Serum Tumor Necrosis Factor-α Research Articles

Study on Antidepressant Activity of Pseudo-Ginsenoside HQ on Depression-Like Behavior in Mice.

Suppressive effects of ginsenoside Rh2 (Rh2), (24R)-pseudo-ginsenoside HQ (R-PHQ), and (24S)-pseudo-ginsenoside HQ (S-PHQ) against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced depression-like behavior were evaluated using the forced swimming test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST) in mice. Pretreatment with Rh2, R-PHQ, and S-PHQ significantly decreased immobility time in FST and TST with clear dose-dependence, and significantly downregulated levels of serum tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6, and upregulated superoxide dismutase activity in the hippocampus of LPS-challenged mice. Furthermore, R-PHQ and S-PHQ significantly increased the expression of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB), sirtuin type 1 (Sirt1), and nuclear-related factor 2, and inhibited the phosphorylation of inhibitor of κB-α and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) in the hippocampus of LPS-challenged mice. Additionally, the antidepressant-like effect of R-PHQ was found related to the dopaminergic (DA), γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic, and noradrenaline systems, while the antidepressive effect of S-PHQ was involved in the DA and GABAergic systems. Taken together, these results suggested that Rh2, R-PHQ, and S-PHQ produced significant antidepressant-like effects, which may be related to the BDNF/TrkB and Sirt1/NF-κB signaling pathways.

Anti-Inflammation Effect of Small Molecule Oligopeptides Prepared from Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer in Rats.

The present study was designed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of ginseng oligopeptides (GOPs). For the anti-inflammatory activity, dextran-induced paw edema and granuloma models were used in Sprague-Dawley rats (180–200 g, 12 weeks old, n = 10). Rats were treated orally with GOPs (0, 62.5, 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg) for prophylaxis. In the granuloma model, the levels of NO, Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin IL-β, and interleukin IL-10 in serum were evaluated. In addition, in the edema model, the level of TNF-α, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), Leukotriene D4 (LTD4), and the platelet activating factor (RAF) in paw tissue were detected. PCR assessed the effect of GOPs on the expression of MAPK and NF-κB. The results showed that oral administration of GOPs inhibited inflammation caused by cotton pellet and dextran. GOPs significantly inhibited the edema formation via MAPK and NF-κB. These findings suggested that GOPs have a beneficial effect on acute and chronic inflammation, and the mechanism possibly mediated by inhibiting gene expression involved in inflammation and downregulating inflammatory mediators.

The clinical study of Tongbi capsule combined with acupuncture in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis

Objective To explore the clinical effect of Tongbi capsule combined with acupuncture for the patients with knee osteoarthritis and explore the mechanism of inflammatory response and hemorrheology. Methods According to the random table method, 88 KOA patients in our hospital from February 2016 to January 2017 were divided into the control group and the research group with 44 in each group. Patients in the control group were treated bycelecoxib capsule, while the patients in the research group were treated by Tongbi capsule combined with acupuncture. The treatment courses of two groups were two months. The clinical total effective rate of two groups of patients were compared after treatment. At the same time, the osteoarthritis index visual scale (WOMAC) and morning stiffness, joint tenderness index score were detected and compared after the treatment.The levels of serum tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 were detected by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay before and after the treatment. The hemorheology indexes were tested by automatic biochemical analyzer. In addition, the incidence of adverse reactions of two groups of patients was observed during treatment. Results The clinical total effective rate of the research group was 93.18% (41/44), which was significantly higher than the control group72.73% (32/44), and the difference was statistically significant (χ2=6.510, P=0.011). After treatment, the WOMAC (31.26 ± 6.12 vs. 36.17 ± 7.09, t=-3.477), joint tenderness index (1.75 ± 0.46 vs. 2.11 ± 0.54, t=-3.366) and morning stiffness score (1.62 ± 0.53 vs. 2.14 ± 0.51, t=-4.690) of the research group were significantly lower than those of the control group (P<0.05). The levels of TNF-α (7.36 ± 1.45 pg/ml vs. 8.02 ± 1.54 pg/ml, t=-2.070), IL-1β (27.82 ± 5.22 μg/ml vs. 33.05 ± 5.17 μg/ml, t=-4.722), IL-6 (2.81 ± 0.58 ng/ml vs. 3.34 ± 0.53 ng/ml, t=-4.475) of the research group were significantly lower than those of the control group (P<0.05). The whole blood high shear viscosity (12.09 ± 3.46 mPa•s vs. 14.22 ± 3.51 mPa•s, t=-2.867), whole blood low shear viscosity (2.53 ± 0.68 mPa•s vs. 3.32 ± 0.71 mPa•s, t=-5.330), whole blood viscosity (1.35 ± 0.29 mPa•s vs. 1.60 ± 0.41 mPa•s, t=-3.302), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (7.10 ± 2.06 mm/h vs. 8.02 ± 2.13 mm/h, t=-2.059), fibrinogen (2.71 ± 0.53 g/L vs. 3.42 ± 0.65 g/L, t=-5.615) and erythrocyte deformation index (0.57 ± 0.16 vs. 0.71 ± 0.19, t=-3.739) of the research group were significantly lower than those of the control group (P<0.05). The incidence of adverse reactions of control group was 11.37% (5/44), while the incidence of adverse reactions of resarch group was 6.82% (3/44), which the difference of the incidence of adverse reactions between two groups showed no statistical significance (χ2=0.550, P=0.458). Conclusions The Tongbi capsule combined with acupuncture can reduce the degree of inflammation, and also improve hemorheology indexes of KOA patients. Key words: Osteoarthritis, Knee; Acupuncture therapy; Tongbi capsule; Tumor necrosis factor-alpha; Interleukin; Hemorheology

A Mouse Model of Hepatic Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury Demonstrates Potentially Reversible Effects on Hippocampal Neurons and Postoperative Cognitive Function.

BackgroundThis study aimed to investigate cognitive function, hippocampal neuronal changes, and the expression of inflammatory cytokines in a mouse model of hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury.Material/MethodsSixty mice were divided into the sham group, which underwent surgery without vascular occlusion; the I/R1 group, with occlusion of the left hepatic artery and portal vein for 20 min, and reperfusion for 30 min; and the I/R2 group, with occlusion of the left hepatic artery and portal vein for 40 min, and reperfusion for 30 min. At postoperative day 4 and 11, ten mice from each group underwent the Morris water maze (MWM) task. Hippocampal tissues were stained for Nissl bodies. Expression of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) were quantified by immunohistochemistry. Serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).ResultsGroups I/R1 and I/R2 showed a significantly increased latency in the MWM test between days 5–9, compared with the sham group (P<0.05), with no difference by day 11; the I/R2 group had an initial lower crossing frequency (P<0.05), with no difference by day 18. The I/R2 group showed reduced numbers of Nissl bodies in hippocampal neurons. The I/R1 and I/R2 groups had increased expression of NF-κB, TNF-α, and IL-1β and decreased ChAT. No differences between the groups were found in levels of NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-1β, or ChAT by day 18.ConclusionsA mouse model of hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury showed transient and reversible cognitive dysfunction, changes in hippocampal neurons, and expression of inflammatory cytokines.

Nephroprotective effect of silymarin against diclofenac induced renal damage and oxidative stress in male rats

Introduction: Diclofenac (DIC), a phenylacetic acid compound which belongs to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), is generally used for the treatment of various diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, acute muscle pain conditions and osteoarthritis. Overdose of DIC can lead to renal injuries in both experimental animal and human. Our research was done to assess the protective role of silymarin on renal damage induced by DIC in rats. Methods: Thirty-two Wistar rats were assigned to four groups (n=8/group). Group 1 was control group; animals in group 2 were administrated DIC; Groups 3 and 4 administrated DIC plus silymarin with doses of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg, orally (p.o), respectively. Various biochemical, molecular, and histological parameters were evaluated in serum and tissue homogenate. Results: In the second group, the levels of kidney catalase (CAT), vitamin C and superoxide dismutase (SOD) remarkably reduced (P &lt; 0.05) relative to the control group. Also, urea, creatinine (Cr), malondialdehyde (MDA), serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and gene expression of TNF-α in this group were noticeably elevated (P &lt; 0.05) relative to the control group. Treatment with silymarin caused a remarkable elevation (P &lt; 0.05) in vitamin C, SOD, CAT and a remarkable reduction (P &lt; 0.05) in the content of MDA, urea, Cr, TNF-α gene expression and serum TNF-α in comparison with second group. Histological injuries were also ameliorated by silymarin administration. Conclusion: The results confirm that silymarin has an ameliorative role against renal damage and oxidative stress induced by DIC in male rats.

Genistein enhances the secretion of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) via downregulation of inflammatory responses

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) an incretin hormone, is known to regulate the glucose-mediated insulin secretion. However, reduction in the level of GLP-1 is considered to be a major cause for the reduction of GLP-1-dependent insulin secretory response. Genistein an isoflavone, is an important polyphenol and has wide range of therapeutic potentials, but its therapeutic effects alone and/or in combination with metformin on GLP-1 secretion have not been investigated yet. Hence, we aimed to investigate the stimulatory action of genistein in combination with metformin on GLP-1 via downregulation of inflammatory mediators, hyperlipidemia and hyperglycemia in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced in experimental rats by single administration of alloxan intraperitoneally. Metformin (50 mg/kg/day), genistein (20 mg/kg/day) and combination of genistein and metformin was administered in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. We found that genistein alone and/or in combination with metformin significantly increased the serum level (P < 0.01) and tissue content (P < 0.05) of GLP-1 in intestine when compared with that of metformin-treated animals. Similarly, genistein alone and/or in combination with metformin also resulted in normoglycemia (P < 0.001), glucose tolerance (P < 0.01), insulin sensitivity (P < 0.0001), hyperlipidemia (P < 0.01), liver and kidney function biomarkers (P < 0.01) as compared to that of metformin-treated experimental animals. Moreover, genistein alone and/or in combination with metformin also downregulated the inflammatory responses by decreasing the levels of interleuin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α and C-reactive protein in serum (P < 0.05) and intestine (P < 0.001) more efficiently as compared to that of metformin-treated experimental animals. The downregulation of inflammatory responses in intestine, was positively associated with increased secretion of GLP-1 from intestine. Histopathology of pancreas and intestine also showed that genistein significantly improved the deleterious effects of alloxan on pancreas and intestine. Hence, our work provides new insights on the synergistic effects of genistein and metformin on GLP-1 secretion. This may significantly improve the perception for proposing new GLP-1-based synergistic approaches for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

Saroglitazar Deactivates the Hepatic LPS/TLR4 Signaling Pathway and Ameliorates Adipocyte Dysfunction in Rats with High-Fat Emulsion/LPS Model-Induced Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis.

The most epidemic liver disorder non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is characterized by hepatic steatosis and inflammation with hepatocellular damage. Recently, it is predictable to be the extensive cause for liver transplantation. The absence of an approved therapeutic agent for NASH is the reason for investigating saroglitazar (SAR) which showed promising effects as a dual PPAR-α/γ agonist in recent studies on NASH. Here, we aimed to investigate the effect of SAR on NASH induced in rats by the administration of high-fat emulsion (HFE) and small doses of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) for 5weeks. Rats were divided into three groups: negative control group (saline and standard rodent chow), model group (HFE(10ml/kg/day, oral gavage) + LPS(0.5mg/kg/week, i.p)), and SAR-treated group (HFE(10ml/kg/day, oral gavage) + LPS(0.5mg/kg/week, i.p.) + SAR(4mg/kg/day, oral gavage) starting at week 3.Treatment with SAR successfully ameliorated the damaging effects of HFE with LPS, by counteracting body weight gain and biochemically by normalization of liver function parameters activity, glucose, insulin, homeostasis model of assessment (HOMA-IR) score, lipid profile levels, and histopathological examination. Significant changes in adipokine levels were perceived, resulting in a significant decline in serum leptin and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) level concurrent with adiponectin normalization. The positive effects observed for SAR on NASH are due to the downregulation of the LPS/TLR4 pathway, as indicated by the suppression of hepatic Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), NF-κB, TNF-α, and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) expression. In conclusion, this work verified that SAR ameliorates NASH through deactivation of the hepatic LPS/TLR4 pathway and inhibition of adipocyte dysfunction.

Antipruritic effects of electroacupuncture on morphine-induced pruritus model mice through the TLR2/4-MyD88-NF-κB pathway.

Pruritus is one of the common side effects of intrathecal or epidural injection of opioids. The aim of this study was to test the antipruritic effect of acupuncture and its possible mechanism. We used electroacupuncture (EA), toll-like receptor (TLR)2/4 antagonist sparstolonin B (SsnB), and TLR2/4 agonist peptidoglycan (PGN) to precondition female wild-type BALB/c mice, and then prepared a morphine-induced pruritus model. The mRNA and protein expression levels of TLR2, TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB were detected by RT-PCR and western blotting. The contents of interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, IL-12, IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor-α in serum were measured by ELISA assays. Flow cytometry was performed to analyze the ratio of M1-phenotype to M2-phenotype macrophages. Our results showed that EA preconditioning improved pruritus; reduced the expressions of TLR2, TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB both at the mRNA and protein levels (P<0.05); reduced the expression of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1, IL-6, IL-12, and tumor necrosis factor-α; and increased the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 (P<0.05). EA promoted M2-phenotype macrophage differentiation. Moreover, these results showed no significant difference between the SsnB group and the EA+SsnB group (P>0.05), but showed a significant difference between the PGN group and the EA+PGN group (P<0.05). Therefore, we propose that EA may be involved in the remission of pruritus in morphine-induced pruritus model mice through the TLR2/4-MyD88-NF-κB pathway. EA is a potential therapeutic treatment for pruritus.

Effects of aerobic exercise and glutamine on oxidative stress and expression of related factors in type 2 diabetic rats

To investigate the effects of aerobic exercise and glutamine (Gln) on anti-oxidative stress and inflammatory factors in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2MD) rats. Diabetic rat model was induced by streptozotocin (STZ). Fifty 6-week old male SD rats were randomly divided into 5 groups (n=10), including quiet control group (N), diabetes control group (D), diabetic aerobic exercise group (DE), diabetic glutamine group (DG) and diabetic aerobic exercise glutamine group (DEG). After 6 weeks, the related indicators of glucose and lipid metabolism, anti-oxidative stress and inflammatory factors in diabetic rats were detected, and the possible mechanism affecting inflammatory response were explored. Compared with group N, the levels of serum malondialdehyde(MDA), blood glucose, total cholesterol(TC), triglyceride(TG), insulin, leptin and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α) in group D were increased significantly (P＜0.01). Compared with group D, serum levels of MDA, blood glucose, TC, TG, insulin, leptin and TNF-α in three intervention groups were decreased significantly, while the levels of SOD, GSH-Px and adiponectin were increased, and the combined effect was more obvious (P＜0.01). Both aerobic exercise and Gln can relieve the glucose and lipid metabolism and disturbance, oxidative stress injury and inflammation in diabetic rats.

Anti-Inflammatory and Hepatoprotective Effects of Ganoderma lucidum Polysaccharides against Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Injury in Kunming Mice

Background: Ganoderma lucidum Polysaccharides (GLPS) were found to possess various pharmacological properties including anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective activities. However, the effect and possible mechanism of GLPS treatment on liver injury have not yet been reported. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the potential anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects and possible mechanism of GLPS in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced acute liver injury mice. Summary: GLPS significantly reduced the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and improved liver function in liver injury mice. It significantly inhibited CCl4-induced changes of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities in serum, as well as nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) activities in liver tissue; it also remarkably decreased levels of liver weight and index, total bilirubin, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-18, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α in serum, as well as malondialdehyde and IL-1β in liver tissue. Protein expression levels of liver NLRP3, ASC, and Caspase-1 were also downregulated, while the glutathione level in liver tissue was remarkably enhanced in GLPS groups compared to that of the model group. Key Message: These results suggested that GLPS may be a potential for the prevention and treatment of acute liver injury with liver inflammation. The possible mechanism may be related to the inhibition of free radical lipid peroxidation, NOS, and CYP2E1 activities and activation of liver inflammatory factors.

Anti-Depressive Effectiveness of Baicalin In Vitro and In Vivo.

Baicalin (BA), a major polyphenol compound isolated from the extracts of Scutellaria radix, has been previously reported to ameliorate depressive-like behaviors in mice with chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS). However, its underlying antidepressant mechanisms remain unclear. This study was designed to confirm the antidepressant-like effects of BA on CUMS induced behavioral abnormalities in mice, and sought to explore the pharmacological mechanisms in vivo and in vitro. The CUMS procedure was carried out to induce depression in mice. Afterwards, the tail suspension test (TST), forced swim test (FST), and open field test (OFT) were performed within 24 h, then sucrose preference test (SPT) was conducted. Additionally, PC12 cells were pretreated with BA for 2 h, then further stimulated with corticosterone for 24 h. The levels of Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6 and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) in serum, hippocampus homogenate and cell culture medium were determined using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. The protein expressions of inhibition of high mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1)/Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathways in hippocampus and PC12 cells were detected. Our results showed that CUMS-treated mice presented notable depressive-like symptoms, such as decreased sucrose consumption, increased FST and TST immobility time. While BA (25, 50 mg/kg) significantly attenuated these changes. Besides, BA treatment considerably inhibited inflammatory cytokinesl (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) levels in serum, hippocampus homogenate and cell culture medium. Western blot analysis indicated that BA inhibited the expressions of HMGB1, TLR4, and p-NF-κBp65 both in vivo and in vitro. In conclusion, the present study confirmed that BA possessed efficient antidepressant effects on depression, which was possibly related to the inhibition of HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB pathways.

Effects of vitamin A on antioxidant functions, immune functions and production performance in male sika deer (Cervus nippon) during the first antler growth period

The present study examined the effects of dietary vitamin A (VA) on antioxidant functions, immune functions and production performance in farmed sika deer. Forty healthy male sika deer (initial body weight (BW): 47.07 ± 4.75 kg; 8 months of age) were randomly assigned to four treatments on the basis of BW. The dietary treatments included a basal diet (containing 330 U/kg VA) supplemented with 0 (control), 2500, 5000 or 10,000 U/kg retinol acetate (500,000 U/g, Rovimix A500, Roche, Basel, Switzerland). The results showed that deer fed a diet supplemented with 5000 U/kg VA had higher (p < .05) average daily gains and gain:feed values than those from the control group. VA supplementation significantly increased (p < .05) glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities and total antioxidant capacity and decreased (p < .05) the concentrations of reactive oxygen species in the serum. Additionally, serum immunoglobulin A, interleukin-2 and soluble CD8 were significantly increased (p < .05) when dietary VA supplementation was increased from 0 to 5000 U/kg. However, a high dose of VA supplementation (10,000 U/kg) caused decreased (p < .05) concentrations of serum tumour necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1. Deer that received feed supplemented with 5000 U/kg VA had higher (p < .05) dry antler yield than the control deer. The present results indicated that VA supplementation improved growth performance, antioxidant functions, immune functions and dry antler yield. Taken together, the suitable level of VA supplementation was found to be 5000 U/kg (total VA content 5330 mg/kg dry matter) for male sika deer during the first antler growth period.

High mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) as biomarker in hypoxia-induced persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn: a clinical and in vivo pilot study.

Background: Inflammation plays an important role in neonatal hypoxia-induced organ damage. Newborns with perinatal asphyxia often develop persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). The objective of this study was to explore changes in the pro-inflammatory high mobility group box-l (HMGB1) protein during hypoxia-induced PPHN clinically and in vivo.Methods: Serum samples were collected from full-term newborns at PPHN onset and remission. As controls, blood serum samples were collected from the umbilical arteries of healthy full-term newborns born in our hospital during the same period. Clinical data for neonates were collected and serum levels of HMGB1, IL-6, and TNF-α were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). An animal study compared a PPHN Sprague-Dawley rat model to healthy newborn control rats. Histopathology was used to evaluate changes in the pulmonary artery wall. ELISA and western blot analyses were used to examine HMGB1 levels in the serum and lungs.Results: Serum HMGB1 levels were significantly elevated in newborns with PPHN, compared to those in healthy controls, and decreased dramatically after PPHN resolution. HMGB1 changes were positively correlated with serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels. Histopathological analysis demonstrated that the median wall thickness of pulmonary arterioles accounting for the percentage of pulmonary arteriole diameter (MT%) was not significantly different between PPHN and control groups 3 d after PPHN, although thickness of the small pulmonary arterial wall middle membrane and stenosis of the small pulmonary arteries. ELISA and western blot analyses showed similar trends between serum HMGB1 levels and HMGB1 protein expression in the lungs. Serum and lung HMGB1 levels were significantly elevated soon after PPHN onset, peaked after 24 h, and then decreased after 3 d, although they remained elevated compared to those in the control group.Conclusions: This study indicates that HMGB1 is related to hypoxia-induced PPHN pathogenesis. HMGB1 changes might thus be used as an early indicator to diagnose hypoxia-induced PPHN and evaluate its improvement. We also provide important evidence for the involvement of inflammation in the progression of hypoxia-induced PPHN.

Effects of Dezocine-Remifentanil Intravenous Anaesthesia on Perioperative Signs, Serum TNF-&aipha; and IL-6 in Liver Cancer Patients undergoing Radiofrequency Ablation.

To analyse the impact of dezocine-remifentanil intravenous anaesthesia on perioperative signs, serum tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in liver cancer patients undergoing radiofrequency ablation (RFA). An experimental study. Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China, from January 2017 to February 2018. Eighty patients with small hepatocellular carcinoma (SHCC) were selected as the research object. They were divided into Group A and Group B with the random number table method, with 40 cases in each group. Group A were given dezocine-remifentanil intravenous anaesthesia and Group B were given midazolam-remifentanil intravenous anaesthesia. Patients' situations in the surgery were compared between the two groups. Changes in heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP) and blood oxygen saturation (SpO₂) were recorded before the surgery (T₀), at 5 minutes after the RFA (T₁) and at the end of the RFA (T₂). Levels of tumour necrosis factor-&alpha; (TNF-&alpha;) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) on the 1² day after the RFA were compared between the two groups. The wake-up time in Group A was shorter than Group B (p<0.001), and the VAS pain score in Group A was lower than Group B (p<0.001). At T₁, the MAP in Group A was higher than Group B (p<0.001). There was no significant difference in MAP between the two groups at T₀ and T₂ (p=0.881, 0.696, respectively). At T₁ and T₂, the HR in Group A was lower than Group B (all p<0.001). There was no significant difference in HR between the two groups at T₀ (p=0.684). There was no significant difference in SpO₂ between the two groups at T₀, T₁ and T₂ (p=0.654, 0.884 and 0.798, respectively). On the 1st day after the RFA, the level of TNF-&alpha;, IL-6 in Group A were lower than those of Group B (all p<0.001). There was no significant difference in the incidence of intraoperative complications between the two groups (p=0.644). Compared with midazolam-remifentanil intravenous anaesthesia, the dezocine-remifentanil method has a better analgesic effect, shorter wake-up time, and can effectively regulate the expression of inflammatory cytokines TNF-&alpha; and IL-6. However, the effect of remifentanil on the respiratory function is dose-dependent. Therefore, respiratory cycle monitoring and management should be strengthened during the surgery.

Effects of notoginseng and ginkgo leaf tablets on cardiac function and serum inflammatory factors in hypoxia deacclimatized rats and its mechanism

To study the effects of notoginseng, gingko leaf and rhodiola on cardiac functions and the serum inflammatory factors interleukin-6,interleukin-10, and TNF-α of rats with hypoxia deacclimatization, to explore the mechanism of hypoxia detoxification. Forty SD rats were randomly divided into notoginseng group(n=10), gingko leaf group(n=10), rhodiola group(n=10) and high altitude control group(n=10) after fed in a hypobaric hypoxia chamber(simulated altitude of 5 000 m) for 3 month, while 10 rats fed at normal pressure and oxygen environment for 3 month were used as the plain control group. Rats in notoginseng group, gingko leaf group and rhodiola group were treated with notoginseng, gingko leaf tablets or rhodiola suspension through intragastric administration (200 mg/kg,twice a day, for 10 days). After the rats got intraperitoneal anesthesia with 10% urethane, 5 min pulmonary artery pressure curve were traced continuously while pulmonary artery pressure (PAP). Left and right ventricular systolic pressure (VSP) and ventricular diastolic pressure (VEDP), the hemodynamic parameters were detected through a multi-channel physiological recorder. Serum tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured. Right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP), right ventricular end-diastolic pressure (RVEDP), mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP), left vent-ricular systolic pressure (LVSP), left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP),IL-6,and IL-10 were higher in notoginseng group, gingko leafgroup, rhodiola group and high altitude control group than those in plain control group(P＜0.05 or P＜0.01). The contents of MDA and TNF-α were higher while the level of SOD was lower in rhodiola group and high altitude control group than those in plain control group(P＜0.01). The contents of MDA and TNF-α were lower while the level of SOD was higher in notoginseng group, gingko leaf group and rhodiola group than those in high altitude control group(P＜0.01). The levels of RV,RVHI,RVSP,RVEDP,LVSP,LVEDP,IL-10 and TNF-α were statistically changed in notoginseng group than those in gingko leaf group and rhodiola group(P＜0.05orP＜0.01). Notoginseng, gingkoleaf and rhodiola can enhance antioxidant capacity of body and improve ventricular functions and Notoginseng, gingko leaf and rhodiola can effectively enhance the functions of ventricular and hypoxia tolerance and inhibit the expressions of inflammatory factors in rats during the hypoxia deacclimatization.

Protective effect of Traditional Chinese medicine Shuangwu Zhentong Capsule on collagen-induced arthritis in rats and possible mechanisms

The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effect of Traditional Chinese medicine Shuangwu Zhentong Capsule (SZC) on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) and the possible mechanisms. Sixty rats were randomly divided into control and model: low-, medium-, and high-dose SZC and prednisone acetate (PA) groups, with 10 rats in each group. The CIA model was established in later 5 groups. The rats in low-, medium-, and high-dose SZC groups were intragastricallly administered with SZC, with dose of 0.5, 1, and 2 g/kg, respectively. The PA group was intragastricallly administered with 5 mg/kg PA. The treatment was performed for 3 weeks. Before treatment and after treatment, the paw swelling degree and polyarthritis index score of rats were measured. At the end of experiment, the serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and nitric oxide (NO) levels were determined. The expressions of Ras and Raf-1 protein in synovial tissue were detected. Results showed that, after treatment, compared with model group, in high-dose SZC and PA groups, the paw swelling degree, polyarthritis index score, serum TNF-α, IL-1β and NO levels, and synovial tissue Ras and Raf-1 protein levels were significantly decreased, respectively ( P &lt; 0.05). In conclusion, SZC has obvious protective effects on CIA in rats. The mechanisms may be related to its resistance of inflammatory reaction and down-regulation of Ras and Raf-l protein expressions in synovial tissue.

Dietary supplementation with partially hydrolyzed guar gum helps improve constipation and gut dysbiosis symptoms and behavioral irritability in children with autism spectrum disorder.

Prebiotic dietary water-soluble fiber obtained from partially hydrolyzed guar gum was added to diets of children with autism spectrum disorders who presented constipation symptoms. Supplementation with partially hydrolyzed guar gum altered gut microbiota and significantly increased the frequency of defecation per week and altered the gut microbiota. In addition, supplementation with partially hydrolyzed guar gum significantly (p<0.05) decreased and tended to decrease (p = 0.07) the concentrations of serum interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α, respectively. More importantly, supplementation with partially hydrolyzed guar gum significantly ameliorated behavioral irritability as per the Aberrant Behavior Checklist, Japanese Version. The present study demonstrated that supplementation with partially hydrolyzed guar gum to diets of constipated autism spectrum disorders children helped improve constipation and gut dysbiosis symptoms, which in turn helped attenuate the level of serum inflammation cytokines and behavioral irritability.

Effect of Weight Reduction on the Serum Adiponectin and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α Levels and the Clinical Parameters of Obese Patients with and without Periodontal Disease.

Objective:The objective of the current study was to assess the impact of weight reduction on the attenuation of obesity-related periodontal inflammation.Methods:This study was conducted enrolling 60 obese subjects. They were divided into three groups of 20 each. Group 1-healthy group, Group 2-gingivitis group, and Group 3-periodontitis group. The body mass index and waist/hip ratio, periodontal parameters such as plaque index, bleeding index, full mouth periodontal probing depth (PPD) using the University of North Carolina 15 (UNC 15) probe and full mouth clinical attachment loss (CAL) with cementoenamel junction as the reference using UNC 15 probe was evaluated at baseline and after the attainment of ≥10% weight loss by the subjects. Adiponectin and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels were measured in the serum at baseline and after attainment of ≥10% reduction in weight in a period of 3–18 months.Results:Adherence to weight reduction program until the achievement of ≥10% reduction in body weight resulted in statistically significant (P < 0.0001) elevated serum adiponectin and reduced serum TNF-α levels in all three groups. Furthermore, elevations of adiponectin following weight reduction showed significant negative correlations with PPD in all the three groups and in patients with periodontitis, (Group 3) serum adiponectin levels showed significant negative correlations (P = 0.0001) with CAL in Group 3.Conclusions:Controlling obesity presents a good opportunity to alleviate the burden of periodontal disease. Simple weight reduction programs with diet and exercise-related lifestyle modifications may be an efficacious and barrier-free option.

Effect of intermittent hyperoxia on stem cell mobilization and cytokine expression.

The best known form of oxygen therapy is hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy, which increases both concentration and atmospheric pressure. HBO supports tissue regeneration and is indicated in an increasing number of pathologies. Less known but still showing some promising effects is normobaric oxygen (NBO) therapy, which provides some advantages over HBO including eliminating barotrauma risk, increased ease of administration and a significant cost reduction. However, still little is known about differences and similarities in treatment effects between HBO and NBO. Therefore we tested whether NBO induces a biological response comparable to HBO with a focus on stem progenitor cell mobilization and changes in serum cytokine concentration. We randomly assigned Sprague-Dawley rats into an NBO treatment group (n = 6), and a room air control group (n = 6). The NBO treatment group was exposed to 42% oxygen for 2 hours a day for 10 days. The room air group was concurrently kept at 20.9% oxygen. The frequency and number of stem progenitor cells in peripheral blood were analyzed by flow cytometry. Plasma cytokine expression was analyzed by cytokine array enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. All analyses were performed 24 hours after the final exposure to control for transient post treatment effects. The NBO treatment group showed an increase in circulating CD133+/CD45+ stem progenitor cell frequency and number compared to the room air control group. This rise was largely caused by CD34– stem progenitor cells (CD133+/CD34–/CD45+) without changes in the CD34+ population. The plasma cytokine levels tested were mostly unchanged with the exception of tumor necrosis factor-α which showed a decrease 24 hours after the last NBO exposure. These findings support our hypothesis that NBO induces a biological response similar to HBO, affecting serum stem progenitor cell populations and tumor necrosis factor-α concentration. The study was approved by Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) of the University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA (approval No. M005439) on June 28, 2016.

Correlation between serum tumor necrosis factor-α levels and clinicoradiological severity of tuberculosis

Objective The aim was to assess the level of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) and its relation to BMI; different radiological features whether the lesion is minimally, moderately advanced, and far advanced; and to follow-up the level of TNF-α. Background One of the most important and common complaints of patients with TB, which also affects the immune status, is weight loss. When tuberculous infection occurs, a variety of chemokines and cytokines are secreted from infected cells and tissue macrophages. TNF-α increases early in the disease and takes part in the pathogenesis and prevention of mycobacterial infection. Participants and methods Serum TNF-α was measured in 40 newly diagnosed patients as having active pulmonary TB (group I) and 10 controls (group II). Results Serum TNF-α level was significantly higher in patients with active pulmonary TB than in controls, and there was a highly significant negative correlation between TNF-α level and BMI before and after treatment. Serum TNF-α had insignificant positive correlation with grades of Ziehl–Neelsen stain and chest radiography before and after treatment, and the diagnostic cut-off points of TNF-α was found to be 618.1 pg/ml. Conclusion Serum TNF-α level is higher in patients with TB than in controls. TNF-α plays a role in diminishing appetite, in weight loss, and in increased susceptibility to infection.