Cyclooxygenase Type Research Articles

Cross-hypersensitivity reactions to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, manifested as urticaria and/or angioedema, anaphylaxis

BACKGROUND: The main mechanism of drug hypersensitivity to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is associated with inhibition of cyclooxygenase type 1, which leads to cross-hypersensitivity reactions to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs from various subgroups of different chemical structures. Clinically, cross-hypersensitivity usually manifests in the form of urticaria and/or angioedema. AIM: To characterize a group of patients with cross-hypersensitivity to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs manifesting as urticaria / angioedema / anaphylaxis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: To achieve this aim a prospective single-center study was conducted. Patients with a presumptive diagnosis of drug hypersensitivity to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (n=307) were consulted. A group of patients (n=237) with high probability of such reactions was identified, of which cross-hypersensitivity manifested as urticaria / angioedema / anaphylaxis was observed in 127 patients. This group was divided into 2 phenotypes: a group with concomitant chronic urticaria (n=67) and without it (n=60). We assessed demographic data, drug triggers, clinical manifestations, concomitant atopy, and compared these indicators between both groups. Selected patients underwent a drug provocation test with selective or predominantly selective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and paracetamol. RESULTS: Cross-hypersensitivity reactions manifested as urticaria / angioedema / anaphylaxis is the most common phenotype of immediate-type drug cross-hypersensitivity reactions to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (75.6%). Women develop this condition 2.5 times more frequently than men, and are more likely to develop cross-drug hypersensitivity with concomitant chronic urticaria with the onset of approximately 16 years later than men. Mild manifestations of cross-hypersensitivity (urticaria/angioedema) develop more frequently than severe ones (anaphylaxis). Angioedema in children, urticaria in adults with concomitant chronic urticaria and angioedema in adults without concomitant chronic urticaria are it's main manifestations. The most frequent non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs triggers are metamizole, acetylsalicylic acid and propionic acid derivatives. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with the lowest risk of developing drug hypersensitivity are coxibs, paracetamol, and to a lesser extent ― meloxicam, nimesulide. CONCLUSION: The data obtained allowed us to expand our understanding of cross-hypersensitivity reactions to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs presenting as urticaria/angioedema or anaphylaxis. Selective cyclooxygenase type 2 inhibitors and paracetamol are drugs with the highest safety profile.

Investigation of the «Structure – analgesic activity» Relationship Using Molecular Docking for Cyclooxygenases 1 and 2 in the Series 5-<i>N</i>-arylaminocarbonyl-6-(get)aryl-4-methyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyrimidine-2-thiones

Introduction. Molecular modeling methods are very popular in the scientific community at the present time. The value of the pharmacological action depends on the affinity of the substance to the biological target. Molecular docking makes it possible to assess the degree of affinity of the studied compound with the active center of the molecular target. The enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX) plays a key role in the cascade of synthesis of proinflammatory cytokines and, as a consequence, in pain.Aim. To identify the dependence "structure – analgesic activity" using the method of molecular docking for cyclooxygenase type 1 and type 2 in the series of 5-N-arylaminocarbonyl-6-(get)aryl-4-methyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyrimidine-2-thions.Materials and methods. 19 compounds 5-N-arylaminocarbonyl-6-(get)aryl-4-methyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyrimidine-2-thions are objects of research The study of the interaction of tetrahydropyridine derivatives with COX 1 and 2 was carried out by the method of molecular docking by the AutoDock 4 program using scoring functions.Results and discussion. Molecular docking of 5-N-arylaminocarbonyl-6-(get)aryl-4-methyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyrimidine-2-thions (I–XIX) with COX 1 and 2 is described. Quantitative studies of the "structure – analgesic activity" in the studied series of compounds of the dependence of experimental values of analgesic activity (ААex.) on scoring functions (BeCOX1, KiCOX1, BeCOX2, KiCOX2) and physico-chemical descriptors (log Ppred., рКаpred., рКvpred.) were performed. By checking on an independent sample of 5 compounds, equation No. 3 (ААpred. 3 = 32,6215 – 4,4894 × Becox1 + 0,0066 × Kicox1 + 3,6032 × log Ppred. (R = 0,854, F = 9,01, S = 7,73, Q2LOO = 0,53) was found, with a high value of the correlation coefficient of the predicted values ААex. with experimental values (Rpred. = 0,878) and a minimum forecast error (Spred. = 6,74).Conclusion. The "structure-activity" models for predicting analgesic activity in a series of 5-N-arylaminocarbonyl-6-(get)aryl-4-methyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyrimidine-2-thions are obtained. The result of the prediction of biological activity is confirmed by the values of the correlation coefficient (R) obtained when testing models on independent samples.

Phytochemical characterization and assessments of antimicrobial, cytotoxic and anti-inflammatory properties of Lavandula coronopifolia Poir. volatile oil from Palestine

Since the dawn of time, people have relied on herbal medicine to heal many ailments. Lavandula coronopifolia (LC) is an aromatic plant that has been utilized in ethnomedicine since ancient times. This investigation aimed to figure out the chemical constituents of the volatile oil (VO) of the LC herb from Palestine for the first time and determine its microbicidal, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic effects. The LC aerial parts VO phytochemical constituent characterizations were performed utilizing gas chromatography linked to a mass spectrometric system. While, the effects of LC-VO's ability to suppress microbial growth were established against selected bacterial and fungal strains by a broth microdilution technique. Besides, an in vitro cyclooxygenase enzyme (COX) suppressant bioassay kit was utilized to estimate the anti-inflammatory effect against bovine cyclooxygenase (COX) type 1 and 2. In addition, the colorimetric MTS test was employed to determine the cytotoxic activity against the cervical adenocarcinoma (HeLa) tumor cell line. Linalyl acetate (41.65 ± 0.91%) and linalool (41.41 ± 0.77%) were identified as major components of LC-VO, and oxygenated monoterpenoid was the dominant phytochemical class of this VO. The LC-VO demonstrated potent bactericidal and fungicidal effects, especially on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus vulgaris, and Candida albicans (MIC = 0.33 ± 0.03, 0.63 ± 0.1, 1.25 ± 0.81, and 0.16 ± 0.06 µg/mL), respectively. Besides, LC-VO suppressed COX enzymes type-1 and −2, with an inhibition percentage at 50 µg/mL of 95.00 and 88.02 percent, respectively, in comparison with the positive control, ketoprofen non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), at the same concentration with an inhibition percentage of 96.25 and 65.02%, respectively. In addition, the LC-VO inhibited the growth of HeLa cells dose-dependently, with an IC 50 dose of 0.71 ± 0.01 µg/mL. The current study demonstrates that LC-VO is a promising alternative for the healing or preventing various infectious diseases, cancer, and chronic inflammation. These results reveal that LC-VO has beneficial health benefits and has the potential to be utilized for therapeutic purposes.

Effect of Cannabidiol on Cyclooxygenase Type 1 and 2 Expression and Function in Human Neutrophils.

Introduction: In this study, the effects of the cannabinoid CBD were assessed on cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2 expression and activity in resting and activated human neutrophils (polymorphonuclear [PMN] leukocytes). Methods: COX expression was measured at the mRNA levels, whereas COX activity was assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay measurement of prostaglandin (PG)E2. In vitro experiments in a standard commercial acellular assay of COX-1/COX-2 activity completed the study. Results: Results show that CBD profoundly inhibits expression of COX-1 and COX-2 mRNA in activated PMN, however, without any significant consequences for PGE2 production. CBD, however, was able to induce a slight but significant direct inhibition of COX-2 in the acellular model. Conclusion: The effects of CBD occur in the μM concentration range, which is attained in humans with therapeutic doses of the drug, suggesting the clinical relevance of these findings.

Эффективность экстракта мартинии душистой (Сустамар) при остеоартритах, поясничной боли и фибромиалгии: обзор исследований

В обзоре представлены результаты исследований клинической эффективности Harpagophytum procumbens (гарпагофитум, мартиния душистая, африканский полевой лютик) при мышечно-скелетной боли. Фармакологические эффекты мартинии душистой связаны с тем, что она подавляет образование и высвобождение из макрофагов провоспалительных цитокинов IL-1β, IL-6 и TNF-α, ингибирует экспрессию циклооксигеназы 2-го типа (COX-2) и индуцибельной NO-синтазы (iNOS) в фибробластах и тормозит развитие перекисного окисления липидов, что приводит к подавлению воспалительной реакции и вторично — к развитию обезболивающего эффекта и хондропротекции. Клиническое применение. Экстракт мартинии душистой (препарат Сустамар) при остеоартрите снижал выраженность боли в среднем на 25–50 % и увеличивал подвижность суставов примерно на 35–50 %; при поясничной боли уменьшал ее выраженность на 40–50 %, боль полностью исчезала у 2,5–20 % пациентов; был эффективен при генерализованной и локализованной формах фибромиалгии. Прием экстракта мартинии душистой при любых видах мышечно-скелетной боли приводил к тому, что примерно 60 % пациентов уменьшали дозу или полностью прекращали прием нестероидных и стероидных противовоспалительных средств. Возможно, эффективность экстракта мартинии душистой соответствует эффективности стандартной дозы рофекоксиба 12,5 мг, однако эти данные требуют уточнения. Безопасность. При приеме экстракта мартинии душистой легкие побочные эффекты (в основном диспептического характера) возникали примерно у 3 % пациентов, что не превышало соответствующую частоту при приеме плацебо. Длительное применение экстракта мартинии душистой (вплоть до 1 года) безопасно и не связано с развитием токсических эффектов. Приверженность к проводимому лечению среди пациентов составляет 96,4 %. Переносимость экстракта мартинии душистой, по-видимому, превышает таковую у селективных ингибиторов COX-2. Выводы. Экстракт мартинии душистой представляет собой эффективное и безопасное средство для лечения мышечно-скелетной боли. Для дальнейшего изучения данного препарата необходимо проводить более крупные исследования более высокого качества.

Preliminary Assessment of the Anti-inflammatory Activity of New Structural Honokiol Analogs with a 4'-O-(2-Fluoroethyl) Moiety and the Potential of Their 18F-Labeled Derivatives for Neuroinflammation Imaging.

Neolignans honokiol and 4′-O-methylhonokiol (MH) and their derivatives have pronounced anti-inflammatory activity, as evidenced by numerous pharmacological studies. Literature data suggested that cyclooxygenase type 2 (COX-2) may be a target for these compounds in vitro and in vivo. Recent studies of [11C]MPbP (4′-[11C]methoxy-5-propyl-1,1′-biphenyl-2-ol) biodistribution in LPS (lipopolysaccharide)-treated rats have confirmed the high potential of MH derivatives for imaging neuroinflammation. Here, we report the synthesis of four structural analogs of honokiol, of which 4′-(2-fluoroethoxy)-2-hydroxy-5-propyl-1, 1′-biphenyl (F-IV) was selected for labeling with fluorine-18 (T1/2 = 109.8 min) due to its high anti-inflammatory activity confirmed by enzyme immunoassays (EIA) and neuromorphological studies. The high inhibitory potency of F-IV to COX-2 and its moderate lipophilicity and chemical stability are favorable factors for the preliminary evaluation of the radioligand [18F]F-IV in a rodent model of neuroinflammation. [18F]F-IV was prepared with good radiochemical yield and high molar activity and radiochemical purity by 18F-fluoroethylation of the precursor with Boc-protecting group (15) with [18F]2-fluoro-1-bromoethane ([18F]FEB). Ex vivo biodistribution studies revealed a small to moderate increase in radioligand uptake in the brain and peripheral organs of LPS-induced rats compared to control animals. Pretreatment with celecoxib resulted in significant blocking of radioactivity uptake in the brain (pons and medulla), heart, lungs, and kidneys, indicating that [18F]F-IV is likely to specifically bind to COX-2 in a rat model of neuroinflammation. However, in comparison with [11C]MPbP, the new radioligand showed decreased brain uptake in LPS rats and high retention in the blood pool, which apparently could be explained by its high plasma protein binding. We believe that the structure of [18F]F-IV can be optimized by replacing the substituents in the biphenyl core to eliminate these disadvantages and develop new radioligands for imaging activated microglia.

NSP2 Is Important for Highly Pathogenic Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus to Trigger High Fever-Related COX-2-PGE2 Pathway in Pigs.

In 2006, atypical porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) caused by a highly pathogenic PRRSV (HP-PRRSV) strain broke out in China. Atypical PRRS is characterized by extremely high fever and high mortality in pigs of all ages. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) derived from arachidonic acid through the activation of the rate-limiting enzyme cyclooxygenase type 1/2 (COX-1/2) plays an important role in fever. Here, we showed that HP-PRRSV infection increased PGE2 production in microglia via COX-2 up-regulation depending on the activation of MEK1-ERK1/2-C/EBPβ signaling pathways. Then, we screened HP-PRRSV proteins and demonstrated that HP-PRRSV nonstructural protein 2 (NSP2) activated MEK1-ERK1/2-C/EBPβ signaling pathways by interacting with 14-3-3ζ to promote COX-2 expression, leading to PGE2 production. Furthermore, we identified that the amino acid residues 500-596 and 658-777 in HP-PRRSV NSP2 were essential to up-regulate COX-2 expression and PGE2 production. Finally, we made mutant HP-PRRS viruses with the deletion of residues 500-596 and/or 658-777, and found out that these viruses had impaired ability to up-regulate COX-2 and PGE2 production in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, pigs infected with the mutant viruses had relieved fever, clinical symptoms, and mortality. These data might help us understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the high fever and provide clues for the development of HP-PRRSV attenuated vaccines.

Endothelial prostaglandin D2 opposes angiotensin II contractions in mouse isolated perfused intracerebral microarterioles.

Hypothesis:A lack of contraction of cerebral microarterioles to Ang II (“resilience”) depends on cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipocalin type prostaglandin D sythase L-PGDS producing PGD2 that activates prostaglandin D type 1 receptors (DP1Rs) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS).Materials & Methods:Contractions were assessed in isolated, perfused vessels and NO by fluorescence microscopy.Results:The mRNAs of penetrating intraparenchymal cerebral microarterioles versus renal afferent arterioles were >3000-fold greater for L-PGDS and DP1R and 5-fold for NOS III and COX 2. Larger cerebral arteries contracted with Ang II. However, cerebral microarterioles were entirely unresponsive but contracted with endothelin 1 and perfusion pressure. Ang II contractions were evoked in cerebral microarterioles from COX1 –/– mice or after blockade of COX2, L-PGDS or NOS and in deendothelialized vessels but effects of deendothelialization were lost during COX blockade. NO generation with Ang II depended on COX and also was increased by DP1R activation.Conclusion:The resilience of cerebral arterioles to Ang II contractions is specific for intraparenchymal microarterioles and depends on endothelial COX1 and two products that are metabolized by L-PGDS to generate PGD2 that signals via DP1Rs and NO.

RAGE Silencing Ameliorates Neuroinflammation by Inhibition of p38-NF-κB Signaling Pathway in Mouse Model of Parkinson’s Disease

Accumulating evidence suggested that neuroinflammation played a crucial role in dopaminergic neuronal death in Parkinson’s disease (PD). The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), a multi-ligand receptor of the immunoglobulin superfamily, has been proposed as a key molecule in the onset and sustainment of the inflammatory response. Engagement of RAGE contributed to neuroinflammation by upregulating nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) as well as cytokines. The aim of the present study was to investigate the expression of RAGE in 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-treated mice and elucidate the RAGE signal pathway involved in the inflammation. Results showed that RAGE protein and pro-inflammatory cytokines cyclooxygenase type 2 (COX-2) were upregulated in MPTP-treated mice. Further experiments showed that RAGE ablation inhibited phosphorylation of IκB and p38 and protected nigral dopaminergic neurons against cell death in the substantia nigra (SN). These results suggested that RAGE participated in the pathogenesis of PD by neuroinflammation and p38MAPK-NFκB signal pathway may be involved in the process. Moreover, interfering with RAGE signaling pathway may be a reasonable therapeutic option in slowing PD development and progression.

Anti-inflammatory Effect of d-(+)-Cycloserine Through Inhibition of NF-κB and MAPK Signaling Pathways in LPS-Induced RAW 264.7 Macrophages

Recently, additional therapeutic potentials of classical antibiotics are gaining considerable attention. The discovery of penicillin in the 1920s had a major impact on the history of human health. Penicillin has been used for the treatment for fatal microbial infections in humans and has led to the discovery of several new antibiotics. d-(+)-Cycloserine (DCS) is an antibiotic isolated from Streptomyces orchidaceous and is used in conjunction with other drugs in the treatment of tuberculosis. However, there have been no studies on the anti-inflammatory effects of DCS in RAW 264.7 macrophage cell line. To investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of DCS, we examined the ability of DCS to inhibit the inflammatory responses in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages in this study. Cell viability was analyzed using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The cells were pretreated with various concentrations (2, 4, and 6 mM) of DCS, then treated with 1 μg/mL LPS to detect its anti-inflammatory effects. d-(+)-Cycloserine inhibited the production of nitric oxide (NO) in a concentration-dependent manner, and to some extent, inhibited the production of prostaglandin E2. Consistent with these findings, DCS suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6. However, it had no effect on the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α. Western blot analysis demonstrated that DCS inhibited inducible nitric oxide synthase and suppressed cyclooxygenase type-2 (COX-2) expression. In addition, investigation of its effects on nuclear factor kappa B signaling showed that DCS inhibited phosphorylation of inhibitory kappa B-α (IκB-α) and increased intracellular IκB-α in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, DCS inhibited the phosphorylation of LPS-induced extracellular signal-regulated kinase, however it did not affect phosphorylation of c-jun N-terminal kinase and p38. Further studies confirmed that the inhibition of phosphorylation of IκB-α was mediated through the inhibition of phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt (PI3K/Akt) pathway. To determine the applicability of DCS to the skin, cytotoxicity on HaCaT keratinocytes was measured following treatment with various concentrations (2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 mM) of DCS using MTT assay. These results suggest that DCS may be used as a potential drug for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Investigation of Modulatory Effect of Pinolenic Acid (PNA) on Inflammatory Responses in Human THP-1 Macrophage-Like Cell and Mouse Models.

Pinolenic acid (PNA) is a rare n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-6 PUFA) originally identified in pine seeds. Previous studies demonstrated that PNA and its elongation metabolite, Δ7-eicosatrienoic acid (Δ7-ETrA), exerted an anti-inflammatory effect in cultured cells by suppressing prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production. The objective of this study was to further examine the in vivo anti-inflammatory properties of PNA. Using human THP-1 macrophage, we first confirmed that incorporation of PNA into cellular phospholipids suppressed the production of interleukin-6 (IL-6) (by 46%), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (by 18%), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) (by 87%), and the expression of type-2 cyclooxygenase (COX-2) (by 27%). Furthermore, we demonstrated that injection of PNA or Δ7-ETrA suppressed 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced mouse ear edema, as measured by ear thickness (by 15%) and biopsy weight (by up to 29%). Both PUFA also lowered proportions of infiltrated leukocytes, neutrophils, and macrophages using flow cytometric analysis. Topical application of PNA or Δ7-ETrA on mouse back skin suppressed TPA-induced pro-inflammatory mediator production, including IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and PGE2, as well as the phosphorylation of p38- and JNK-mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), but not that of ERK-MAPK. That no PNA or Δ7-ETrA was detected in the ear disc after the PUFA injection suggests that their anti-inflammatory effect might not be due to fatty acid incorporation, but to modulation of cell signaling. In conclusion, PNA and Δ7-ETrA exerted the in vivo anti-inflammatory effect by suppressing mouse ear edema and dorsal skin inflammation.

Vitamin D, linoleic acid, arachidonic acid and COX-2 in colorectal cancer patients in relation to disease stage, tumour localisation and disease progression

Background and study aimsEvidence shows that vitamin D and cyclooxygenase type 2 (COX-2) might play role in aetiology/progression of cancer. It is suggested that antitumour effect of vitamin D depends on vitamin D-receptor (VDR) expression. Aim of the study was to determine vitamin D and polyunsaturated fatty acids in colorectal cancer patients. Patients and methodsA total of 39 patients with colorectal cancer (mean ± SD age: 65.5 ± 6.8 years) and 25 controls (mean ± SD age: 51.0 ± 6.9 years) were studied. 25-hydroxycholecalciferol-25(OH)D3 in serum was quantitatively determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Levels of linoleic acid (LA) and arachidonic acid (AA) of serum phospholipids were measured by gas-chromatography (GC). Expression of VDR and COX-2 in normal colonic mucosa and tumour tissue was measured by real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). ResultsThe mean value of 25(OH)D3 was significantly lower in the colorectal cancer patients with early stages of the disease and in patients with tumour confined to the rectum compared to control group (p < 0.02, p < 0.03, respectively). The higher concentration of AA (patients with early stages of the disease) and lower concentration of LA (patients with the advanced stages of the disease) was noticed compared to the control group. For the patients with the early stages of the disease the higher mean fold change of mRNA VDR and the lower mean fold change of mRNA COX-2 was noticed (p < 0.03, p < 0.02, respectively). ConclusionThe assessment of vitamin D status in patients with colorectal cancer should include measurement of mRNA VDR expression in tumour tissue.

Chronic administration of sildenafil improves endothelial function in spontaneously hypertensive rats by decreasing COX-2 expression and oxidative stress

AimsSpontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) exhibit impaired endothelial vasodilation and enhanced vasoconstriction. The phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor sildenafil (Sild) potentiates the nitric oxide (NO)-mediated effects exerting antioxidative and anti-inflammatory actions. In the present study, we hypothesized that Sild could improve endothelial function in SHR. Materials and methodsMale rats were treated daily for 60 days by oral gavage with Sild (45 mg/kg) before the onset of the hypertensive state (pre-hypertensive protocol). The aortic relaxation to acetylcholine (ACh), sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and the phenylephrine (Phe)-induced contraction was evaluated in SHR. Protein expression of eNOS, p-eNOS, caveolin, COX-1, COX-2, ERK and p-ERK was measured by Western blot. Key findingsResting blood pressure was not modified by Sild administration. Treatment with Sild did not alter the relaxation response to SNP but improved the ACh-induced relaxation and reduced Phe-induced contraction in aortic rings from SHR. This protective effect of Sild could be attributed to reduced superoxide anions (O2−) generation, cyclooxygenase type 2 (COX-2) protein downregulation and increased NO bioavailability. SignificanceSild improves endothelial function in SHR aorta without affecting resting blood pressure values. These results indicate that PDE5 inhibition has a potential role in the improvement of vascular function and could be an adjuvant in the treatment of essential hypertension.

Rational Druggability Investigation Toward Selection of Lead Molecules: Impact of the Commonly Used Spices on Inflammatory Diseases.

Herbal remedies and phytochemicals have been used in traditional medicine. Most of the herbs used in human diet have some major effective elements that can affect various pathways in the human body and play a therapeutic role in healing disorders or diseases. Among the inflammatory diseases, worldwide common disorders possess well-known pathways that can be controlled by diet and behavior. There are some well-established targets that are used for anti-inflammatory drugs like cyclooxygenase type 1 and 2 (COX-1 and COX-2), lipoxygenase, prostaglandin D2 receptor, DP1, CRTH2, and so on. In this article, we investigated the role of phytochemicals, extracted from different commonly used spices in the food industry, in preventing or healing the inflammatory disorders. The ability of such bioactives to inhibit COX-2 enzyme has been investigated and compared with marketed selective and nonselective NSAIDs, aspirin and celecoxib. Thereafter, the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of such ingredients have been evaluated for their druggability potential. The results indicated that piperine showed the best ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) and toxicity profiles among all bioactives. Also, it possessed better affinity value, -7.80518 kcal/mol and energy binding -85.08 kcal/mol, in inhibition of COX-2 with PDB Id: 1CVU rather than other compounds and significantly the higher dock score than aspirin, close to celecoxib. Therefore, piperine has been suggested to be used as the major ingredient in daily diet as a potent anti-inflammatory and anticancer agent.

4K – koksyby w codziennej praktyce – komu, kiedy i który?

Coxibs, as selective inhibitors of the cyclooxygenase type 2, show a strong analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect. Due to the mechanism of action, there are definitely fewer side effects on the gastrointestinal tract and generally do not require parallel use of proton pump inhibitors. In the light of the latest data, concerns about toxicity to the cardiovascular system are not confirmed. High efficacy and a small amount of side effects make them the preferred drug in patients with previous complications from the gastrointestinal tract, with the risk factors for their occurrence, but also in older people using many other drugs simultaneously.

Effects of Spirulina on Expression of N-Methyl D-Aspartate Receptor-2B, Matrix Metalloproteinase-7, and Inflammatory Genes in Chronic Tinnitus

Background: The study about chronic tinnitus was seldom reported. We aimed to investigate the effects of Spirulina on the mRNA expressions of N-methyl D-aspartate receptor (NR)-2B, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-7, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and cyclooxygenase type 2 (COX-2) genes in chronic tinnitus. Methods: Three-month-old male C57BL/6 mice were trained for an active avoidance task. Then, 17 conditioned mice with tinnitus, confirmed 2 weeks after a noise exposure to the left ear, were randomly divided into two groups on the start day: control group (9 mice, normal diet) and Spirulina group (8 mice, normal diet with S. platensis water extract, 200 mg/kg body weight). All mice were fed a different diet for 80 days; then, their tinnitus scores were tested, and they were sacrificed for mRNA studies. Results: The Spirulina group (–6.3 ± 16.5) had a significantly lower mean difference in tinnitus scores, which were calculated on the 80th day and the start day for each mouse, than the control group (9.6 ± 13.3). NR2B mRNA expressions were not significantly different between the two groups in the cochlea, brainstem, inferior colliculus (IC), or temporal lobes. Compared with the control group, MMP-7 mRNA expressions in the Spirulina group were significantly increased in the cochlea (1.15 ± 0.28 for the control group vs 1.82 ± 0.30 for the Spirulina group) and temporal lobes (1.18 ± 0.26 vs 1.80 ± 0.20, respectively). TNT-α mRNA expressions in the Spirulina group had decreased significantly in the cochlea (2.91 ± 0.53 for the control group vs 2.12 ± 0.56 for the Spirulina group), brainstem (1.72 ± 0.35 vs 1.37 ± 0.27, respectively), and IC (2.77 ± 0.56 vs 2.13 ± 0.25, respectively). COX-2 mRNA expressions in the Spirulina group were significantly decreased in the brainstem (1.49 ± 0.73 for the control group vs 0.66 ± 0.37 for the Spirulina group). Conclusions: Spirulina could reduce chronic tinnitus possibly by increasing MMP-7 gene expression but by decreasing TNF-α and COX-2 gene expressions in the cochlea and/or some tinnitus-related brain regions.

Impact of novel N-aryl piperamide NO donors on NF-κB translocation in neuroinflammation: rational drug-designing synthesis and biological evaluation.

NO donor drugs showed a significant therapeutic effect in the treatment of many diseases, such as arteriopathies, various acute and chronic inflammatory conditions, and several degenerative diseases. NO-releasing anti-inflammatory drugs are the prototypes of a novel class of compounds, combining the pharmacological activities of anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive of drugs with those of NO, thus possessing potential therapeutic applications in a great variety of diseases. In this study, we designed and predicted biological activity by targeting cyclooxygenase type 2 (COX-2) and NF-κB subunits and pharmacological profiling along with toxicity predictions of various N-aryl piperamides linked via an ester bond to a spacer that is bound to a NO-releasing moiety (-ONO2). The result of absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion and Docking studies indicated that among 51 designed molecules PA-3′K showed the best binding potential in both the substrate and inhibitory binding pocket of the COX-2 enzyme with affinity values of –9.33 and –5.12 for PDB ID 1CVU and 3LN1, respectively, thereby having the potential to be developed as a therapeutic agent. The results of cell viabilities indicated that PA-3′k possesses the best cell viability property with respect to its dose (17.33 ng/ml), with 67.76% and 67.93% viable cells for CHME3 and SVG cell lines, respectively.

Orexin-A Protects Human Neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y Cells Against 6-Hydroxydopamine-Induced Neurotoxicity: Involvement of PKC and PI3K Signaling Pathways.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder that is characterized by progressive and selective death of dopaminergic neurons. Multifunctional neuropeptide orexin-A is involved in many biological events of the body. It has been shown that orexin-A has protective effects in neurodegenerative disease such as PD. However, its cellular mechanisms have not yet been fully clarified. Here, we investigated the intracellular signaling pathway of orexin-A neuroprotection in 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced SH-SY5H cells damage as an in vitro model of PD. The cells were incubated with 150 μM 6-OHDA, and the viability was examined by 3-[4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl]-2,5-diphenyl-2-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Mitochondrial membrane potential and intracellular calcium were measured by fluorescent probes. Western blotting was also used to determine cyclooxygenase type 2 (COX-2), nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2), and HSP70 protein levels. The data showed that 6-OHDA has decreasing effects on cell viability, Nrf2, and HSP70 protein expression and increases the level of mitochondrial membrane potential, intracellular calcium, and COX-2 protein. Orexin-A (500 pM) significantly attenuated the 6-OHDA-induced cell damage. Furthermore, Orexin-A significantly prevented the mentioned effects of 6-OHDA on SH-SY5Y cells. Orexin 1 receptor antagonist (SB3344867), PKC, and PI3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitors (chelerythrin and LY294002, respectively) could suppress the orexin-A neuroprotective effect. In contrast, blockage of PKA by a selective inhibitor (KT5720) had no effects on the orexin protection. The results suggest that orexin-A protective effects against 6-OHDA-induced neurotoxicity are performed via its receptors, PKC and PI3K signaling pathways.

Articular inflammation induced by an enzymatically-inactive Lys49 phospholipase A2: activation of endogenous phospholipases contributes to the pronociceptive effect

BackgroundArthritis is a set of inflammatory conditions that induce aching, stiffness, swelling, pain and may cause functional disability with severe consequences to the patient’s lives. These are multi-mediated pathologies that cannot be effectively protected and/or treated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to establish a new model of acute arthritis, using a Lys49-PLA2 (Bothrops asper myotoxin II; MT-II) to induce articular inflammation.MethodsThe articular inflammation was induced by MT-II (10 μg/joint) injection into the left tibio-tarsal or femoral-tibial-patellar joints. Cellular influx was evaluated counting total and differential cells that migrated to the joint. The plasma extravasation was determined using Evans blue dye. The edematogenic response was evaluated measuring the joint thickness using a caliper. The articular hypernociception was determined by a dorsal flexion of the tibio-tarsal joint using an electronic pressure-meter test. The mediators involved in the articular hypernociception were evaluated using receptor antagonists and enzymatic inhibitors.ResultsPlasma extravasation in the knee joints was observed 5 and 15 min after MT-II (10 μg/joint) injection. MT-II also induced a polymorphonuclear cell influx into the femoral-tibial-patellar joints observed 8 h after its injection, a period that coincided with the peak of the hyperalgesic effect. Hyperalgesia was inhibited by the pretreatment of the animals with cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin, with type-2 cyclooxygenase inhibitor celecoxib, with AACOCF3 and PACOCF3, inhibitors of cytosolic and Ca2+-independent PLA2s, respectively, with bradykinin B2 receptor antagonist HOE 140, with antibodies against TNFα, IL-1β, IL-6 and CINC-1 and with selective ET-A (BQ-123) and ET-B (BQ-788) endothelin receptors antagonists. The MT-II-induced hyperalgesia was not altered by the lipoxygenase inhibitor zileuton, by the bradykinin B1 receptor antagonist Lys-(Des-Arg9,Leu8)-bradykinin, by the histamine and serotonin antagonists promethazine and methysergide, respectively, by the nitric oxide inhibitor LNMMA and by the inhibitor of matrix 1-, 2-, 3-, 8- and 9- metalloproteinases GM6001 (Ilomastat).ConclusionThese results demonstrated the multi-mediated characteristic of the articular inflammation induced by MT-II, which demonstrates its relevance as a model for arthritis mechanisms and treatment evaluation.

The Root Extract of Gentiana macrophylla Pall. Alleviates B19-NS1-Exacerbated Liver Injuries in NZB/W F1 Mice.

The nonstructural protein NS1 of human parvovirus B19 (B19) is known to exacerbate disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, no specific medicine for B19 infection is available. The roots of Gentiana macrophylla Pall. (GM), the traditional Chinese medicine "Qinjiao," have been used for centuries to treat rheumatic disease, including SLE. Herein, we aimed to investigate the effects of GM root extract (100 and 300 mg/kg body weight) on B19-NS1-exacerbated liver injury in NZB/W F1 mice; liver tissues were assessed by hematoxylin-eosin staining and immunoblotting. The GM root extract significantly decreased B19-NS1-exacerbated liver inflammation by suppressing the expressions of hepatic inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase type 2 (COX-2), interleukin (IL)-1β proteins, values of serum asparate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT), and lymphocyte infiltration (P < .05). It also significantly reduced the B19-NS1-exacerbated hepatic matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) expressions by downregulating tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α/NF-κB (p65) signaling. These findings suggest a therapeutic potential of GM root extract against B19-NS1-exacerbated liver inflammation in SLE.