IL-1β Gene Expression Research Articles

Dietary effects of microalga Tetraselmis suecica on growth, antioxidant-immune activity, inflammation cytokines,and resistance of Nile tilapia fingerlings to Aeromonas sobria infection.

The dietary effects of the green microalga Tetraselmis suecica (TS) on the growth, digestive enzymes, immune and antioxidant responses, genes expression,and disease resistance of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings were investigated. This microalga was mixed with the diet'ingredients at doses of 0.0 (the control), 5, 10, 15,and 20 g/kg diet and then fed to fish daily for 84 days. After the feeding trial, fish were experimentally challenged with Aeromonas sobria, infection and fish mortalities were recorded for another 10days. Dietary TS significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced growth, digestive enzymes activities,and blood proteins, particularly at the level of 15 g/kg diet. Feeding the fish on 15 TS/kg feed exhibited highest mRNA expressions of GH and IGF-1 genes as well as SOD, CAT,and GPx genes compared to other TS groups. Moreover, highest levels of hepatic antioxidant and immune indices were found in the treatment of 15 g TS/kg feed. Significant downregulation of IL-1β and IL-8 genes expression and significant upregulation of IL-10 gene expression were observed in TS-fed fish, principally in fish groups fed on 15-20 g TS/kg feed. Conversely, hepatic malondialdehyde levels, blood glucose,and the activities of transaminases (ALT and AST) were significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in fish fed with 15-20 g TS/kg diet. Serum bactericidal activity against A. sobria was significantly higher in TS-fed fish groups, and its highest levels were found in treatments of 15-20 g/kg diet. Of interest, the survival rates of fish groups fed diets with 10-20 g TS/kg feed were higher after the challenge with A. sobria infection than the control group. Accordingly, we can conclude that supplementing fish diets with a 15 g TS/kg diet enhanced the growth, antioxidant and immune activities,and resistance of Nile tilapia fingerlings to possible A. sobria infection.

Identification, characterization, and molecular docking of immunomodulatory oligopeptides from bioavailable hempseed protein hydrolysates

Promoting dietary patterns in which the content of vegetables is higher than the current consumption of them is one of the strategies to achieve a sustainable food system while promoting health in humans. Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) protein contains bioactive peptides that can be released via enzymatic hydrolysis. These peptides must reach the target organ in order to potentially exert bioactivity and regulate specific metabolic pathways. The peptides contained in two bioavailable hempseed protein hydrolysates (bioHPHs) showing anti-inflammatory activity were identified using a transwell system employing CACO-2 cell culture as absorption model and subjected to in silico analysis to select 10 unique peptides. These sequences were chemically synthetized to verify their activity in primary human monocytes (assessing gene expression of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-10, and TLR4), in addition to evaluate the interaction with TRL4/MD2 by molecular docking. Six peptides (DDNPRRF, SRRFHLA, RNIFKGF, VREPVFSF, QADIFNPR and SAERGFLY) showed high immunomodulatory activity in in vitro and the mechanisms of interaction with TLR4/MD2 were described. Bioavailable anti-inflammatory hempseed-derived peptides were identified, and their activity verified, suggesting the health benefits that the ingestion of HPHs could exert in humans. These findings open new opportunities for developing nutritional strategies with hemp as a dietary source of biopeptides to prevent the development and progression of inflammatory-related diseases.

Impact of curcumin on ferroptosis-related genes in colorectal cancer: Insights from in-silico and in-vitro studies.

Colorectal cancer (CRC)is responsible for a significant number of cancer-related fatalities worldwide. Researchers are investigating the therapeutic potential of ferroptosis, a type of iron-dependent controlled cell death, in the context of CRC. Curcumin, a natural compound found in turmeric, exhibits anticancer properties. This study explores the effects of curcumin on genes related to ferroptosis (FRGs)in CRC. To gather CRC data, we used the Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA)and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO)databases, while FRGs were obtained from the FerrDb database and PubMed. We identified 739 CRC differentially expressed genes (DEGs)in CRC and discovered 39 genes that were common genes between FRGs and CRC DEGs. The DEGs related to ferroptosis were enriched with various biological processes and molecular functions, including the regulation of signal transduction and glucose metabolism. Using the Drug Gene Interaction Database (DGIdb),we predicted drugs targeting CRC-DEGsand identified 17 potential drug targets. Additionally, we identified eight essential proteins related to ferroptosis in CRC, including MYC, IL1B, and SLC1A5. Survival analysis revealed that alterations in gene expression of CDC25A, DDR2, FABP4, IL1B, SNCA, and TFAM were associated with prognosis in CRC patients. In SW480 human CRC cells, treatment with curcumin decreased the expression of MYC, IL1B, and EZH2 mRNA, while simultaneously increasing the expression of SLCA5 and CAV1. The findings of this study suggest that curcumin could regulate FRGs in CRC and have the potential to be utilized as a therapeutic agent for treating CRC.

Sol-gel synthesis and cytotoxicity evaluation of selenium-doped cerium oxide nanoparticles for biomedical applications.

Over the past few years, ovarian cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer among women. Despite the widespread knowledge of its prevalence, the curative measures and survival rates for ovarian cancer have not improved significantly, making it a challenging condition. Nanotechnology has become increasingly prominent in the field of cancer treatment. Previous studies showed both cerium oxide nanoparticles (CONPs) and selenium (Se) had anti-cancer. Therefore, doping selenium into CONPs may exhibit a more significant anti-cancer effect on ovarian cancer cells. Cerium nitrate hexahydrate, sodium selenite, and gelatin were employed for the production of CONPs and Se-doped CONPs. The EDX, XRD, and TEM/PSA imaging were employed to investigate the structural characteristics and morphology of the synthesized Se-doped CONPs. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and TNF, IL-6, and IL-1B gene expression were evaluated after inoculating A2780 human epithelial ovarian carcinoma (HEOC) with Se-doped CONP. Statistical analysis was conducted using ANOVA, followed by Bonferroni's t-test for multiple group comparisons. Se-doped CONPs had IC50 of 113 and 49 PPM after 24 and 48 h, respectively. In addition, Se-doped CONPs with concentrations of 50 and 100 PPM significantly reduced to ROS levels in the HEOC cell line. Also, 50 and 100 PPM Se-doped CONPs lead to significantly reduced TNF, IL-6, and IL-1B gene expression compared to the control group in the HEOC cell line. Our study showed the potential anti-cancer effects of Se-doped CONPs on ovarian cancer cell lines.

PCSK9-inhibitor therapy leads to changes in immune cell gene expression and function: A subset analysis of the PACMAN-AMI trial

Abstract Introduction The PACMAN-AMI trial showed a significant reduction of plaque atheroma volume by alirocumab on top of high-intensity statin therapy as compared to placebo in 265 patients undergoing serial multi-vessel imaging after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Neutrophils and the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have been implicated in the development and progression of atherosclerosis. High levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) have been associated with neutrophil activation. Objectives This study aimed to determine the influence of aggressive LDL-lowering on neutrophil activation, and immune cell gene expression of pro-inflammatory markers in a subset of the PACMAN-AMI cohort. Methods Neutrophils and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of 38 patients were isolated by serial density-gradient centrifugation to assess relative gene expression of IL-1b, IL-6, TNFa, X-box binding protein (XBP) 1, caspase 1 (CASP1), and NLRP3 by quantitative PCR. Neutrophils were stimulated to undergo NET formation using a calcium ionophore in the presence or absence of pro-protein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), detecting the release of double-stranded (ds)DNA. Plasma samples were screened for dsDNA, citrullinated histone H3, neutrophil elastase, and myeloperoxidase. Healthy controls (n=30) were recruited during routine check-ups in a health and prevention center. Results After one year of double-blind injections, the probability to undergo NET formation in vitro was still higher in AMI patients than in healthy controls. Considering randomized treatment, only patients injected with alirocumab showed significantly higher NET release than controls. Additional stimulation with the alirocumab target PCSK9 could reduce NET formation in all cohorts. This effect was significantly higher in patients treated with alirocumab. Relative gene expression of CASP1, IL-1b, IL-6, and XBP 1 was higher in patients treated with alirocumab. There was no difference in plasma NET markers comparing healthy controls and both treatment arms. Conclusion Our data indicate that PCSK9 might have effects beyond its role in cholesterol metabolism influencing immune cell activation, which could mask effects of LDL lowering. Treatment does not directly translate to higher plasma NET levels without an additional inflammatory stimulus disrupting the steady state.

Porphyromonas gingivalis systemic infection is associated with calcific aortic valve stenosis through IL-1-dependent signaling pathways

Abstract Background Calcific aortic valve stenosis (CAVS) is characterized by inflammation mediated valvular calcification. Porphyromonas gingivalis, a keystone pathogen for periodontitis, has been associated with various chronic inflammatory diseases. We assessed the impact of intravenous inoculation with P. gingivalis on the progression of CAVS. Methods Wide-type (WT) C57BL/6, ApoE deficient (ApoE-/-), and IL1B deficient (IL-1β-/-) mice were fed with normal chow or high-fat diet (HFD). A series of metagenomic, morphometric, and molecular signaling experiments, including 16S rRNA gene sequencing, RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq), quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), immunostaining, and western blotting, were conducted. Valvular calcification and aortic stenosis were evaluated by Alizarin red staining, and mice echocardiography, respectively. Results By using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and qPCR, we found that P. gingivalis was the 3rd most significantly enriched bacterial species in aortic valves from CAVS patients compared with controls. Morphometric assays showed predominant P. gingivalis infiltration inside of human aortic valves. Intravenous inoculation of P. gingivalis in either WT or ApoE-/- mice resulted in increased bacterial infiltration in aortic valves, irrespective of chow- or HFD. Alizarin red staining and echocardiographic evaluation further revealed that P. gingivalis bacteremia markedly enhanced valvular calcification, leading to hemodynamically significant aortic stenosis in the murine models, which were ameliorated by intraperitoneal metronidazole prophylaxis. RNA-Seq and qPCR validation showed that the gene expression of IL1B, RUNX2, and BMP2 was upregulated in P. gingivalis-stimulated valvular interstitial cells (VIC). Similar changes on IL1B were observed in aortic valves form P. gingivalis-challenged WT and ApoE-/- mice, and in valvular specimens from CAVS patients. qPCR and Alizarin red staining showed that IL1B knockdown decreased P. gingivalis-induced RUNX2 and BMP2 expression, and attenuated calcification in VICs. Consistently, P. gingivalis-induced changes on bacterial infiltration, valvular calcification, and hemodynamically significant aortic stenosis were markedly blunted in IL-1β-/- mice. Furthermore, the level of serum IL-1β and SAA were increased in response to P. gingivalis challenge in ApoE-/- mice, but not in WT or IL-1β-/- mice. Conclusions This study demonstrated, for the first time, that P. gingivalis infiltration in aortic valves promoted IL-1β-mediated local inflammation and valvular calcification, thus resulting in the progression of CAVS.Central Illustration: Pg promotes CAVS

PSV-18 Host Transcriptional Changes Detected in the Feces of Dairy Calves Supplemented with Condensed Solubles from Milk Permeate

Abstract Newborn dairy calves are exposed to an environment characterized by multiple challenges, such as pathogen load and nutrient delivery adaptations. Nutritional strategies can help young animals to face these challenges. Hence, we proposed that feeding a type of oligosaccharides (condensed solubles from milk permeate; CS) to dairy calves from birth to postweaning will improve their inflammatory response. This study aimed to perform real-time (RT)-qPCR in RNA isolated from fecal samples to assess the molecular changes relative to inflammation in dairy calves. To address this, 2-days old (d) Holstein calves were randomly assigned into two groups (n = 12/group): control with no supplement; or treatment with 50 g/d of CS. Both groups were fed pasteurized waste milk during the preweaning period. Calves were fed pasteurized waste milk 2×/d during week 1-5, 1×/d in week 6, and weaned at week 7. For the CS-treated calves, at each milk feeding during week 1-5, 25 g of CS was added to the pasteurized milk. At week 6, 25 g of CS was added to the milk morning feeding and 25 g were top-dressed on the starter pellets. Starting at week 7 until the end of the trial at week 12, 50 g of CS were top-dressed on the starter pellets offered to CS calves. Healthy scores were recorded daily. Fresh fecal samples were collected weekly and immediately frozen until RNA extraction. Statistical analysis was performed using MIXED procedures (SAS 9.4) with repeated measures. Significant differences were declared at P &amp;lt; 0.05. The average fecal score postweaning was less in the CS calves relative to the control. Overall, the mRNA expression of the transcription factor of inflammation, NFKB, was less in the feces of the CS group compared with the control. However, the membrane receptor for gram-positive bacteria, TLR2, was upregulated in CS calves relative to control during the postweaning stage (week 8). The fecal gene expression of the membrane receptor for gram-negative bacteria, TLR4, and the proinflammatory cytokines, IL1B and TNFA, did not differ between groups. In summary, the lack of difference in the gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines IL1B and TNFA, along with the TLR4 expression in the feces of the calves, indicate that there was no severe inflammation during the trial. In contrast, TLR2 gene expression findings suggest that some mild local infection might have affected those calves. In conclusion, feeding oligosaccharides to dairy calves might improve the response to inflammation.

PSII-11 Effects of Cannabidiol on Viability and Inflammatory Response in Bovine Primary Ruminal Epithelial Cells

Abstract Phytochemicals derived from hemp (Cannabis sativa) have been noted for their possible beneficial effects, including immunomodulation. Cannabidiol (CBD) may be a promising target as a therapy for gastrointestinal inflammation; however, the effects have not been explored in ruminants. The objective of this study was to investigate immunomodulatory properties of CBD in primary ruminal epithelial cells (REC). REC were isolated from ruminal papillae of yearling Holstein steers (n = 7). A preliminary experiment was performed to determine cytotoxicity of CBD using alamarBlue. Cells were exposed to either 10 or 50 µM CBD for 6 or 24 h. CBD at 10 µM did not affect viability. Growth was inhibited by over 60% at 50 µM for 24 h (P &amp;lt; 0.05), and therefore, 10 µM was selected for use. Two experiments, each 24h in duration, were conducted to explore various responses to CBD when inflammation was induced in REC with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In Experiment 1, LPS was added prior to CBD exposure, simulating a therapy for established inflammation. In Experiment 2, LPS was added after CBD exposure, simulating a preventative strategy. Treatment groups for both experiments are described in Table 1. Total RNA was extracted from REC and relative gene expression of cytokines TNF, IL1B, IL6, CXCL8 and CXCL10 was evaluated using real time qPCR. Expression was normalized to the geometric mean of two stable housekeeping genes, GAPDH and STX5. All statistical analyses were performed using the lme4 and emmeans packages of R with exposure treatment as the fixed effect. In Experiment 1, expression of TNF, IL1B and CXCL8 was greater for LPS8 compared with CON by 5-, 29- and 14-fold, respectively, but less than LPS24 (P &amp;lt; 0.05). The LPS24+CBD16 group resulted in an upregulation of IL1B compared with CON, but not to the same magnitude as LPS24 (27- vs 93-fold; P = 0.002). A 3-fold down-regulation of IL6 was observed with the addition of CBD alone compared with CON (P &amp;lt; 0.001). Experiment 1 results suggest that CBD may reduce cytokine transcription during LPS-induced inflammation. For Experiment 2, compared with LPS8, there was less expression of IL6 and CXCL10 in CBD24+LPS8 (P &amp;lt; 0.05). There was a 9-fold upregulation of IL6 for CBD16-LPS8 (P &amp;lt; 0.001), but no difference between CON and CBD16-LPS8 for CXCL10 expression. Compared with CON, CBD24 resulted in a 2- and 6-fold down-regulation of IL6 (P = 0.003) and CXCL10 (P = 0.002). Experiment 2 results suggest that IL6 expression was influenced by CBD, but only while present in the media, while CXCL10 expression was suppressed by CBD, even after its removal. Overall, this study provides evidence of immunomodulation by CBD during a pro-inflammatory response in primary REC in culture.

Phytochemical characterization and anti-arthritic potential of Croton bonplandianus leaves extract: In-vivo and in-silico approach

Croton bonplandianus, a natural source traditionally used for treating various illnesses, including rheumatoid arthritis, was evaluated in this study. The effects of ethanolic extracts (CBEE) and aqueous fractions (CBAF) of C. bonplandianus leaves on arthritis-induced inflammation were studied using an albino rat model of inflammation induced by Freund's complete adjuvant. Eight test groups (n = 5 per group) and one vehicle control were used to evaluate the antiarthritic effects of different doses of CBEE and CBAF (125 mg.kg−1, 250 mg.kg−1, and 500 mg.kg−1) on days 5, 10, 15, and 20 compared to arthritic and vehicle controls. Arthritis severity was assessed using macroscopic arthritis grading, histological analysis, body weights, and paw thickness. CBEE and CBAF were found to reduce the prevalence of arthritis, increase body weight, and decrease paw inflammation compared to the vehicle control group by the 23rd day. In addition, they showed no effect on biochemical parameters, but a significant difference (p < 0.05) in hematological parameters compared to the arthritic control group. The study identified Hentriacontane compound as a potential contributor to the anti-inflammatory effect of C. bonplandianus, as it showed the lowest dock score for IL-1β and IL-6. Palmitoylethanol amide was identified as a potential contributor to the anti-inflammatory effect of TNF-α. Gene expression of IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α was down-regulated significantly (p < 0.05) in a dose-dependent manner in all treatment groups compared to the arthritic control group. In conclusion, this study validated the anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory properties of CBEE and CBAF in a time and dose-dependent manner.

Suppression of Lipopolysaccharide-Induced IL-1β Gene Expression by High-Molecular-Weight Adiponectin in RAW264.7 Macrophages.

Adiponectin is an abundant adipocytokine secreted by adipocytes. It exists in the plasma in its trimeric, hexameric, high-molecular-weight (HMW), and globular (a proteolytic product) isoforms. Adiponectin's anti-inflammatory effects on macrophages remain controversial. We have previously reported a simple and effective method for purifying native HMW adiponectin from human plasma. Here, we investigated whether native HMW adiponectin from human plasma has anti-inflammatory effects on macrophages. Pretreatment with human native HMW adiponectin inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced interleukin-1β (IL-1β) gene expression, but not tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α expression. However, simultaneous treatment with HMW adiponectin and LPS did not inhibit IL-1β expression. Further, HMW adiponectin pretreatment decreases glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) inactivation by abrogating LPS-induced Akt (Ser473) phosphorylation, which subsequently suppresses LPS-induced CCAAT/enhancer binding protein β (C/EBPβ) protein translation and nuclear translocation. However, HMW adiponectin pretreatment did not affect LPS-induced nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) activation. These results suggest that HMW adiponectin mediates potent anti-inflammatory activities in macrophages by inhibiting its Akt-C/EBPβ signaling pathway, thereby suppressing IL-1β gene expression.

Probiotic Potential of Bacillus sp. 62A Isolated from a Marine Extreme Environment.

Antimicrobial resistance is an important health concern globally, and probiotics are considered an alternative to minimize it. The present study examined the in vitro probiotic characteristics and in vivo immunomodulatory potential of Bacillus sp. 62A - an extremophile bacterium. Bacillus sp. 62A was evaluated in vitro for its cytotoxicity, hemolytic activity, antibiotic susceptibility, and resistance to gastrointestinal conditions (bile salts, low pH, and intestinal adherence). Additionally, the immunomodulatory effect of Bacillus sp. 62A was studied in mice. The animals were supplemented daily with phosphate-buffered saline (control) and Bacillus sp. 62A at 1 × 108 colony forming units (CFU). Samples were taken on days 5 and 10. Isolated splenocytes were challenged with Escherichia coli for immunological analyses and immune-related gene expression. Serum and feces were collected for IgA and IgG determination. Bacillus sp. 62A did not show cytotoxicity, hemolytic activity, or resistance to antibiotics. Furthermore, the bacterium has autoaggregation and intestinal adhesion capacities and grows in the presence of bile salts and low pH. Bacillus supplementation in mice improved respiratory burst activity, nitric oxide production, and IL-1β and IL-6 gene expressions, mainly at 10days. After E. coli challenge, Bacillus supplementation in mice induced an anti-inflammatory response through a decrease in immunological parameters and an increase in IL-10 gene expression. Moreover, serum IgA and IgG and fecal IgG augmented in supplemented mice. In conclusion, Bacillus sp. 62A has biosafe and immunomodulatory probiotic potential.

Role and mechanism of MiR-542-3p in regulating TLR4 in nonylphenol-induced neuronal cell pyroptosis

BackgroundThis study aimed to investigate the spatial learning/memory and motor abilities of rats and the alteration of miR-542-3p and pyroptosis in the midbrain nigrostriatal area in vivo after nonylphenol (NP) gavage and to explore the mechanism of miR-542-3p regulation of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in NP-induced pyroptosis in BV2 microglia in vitro. MethodsIn vivo: Thirty-six specific-pathogen-free-grade Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into three equal groups: blank control group (treated with pure corn oil), NP group (treated with NP, 80 mg/kg body weight per day for 90 days), and positive control group [treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), 2 mg/kg body weight for 7 days]. In vitro: The first part of the experiment was divided into blank group (control, saline), LPS group [1 µg/ml + 1 mM adenosine triphosphate (ATP)], and NP group (40 µmol/L). The second part was divided into mimics NC (negative control) group, miR-542-3p mimics group, mimics NC + NP group, and miR-542-3p mimics + NP group. ResultsIn vivo: Behaviorally, the spatial learning/memory and motor abilities of rats after NP exposure declined, as detected via Y-maze, open field, and rotarod tests. Some microglia in the substantia nigra of the NP-treated rats were activated. The downregulation of miR-542-3p was observed in rat brain tissue after NP exposure. The mRNA/protein expression of pyroptosis-related indicators (TLR4), NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), apoptosis-associated speck-like protein (ASC), gasdermin-D (GSDMD), cysteinyl aspartate–specific proteinase-1 (caspase-1), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in the substantia nigra of the midbrain increased after NP exposure. In vitro: ASC fluorescence intensity increased in BV2 cells after NP exposure. The mRNA and/or protein expression of pyroptosis-related indicators (TLR4, NLRP3, GSDMD, caspase-1, and IL-1β) in BV2 cells was upregulated after NP exposure. The transfection of miR-542-3p mimics inhibited NP-induced ASC expression in BV2 cells. The overexpression of miR-542-3p, followed by NP exposure, significantly reduced TLR4, NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, and IL-1β gene and/or protein expression. ConclusionsThis study suggested that NP exposure caused a decline in spatial learning memory and whole-body motor ability in rats. Our study was novel in reporting that the upregulation of miR-542-3p targeting and regulating TLR4 could inhibit NLRP3 inflammatory activation and alleviate NP-induced microglia pyroptosis.

Lentivirus-based shRNA of Caspase-3 gene silencing inhibits chondrocyte apoptosis and delays the progression of surgically induced osteoarthritis.

Chondrocyte apoptosis is an important pathological feature of osteoarthritis (OA). Excessive apoptosis of chondrocytes disrupts the dynamic balance of cell proliferation and apoptosis, with a marked reduction in chondrocytes and cartilage matrix disintegration, which represents the main pathology of OA. Caspases, especially Caspase-3, play a central role in cell apoptosis. In this study, a lentiviral vector was used to transduce caspase-3 short hairpin RNA (shRNA) into rat chondrocytes (RCs), and the apoptotic and phenotypic genes of RCs were analyzed using real-time PCR and western blotting in vitro. In addition, in vivo intra-articular injection of Caspase-3 shRNA lentivirus was performed in a surgically induced OA rat model. Our results showed that Caspase-3 gene silencing could down-regulate the TNF-α-mediated inflammatory gene expression of TNFR1, FADD, and IL-1β, apoptotic gene expression of APAF1, Caspase-3, and Caspase-9, thereby attenuating the apoptotic pathway in vitro. Caspase-3 gene silencing also attenuated TNF-α-mediated decreased gene expression of ACAN, Col1-a1, and Col2-a1. Furthermore, Caspase-3 gene silencing could effectively reduce the OARSI score, and gene expression of Caspase-3, Caspase-9, MMP13, and TNF-α in a surgically induced OA rat model. Caspase-3 gene silencing may serve as a novel therapeutic strategy for cartilage injury and OA.

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Postbiotics Suppress Salmonella Infection via Modulating Bacterial Pathogenicity, Autophagy and Inflammasome in Mice.

Our study aimed to explore the effects of postbiotics on protecting against Salmonella infection in mice and clarify the underlying mechanisms. Eighty 5-week-old C57BL/6 mice were gavaged daily with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (LP)-derived postbiotics (heat-killed bacteria, LPBinactive; culture supernatant, LPC) or the active bacteria (LPBactive), and gavaged with Salmonella enterica Typhimurium (ST). The Turbidimetry test and agar diffusion assay indicated that LPC directly inhibited Salmonella growth. Real-time PCR and biofilm inhibition assay showed that LPC had a strong ability in suppressing Salmonella pathogenicity by reducing virulence genes (SopE, SopB, InvA, InvF, SipB, HilA, SipA and SopD2), pili genes (FilF, SefA, LpfA, FimF), flagellum genes (FlhD, FliC, FliD) and biofilm formation. LP postbiotics were more effective than LP on attenuating ST-induced intestinal damage in mice, as indicated by increasing villus/crypt ratio and increasing the expression levels of tight junction proteins (Occludin and Claudin-1). Elisa assay showed that LP postbiotics significantly reduced ST-induced inflammation by regulating the levels of inflammatory cytokines (the increased IL-4 and IL-10 and the decreased TNF-α) in serum and ileum (p < 0.05). Furthermore, LP postbiotics inhibited the activation of NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain-associated protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome by decreasing the protein expression of NLRP3 and Caspase-1, and the gene expression of Caspase-1, IL-1β and IL-18. Meanwhile, both LPC and LPB observably activated autophagy under ST infection, as indicated by the up-regulated expression of LC3 and Beclin1 and the downregulated p62 level (p < 0.05). Finally, we found that LP postbiotics could trigger an AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway to induce autophagy. In summary, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum-derived postbiotics alleviated Salmonella infection via modulating bacterial pathogenicity, autophagy and NLRP3 inflammasome in mice. Our results confirmed the effectiveness of postbiotics agents in the control of Salmonella infection.

EGCG inhibits the inflammation and senescence inducing properties of MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells-derived extracellular vesicles in human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells

BackgroundTriple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells’ secretome can induce a pro-inflammatory phenotype in human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADMSC). This can be prevented by the green tea polyphenol epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). The impact of EGCG on the paracrine regulation that the extracellular vesicles (EVs) specifically exert within the TNBC secretome remains unknown.MethodsEVs were obtained from a TNBC-derived serum-starved MDA-MB-231 cell model treated or not with EGCG under normoxic or hypoxic (< 1% O2) culture conditions. RNA-Seq analysis was used to assess the EVs’ genetic content. The modulation of inflammatory and senescence markers in hADMSC was evaluated by RT-qPCR using cDNA arrays and validated by immunoblotting. A protein profiler phospho-kinase array was used to explore signaling pathways.ResultsWhile hypoxic culture conditions did not significantly alter the genetic content of MDA-MB-231-secreted EVs, the addition of EGCG significantly modified EVs genetic material at low oxygen tension. Gene expression of cancer-associated adipocyte pro-inflammatory markers CXCL8, CCL2 and IL-1β was increased in hADMSC treated with EVs. Concomitantly, EVs isolated from MDA-MB-231 treated with EGCG (EGCG-EVs) downregulated CCL2 and IL-1β, while inducing higher expression of CXCL8 and IL-6 levels. EVs activated CHK-2, c-Jun, AKT and GSK-3β signaling pathways in hADMSC, whereas EGCG-EVs specifically reduced the latter two as well as the serum starvation-induced senescence markers p21 and β-galactosidase. Finally, the mitochondrial content within the TNBC cells-derived EVs was found reduced upon EGCG treatment.ConclusionThis proof of concept study demonstrates that the chemopreventive properties of diet-derived polyphenols may efficiently target the paracrine regulation that TNBC cells could exert upon their surrounding adipose tissue microenvironment.

Dietary Supplementation of Mixed Organic Acids Improves Growth Performance, Immunity, and Antioxidant Capacity and Maintains the Intestinal Barrier of Ira Rabbits.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of mixed organic acids (MOAs) on growth performance, immunity, antioxidants, intestinal digestion, and barrier function in Ira rabbits. A total of 192 weaned male Ira rabbits at 35 days of age were randomly assigned to four groups with six replicates of eight rabbits each. The rabbits in the control group (CON) were fed a basal diet, and the antibiotic group (SAL) was fed a basal diet supplemented with 60 mg/kg salinomycin. The test groups were fed a basal diet supplemented with 1000 mg/kg and 2000 mg/kg MOAs (MOA1 and MOA2, respectively). The experiment lasted for 55 days. The results showed that the ADG of Ira rabbits in the SAL group and MOA1 group was higher than that in the CON group (p < 0.05). The serum IL-6 and liver MDA levels of Ira rabbits in the SAL group, MOA1 group, and MOA2 group were lower than those in the CON group (p < 0.05). In addition, sIgA levels in the jejunal mucosa of Ira rabbits in the SAL group and MOA1 group were increased compared with those in the CON group (p < 0.05). Compared with the CON group, the gene expression of IL-6 was decreased (p < 0.05) in the jejunal mucosa of Ira rabbits in the SAL, MOA1, and MOA2 groups, while the gene expression of IL-1β tended to decrease (p = 0.077) and the IL-10 content tended to increase (p = 0.062). Moreover, the gene expression of ZO-1 in the jejunal mucosa of Ira rabbits was elevated in the MOA1 group compared with the CON group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary supplementation with MOAs can improve growth performance, enhance immune function and antioxidant capacity, and maintain the intestinal barrier in weaned Ira rabbits.

SAT425 Effects Of Endocrine-disrupting Polychlorinated Biphenyls On Adolescent Microglial Cytokine Expression And Responses To Secondary Inflammatory Challenge

Abstract Disclosure: S.L. Kissinger: None. A.J. Fitzgibbon: None. R.A. Mejia: None. M.R. Bell: None. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a group of ubiquitous environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), and exposure is associated with endocrine, neuronal, and immune dysfunction in various tissue types. Innate immune cells of the nervous system called microglia are critical in responding to infection and injury, and disruption of these functions is associated with neurodegenerative disease and mental health disorders. In addition, microglia are known to regulate developmental processes during neonatal and adolescent periods, in hormone-sensitive and age- and sex-differentiated ways. Work in our lab has shown that early life PCBs can affect microglia function in ways that depend on the age and sex of the individual rat in vivo. Ongoing work uses in vitro approaches to demonstrate direct effects on microglia. In primary culture, preliminary data suggest that acute PCB exposure causes neonatal microglia to become hyperresponsive to a secondary challenge; however, effects in adolescent microglia are unknown. To test the hypothesis that PCB exposure directly alters microglia activity in an age- and sex-specific manner, we determined the effects of PCBs on cytokine gene expression in acutely isolated microglia, with or without a secondary lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. Adolescent Sprague-Dawley rats underwent transcardial saline perfusion, brains were removed and homogenized into a single cell suspension with collagenase and mechanical disruption, and debris was removed. Microglia, identified as CD11b+ cells, were collected by magnetic bead isolation and plated in enriched media for 24 hours prior to experimentation. Cells were exposed to one of three concentrations of PCB 153 (0.1 µM, 1 µM, 10 µM), DMSO vehicle, or DMEM/F12 media control for 18 hours, followed by a 4-hour LPS challenge (0.5 µg/mL) or PBS vehicle control. RNA was isolated and converted to cDNA for qPCR analysis of Tnf and Il1b gene expression, analyzed by two-way (exposure x challenge) ANOVAs within both male and female cells. Results indicate that 1.0 µM PCB 153 exposure caused an increase in expression of both cytokines, more so in females than males. Preliminary results (n = 3) indicate that the 10 µM dose may also blunt the later LPS response. These results confirm that microglia are directly sensitive to PCBs, however they illustrate that cells may show differential responses depending on the stage of development. Continued work will explore acute cell toxicity and confirm release of cytokines. Adolescent microglia dysfunction from PCB exposure may be a mechanism of adolescent-onset disorders, or increased risk of neurodegenerative conditions triggered by additional challenges later in life. Presentation: Saturday, June 17, 2023

SAT427 Effects Of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) On Transcription Factor NFκB Activation In Neonatal Rat Microglia Primary Culture

Abstract Disclosure: C.E. Dressel: None. G.M. Valdez: None. M.R. Bell: None. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a class of persistent organic pollutants that are lipophilic and accumulate in the food chain. Despite bans on PCB production, human exposure continues and can cause disruptions in endocrine, nervous, and immune system functions. As such, PCBs may interfere with the actions of microglia, the innate immune cells of the central nervous system. Healthy microglia are critical for neural development, maintenance of neural functions, and responses to stress, injury, or infection. Initial studies of primary neonatal rat microglial cultures indicate that PCBs alter gene expression of proinflammatory cytokine TNF-α and IL-1β in response to a secondary inflammatory lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. Production of these cytokines is, in part, regulated by transcription factor NFκB. This experiment tests the hypothesis that PCBs alter NFκB activation in neonatal microglia. The forebrains of male and female neonatal Sprague-Dawley rats were dissected to remove meninges, homogenized with collagenase and gentle trituration, and plated on coverslips in DMEM FBS+ media to establish a primary mixed glial culture. After one week, microglia were subcultured using mild trypsin treatment and maintained in conditioned media for 24 hours. The microglia were then exposed to either PCB 153 (0.1 µM) or DMSO vehicle control (0.036%) for 18 hours. After 18 hours, the cells were treated with either LPS (0.5 µg/mL) or PBS vehicle control for 4 hours and then fixed. Immunocytochemistry was used to visualize NFκB and identify microglia, with anti-p65 and Ox42 antibodies, respectively. Coverslips were mounted with DAPI-containing media and the cells were imaged via confocal microscopy. In response to immune activation, NFκB typically translocates from the cytosol to the nucleus. Therefore, we assessed NFκB activation by quantifying p65 fluorescent pixel intensity and percentage of area covered in nuclear or cytoplasmic regions according to DAPI and Ox42 channel masks using ImageJ. A two-way ANOVA was used to identify the effects of PCB vs. DMSO exposure and LPS vs. PBS challenge. Preliminary data indicated that LPS increased the ratio of nuclear to cytosolic NFκB, as expected. PCB exposed cells tended to have lower NFκB presence in the nucleus and cell as a whole, but a greater proportion of NFκB staining localized within the nucleus relative to the rest of the cell. With the current sample (n=4-6 per group, 2-3 males and females each), no interactions between PCBs and LPS were observed. Continued work will increase sample size to explore sex differences and the time course of NFκB response to PCBs, which may help broaden our understanding of the mechanisms by which PCBs affect normal brain activity and disrupt healthy endocrine, immune, and neural development. Presentation: Saturday, June 17, 2023

Three-Dimensional Printed Poly (Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid)-Magnesium Composite Scaffolds for the Promotion of Osteogenesis Through Immunoregulation.

Scaffolds play an important role in bone tissue engineering. The ideal engineered scaffold needs to be biocompatible, bioactive, and able to regulate immune cells to enhance bone regeneration. In this study, magnesium (Mg)-contained poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) scaffolds (hereinafter, referred to as PLGA-2Mg) were fabricated by 3-dimensional printing using a mixture of PLGA and MgSO 4 powder. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) scaffolds (hereinafter, referred to as PLGA) were also fabricated by 3-dimensional printing and were used as control. The biocompatibility, immunoregulatory ability, and osteogenic properties of PLGA-2Mg were analyzed and compared with those of PLGA. The results indicate that the incorporation of Mg increased the Young modulus and surface roughness of the scaffold, but did not affect its degradation. The PLGA-2Mg further promoted the adhesion and proliferation of MC3T3-E1 cells compared with PLGA, which indicates its improved biocompatibility and bioactivity. In addition, PLGA-2Mg inhibited the polarization of RAW 264.7 cells toward the M1 phenotype by down-regulating the IL-1β , IL-6 , and iNOs gene expression when challenged with lipopolysaccharide stimulation. In contrast, it promoted the polarization of RAW 264.7 cells toward the M2 phenotype by up-regulating the TGF-β , IL-10 , and Arg-1 gene expression without lipopolysaccharide stimulation. Finally, MC3T3-E1 cells were cocultured with RAW 264.7 cells and scaffolds using a transwell system. It was found that the expression level of osteogenic-related genes ( ALP , COL-1 , BMP2 , and BSP ) was significantly upregulated in the PLGA-2Mg group compared with that in the PLGA group. Consequently, PLGA-2Mg with increased biocompatibility and bioactivity can promote osteogenesis through immunoregulation and has the potential to be used as a novel scaffold in bone tissue engineering.

Effect of syringic acid on oxidative stress, autophagy, apoptosis, inflammation pathways against testicular damage induced by lead acetate.

BackgroundHeavy metals are one of the environmental pollutants. Lead (Pb) is one of the most common of these heavy metals. In this study, it was aimed at investigating the effects of syringic acid (SA) against testicular toxicity in rats administered lead acetate (PbAc). MethodsIn the present study, a total of 35 Sprague-Dawley rats, 7 in each group, were used. The rats were divided into 5 groups, with 7 male rats in each group. Rats were given PbAc and SA orally for 7 days. The effects of PbAc and SA on epididymal sperm quality and apoptosis, inflammation, oxidative stress and histopathological changes in testicular tissue were determined. ResultsWhile PbAc disrupted the seminiferous tubules and produced atrophic images, SA corrected these histological abnormalities. PbAc adminisration significantly reduced the levels of SOD, GSH, GPx, CAT, NRF-2 and NQO1 and significantly increased the levels of MDA and 8-OHdG in the testicular tissue of rats, while SA improved this situation. NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-1β, NLRP3, RAGE, ATF6, PERK, IRE1, CHOP, and GRP78 genes expression levels increased with PbAc administration, however these levels decreased with SA administration. In addition, PbAc increased the levels of apoptotic markers Bax, Caspase-3 and APAF-1 and decreased the level of Bcl-2, while SA improved this situation. It was observed that PbAc significantly reduced sperm quality in rats, while SA positively affected sperm quality. ConclusionAs a result, SA administered against PbAc-induced testicular dysfunction in rats can provide effective protection at doses of 25 mg/kg/bw and 50 mg/kg/bw.