Geniposide alleviates imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin lesions in mice via inhibition of angiogenesis.

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the protective effect of geniposide (GEN) on imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis-like skin lesions in mice. Firstly, visual changes of psoriatic skin lesions were observed and the severity was recorded using psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) score. Histological changes were assessed by HE staining for epidermal thickness and Masson's staining for collagen fibers. Then, photographs of microvascular inside the skin were taken for macroscopic observation, and microscopic changes associated with angiogenesis were evaluated. Furthermore, expression of angiogenic factors were analyzed by ELISA, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence, separately. Lastly, the expression of VEGFR signaling-related proteins was detected by WB. Compared with control, IMQ drove a significant increment of epidermal thicknesses with higher PASI scores and more dermal collagen deposition. IMQ treatment led to abnormal keratinocyte proliferation, increased microvascular inside skin, growing production of angiogenesis-related factors, up-regulated expression of VEGFR1 and VEGFR2, and enhanced phosphorylation of p38. However, GEN significantly ameliorated the psoriatic skin lesions, the epidermal thickness, the formation of collagen fibers, and abnormal keratinocyte proliferation. Importantly, GEN inhibited angiogenesis, the production of angiogenic factors (VEGF-A, Ang-2, TNF-α, and IL-17A), and the proliferation of vascular endothelial cells. Simultaneously, GEN curbed the expression of VEGFR1, VEGFR2, p38, and P-p38 proteins involved in VEGFR signaling. Of note, the suppressive effect of GEN was reversed in the HUVECs with over-expressed VEGFR1 or VEGFR2 related to the cells without transfection. These findings suggest that VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 participate in the anti-angiogenesis of GEN in IMQ-induced psoriasis-like skin lesions in mice.

The effect and mechanism of Huangqin-Baishao herb pair in the treatment of dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis.

Background: The haungqing (Scutellariae Radix) and baishao (Paeoniae Radix Alba) herb pair (HBHP) is a common prescribed herbal formula or is added to other traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescriptions to treat ulcerative colitis (UC). However, the underlying mechanism is unclear. Purpose: Elucidate the efficacy and potential mechanism of HBHP against UC. Methods: First, The UC model of mice induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) was established. The mice were randomly divided into Control group, DSS group, SASP group (390 mg/kg), and HPHP group (1.95 g/kg), with 8 mice per group. Drugs were administrated via oral gavage for 7 days. Then, Disease activity index (DAI), length of the colon, histopathology, and changes in inflammatory cytokines in colonic tissues were analyzed to assess the effect of HBHP on UC. Besides, Network pharmacology was applied to identify the active compounds, core targets of HBHP in the treatment of UC, and the corresponding signaling pathways to explore the underlying mechanisms. Finally, Western blot (WB), immunohistochemistry (IHC) and molecular docking were performed to validate the results. Results: HBHP significantly reduced DAI score and decreased colon length shortening in DSS-induced UC mice. The administration of HBHP was able to effectively alleviated mucosal ulceration and epithelial destruction. In addition, HBHP treatment obviously - reduced the expressions of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1ß in colon tissues (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01). 35 bioactive compounds and 290 HBHP targets related to UC were obtained. Among them 3 key active compounds (baicalein, panicolin, and norwogonin) with higher degree values in the drug-compound-target network and 21 hub genes (STAT3, JAK2, SRC, AKT1, PIK3CA, and VEGFA, etc.) were identified. KEGG enrichment analysis suggested that HBHP's mechanisms mainly involve the JAK-STAT pathway. Abnormal activation of JAK/STAT signaling is believed to be involved in the pathogeneses of UC. Notably, WB and IHC showed that HBHP significantly down-regulated the protein expression levels of p-JAK2 (p < 0.05) and p-STAT3 (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01). JAK2 and STAT3 might be core targets for the action of HBHP; this possibility was also supported by molecular docking. Conclusions: HBHP could alleviate DSS-induced UC, reduce tissue inflammation, and its mechanism might primarily be achieved by inhibiting JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Meanwhile, our work revealed that network pharmacology combined with experimental verification is a cogent means of studying the mechanism of TCM.

The SUMOylation of Human Cytomegalovirus Capsid Assembly Protein Precursor (UL80.5) Affects Its Interaction with Major Capsid Protein (UL86) and Viral Replication.

Human Cytomegalovirus Capsid Assembly Protein Precursor (pAP, UL80.5) plays a key role in capsid assembly by forming an internal protein scaffold with Major Capsid Protein (MCP, UL86) and other capsid subunits. In this study, we revealed UL80.5 as a novel SUMOylated viral protein. We confirmed that UL80.5 interacted with the SUMO E2 ligase UBC9 (58-93aa) and could be covalently modified by SUMO1/SUMO2/SUMO3 proteins. 371Lysine located within a ψKxE consensus motif on UL80.5 carboxy-terminal was the major SUMOylation site. Interestingly, the SUMOylation of UL80.5 restrained its interaction with UL86 but had no effects on translocating UL86 into the nucleus. Furthermore, we showed that the removal of the 371lysine SUMOylation site of UL80.5 inhibited viral replication. In conclusion, our data demonstrates that SUMOylation plays an important role in regulating UL80.5 functions and viral replication.

[Electroacupuncture pretreatment alleviates apoptosis of renal tubular epithelia cells by down-regulating expression of TRPC6 in hyperglycemic mice].

OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) pretreatment on apoptosis of renal tubular epithelial cells in mice with hyperglycemia, so as to explore its mechanisms underlying protecting the kidney from hyperglycemia-induced injury. METHODS: Eighty male C57BL/6 mice were equally and randomly divided into control, model, EA and sham EA groups. The hyperglycemia model was established by intraperitoneal injection of streptozocin (STZ, 50 mg·kg-1·d-1) for 5 consecutive days. Before modeling, EA (2 Hz/15 Hz, 0.3-0.5 mA) was applied to bilateral "Zusanli" (ST36) and "Shenshu" (BL23) for 30 min, once daily for 7 days, while mice in the sham EA group were treated with the same acupoints but without electrical stimulation. The blood glucose values were measured after fasting for 6 hours after 3 days of modeling. The degree of renal tissue injury was observed by microscope after H.E. staining, and the apoptosis level of renal tubular epithelial cells observed by TUNEL staining. The expression levels of transient receptor potential channel 6 (TRPC6) and related apoptotic proteins Caspase-3, Bax and Bcl-2 in the renal tissue were detected by Western blot and immunohistochemistry, separately. RESULTS: Compared with the control group, the blood glucose content and the expression levels of TRPC6, Caspase-3 and Bax proteins, as well as the level of the renal apoptotic cells were significantly increased (P<0.001, P<0.000 1), while the expression level of Bcl-2 protein and the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax were remarkably decreased in the model group (P<0.000 1). In comparison with the model and sham EA groups, the blood glucose content, percentage of apoptotic cells and the expression levels of TRPC6, Caspase-3 and Bax were significantly decreased (P<0.01, P<0.000 1, P<0.05, P<0.001), and the expression level of Bcl-2 and the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax were apparently increased in the EA group (P<0.01, P<0.05, P<0.001). HE statin showed abnormal dilation of the capillary lumen and disappearance of the proximal tubules in the model group, which was relatively milder in the EA group. CONCLUSION: EA pretreatment can lower blood glucose level and reduce renal apoptosis in hyperglycemia mice, which may be related to its effects in down-regulating the expression of TRPC6 and Caspase-3 and up-regulating the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax.

Cortex Mori Radicis Attenuates Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Renal Injury in Mice via Regulation of Transient Receptor Potential Canonical Channel 6.

OBJECTIVE: Cortex Mori Radicis (CMR) has been reported to possess antipyretic, anticonvulsant, anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic effects. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of CMR on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic renal injury in mice and explore the underlying mechanism. METHODS: Mice were gavaged with different doses of CMR for continuous 7 days. Then, STZ (50 mg/kg) was applied to induce renal injury associated with type 1 diabetes. Firstly, blood glucose levels and metabolic parameters were evaluated, including weight, food intake, and excrement. HE and PAS staining were performed to examine renal histological changes. Renal inflammation, fibrosis, and oxidative stress were assayed by real-time PCR and ELISA, separately. Additionally, podocyte- related markers, such as nephrin and wilms' tumor-1 (WT-1), were detected by immunohistochemical staining and Western blot separately. Lastly, expression of transient receptor potential canonical channel 6 (TRPC6) and activation of MAPK signaling pathways were assayed. RESULTS: CMR pretreatment significantly lowered the blood glucose levels, suppressed renal inflammation, fibrosis, and oxidative stress, and relieved renal pathological injury, accompanying the inhibition of nephrin and WT-1 expression in STZ-induced diabetic mice. Moreover, CMR decreased the expression of TRPC6 and suppressed the phosphorylation of ERK, but not P38 MAPK and JNK. Notably, the application of hyperforin, a specific activator of TRPC6, significantly abrogated the hypoglycemic effect of CMR and reversed the suppression of CMR on TRPC6 expression and ERK activation in the diabetic mice. CONCLUSION: Our findings indicated that CMR attenuated early renal injury in STZ-induced diabetic mice by inhibiting ERK signaling via regulation of TRPC6, suggesting that CMR can be considered as a promising candidate for the management of diabetes-related renal complications.

Methods for Monitoring Risk of Hypoxic Damage in Fetal and Neonatal Brains: A Review.

Fetal, perinatal, and neonatal asphyxia are vital health issues for the most vulnerable groups in human beings, including fetuses, newborns, and infants. Severe reduction in oxygen and blood supply to the fetal brain can cause hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), leading to long-term neurological disorders, including mental impairment and cerebral palsy. Such neurological disorders are major healthcare concerns. Therefore, there has been a continuous effort to develop clinically useful diagnostic tools for accurately and quantitatively measuring and monitoring blood and oxygen supply to the fetal and neonatal brain to avoid severe consequences of asphyxia HIE and neonatal encephalopathy. Major diagnostic technologies used for this purpose include fetal heart rate monitoring, fetus scalp blood sampling, ultrasound imaging, magnetic resonance imaging, X-ray computed tomography, and nuclear medicine. In addition, given the limitations and shortcomings of traditional diagnostic methods, emerging technologies such as near-infrared spectroscopy and photoacoustic imaging have also been introduced as stand-alone or complementary solutions to address this critical gap in fetal and neonatal care. This review provides a thorough overview of the traditional and emerging technologies for monitoring fetal and neonatal brain oxygenation status and describes their clinical utility, performance, advantages, and disadvantages.

Electroacupuncture Pretreatment Attenuates Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats Through Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1-Mediated Anti-apoptosis via Inhibiting NF-κB Signaling Pathway.

Our previous study showed that electroacupuncture (EA) pretreatment elicited protective effect on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) in rats, at least partly, which was associated with transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1)-regulated anti-oxidant stress and anti-inflammation. In this study, we further investigated the possible contribution of TRPV1-mediated anti-apoptosis in EA pretreatment-evoked neuroprotection in CIRI. After EA pretreatment at Baihui (GV20), bilateral Shenshu (BL23) and Sanyinjiao (SP6) acupoints, transient focal cerebral ischemia was induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 2 h followed by reperfusion for 6 h in rats. Then, infarct volume, nerve cell injury, neuronal apoptosis, NF-κB signaling activation, and expression of TRPV1 were evaluated by TTC staining, Hematoxylin-Eosin staining, transmission electron microscopy, immunochemistry, immunofluorescence, and Western blot, respectively. The presented data showed that EA pretreatment significantly reduced infarct volume, relieved nerve cell injury, decreased the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins Bax and cleaved caspase-3, increased the level of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, inhibited NF-κB (p65) transcriptional activity, and curbed TRPV1 expression in MCAO rats. By contrast, enhancement of TRPV1 expression accompanying capsaicin application, the specific TRPV1 agonists, markedly accelerated nerve cell damage, aggravated neuronal apoptosis, prompted nuclear translocation of NF-κB (p65), resulting in the reversion of EA pretreatment-evoked neuroprotective effect in MCAO rats. Thus, we conclude that EA pretreatment-induced downregulation of neuronal TRPV1 expression plays an anti-apoptosis role through inhibiting NF-κB signaling pathway, thereby protecting MCAO rats from cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.

[Electroacupuncture preconditioning alleviates kidney injury in hyperglycemic mice].

OBJECTIVE: To explore the protective effect and molecular mechanism of electroacupuncture (EA) preconditioning on renal injury induced by streptozotocin (STZ) in hyperglycemic mice. METHODS: Eighty male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into 4 groups: control, model, EA and sham EA groups, n=20 in each group. The hyperglycemic model was established by intraperitoneal injection of 0.1% STZ solution (50 mg/kg) for 5 days. EA preconditioning or sham EA was applied at "Zusanli" (ST36) and "Shenshu" (BL23), once daily for 7 successive days in the EA or sham EA group. Three days after mode-ling, the blood glucose was measured after fasting for 6 hours. The degree of renal injury was observed by HE staining and PAS staining; the expressions of transient receptor potential cation channel 6 (TRPC6) and Nephrin protein in glomerulus were observed by immunohistochemistry; the expressions of TRPC6 and Nephrin protein in renal cortex were detected by Western blot. RESULTS: Compared with the control group, the blood glucose level was significantly increased (P<0.01), the glomerular cross-sectional area was apparently increased (P<0.000 1), the glomerular capillaries dilated, the matrix proliferated, the brush edge of renal tubules disappeared, the proportion of abnormal renal tubules increased (P<0.000 1), and the expressions of TRPC6 and Nephrin in glomeruli and renal tissue were significantly increased (P<0.01) in the model group. Following EA treatment and compared with the model and sham EA groups, the blood glucose was significantly down-regulated (P<0.01), the renal tissue injury was apparently alleviate, the cross-sectional area of glomerulus was reduced (P<0.05), the brush edge of renal tubules changes were obviously improved, the proportion of abnormal renal tubules decreased (P<0.000 1), and the expressions of TRPC6 and Nephrin in glomerulus and renal tissue decreased (P<0.05) in the EA group. CONCLUSION: EA preconditioning can alleviate renal injury in hyperglycemic mice, which is closely related to its effects in reducing renal TRPC6 and Nephrin expressions and inhibiting podocyte activation.

New clinical information and physician prescribing: How do pediatric labeling changes affect prescribing to children?

Our study examines how physician prescribing responds to new scientific information added to drug labels. We focus on a series of label changes with new information about the effects of drugs in children. The information arose in response to a 1997 policy, pediatric exclusivity, which gave drug sponsors a 6-month exclusivity extension for conducting additional pediatric studies of already marketed drugs. The information from these studies was expected to improve pediatric prescribing by promoting appropriate use and by reducing inappropriate off-label prescribing. However, there has been little study about the actual effects of these labeling changes on physician prescribing behavior. We use a difference-in-differences strategy to examine how pediatric prescriptions respond to different types of labeling changes. Our results show that most label changes lead to reductions in prescribing to children. We find that the largest drop in prescribing occurs when the label indicates a drug is not effective for children. The evidence suggests that the labeling changes alleviated physician uncertainty about prescribing drugs to children and reduced some inappropriate off-label use.

Functional coupling between BKCa and SOC channels.

High-conductance, voltage- and calcium-activated potassium channels (BKCa) and store-operated calcium channels (SOCs) are belong to K+ channels superfamily and calcium channels superfamily respectively. Since BKCa potassium channels can be activated by calcium ions, we set out to examine whether SOCs are coupled with BKCa and to probe the relationship of BKCa and SOCs. First, we proved that BKCa immunoprecipitated with Orai1, and confocal microscopy showed that BKCa co-localized with Orai1. Next, we mapped that the exact binding sites locate in the 350aa-371aa fragment of the first regulatory domain associated with K+ conduction (RCK1) and the 720aa-814aa fragment in the second regulatory domain associated with K+ conduction (RCK2) via GST-pull-down assays. Then, we showed, by calcium imaging that BKCa overexpression enhanced endogenous and exogenous store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) and this enhancement could be blocked by Orai1 knockdown. Finally, we proved that SOCE could enhance the activity of BKCa by patch-clamp. From these results we conclude that BKCa can form a positive feedback loop with SOCs, as the Ca2+ influx from SOCs can active BKCa, which can hyperpolarize the plasma membrane. In turn, the hyperpolarized membrane will form a higher electric potential difference and give more force, allowing Ca2+ influx via SOCs.

[Corrigendum] Cortex Mori Radicis Extract promotes neurite outgrowth of diabetic rats by activating PI3K/AKT signaling and inhibiting Ca2+ influx associated with upregulation of transient receptor potential canonical channel 1.

Subsequently to the publication of the above paper, the authors have realized that Fig. 6E and F contained errors. Essentially, some of the data shown in Fig. 6E were incorrect, and consequently, the quantification of the data illustrated in Fig. 6F were likewise incorrect. The corrected version of Fig. 6, showing the correct data for these figure parts, is shown opposite. Note that these errors in the data selection for this figure did not seriously affect the overall conclusions reported in the study. The authors are grateful to the Editor for allowing them the opportunity to publish this Corrigendum, and wish to apologize to the readership of the Journal for any inconvenience caused. [the original article was published in Molecular Medicine Reports 21: 320­328, 2020; DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2019.10839].

IL-37 is protective in allergic contact dermatitis through mast cell inhibition.

Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), characterized predominantly by erythema, vesiculation, and pruritus, is a T cell-mediated skin inflammatory condition. Among immune cells involved in ACD, mast cells (MCs) play an essential role in its pathogenesis. As an inhibitor of proinflammatory IL-1 family members, interleukin 37 (IL-37) has been shown to ameliorate inflammatory responses in various allergic diseases. In this study, we assessed the immunomodulatory effect of IL-37 on allergic inflammation using a 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB)-induced ACD rat model and isolated rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMCs). Systematic application of IL-37 significantly relieved ear swelling, reduced inflammatory cell infiltration, decreased inflammatory cytokine production (TNF-α, IL-1ß, IFN-γ, and IL-13), inhibited MC recruitment, lowered IgE levels, and reduced IL-33 production in the local ear tissues with DNFB challenge. Additionally, RPMCs isolated from ACD rats with IL-37 intervention showed downregulation of IL-6, TNF-α, IL-13, and MCP-1 production following IL-33 stimulation, and reduction of ß-hexosaminidase and histamine release under DNP-IgE/HSA treatment. Moreover, IL-37 treatment also significantly restrained NF-κB activation and P38 phosphorylation in ACD RPMCs. SIS3, a specific Smad3 inhibitor, abolished the suppressive effects of IL-37 on MC-mediated allergic inflammation, suggesting the participation of Smad3 in the anti-ACD effect of IL-37. These findings indicated that IL-37 protects against IL-33-regulated MC inflammatory responses via inhibition of NF-κB and P38 MAPK activation accompanying the regulation of Smad3 in rats with ACD.

Paeoniflorin suppresses IL-33 production by macrophages.

Objective: Interleukin (IL)-33 has been attracting more and more attention as a new member of theIL-1 cytokine family in recent years. However, the underlying mechanisms referred to the regulation of endogenous IL-33 production are not fully illustrated. Paeoniflorin (PF) has been reported to possess multiple pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammation and anti-allergy. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of PF on IL-33 production by macrophages and explore the underlying mechanisms.Methods: In vivo, IL-33 production in mice after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection together with PF application was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In vitro, MTT, Real-time PCR, ELISA, Calcium (Ca2+) imaging and Western blot were used to assess the cytotoxicity of PF, IL-33 expression at mRNA and protein levels, Ca2+ influx, protein kinase C (PKC) activity, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages with PF administration.Results: Our results indicated that PF (5 and 25 mg/kg) significantly reduced the production of TNF-a, IL-1ß, and IL-33 in the peritoneal exudate of LPS-treated mice. In vitro assay, upregulation of PF concentration (≥ 20 µM) showed an increased cytotoxicity in RAW264.7 cells during the 24-h cell culture. PF (10 µM) inhibited IL-33 production, Ca2+ influx, PKC activity, NF-κB (p65) activation, and P38MAPK phosphorylation in LPS-treated macrophages. Notably, NF-κB inhibitor (BAY 11-7085), P38MAPK inhibitor (SB203580), and Ca2+ blocker (NiCl2) also curbed LPS-induced IL-33 production, respectively.Conclusions: PF suppresses IL-33 production by macrophages via inhibiting NF-κB and P38MAPK activation associated with the regulation of Ca2+ mobilization.

Sinomenine alleviates lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory responses in RAW264.7 macrophages.

Objective: Sinomenine (SIN), an alkaloid isolated from sinomenium acutum plant, possesses many pharmacological properties, such as anti-inflammation, anti-hyperalgesia, anti-allergy, anti-apoptosis, and anti-angiogenesis. In this study, we aimed to investigate the detailed molecular mechanisms associated with the anti-inflammatory activity of SIN in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages.Methods: RAW264.7 cells were treated with LPS and/or indicated concentrations of SIN. Inflammatory cytokine production, such as TNF-α, IL-1ß, and IL-6, was detected by ELISA. Expression of microRNA-155 (miR-155), SOCS1 and NF-κB was assessed by qRT-PCR and Western blot, separately. Simultaneously, miR-155 inhibitor and SOCS1 SiRNA were transfected to observe the regulative effects of SIN on the expression of miR-155, SOCS1, and NF-κB.Results: Our result showed that SIN treatment significantly reduced LPS-induced inflammatory cytokine release, suppressed the expression of miR-155, enhanced SOCS1 expression at mRNA and protein levels, and prevented NF-ĸB transcription. Furthermore, transfection of miR-155 inhibitor and SOCS1 SiRNA emphasized that the regulation of miR-155, SOCS1, and NF-ĸB was associated with the anti-inflammatory activation of SIN in LPS-treated macrophages.Conclusions: This study indicated that SIN alleviated LPS-induced inflammatory responses in RAW264.7 macrophages by downregulating miR-155 and upregulating SOCS1, at least partly, leading to the suppression of NF-ĸB transcription. These findings suggest that SIN might be developed as an alternative and promising drug for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Paeoniflorin relieves LPS-induced inflammatory pain in mice by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation via transient receptor potential vanilloid 1.

LPS has been widely used to induce inflammatory pain, attributing to production of inflammatory cytokines and sensitization of nociceptors. Paeoniflorin (PF) possesses anti-nociceptive property, but its effect on LPS-induced inflammatory pain has not been investigated. In this study, we aimed to investigate the analgesic effect of PF on an inflammatory pain mouse model and explore the underlying mechanisms. LPS-induced inflammatory pain model was established in C57BL/6J mice after PF treatment. Then, thermal hyperalgesia, neutrophil infiltration, inflammatory cytokine production, intracellular Ca2+ levels, PKC activity, transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV-1) expression, NF-κB transcription, and NLPR3 inflammasome activation were assessed by thermal withdrawal latency, histopathology, ELISA, intracellular Ca2+ concentration, immunohistochemistry, and Western blot, separately. PF significantly relieved inflammatory pain and paw edema in mice with LPS-induced inflammatory pain. Additionally, PF inhibited neutrophil infiltration, inflammatory cytokine production (IL-1ß, TNF-α, and IL-6), intracellular Ca2+ levels, and PKC activity as well as suppressed TRPV-1 expression, NF-κB transcription, and NLPR3 inflammasome activation in the footpad tissue samples. Importantly, capsaicin (TRPV-1 agonists) obviously reversed the pain-relieving effect of PF, suggesting the involvement of TRPV-1 in the analgesic activity of PF. Our results indicated PF ameliorated LPS-induced inflammation and pain in mice by inhibiting TRPV-1-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation. These findings suggest that PF can be as a potential pharmacological agent for inflammatory pain and thus deserves more attention and further investigation.

Cortex Mori Radicis extract promotes neurite outgrowth in diabetic rats by activating PI3K/AKT signaling and inhibiting Ca2+ influx associated with the upregulation of transient receptor potential canonical channel 1.

Cortex Mori Radicis extract (CMR) has various pharmacological properties, such as anti­inflammatory, anti­allergic and anti­hyperglycemic effects. However, the effects and mechanisms of CMR in the neuroregeneration of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) are unclear. In the present study, the effects of CMR on neurite outgrowth of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons in diabetic rats were investigated and its underlying mechanisms were explored. SD rats were subjected to a high­fat diet with low­dose streptozotocin to induce a Type II diabetes model with peripheral neuropathy. CMR was then applied for four weeks continuously with or without injection of small interfere (si)RNA targeting the transient receptor potential canonical channel 1 (TRPC1) via the tail vein. Blood glucose levels, the number of Nissl bodies, neurite outgrowth and growth cone turning in DRG neurons were evaluated. The expression of TRPC1 protein, Ca2+ influx and activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway were also investigated. The results of the present study showed that CMR significantly lowered blood glucose levels, reversed the loss of Nissl bodies, induced neurite outgrowth and restored the response of the growth cone of DRG neurons in diabetic rats. CMR exerted neurite outgrowth­promoting effects by increasing TRPC1 expression, reducing Ca2+ influx and enhancing AKT phosphorylation. siRNA targeting TRPC1 in the CMR group abrogated its anti­diabetic and neuroregenerative effects, suggesting the involvement of TRPC1 in the biological effects of CMR on DPN.

Transient Receptor Potential Channel 6 Knockout Ameliorates Kidney Fibrosis by Inhibition of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition.

Kidney fibrosis is generally confirmed to have a significant role in chronic kidney disease, resulting in end-stage kidney failure. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an important molecular mechanism contributing to fibrosis. Tubular epithelial cells (TEC), the major component of kidney parenchyma, are vulnerable to different types of injuries and are a significant source of myofibroblast by EMT. Furthermore, TRPC6 knockout plays an anti-fibrotic role in ameliorating kidney damage. However, the relationship between TRPC6 and EMT is unknown. In this study, TRPC6-/- and wild-type (WT) mice were subjected to a unilateral ureteric obstruction (UUO) operation. Primary TEC were treated with TGF-ß1. Western blot and immunofluorescence data showed that fibrotic injuries alleviated with the inhibition of EMT in TRPC6-/- mice compared to WT mice. The activation of AKT-mTOR and ERK1/2 pathways was down-regulated in the TRPC6-/- mice, while the loss of Na+/K+-ATPase and APQ1 was partially recovered. We conclude that TRPC6 knockout may ameliorate kidney fibrosis by inhibition of EMT through down-regulating the AKT-mTOR and ERK1/2 pathways. This could contribute to the development of effective therapeutic strategies on chronic kidney diseases.

Electroacupuncture Pretreatment Elicits Neuroprotection Against Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats Associated with Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1-Mediated Anti-Oxidant Stress and Anti-Inflammation.

Electroacupuncture (EA) pretreatment, electrical stimulation using metal needle at specific acupoints in advance, possesses the potential to prevent cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI). Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV-1) has been indicated to take part in cerebral protection of EA; however, the detailed mechanisms remain unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate whether neuroprotection of EA pretreatment against CIRI is associated with TRPV-1 and explore the underlying mechanisms. Middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was performed to induce CIRI after EA pretreatment at Baihui (GV20), bilateral Shenshu (BL23), and Sanyinjiao (SP6) acupoints in rats. Neurological deficit scores, infarct volumes, oxidative stress damage, inflammatory cytokine production, MAPK signaling activation, and the expression of TRPV-1 were assessed. EA pretreatment lowered neurological deficit scores, reduced infarct volumes, impeded oxidative stress injury, inhibited inflammatory cytokine production, curbed P38 phosphorylation, and suppressed TRPV-1 expression in MCAO rats. Attributing to inhibition of TRPV-1 expression, AMG-517 (TRPV-1 antagonist) showed the synergistic effect with EA pretreatment on the neuroprotection against ischemia-reperfusion injury. However, TRPV-1 agonists capsaicin significantly abrogated the neuroprotective effects of EA pretreatment in MCAO rats accompanying enhancement of TRPV-1 expression. These findings indicated EA pretreatment exerted neuroprotection in rats with cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury, which at least partially were associated with TRPV1-mediated anti-oxidant stress and anti-inflammation via inhibiting P38 MAPK activation.

Berberine suppresses IL-33-induced inflammatory responses in mast cells by inactivating NF-κB and p38 signaling.

Berberine (BBR) possesses many pharmacological characteristics including anti-inflammation, anti-allergy, anti-angiogenesis and anti-tumor. However, the effects and mechanisms of BBR on IL-33-induced mast cell inflammatory responses are kept unknown. To investigate these, rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMCs) were isolated from the peritoneal cavity and cultured with BBR treatment in combination IL-33 stimulation. Firstly, cytotoxic effect of BBR on RPMCs was detected by MTT assay. Then, IL-33-induced cytokine production and the expression of ST2 receptor, were evaluated by ELISA and real-time PCR, respectively. In addition, NF-κB and MAPK signaling involved in IL-33-mediated mast cell activation were assessed by Western blot, which also was confirmed using the signal transduction inhibitors. Simultaneously, the effect of BBR on IL-33-activated enhancement of IgE-mediated mast cell responses was analyzed. Lastly, SD rats were used to explore the effect of BBR on IL-33-induced inflammation in vivo. BBR treatment significantly reduced IL-33-stimulated cytokine production in RPMCs, such as IL-6, TNF-α, IL-13 and MCP-1, but had little effect in ST2 expression. BBR modulated IL-33 signaling via suppressing IL-33-induced NF-ΚB transcription and p38 phosphorylation, but not ERK and JNK. Additionally, BBR also hampered the combined effects of IL-33 and IgE-mediated mast cell activation. Decreased cytokine production followed BBR treatment in vitro was consistent with that in vivo, where BBR injection i.p. into rats obviously inhibited IL-33-induced plasma cytokine levels. These findings demonstrated that BBR suppressed IL-33-mediated inflammation in mast cells by inactivating NF-κB and p38 signaling, suggesting its potential application for the treatment of allergic inflammation.

Electro-acupuncture Pretreatment at Zusanli (ST36) Acupoint Attenuates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation in Rats by Inhibiting Ca2+ Influx Associated with Cannabinoid CB2 Receptors.

In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of electro-acupuncture (EA) pretreatment at zusanli (ST36) acupoint on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endotoxemic rat model and explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. Rats were treated with EA at ST36 for 7 days before being subjected to LPS. Two hours post-LPS, samples such as serum, local acupoint tissues, and spleens were collected and processed for investigations including cytokine production, cytosolic calcium (Ca2+) concentration, Ca2+ influx, cannabinoid CB2 receptor (CB2R) expression, and TLR4/NF-κB signaling. Our results showed EA pretreatment significantly attenuated LPS-induced inflammatory cytokine production, such as TNF-α, IL-1ß, and IL-6. EA also enhanced CB2R expression, inhibited Ca2+ influx, and inactivated TLR4/NF-κB signaling, subsequently resulting in a substantial reduction of Ca2+ concentration. Importantly, CB2R antagonist AM630 effectively abrogated the suppressive effect of EA at ST36 on the endotoxemic rats, suggesting CB2R was involved in the anti-inflammatory effect of EA. EA pretreatment could enhance CB2R expression, inhibit Ca2+ influx, and inactivate TLR4/NF-κB signaling, which contributes to the alleviation of LPS-induced inflammation in rats.