIC has emerged as a promising candidate for treating MASLD.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82160192and Guangxi Science and Technology Program,No.2023AB23037.
文摘BACKGROUND In vivo degradation of bone scaffolds is significantly influenced by osteoclast(OC)activity,which is orchestrated by the interplay between receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand(RANKL)and osteoprotegerin(OPG).The ratio of RANKL/OPG is a crucial determinant of OC-mediated bone resorption,which plays an integral role in bone remodeling and scaffold degradation.Elevated levels of RANKL relative to OPG enhance osteoclastogenesis,thereby accelerating the degradation process essential for integrating bone scaffolds into the host tissue.AIM To elucidate the effects of OPG gene silencing on osteoclastogenesis within rat bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells(BMSCs).By investigating these effects,the study aimed to provide deeper insights into the regulatory mechanisms that influence bone scaffold degradation,potentially leading to improved bone repair and regeneration strategies.METHODS We employed recombinant lentiviral plasmids to silence the OPG gene in rat BMSCs to achieve the aims.The efficacy of gene silencing was assessed using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis to measure the expression levels of OPG and RANKL.Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining was utilized to evaluate the formation of OCs.Additionally,co-immunoprecipitation assays were conducted to explore the interactions between RANKL and OPG proteins,further assessing the biochemical pathways involved in osteoclastogenesis.RESULTS The silencing of the OPG gene in BMSCs resulted in a significant increase in the RANKL/OPG ratio,evidenced by decreased expression levels of OPG and increased levels of RANKL.Enhanced osteoclastogenesis was observed through tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining,which indicated a substantial rise in OC formation in response to the altered RANKL/OPG balance.The co-immunoprecipitation assays provided concrete evidence of the direct interaction between RANKL and OPG proteins,substantiating their pivotal roles in regulating OC activity.CONCLUSION The findings from this study underscore the critical role of the RANKL/OPG axis in osteoclastogenesis.Silencing of the OPG gene in BMSCs effectively increases the RANKL/OPG ratio,promoting OC activity and potentially enhancing bone scaffold degradation.This regulatory mechanism offers a promising avenue for modulating bone remodeling processes,which is essential for effective bone repair and the successful integration of bone scaffolds into damaged sites.Future research might focus on optimizing the control of this axis to better facilitate bone tissue engineering and regenerative therapies.
基金supported by grants from the Project of Elitist Peak in Six Fields(No.2006-B-063)the Project of Medical Sciences(H200727),the Bureau of Health,Jiangsu Province,China
文摘BACKGROUND: The active form of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) is involved in the initiation, generation, and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and is up-regulated in inflammation-associated malignancies. We investigated the dynamic expression of NF-kappa B and its influences on the occurrence of HCC through antiangiogenic (thalidomide) intervention in NF-kappa B activation. METHODS : Hepatoma models were induced with 2-fluorenylacetamide (2-FAA, 0.05%) in male Sprague-Dawley rats, and thalidomide (100 mg/kg body weight) was administered intragastrically to intervene in NF-kappa B activation. The pathological changes in the liver of sacrificed rats were assessed after hematoxylin and eosin staining. NF-kappa B mRNA was amplified by RT-nested PCR. The alterations of NF-kappa B and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting. RESULTS: Rat hepatocytes showed denatured, precancerous, and cancerous stages in hepatocarcinogenesis, with an increasing tendency of hepatic NF-kappa B, NF-kappa B mRNA, and VEGF expression, and their values in the HCC group were higher than those in controls (P<0.001). In the thalidomide-treated group, the morphologic changes generated only punctiform denaturation and necrosis at the early or middle stages, and nodular hyperplasia or a little atypical hyperplasia at the final stages, with the expression of NF-kappa B (chi(2)=9.93, P<0.001) and VEGF (chi(2)=8.024, P<0.001) lower than that in the 2-FAA group. CONCLUSION: NF-kappa B is overexpressed in hepatocarcinogenesis and antiangiogenic treatment down-regulates the expression of NF-kappa B and VEGF, and delays the occurrence of HCC. (Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2010; 9: 169-174)
文摘BACKGROUND: Urinary trypsin inhibitor (UTI) inhibits the inflammatory response and protects against ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. The inflammatory response is mediated by nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) and its related target genes and products such as vascular endothelial cell adhesion molecule and CXC chemokines. We aimed to assess the roles of those mediators in a UTI-treated mouse model of hepatic I/R injury. METHODS: Treatment group 1 (UTI given 5 minutes prior to liver ischemia), treatment group 2 (UTI given 5 minutes after the anhepatic phase) and a control group were investigated. Blood and liver samples were obtained and compared at 1, 3, 6 and 24 hours after reperfusion. RESULTS: Attenuation of pathological hepatocellular damage was greater in the treatment groups than in the control group (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the UTI treatment groups showed significantly lower serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels, decreased myeloperoxidase activity, and reduced NF-kappa B activation. Also downregulated was the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant, and macrophage inflammatory protein-2 at the mRNA level. P-selectin protein and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 protein expression were also downregulated. In addition, the treatment group I showed a better protective effect against I/R injury than the treatment group 2. CONCLUSIONS: UTI reduces NF-kappa B activation and downregulates the expression of its related mediators, followed by the inhibition of neutrophil aggregation and infiltration in hepatic I/R injury. The protective role of UTI is more effective in prevention than in treatment.
基金supported by grants from the Project of Elitist Peak in Six Fields(No.2006-B-063)the Projectof Medical Sciences(H200727),the Bureau of Health,Jiangsu Province,China
文摘BACKGROUND: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors. We analyzed the expression of miclear-transcription factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) during hepatocarcinogenesis in order to evaluate its dynamic expression and its clinical value in the development and diagnosis of HCC. METHODS: Hepatoma models were induced by oral administration of 2-acetamidoflurene (2-FAA) to male Sprague-Dawley rats. Morphological changes were observed after hematoxylin and eosin staining. The cellular distribution of NF-kappa B expression during different stages of cancer development was investigated by immunohistochemistry, and the level of NF-kappa B expression in liver tissues was quantitatively analyzed by ELISA. The gene fragments of hepatic NF-kappa B were amplified by nested-polymerase chain reaction assay. RESULTS: Hepatocytes showed vacuole-like degeneration during the early stages, then had a hyperplastic nodal appearance during the middle stages, and finally progressed to tubercles of cancerous nests with high differentiation. The NF-kappa B-positive material was buff-colored, fine particles localized in the nucleus, and the incidence of NF-kappa B-positive cells was 81.8% in degeneration, 83.3% in precancerous lesions, and 100% in cancerous tissues. All of these values were higher than those in controls (P<0.01). Hepatic NF-kappa B expression and hepatic NF-kappa B-mRNA were also higher during the course of HCC development (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: The NF-kappa B signal transduction pathway is activated during the early stages of HCC development, and its abnormal expression may be associated with the occurrence of HCC.
基金Supported by The Dong-A University Research Fund
文摘AIM:To assess the prognostic significance of nuclear factor-kB (NF-kB) and its target genes in gastric cancer. METHODS:The tumor tissues of 115 patients with gastric cancer were immunohistochemically evaluated using monoclonal antibodies against NF-kB RelA. Preoperative serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), interleukin-6 (IL-6) were assessed via enzyme-linked immuno-sorbent assay. C-reactive protein (CRP) and serum amyloid A (SAA) were measured via immunotrubidimetry. RESULTS:Positive rate of NF-kB RelA was 42.6%. NF-kB RelA expression in tumor tissues was also related to serum levels of IL-6 (P = 0.044) and CRP (P = 0.010). IL-6, SAA, CRP were related to depth of invasion, VEGF and SAA were correlated with lymph node metastasis. IL-6, VEGF, SAA and CRP were related to the stage. Univariate analysis demonstrated that immunostaining of NF-kB RelA, levels of IL-6, VEGF, SAA were significantly related with both disease free survival and over-all survival (OS). Multivariate analysis verified that NF-kB RelA [hazard ratio (HR): 3.40, P = 0.024] and SAA (HR: 3.39, P = 0.045) were independently associated with OS. CONCLUSION: Increased expression of NF-kB RelA and high levels of serum SAA were associated with poor OS in gastric cancer patients.
基金Supported by The National Natural Science Foundation of ChinaNO.81170374 and NO.81470842 to Hua J
文摘AIM: To investigate the effect of different dietary fatty acids on hepatic inflammasome activation.METHODS: Wild-type C57BL/6 mice were fed either a high-fat diet or polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)-enriched diet. Primary hepatocytes were treated with either saturated fatty acids (SFAs) or PUFAs as well as combined with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The expression of NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) was determined by real-time PCR and Western blot. The activity of Caspase-1 and interleukine-1β production were measured.RESULTS: High-fat diet-induced hepatic steatosis was sufficient to induce and activate hepatic NLRP3 inflammasome. SFA palmitic acid (PA) directly activated NLRP3 inflammasome and increased sensitization to LPS-induced inflammasome activation in hepatocytes. In contrast, PUFA docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) had the potential to inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome expression in hepatocytes and partly abolished LPS-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Furthermore, a high-fat diet increased but PUFA-enriched diet decreased sensitization to LPS-induced hepatic NLRP3 inflammasome activation in vivo. Moreover, PA increased but DHA decreased phosphorylated NF-κB p65 protein expression in hepatocytes.CONCLUSION: Hepatic NLRP3 inflammasome activation played an important role in the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Dietary SFAs and PUFAs oppositely regulated the activity of NLRP3 inflammasome through direct activation or inhibition of NF-κB.
基金the Health Research Fund from Health Department of Shaanxi Province,China,No. 04015
文摘Previous studies have confirmed that the anti-virus effects of Shuanghuanglian injection may be associated with nuclear factor-kappa B activity. This study observed nuclear factor-kappa B expression in mice with viral encephalitis, and showed significant decreases in nuclear factor-kappa B protein and mRNA levels following Shuanghuanglian injection. The inhibitory effect was more significant with prolonged intervention duration and increased treatment dose. These findings verify that Shuanghuanglian injection plays a therapeutic role in viral encephalitis by reducing expression of nuclear factor-kappa B in a time- and dose-dependent manner.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.30670842)the Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province,China(No.5300582).
文摘We have observed earlier that testosterone at physiological concentrations can stimulate tissue factor pathway inhibitor(TFPI)gene expression through the androgen receptor in endothelial cells.This study further investigated the impact of testosterone on TFPI levels in response to inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α).Cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells were incubated in the presence or absence of testosterone or TNF-α.TFPI protein and mRNA levels were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.To study the cellular mechanism of testosterone’s action,nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)translocation was confirmed by electrophoretic mobility shift assays.We found that after NF-κB was activated by TNF-α,TFPI protein levels declined significantly by 37.3%compared with controls(P<0.001),and the mRNA levels of TFPI also decreased greatly(P<0.001).A concentration of 30 nmol L-1 testosterone increased the secretion of TFPI compared with the TNF-α-treated group.NF-κB DNA-binding activity was significantly suppressed by testosterone(P<0.05).This suggests that physiological testosterone concentrations may exert their antithrombotic effects on TFPI expression during inflammation by downregulating NF-κB activity.
基金the Grant from Natural Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province, No.D2004-10
文摘BACKGROUND：It has been reported that Ganoderma lucidum spore powder, a very well known Chinese traditional medicine, can affect immunoregulation, free radical scavenging, and anti-hypoxia responses. OBJECTIVE： To investigate the effect of Ganoderma lucidum spore powder on expression of insulin-like growth factor-1 （IGF-1）, nuclear factor-κB （NF-κB） and neuronal apoptosis in rats with pentylenetetrazol （PTZ）-induced epilepsy. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING： A cellular and molecular biology experiment with randomized controlled study design was performed at the Central Laboratory of Basic Medical College of Jiamusi University from June to August 2005. MATERIALS： Thirty healthy, adult, male, Wistar rats were selected and randomly divided into 3 groups （10 rats per group）： control, epilepsy model, and Ganoderma lucidum spore powder. A sub-eclampsia PTZ dose （35 mg/kg） was intraperitoneally injected to induce epilepsy in the latter two groups. Wild Ganoderma lucidum spore powder （30 g/L） was provided by the wild Ganoderma lucidum plant nursery at Jiamusi, China. Immunohistochemical detection and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediate dUTP nick end-labeling （TUNEL） kits were purchased from Wuhan Boster Biological Technology Co., Ltd., China. METHODS： Ganoderma lucidum spore powder was intragastrically administered at a dose of 10.0 mL/kg, once a day for 28 days. In the epilepsy and control groups, an equivalent volume of normal saline was intragastrically administered. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES： Immunoreactivity for IGF-1 and NF-κB/P65 were detected by immunohistochemical staining. Neuronal apoptosis was detected using TUNEL methods. RESULTS： The hippocampus and cerebral cortex of rats with PTZ-induced epilepsy exhibited a higher number of apoptotic cells at high magnification （×400）, compared with the control group. Expression of IGF-1 and NF-κB were higher in the epilepsy group, compared with the control group （P 〈 0.01）. In Ganoderma lucidum spore-treated rats, fewer apoptotic cells were observed in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex, expression of NF-κB/P65 was lower, and immunoreactivity to IGF-1 increased more distinctly, compared with the epilepsy group. In addition, seizure latency was longer on 17, 21, and 25 days post-PTZ treatment in the Ganoderma lucidum spore powder group, compared with the epilepsy group （P 〈 0.05-0.01）. CONCLUSION： Ganoderma lucidum spore powder down-regulated expression of NF-κB in brain tissues of rats with PTZ-induced epilepsy, increased immunoreactivity to IGF-1, and inhibited neuronal apoptosis. These results indicated that Ganoderma lucidum spore powder has a neuroprotective effect.
基金funded by the Health Research Fund from the Health Department of Shanxi Province, China, No.04015
文摘A mouse model of viral encephalitis was induced by intracranial injection of a Coxsackie virus B3 suspension. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR and western blot assay were applied to detect mRNA and protein expression of intelectin-2 and nuclear factor-kappa B in the viral encephalitis and control groups. Nuclear factor-kappa B and intelectin-2 mRNA and protein expression were significantly increased in mice with viral encephalitis. After intraperitoneal injection of Shuanghuanglian at a dose of 1.5 mg/kg for 5 successive days, intelectin-2 and nuclear factor-kappa B protein and mRNA expression were significantly decreased. To elucidate the relationship between intelectin-2 and nuclear factor-kappa B, mice with viral encephalitis were administered an intracerebral injection of 107 pfu recombinant lentivirus expressing intelectin shRNA. Both protein and mRNA levels of intelectin and nuclear factor-kappa B in brain tissue of mice were significantly decreased. Experimental findings suggest that Shuanghuanglian injection may downregulate nuclear factor-kappa B production via suppression of intelectin production, thus inhibiting inflammation associated with viral encephalitis.
基金the Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province,No. 031479
文摘BACKGROUND： Modern pharmacological studies have shown that Ginsenoside Rgl is one of the active components of ginseng that promote intelligence in the nervous system. Ginsenoside Rgl can improve memory and learning in mouse models of β-amyloid protein （Aβ）-induced dementia. OBJECTIVE： To investigate whether effects of Ginsenoside Rgl against Aβ are associated with activity of nuclear factor-kappa B （NF-κB）. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING： The randomized performed at the DME Center, Institute of Clinica controlled, cell biological experiment was Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, China from July 2005 to May 2006. MATERIALS： Beta-amyloid fragment 25-35 （Aβ25-35） was supplied by the Neural Biochemical Laboratory, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, China. Ginsenoside Rgl was obtained from National Institute for the Control of Pharmaceutical and Biological Products, China. Rabbit anti-rat NF-κB p65 antibody was purchased from Santa Cruz Biotechnology, USA. METHODS： Hippocampal neurons and cortical astrocytes of neonatal Sprague Dawley rats were harvested and treated with various concentrations （0, 5, 10, 20, and 40 μmol/L） of Aβ for 6, 12, and 24 hours to establish cellular models of Alzheimer＇s disease. Cellular models were pretreated with various concentrations of Ginsenoside Rgl （1,2, 4, 8, and 16 μmol/L）. According to cell morphology and activity, the following conditions were selected： 40 μmol/L Aβ for 24 hours, as well as 2, 4, and 8 μmol/L Ginsenoside Rg1. NF-κB activity was observed using immunofluorescence and cytochemical staining. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES： Morphology and viability of hippocampal neurons and cortical astrocytes, and activities of NF-κB were measured. RESULTS： Hippocampal neuron activity was significantly greater in the normal and 2 and 4 μmol/L Ginsenoside Rgl groups compared with the model group （P 〈 0.05）. Astrocyte activity was significantly greater in the normal, 1,2, 4, 8, and 16 μmol/L Ginsenoside Rgl groups compared with the model group （P 〈 0.05）. NF-κB activity of hippocampal neurons was significantly greater in the normal, 2, 4, and 8 μmol/L Ginsenoside Rgl groups compared with the model group （P 〈 0.01）. NF-κB activity of astrocytes was significantly less in the normal, 2, 4, and 8 μmol/L Ginsenoside Rgl groups compared with the model group （P 〈 0.01 or P 〈 0.05）. No significant difference in NF-κB activity was determined between the 2 μmol/L Ginsenoside Rgl and normal groups （P 〉 0.05）. CONCLUSION： Ginsenoside Rgl protected neural cells by upregulating NF-κB activity in neurons and downregulating NF-κB activity in astrocytes. Ginsenoside Rgl （2 μmol/L） maintained cell activity and NF-κB activity at normal levels.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (82071104)Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (23XD1434200/22Y21901000)+9 种基金Shanghai Hospital Development Center(SHDC12022120)National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases (NCRCO2021-omics-07)Shanghai Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases (19MC1910600)Major and Key Cultivation Projects of Ninth People’s Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (JYZP006)Shanghai’s Top Priority Research Center (2022ZZ01017)CAMS Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences (2019-I2M-5-037)Fundamental research program funding of Ninth People’s Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine(JYZZ237)Eastern Talent Plan Leading Project (BJZH2024001)partly supported by the Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University,School of Medicine(JYJC202223)Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose diseases (14DZ2260300)
文摘Pulpitis is a common infective oral disease in clinical situations.The regulatory mechanisms of immune defense in pulpitis are still being investigated.Osteomodulin(OMD)is a small leucine-rich proteoglycan family member distributed in bones and teeth.It is a bioactive protein that promotes osteogenesis and suppresses the apoptosis of human dental pulp stem cells(hDPSCs).In this study,the role of OMD in pulpitis and the OMD-induced regulatory mechanism were investigated.The OMD expression in normal and inflamed human pulp tissues was detected via immunofluorescence staining.Intriguingly,the OMD expression decreased in the inflammatory infiltration area of pulpitis specimens.The cellular experiments demonstrated that recombined human OMD could resist the detrimental effects of lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced inflammation.A conditional Omd knockout mouse model with pulpal inflammation was established.LPS-induced inflammatory impairment significantly increased in conditional Omd knockout mice,whereas OMD administration exhibited a protective effect against pulpitis.Mechanistically,the transcriptome alterations of OMD overexpression showed significant enrichment in the nuclear factor-κB(NF-κB)signaling pathway.Interleukin-1 receptor 1(IL1R1),a vital membrane receptor activating the NF-κB pathway,was significantly downregulated in OMD-overexpressing hDPSCs.Additionally,the interaction between OMD and IL1R1 was verified using co-immunoprecipitation and molecular docking.In vivo,excessive pulpal inflammation in Omd-deficient mice was rescued using an IL1R antagonist.Overall,OMD played a protective role in the inflammatory response via the IL1R1/NF-κB signaling pathway.OMD may optimize the immunomodulatory functions of hDPSCs and can be used for regenerative endodontics.
基金Supported by Natural Science Foundation of Liaoning Province,No.2024-MS-250.
文摘BACKGROUND Radiation induced pulmonary fibrosis(RIPF)is a long-term lung condition with a bleak outlook and few treatment possibilities.Mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)-derived exosomes(MSCs-exosomes)possess tissue repair and regenerative pro-perties,but their exact mechanisms in RIPF remain unclear.This study explores whether MSCs-exosomes can alleviate RIPF by modulating inflammation,ex-tracellular matrix(ECM)accumulation,and epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT)via the protein kinase B(Akt)/nuclear factor kappa B(NF-κB)pathway.Sprague-Dawley rats were received 30 Gy X-ray radiation on the right chest to induce RIPF,while RLE-6TN and BEAS-2B cell lines were exposed to 10 Gy X-rays.Using differential centrifugation,MSCs-exosomes were isolated,and their protective effects were examined both in vivo and in vitro.Inflammatory cytokine concentrations were measured using Luminex liquid chip detection and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay.ECM and EMT-related proteins were analyzed using immunohistochemistry,western blotting,and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction.Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were also used to investigate the mechanisms underlying MSCs-exosomes’effects in RIPF.RESULTS Administration of MSCs-exosomes significantly mitigated RIPF,reduced collagen deposition,and decreased levels of various inflammatory cytokines.Additionally,MSCs-exosomes prevented radiation-induced ECM accumulation and EMT.Treatment with MSCs-exosomes notably promoted cell proliferation,suppressed inflammation,and reversed ECM deposition and EMT in radiation-exposed alveolar epithelial cells.Mechanistic analysis further revealed that MSCs-exosomes exerted their anti-RIPF effects by inhibiting the Akt/NF-κB pathway,as shown in both in vivo and in vitro models.CONCLUSION MSCs-exosomes mitigate RIPF by suppressing inflammation,ECM deposition,and EMT through Akt/NF-κB inhibition,highlighting their potential as a therapeutic strategy.
基金Funded by the State High-Technology R&D Project of China (863 Program) ( 2007AA091603)
文摘The effects of five chito-oligomers, from dimer to hexamer （chitobiose, chitotriose, chitotetraose, chitopentaose, chitohexaose） separated from chitosan oligosaccharides, on nuclear factor -kappaB （NF-rd3） signaling pathway were investigated by using luciferase assay and laser scanning microscopy. The expression of NF-rd3 downstream genes （cyclin DI, TNFa and IL-6） were tested by real time PCR. We found that all five chitosan oligosaccharides increased NF-KB-dependent luciferase gene expression and NF-KB downstream genes transcription, and the most significant were chitotetraose and chitohexaose. In addition, laser scanning microscopy experiments showed that chitotetraose and chitohexaose also activated the p65 subunite of NF-kB translocating from cytoplasm to nucleus, which suggested that they were the most potent activators of NF-kB signaling pathway.
文摘In order to investigate the effect of nuclear factor kappa B (NF κB) on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) mRNA expression of human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (HPASMCs) in hypoxia, the cultured HPASMCs in vitro were stimulated with pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC), an inhibitor of NF κB. The NF κB p65 nuclei positive expression was detected by immunocytochemical technique. The IκBα protein expression was measured by Western blot. RT PCR was used to detect the VEGF mRNA expression of HPASMCs. The results showed that no significant change was observed in the NF κB p65 nuclei positive expression of cultured HPASMCs during 6 h-24 h in normoxia, but the levels of NF κB p65 nuclei positive expression of cultured HPASMCs were significantly increased in hypoxia groups as compared with those in all normoxia groups ( P <0.05). The IκBα protein expression of cultured HPASMCs showed no significant change during 6 h-24 h in normoxia, but significantly decreased in hypoxia as comapred with that in normoxia groups ( P <0.05). PDTC (1 to 100 μmol/L) could inhibit the VEGF mRNA expression of HPASMCs in a concentration dependent manner in hypoxia. In conclusion, NF κB can be partly translocation activated from cytoplasm into nuclei in the cultured HPASMCs under hypoxia. The inhibition of NF κB activation can decrease the VEGF mRNA expression. It is suggested that the activation of NF κB is involved in the VEGF mRNA expression of HPASMCs under hypoxia.
基金Supported by the Science and Technology SMEs Innovation Capacity Improvement Project of Shandong Province,No.2022TSGC1004National Key R&D Program of China,No.2021YFA1101502。
文摘BACKGROUND Mesenchymal stromal cells(MSCs)are renowned for their immunosuppressive properties,which make them widely used in managing excessive inflammation.Although CD146+and CD146-MSCs exhibit similar morphological traits and surface marker expression levels,the specific characteristics and differential regulatory mechanisms of these two subtypes remain poorly understood.This knowledge gap has limited the precise application of MSCs in targeted thera-peutic strategies.AIM To compare the functional differences between CD146+and CD146-MSCs and investigate the underlying mechanisms.METHODS In this study,magnetic beads were used to sort umbilical cord-derived MSCs into CD146+and CD146-subsets.The pro-angiogenic factors(hepatocyte growth factor,prostaglandin E2,vascular endothelial growth factor,angiopoietin-1)production and immunomodulatory effects on T lymphocyte subsets were evaluated in vitro.The therapeutic efficacy was assessed in an acute respiratory distress syndrome(ARDS)mouse model via tail vein injection.RESULTS Cytokine secretion and angiogenesis:CD146+MSCs significantly increased the production of hepatocyte growth factor,prostaglandin E2,vascular endothelial growth factor,and angiopoietin-1 and exhibited increased pro-angiogenic activity in vitro.Immunomodulatory effects:CD146+MSCs potently inhibited the differentiation and proliferation of pro-inflammatory T helper type 1/T helper type 17 cells while promoting the expansion of regulatory T cells during T lymphocyte activation.ARDS therapy:In a mouse ARDS model,compared with CD146-MSCs,CD146+MSCs demonstrated superior therapeutic efficacy,as evidenced by improved clinical scores.Mechanistically,CD146+MSCs activated the nuclear factor kappa B pathway,upregulated cyclooxygenase 2 expression,and facilitated damaged epithelial cell repair.CONCLUSION CD146+MSCs show stronger ARDS therapeutic potential than CD146-MSCs via pro-angiogenic/immunomodulatory traits.Nuclear factor kappa B/cyclooxygenase 2 activation aids epithelial repair,highlighting CD146+MSCs as promising targets.
