Serum Levels Of IL-6 Research Articles

The extracellular CIRP as a predictive marker for the endothelial dysfunction in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease combined with pulmonary hypertension

BackgroundPulmonary hypertension (PH) is a serious complication of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), distinguished by pulmonary endothelial dysfunction. The extracellular cold-inducible RNA-binding protein (eCIRP) is a damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) that triggers inflammation and causes vascular endothelial dysfunction in COPD-PH.MethodsThe expression levels of CIRP were compared in peripheral lung tissues among 40 individuals. Moreover, A prospective analysis was conducted on serum levels of eCIRP, interleukin (IL) 1β, IL-33, endothelin-1 (ET-1), and nitric oxide (NO) in 150 COPD patients and 50 healthy control individuals at Jiangsu Taizhou Peoples Hospital. The study aimed to compare these serum levels and correlations among COPD-PH group, COPD non-PH group and the normal group.ResultsWe found higher CIRP levels in COPD-PH compared to COPD non-PH and the normal in lung tissue samples. A prospective analysis showed higher serum levels of eCIRP, IL-1β, IL-33, and ET 1 in COPD-PH, while a noticeable reduction in NO levels. There exists a correlation between the severity of COPD-PH and elevated levels of eCIRP, proinflammatory cytokines like IL-1β and IL-33, along with indicators of endothelial dysfunction like endothelin-1 ET-1 and NO. Moreover, the serum eCIRP level demonstrated a notable positive correlation with the levels of IL-1β, IL-33, PCT, and ET-1, while displaying a negative correlation with NO and Peripheral Oxygen Saturation (SpO2). Moreover, the serum eCIRP level demonstrated a notable positive correlation with the levels of IL-1β, IL-33, PCT, and ET-1, while displaying a negative correlation with NO and SpO2. Moreover, an assessment of independent risk factors for COPD-PH with ROC curve analysis, gauged the predictive value of serum eCIRP, IL-1β, IL-33, ET-1, and NO levels in diagnosing COPD-PH. Elevated eCIRP, IL-33, and ET-1 levels significantly correlated with COPD-PH, highlighting eCIRP’s strong predictive value for this condition.ConclusioneCIRP levels could serve as a valuable biomarker for predicting endothelial dysfunction in COPD-PH.

Changes in serum concentration of perioperative inflammatory cytokines following the timing of surgery among mild–moderate traumatic brain injury patients and factors associated

BackgroundThe safe timing window for surgery during the acute phase of inflammation due to traumatic brain injury (TBI) has not been studied extensively. We aimed to elucidate the relationship between the timing of surgery and changes in perioperative serum levels of inflammatory cytokines and factors associated to optimize TBI management in low-middle-income countries.MethodsA prospective cohort study was conducted among TBI Patients with depressed skull fractures with a GCS > 8 operated at different timing from injury and followed up peri-operatively. We collected the clinical-radiological data, as well as pre-and postoperative venous samples from participants; we then did Luminex Assay to quantify the serum levels of pro/anti-inflammatory cytokines using the kits of 96-well human cytokine “27-Plex-Assay (#M500KCAF0Y®).” We performed the analysis with STATA version 17 and R_studio applying both descriptive and inferential methods.ResultsWe enrolled 82 TBI patients with a median (IQR) age of 25.5 (20–34) years, and the majority were male (85.4%). There were 48.8% victims of assaults, and 73.2% had a post-resuscitation admission GCS of 14–15. There were 38 (46.3%) who were operated within 48 h of injury versus 44 (53.7%) after 48 h. Serum levels of TNF-α were significantly higher after surgeries done >48 h compared to those done ≤48 h (p = 0.0327); whereas, the difference in post-operative mean serum levels of IL-10 was significantly increased in patients who developed later SSI compared to those who did not (11.56 versus −0.58 pg./mL, p = 0.0489). In multivariate analysis, the history of post-traumatic seizure (PTS) was associated with a postoperative increase in TNF-α (p = 0.01), the hemoglobin of 10–12 with a postoperative decrease of IL-4 (p = 0.05); the presence of focal neurological deficit was associated with a significant postoperative increased of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-4 (p = 0.05). The presence of extra-axial hemorrhage was associated with a postoperative increase of IL-10 (p = 0.05).ConclusionDelayed surgical intervention beyond 48 h post-injury in mild–moderate TBI patients results in a significantly increased postoperative inflammatory response, as evidenced by elevated serum levels of TNF-α and IL-6. Neurological deficits, PTS, reduced hemoglobin rate, and extra-axial intracranial hemorrhage are factors associated with this heightened response.

Single Nucleotide Polymorphism of IL-18 (Rs 1946519) in Recurrent Aborted Iraqi Women and Its Association with Toxoplasmosis

Background: We aimed to shed light on the risks of elevated levels of IL-18 in aborted women with toxoplasmosis by evaluating the risk or protective function of alleles or genotypes for single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of IL-18 (rs 1946519), which might be related to the susceptibility to toxoplasmosis. Methods: IL-18 levels in patient and control blood samples were determined using ELISA, and the SNP IL-18 (ra 1946519) was subjected to the high-resolution method. Results: Compared to healthy pregnant women (HP), the IL-18 serum levels of recurrent abortion with toxoplasmosis (RAWT), recurrent abortion without toxoplasmosis (RAWOT), and healthy non-pregnant (HNP) women decreased with significant differences. Additionally, a strong association between patients and controls was found in the SNP IL-18 data. RAWT and RAWOT with the genotypes AA and AC had significantly lower IL-18 serum levels than women HP, according to the distribution of IL-18 serum levels by SNP. Conclusion: The serum level of IL-18 varied by genotype in patients with substantial differences compared to controls, while the SNP of IL-18 has been linked as a risk factor in toxoplasmosis-infected recurrent abortion women.

Modulation of 8-Oxoguanine DNA Glycosylase 1 (OGG1) Alleviated Anemia Severity and Excessive Cytokines Release during Plasmodium berghei Malaria in Mice

Background: The interplay of OGG1, 8-Oxoguanine, and oxidative stress triggers the exaggerated release of cytokines during malaria, which worsens the outcome of the disease. We aimed to investigate the involvement of OGG1 in malaria and assess the effect of modulating its activity on the cytokine environment and anemia during P. berghei malaria in mice. Methods: Plasmodium berghei ANKA infection in ICR mice was used as a malaria model. OGG1 concentration and oxidative stress levels in P. berghei-infected mice and their control counterparts were assessed during malaria using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. OGG1 activity in malaria mice was modulated using treatment with TH5487 and O8-OGG1 inhibitors. The effects of modulating OGG1 activity using OGG1 inhibitors on cytokine release and anemia during P. berghei malaria infection were assessed by cytometric bead array and measurement of total normal red blood cell count respectively. Results: The plasma OGG1 level was significantly upregulated and positively correlated with parasitemia during P. berghei malaria in mice. Modulation of OGG1 ameliorated malaria severity by improving the total normal RBC count in TH5487 and O8-treated mice. Modulation of OGG1 with TH5487 caused significant reductions in serum levels of TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-6, and IL-10. Similarly, OGG1 modulation activity using an O8-OGG1 inhibitor caused a significant reduction in serum levels of TNF-α, IL-2, IL-6, and IL-10. Conclusion: The findings indicate the involvement of OGG1 in the P. berghei malaria infection. OGG1 inhibition by TH5487 and O8-OGG1 inhibitors suppressed excessive cytokine release, and this may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for ameliorating the severity of malaria infection.

Diagnostic value of nasal sinus computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging examination and serum cytokines in unilateral benign sphenoid sinus lesions

ObjectivesDue to the unique anatomical location of the sphenoid sinus and the extremely limited operational space during endoscopic nasal surgeries, even minor procedural errors can lead to severe complications. Hence, comprehensive preoperative assessment is crucial. It was to retrospectively analyze the diagnostic value of nasal sinus computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and serum interleukin (IL) cytokine levels for unilateral benign sphenoid sinus lesions (UBSSLs). Materials and methodsClinical data from 85 suspected UBSSL patients were collected. Surgical pathology served as the gold standard for evaluation, assessing the diagnostic value of nasal sinus CT, MRI, and serum IL-4, IL-9, and IL-17 levels. ResultsSurgical pathology confirmed 53 cases of UBSSLs. Relative to non-UBSSL patients, those with unilateral benign lesions showed greatly elevated serum levels of IL-4, IL-9, and IL-17 (P < 0.05). The detection rate of UBSSL using the combined CT + MRI approach was significantly higher than that of CT or MRI alone. Similarly, the combined detection rate of IL-4, IL-9, and IL-17 was significantly higher than that of IL-4, IL-9, or IL-17 individually. The detection rate of CT + MRI (88.68%) was higher than that of the IL-4+IL-9+IL-17 combination (75.47%) (P < 0.05). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves for diagnosing UBSSL using serum IL combinations, sinus CT + MRI, and IL combinations + CT + MRI were 0.812, 0.840, and 0.905, respectively. Moreover, the accuracy and sensitivity of the IL combinations + CT + MRI approach were higher than those of either the serum IL combinations or sinus CT + MRI alone. ConclusionElevated IL-4, IL-9, and IL-17 were associated with UBSSLs, and their combination with nasal sinus CT/MRI can enhance the diagnostic accuracy of this condition.

Effects of probiotics on clinical manifestations and inflammatory markers in HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis: A triple blind randomized, placebo controlled trial

Human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1), leads to adult T-cell lymphoma/leukemia (ATL) and HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) in a minority of infected individuals. The virus promotes inflammation, a major factor in chronic disease progression. Probiotics' immune modulation and anti-inflammatory effects present a potential therapeutic intervention for HTLV-1-related conditions. This study investigates the impact of probiotics on both clinical manifestations and inflammatory markers in HAM/TSP patients.Conducted at the HTLV-1 clinic of Ghaem Hospital (Mashhad, Iran) between 2019 and 2020, this study randomized 40 HAM/TSP patients into two groups: an intervention group receiving 500 mg LactoCare capsules twice daily and a control group receiving placebo capsules of identical appearance for 12 weeks. Baseline and follow-up assessments included muscle strength, spasticity, motor disability, urinary disturbance, and serum levels of IL-10, IL-4, and IFN-γ (measured by ELISA). Post-intervention analysis revealed no significant differences between intervention and control groups in muscle strength, spasticity, and motor disability. However, significant improvement was observed in the intervention group regarding urinary symptoms after 12 weeks of initiation of intervention (P = 0.003). No significant changes were detected in serum levels of IL-10, IL-4, and IFN-γ between the two groups. The probiotics showed positive effects on urinary symptoms in HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis patients but did not significantly impact other clinical or paraclinical parameters within the 12-week study period. These findings suggest that probiotics may offer symptomatic relief for some symptoms of HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis patients.

Elevated IL-10 serum levels are associated with slower serological response following syphilis treatment during pregnancy.

Approximately 50% of pregnant individuals treated for syphilis do not achieve a decline in non-treponemal titers by delivery. The serological response in pregnant persons is significantly slower compared to non-pregnant individuals, with unclear pathogenesis and clinical significance. This study aimed to determine the association between the host immune response and serological outcome in pregnant individuals with syphilis. Twenty-four females with early syphilis, including 14 pregnant individuals, were included. Pro-inflammatory and regulatory cytokines (IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-1β, IL-10, TGF-β) were measured before treatment and 6 months after penicillin injection. The median time to serological cure was 5months for pregnant individuals and 2months for non-pregnant females. Pregnant individuals had significantly higher serum levels of IL-10 and TGF-β at baseline and at 6months post-treatment compared to non-pregnant individuals (p < .05). A robust regulatory immune response to syphilis may be associated with a slower serological response to therapy during pregnancy.

Blood Inflammatory Markers and Cytokines in COVID-19 Patients With Bacterial Coinfections.

Bacterial coinfection in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection is an important risk factor for death. This study investigated whether there were differences in levels of serum inflammatory markers in COVID-19 patients with bacterial coinfections compared with those without bacterial infection. A total of 235 inpatients with SARS-CoV-2 infection admitted to Qingdao Central Hospital from December 7, 2022, to August 7, 2024, were included. Patients were divided into a bacteria-positive group (115 cases) and a bacteria-negative group (120 cases) according to whether they had bacterial coinfections. PCT, CRP, and 12 kinds of cytokines were compared between groups, and the distribution of bacterial species in the positive group was statistically analyzed. The serum levels of CRP (Z = 8.94, p < 0.001), PCT (Z = 5.59, p < 0.001), IL-1β (t = 4.863, p < 0.001), IL-2 (t = 5.810, p < 0.001), IL-5 (t = 3.837, p < 0.001), IL-6 (t = 4.910, p < 0.001), IL-8 (t = 3.325, p < 0.001), ILIL-12p70 (t = 4.722, p < 0.001), IL-17 (t = 3.315, p = 0.001) and TNF-α (t = 4.251, p < 0.001) between the two groups were significantly different. IL-4, IL-10, IFN-α, and IFN-γ were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Among the 115 bacteria-positive patients, 56 patients were positive for one species and 59 patients were multiple infections. Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Haemophilus influenzae were common species. Serum PCT and CRP levels in COVID-19 patients with bacterial coinfection are higher than those without bacterial infection. Cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-2, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-12p70, IL-17, and TNF-α may be involved in the progression of COVID-19 combined with bacterial infection. They can be used as potential markers to evaluate the disease condition and prognosis.

Randomised Clinical Trial Study: The Combination of Vitamin D and Curcumin Piperine Attenuates Disease Activity and Pro-inflammatory Cytokines Levels Insystemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients.

Curcumin-piperine might synergise with vitamin D to induce clinical remission in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). To observe the improvement of patients with SLE clinically and the levels of inflammatory cytokines after receiving supplements of curcumin-piperine and cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3). Forty-five female SLE patients were included in a three-month double-blind, randomized controlled trial. Participants were classified into: Group I (400 IU cholecalciferol + placebo three times daily, n = 15), Group II (600 mg curcumin + 15,800 m piperine once daily and three times daily placebo, n = 15), and Group III (cholecalciferol 400 IU three times and 600 mg curcumin + 15,800 mg piperine once a day, n = 15). Mexican SLE disease activity score (Mex- SLEDAI), fatigue severity scale (FSS), TGF-β, and IL-6 levels were measured from all patients before and after the treatments. Mex-SLEDAI, FSS, and IL-6 were reduced significantly, while TGF-β serum levels were increased in all groups after the treatments (p <0.05). Changes in Mex-SLEDAI score (p = 0.003 and p = 0.008), FSS (p = 0.001 and p <0.001), and TGF-β (p = 0.003 and p = 0.004) serum levels were significantly higher in group III compared to the group I or group II. On the other hand, changes in Mex-SLEDAI, FSS, IL-6, and TGF-β serum levels were similar between groups I and II. Although vitamin D or curcumin-piperine alone could improve the clinical outcome and cytokines levels in SLE, curcumin-piperine combined with vitamin D had the best outcome in improving the disease activity and cytokines levels among patients with SLE. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT05430087).

Piperine and piperine-loaded albumin nanoparticles ameliorate adjuvant-induced arthritis and reduce IL-17 in rats

AimRheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the most common chronic, inflammatory, autoimmune diseases affecting mainly the joints. Piperine (PIP), an alkaloid found in black pepper, has anti-inflammatory properties and its use in drug delivery systems such as nanoparticles might be a treatment for RA. This study aims to evaluate the possible anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects of PIP and its use in albumin nanoparticles as a possible approach for the treatment of Adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) rats. MethodsPIP-loaded Bovine Serum Albumin nanoparticles (PIP-BSA NPs) were prepared using a desolvation method. AIA rats were given intraperitoneal injections of either 40 mg PIP or 131 mg PIP-BSA NPs every two days until day 28 when animals were sacrificed. Clinical score, histopathology, X-ray radiography, and serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-17, and TNF-α were evaluated. ResultsPIP and PIP-BSA NPs significantly reduced clinical scores, and alleviated inflammation within the joints. PIP was superior to PIP-BSA NPs for the alleviation of fibrin deposition and periosteal reactions while bone inflammation and erosion were less severe in the case of PIP-BSA NPs. Besides, both of the treatments suppressed serum levels of IL-17 in AIA rats (p = 0.003 and p = 0.02; respectively). ConclusionsPIP and PIP-BSA NPs effectively alleviate the severity of AIA and suppress inflammation. Due to the superiority of PIP in improving fibrin deposition and periosteal reactions and the efficacy of PIP-BSA NPs in suppressing bone inflammation and erosion, their simultaneous use might be investigated.

Serum Levels of IL-27 and IL-30 as Predictor of Disease Activity and Treatment Response in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Case-Control Study

Serum Levels of IL-27 and IL-30 as Predictor of Disease Activity and Treatment Response in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Case-Control Study

Secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor influences periarticular joint inflammation in B. burgdorferi -infected mice.

Lyme disease, caused by Borrelia burgdorferi , is the most common tick-borne infection in the United States. Arthritis is a major clinical manifestation of infection, and synovial tissue damage has been attributed to the excessive pro-inflammatory responses. The secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) promotes tissue repair and exerts anti-inflammatory effects. The role of SLPI in the development of Lyme arthritis in C57BL/6 mice, which can be infected with B. burgdorferi , but only develop mild joint inflammation, was therefore examined. SLPI -deficient C57BL/6 mice challenged with B. burgdorferi had a higher infection load in the tibiotarsal joints and marked periarticular swelling, compared to infected wild type control mice. The ankle joint tissues of B. burgdorferi- infected SLPI -deficient mice contained significantly higher percentages of infiltrating neutrophils and macrophages. B. burgdorferi -infected SLPI -deficient mice also exhibited elevated serum levels of IL-6, neutrophil elastase, and MMP-8. Moreover, using a recently developed BASEHIT ( BA cterial S election to E lucidate H ost-microbe I nteractions in high T hroughput) library, we found that SLPI directly interacts with B. burgdorferi . These data demonstrate the importance of SLPI in suppressing periarticular joint inflammation in Lyme disease.

The Interaction of Second Trimester Prenatal Maternal Inflammation and Psychosocial Stress on Offspring Depressive Symptoms in Adolescence

BackgroundHigher second trimester (T2) prenatal maternal inflammation (PNMI) and prenatal maternal psychosocial stress have been shown to independently contribute to offspring depression risk. Similarly, interactions between sources of inflammation and maternal daily life stress in T2, previously have been associated with increased offspring adolescent depressive symptoms. We aimed to extend previous findings by examining the potential interaction between exposure to higher T2 PNMI and maternal daily life stress on offspring depressive symptoms in adolescence. Methods614 mother-offspring dyads from the Child Health and Development Studies (CHDS) had data available for T2 maternal serum interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra), and soluble TNF receptor-II (sTNF-RII), presence/absence of maternal reported daily life stress coded from interviews primarily conducted in T2, and adolescent offspring (ages 15-18 years) depressive symptoms assessed via self-report. Interactions were evaluated using hierarchical multiple regressions, controlling for maternal education. ResultsMaternal daily life stress interacted with higher serum levels of maternal T2 IL-6 and T2 IL-8 to predict adolescent offspring depressive symptoms. Higher IL-6 and higher IL-8 were only associated with offspring depression in the presence of daily life stress. Maternal T2 IL-1ra and sTNF-RII were not associated with offspring adolescent depressive symptoms. ConclusionThe interaction of the adverse impacts of maternal daily life stress and higher maternal IL-6 and/or IL-8 levels during the second trimester may contribute significantly to exacerbate depression risk in adolescent offspring. These results have potential implications for multiple targets of future early intervention and prevention research.

Mechanism of Pyroptosis in Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction Rats and α7-nicotinic Receptor Agonist Regulating NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation

Background: This study investigates the efficacy of α7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) agonists in mitigating postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) in a rat model. This investigation aimed to elucidate the therapeutic potential of α7nAChR agonists in modulating neuroinflammatory pathways to improve cognitive outcomes post-surgery. Objective: Serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18 were measured as markers of systemic inflammation, while the expression levels of NLRP3 mRNA were quantified to evaluate pyroptosis and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Methods: Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into control (no surgery), POCD (surgeryinduced), and POCD treated with an α7nAChR agonist. Cognitive function was assessed using the Morris Water Maze (MWM) and Novel Object Recognition (NOR) tests. Results: The results showed a notable cognitive impairment in the group with POCD, as shown by increased escape latency noted in the MWM test and decreased discrimination index in the NOR test, while controls had no change. However, treatment with the α7nAChR agonist led to a significant improvement in cognitive performance among the POCD rats such that it closely matched those of the controls. Furthermore, the POCD group exhibited elevated serum levels of IL-1β and IL-18 and increased expression of pyroptosis-related markers, indicating enhanced neuroinflammation and inflammasome activation. Conclusion: These findings highlighted the therapeutic efficacy of α7nAChR agonists in mitigating neuroinflammation and improving cognitive outcomes post-surgery. Our study supports the potential of targeting the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway, emphasizing clinical evaluation of α7nAChR agonists in postoperative patients.

Liuwei Buqi Formula delays progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in rats by regulating the NLRP3/caspase-1/GSDMD pyroptosis pathway

To explore the therapeutic mechanism of Liuwei Buqi (LWBQ) Formula for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in rat models. SD rat models of COPD established by cigarette smoking combined with intratracheal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) instillation and hormone injection were treated with LWBQ Formula by gavage with or without intraperitoneal injection of MCC950 for 3 weeks, starting at the 5th week of modeling. After the treatments, the rats were examined for lung pathologies, lung function, total cell count and white blood cell count in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and serum levels of IL-6, TNF-α, IL-18 and NO. The mRNA expressions of NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, GSDMD-N, IL-1β, and IL-18 in the lung tissue were detected with qRT-PCR. Compared with the normal control rats, the COPD rat models had severe lung pathologies and showed significantly decreased lung function, increased total cell and leukocyte subset counts in BALF, and increased serum levels of IL-6, TNF-α, IL-18 and NO and mRNA expressions of pyroptosis-related proteins in the lung tissue. Treatment of the rat models with LWBQ Formula significantly improved lung pathology and lung function, reduced total cell and leukocyte counts in BALF, and decreased serum levels of the inflammatory factors and expressions of pyroptosis-related proteins in the lung tissue. The combined treatment with MCC950 further improved lung pathology and function in spite of a significant difference, but BALF cell counts, serum inflammatory factor levels and pulmonary expressions of pyroptosis-related proteins were all significantly reduced following the treatment. LWBQ Formula can delay the progression of COPD in rats possibly by inhibiting lung tissue pyroptosis via regulating the NLRP3/caspase-1/GSDMD pathway to reduce inflammatory response and lung damage.

Effects of esketamine combined with dexmedetomidine on postoperative delirium and quality of recovery in elderly patients undergoing thoracoscopic radical lung cancer surgery: a randomized controlled trial.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of esketamine (Esk) combined with dexmedetomidine (Dex) on postoperative delirium (POD) and quality of recovery (QoR) in elderly patients undergoing thoracoscopic radical lung cancer surgery. In this prospective, randomized, and controlled study, 172 elderly patients undergoing thoracoscopic radical lung cancer surgery were divided into two groups: the Esk+Dex group (n=86) and the Dex group a (n=86). The primary outcome was the incidence of POD within 7days after surgery and the overall Quality of Recovery-15 (QoR-15) scores within 3days after surgery. Secondary outcomes included postoperative adverse reactions, extubation time, PACU stay, and hospitalization time. Serum levels of IL-6, IL-10, S100β protein, NSE, CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ were detected from T0 to T5. Compared with the Dex group, the incidence of POD in the Esk+Dex group was significantly lower at 7days after surgery (14.6% vs 30.9%; P=0.013). The QoR-15 score was significantly increased 3days after surgery (P<0.01). Levels of IL-6 and CD8+ were significantly decreased, and IL-10 levels were significantly increased at T1-T2 (P<0.05). At T1-T4, NSE levels were significantly decreased, while CD3+ and CD4+/CD8+ values were significantly increased (P<0.01). At T1-T5, serum S100β protein concentration decreased significantly, and CD4+ value increased significantly (P<0.01). The incidence of nausea/vomiting and hyperalgesia decreased significantly 48hours after surgery (P<0.01). The duration of extubation, PACU stay, and postoperative hospitalization were significantly shortened. Esketamine combined with dexmedetomidine can significantly reduce the POD incidence and improve the QoR in patients undergoing thoracoscopic radical lung cancer surgery, which may be related to the improvement of cellular immune function.

Plumbagin protect against sepsis-induced myocardial injury in mice by inhibiting the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway to reduce cardiomyocyte pyroptosis

To explore the mechanism of plumbagin for protecting against sepsis-induced myocardial injury in mice. Network pharmacology analysis was used to obtain the key targets of plumbagin and diseases, which were subjected to GO and KEGG analysis, and the binding energy was verified using molecular docking. In a mouse model of cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), the protective effect of plumbagin treatment prior to CLP against sepsis-induced myocardial injury was evaluated by examination of myocardial function and pathology using echocardiography and HE staining. Serum levels of CK-MB, LDH, MDA, IL-1β and IL-18 and myocardial ROS level in the mice were detected, and Western blotting was used to determine the protein expression levels of STAT3, GSDMD, caspase-11, JAK2, P-STAT3, P-JAK2, GSDMD-N and HMGB1 in the myocardial tissues. Five core targets were screened from the 10 intersecting genes. Molecular docking showed strong binding affinity of plumbagin to STAT3, p-STAT3, and JAK2. Compared with the sham-operated mice, the mouse models of CLP-induced sepsis had significantly decreased CO, LVEF, LVFS and SV and increased serum levels of CK-MB, LDH, MDA and myocardial inflammatory factors and ROS. HE staining and Western blotting showed obvious myocardial injury in the septic mice with increased expressions of JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway and pyroptosis-related proteins (P < 0.05). Pretreatment with plumbagin significantly improved cardiac functions of CLP mice, lowered serum levels of CK-MB, LDH, MDA, inflammatory factors and myocardial ROS, and decreased the expression levels of JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway and pyroptosis-related proteins. Plumbagin pretreatment alleviates myocardial injury in septic mice possibly by inhibiting the STAT3 signaling pathway to reduce cardiomyocyte pyroptosis.

Maggot alleviates imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin lesions in mice by inhibiting immune stress and complement activation

To explore the therapeutic mechanism of maggot for psoriasis-like lesions in mice from the perspective of immune stress and complement activation regulation. Thirty-six male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into control group, model group, maggot (1.25%, 2.5%, and 5%) groups, and Benvitimod (1%) group. Psoriasis-like lesions were induced by application of imiquimod cream, and the severity of skin lesions was assessed using the modified Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (MPASI) score. Auricular swelling of the mice was observed, and histopathological changes of the skin lesions were examined with HE staining. Scratching behavior of the mice was observed and the spleen index was calculated. Toluidine blue staining was used to detect mast cells in the skin lesions, and serum levels of IgG, IgM, the complements CH50, C1s, C3, C3a, C5 and C5a, and the inflammatory factors IL-23, IL-17A and TNF-α were determined with ELISA. In mice with imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin lesions, treatment with the maggot at the 3 doses significantly decreased MPASI score, alleviated auricular swelling and pathologies in the skin lesions, reduced scratching behaviors, spleen index, and the number of mast cells in the lesions. Treatment with high-dose maggot significantly lowered serum levels of IgG, C1s, C3a, C5a, IL-23, IL-17A and TNF- α and the levels of C1s, C3, C3a, C5 and C5a in the lesion tissue, and increased serum levels of CH50, C3, and C5. The therapeutic effect of maggot showed a dose-effect dependence. Maggot can alleviate psoriasislike skin lesions in mice by inhibiting immune stress and complement activation.

Extraction and Identification of Polysaccharide from Lentinus edodes and Its Effect on Immunosuppression and Intestinal Barrier Injury Induced by Cyclophosphamide.

Lentinus edodes serves as a significant source of both medicine and food, with its key component, lentinan (LNT), recognized as an effective immunomodulator. However, the mechanisms by which it regulates immune and intestinal functions under conditions of immunosuppression remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the components of lentinan and examine its potential effects on countering cyclophosphamide (CP)-induced immunosuppression, intestinal barrier damage, and dysregulation of gut microbiota. In this study, the effects of LNT were evaluated by serological indicators, histopathological changes in ileum, tight-junction-related protein expression, cytokine expression levels, and gut microbiota 16S rRNA gene sequencing. We found that LNT was effective in mitigating the abnormalities in body weight, immune organ index, and serum levels of IL-6, IL-2, IFN-γ, and IgG in mice induced by CP (p < 0.05). Furthermore, LNT demonstrated the ability to alleviate intestinal barrier damage induced by CP by increasing the mRNA levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IFN-γ, Occludin, and ZO-1 (p < 0.05). Additionally, 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that LNT also normalized the disrupted abundance of Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Bacteroidets caused by CP. This restoration brought the gut microbiota back to normal levels and increased the abundance of certain tumor-inhibiting bacteria, such as Alistipes. Overall, lentinan demonstrated the ability to reverse the immunosuppressive effects induced by cyclophosphamide and modulate gut microbiota to restore a healthy microbial balance.

Effects of Nigella sativa on disease activity, T lymphocytes and inflammatory cytokine profiles in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus: A randomized controlled trial

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease with diverse manifestations, requiring long-term treatment that can have side effects, particularly in pediatric patients. Nigella sativa (NS) has shown potential for improving SLE symptoms due to its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the immunomodulatory effect of N. sativa oil (NSO) on disease activity, T lymphocyte activity and inflammatory cytokine profiles in pediatric SLE patients. A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted at Saiful Anwar Hospital in Malang, Indonesia, from January 2022 to January 2023. Pediatric patients with SLE were randomly assigned to receive either one gram of NSO or a placebo containing starch in capsule form as adjunct therapy alongside their SLE primary treatment. Blood samples were collected before treatment and after eight weeks of daily capsules. Disease activity was assessed using the SLE Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K); flow cytometry was used to identify T helper lymphocytes, and serum cytokine levels were measured using ELISA. The statistical analysis tests were performed to compare the outcomes between groups at baseline or after the treatment, and within-group comparisons before and after the study period, as appropriate. A total of 32 patients were included in the study. A significant decrease in the SLEDAI-2K score was observed at post-treatment in both the NSO and placebo groups (p&lt;0.001 and p=0.025, respectively). The percentage of T helper 17 (Th17) cells was significantly reduced in both the NSO and placebo groups post-treatment compared to pre-treatment (p=0.026 and p=0.034, respectively). Conversely, the post-treatment percentage of regulatory T (Treg) cells increased significantly in both groups. A significant reduction in interleukin (IL)-2 levels was observed in the NSO and placebo groups at post-treatment compared to pre-treatment (p=0.006 and p=0.046, respectively). Additionally, there were increases in IL-4 and IL-6 serum levels in both groups at post-treatment compared to pre-treatment (p&lt;0.05). This study highlights that although disease activity was not significantly different between NSO and placebo groups, NSO could affect the inflammatory cytokine profiles in pediatric SLE patients.