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Inula britannica is a traditional Chinese medicine that possesses various pharmacological effects, including expectorant, cough suppressant, and antibacterial effects. Phytochemical investigation of I. britannica resulted in the isolation of a pair of novel thymols, (8 S ,9 S)-inulabritanthymol A (1a) and (8 R ,9 R)-inulabritanthymol A (1b), and a new thymol inulabritanthymol B (2) as well as five known thymols (3 − 7). Their structures were characterized using 1D and 2D NMR, HRMS, and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra, and quantum chemical calculations. Compounds 5 – 7 showed inhibitory potentials toward NO production, and their IC 50 values were 6.39, 5.80, and 8.53 μM, respectively. Molecular docking indicated the interaction of compound 6 with iNOS. These findings demonstrated that thymols served as potential candidates for developing anti-inflammatory drugs. [Display omitted] • Inulabritanthymols A and B were isolated from Inula britannica. • 8,10-dihydroxy-9-isobutyryloxythymol displayed an anti-inflammatory effect. • The interaction of 8,10-dihydroxy-9-isobutyryloxythymol with iNOS was analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Silver nanoparticles (G-AgNPs) improve wound healing by promoting skin cell proliferation and differentiation. Therefore, G-AgNPs could act as drug carriers and wound healers in biomedicine. The current study aimed to improve skin wound healing using natural, safe G-AgNPs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The G-Ag- NPs were reduced with ethylcellulose (EC) and incorporated into an oil-in-water cream base. The size, charges, and wavelength were used to characterize the prepared G-AgNPs. Further, the transmission electron microscope (TEM) and the scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used to provide the shape of G-AgNPs. Moreover, the skin wound healing was evaluated with the appropriate histopathological techniques in a mouse model with skin injury to prove the curative effects of G-AgNPs which was conducted for 15 days on 45 adult male albino rats. The effectiveness of G-AgNPs-EC cream for treating surgical skin wounds was assessed by histopathological (HP) examination of hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stained sections. RESULTS: The produced G-AgNPs-EC showed a size of 183.9 ± 0.854 nm and a charge of -14.0 ± 0.351 mV. UV-VIS spectra showed a strong absorption of electromagnetic waves in the visible region at 381 nm. Furthermore, the TEM and SEM showed rounded NPs in nano size of the prepared G-AgNPs-EC. The G-AgNPs cream was pivotal in enhancing wounds' healing properties, improving the formation of wound granulation tissue, and enhancing the proliferation of epithelial tissue in rats. CONCLUSIONS: The current study showed that G-AgNPs-EC is a new skin wound healer that speeds up healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four new trisubstituted tetrahydrofuran lignans, named (−)-sesaminone-rutinoside (1), (+)-episesaminone-rutinoside (2) and rabdosiacosides B (3) and C (4) were isolated from the air-dried whole herbs of Rabdosia lophanthoides var. gerardiana together with two known compounds, (+)− 1-hydroxypinoresinol-1-β- d -glucoside (5) and rosmarinic acid (6). The structures of these new lignans were elucidated by a combination of mass spectrometry, 1D and 2D NMR experiments including distortionless enhancement by polarization transfer, 1H–1H correlation, heteronuclear single quantum coherence, heteronuclear multiple bond correlation, and nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopies. Both the cell viability and their anti-inflammatory effects of the lignans were further studied. Among them, no significant cytotoxic activity was exhibited. Compound 4 dramatically suppressed LPS-induced nitric oxide release and reduced the release of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 in a dose-dependent manner. Overall, our findings indicate that compound 4 was noteworthy in reducing LPS-induced inflammatory responses in RAW264.7 macrophages. [Display omitted] • Four new lignans were isolated and identified from Rabdosia lophanthoides. • All compounds exhibited no cytotoxic activity. • Rabdosiacoside C (4) suppressed LPS-induced NO release. • The release of pro-inflammatory cytokines was inhibited by rabdosiacoside C (4). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new alkaloids with carboxyl, identified as 8-(6,7-dihydroxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinolin-1-yl) octanoic acid and 5-(diethylamino)-2-(3-(diethylamino)-3-oxopropyl)-2-hydroxy-5-oxopentanoic acid named oleralkacid A and oleralkacid B, were isolated from Portulaca oleracea L. for the first time, whose structures were determined using spectroscopic methods including 1D NMR, 2D NMR, UHPLC-ESI-QTOF/MS and circular dichroism (CD). Subsequently, the anti-inflammatory effects of compounds on lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages were studied, and the results showed that the compound 1 and 2 at 5 μM and 10 μM could significantly inhibit inflammatory mediator IL-1 β , respectively. [Display omitted] • Two new alkaloids with carboxyl were isolated from Portulaca oleracea L. • The two alkaloids exhibited remarkable anti-inflammatory bioactivities. • The finding provides a novel therapeutic potential for ulcerative colitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the safety of Bifidobacterium longum Bif10, Bifidobacterium breve Bif11, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus LAB3, and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LAB39 was evaluated using in-vitro , genomics, and in-vivo approaches. In the in-vitro safety studies, mucin degradation, biogenic amine production and cytotoxicity on HEK-293 cells by these strains were evaluated. Whole genome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis were carried out to identify the genes responsible for mucin degradation, biogenic amine production, antibiotic resistance, and virulence factors. In-vivo safety was assessed after acute, subacute, and sub-chronic oral feeding with respective strains to the mice as per revised OECD guidelines. Histopathological examination, gut permeability, hematological, blood biochemistry, and oxidative stress were evaluated after sacrificing the animals. Further, the compatibility of the four strains was assessed and their synbiotic combination with isomaltooligosaccharides (IMOs) was evaluated for its potential in alleviating lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced inflammation in murine macrophages. In-vitro studies indicated that the strains do not produce biogenic amines and were non-cytotoxic to HEK-293 cells. Whole genome analysis suggested a lack of transferable antibiotic-resistance genes or potentially lethal virulence factors and genes for biogenic amines. In vivo studies showed that the bacterial strains did not affect the health parameters related to blood or induce histological alterations in the vital organs. The four strains were compatible with each other and their synbiotic blend efficiently curtailed LPS-induced oxidative stress, inducible nitric oxide and proinflammatory cytokine production. Given these observations, Bif10, Bif11, LAB3, and LAB39 can be deemed safe and their synbiotic blend with IMOs could impart anti-inflammatory effects. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to evaluate the spectrum-effect relationships between high-performance liquid chromatography fingerprints and anti-inflammatory effects of Tetrastigma planicaule(Hook.)Gagnep. Chemical fingerprints of ten batches of Tetrastigma planicaule from various sources were obtained by HPLC. The antiinflammatory activity was investigated by a model of ear swelling in mice caused by xylene and a model of cotton pellet granuloma. Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) results showed that all the samples were clustered into four categories, which was basically consistent with the principal component analysis (PCA) results. The results of the joint grey relational analysis (GRA) and partial least squares regression analysis (PLSR) showed that peaks 1, 2 and 12 were positively correlated with the anti-acute inflammatory effect (ear swelling) in mice, and peaks 3, 5, 6 and 11 were positively correlated with the anti-chronic inflammatory effect (cotton pellet granuloma) in mice. The anti-inflammatory effect of Tetrastigma planicaule is the result of the synergistic effect of multiple components, which provides a basis for further exploring the anti-inflammatory substances and quality evaluation of the herb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to evaluate IL-1ß, IL-6 and TNF-α expression levels of macrophage cells induced by benzydamine hydrochloride (BNZ), BNZ with chitosan, calcium hydroxide (CH) and chlorhexidine (CHX) medicaments. Half maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) were assessed on THP-1, Saos-2, and CRL-2014 cells using MTT assay. THP-1 cells were differentiated into macrophages with phorbol12-myristate13-acetate and activated with lipopolysaccharide. IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α levels in supernatants were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The data were examined with one-way ANOVA and Tukey's multiple comparison test (p=0.05). At the selected concentrations, the cell viability was higher than 50% for chitosan and CH, whereas CHX presented lower IC50 values than BNZ and BNZ+chitosan. According to ELISA results, the lowest IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α values were observed with BNZ+Chitosan 50 µg/mL and BNZ 50 µg/mL. BNZ+chitosan 50 µg/mL combination has revealed promising antiinflammatory effects. Nevertheless, these findings need to be examined in clinical conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• By simultaneously activating GLP-1 receptors and ghrelin receptors, this combination therapy may exert synergistic effects in preserving, and restoring muscle mass and function without body weight loss in sarcopenia or cachexia states. • GLP-1R agonists may attenuate muscle atrophy through anti-inflammatory effects. • Ghrelin receptor agonists enhance appetite and stimulate the release of growth hormone. Muscle atrophy represents a multifaceted and intricate syndrome characterized by the reduction in both mass and strength of skeletal muscles, leading to muscle dysfunction and weakness. Its potential causes encompass aging, denervation, disuse, and various diseases. One well-known pharmacological agent for glycemic control in diabetes patients is the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonist. Our recent research findings have shown that compounds such as exendin-4 (Ex-4) or dulaglutide can effectively mitigate muscle atrophy in dexamethasone (Dex)-induced cellular and animal models as well as chronic kidney disease (CKD) and rodent sarcopenia models. However, it's noteworthy that these agents may concurrently induce a decrease in body weight following administration, posing challenges when considering them as potential treatments for muscle atrophy in cachectic and sarcopenic conditions. Ghrelin, being the sole circulating orexigenic hormone known to be associated with growth hormone release, offers a potential solution to counterbalance the appetite-inhibiting effect of GLP-1R agonists. Additionally, ghrelin enhanced muscle anabolism and exerted protective effects for muscle atrophy. Therefore, combination of a GLP-1R agonist and a ghrelin analogue emerges as a synergistic therapeutic approach to effectively combat muscle atrophy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fisetin has displayed potential as an anticonvulsant in preclinical studies yet lacks clinical validation. Challenges like low solubility and rapid metabolism may limit its efficacy. This study explores fisetin-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (NP) to address these issues. Using a murine model of pilocarpine-induced temporal lobe epilepsy, we evaluated the anticonvulsant and neuroprotective effects of fisetin NP. Pilocarpine-induced seizures and associated neurobehavioral deficits were assessed after administering subtherapeutic doses of free fisetin and fisetin NP. Changes in ROS, inflammatory cytokines, and NLRP3/IL-18 expression in different brain regions were estimated. The results demonstrate that the fisetin NP exerts protection against seizures and associated depression-like behavior and memory impairment. Furthermore, biochemical, and histological examinations supported behavioral findings suggesting attenuation of ROS/TNF-α-NLRP3 inflammasome pathway as a neuroprotective mechanism of fisetin NP. These findings highlight the improved pharmacodynamics of fisetin using fisetin NP against epilepsy, suggesting a promising therapeutic approach against epilepsy and associated behavioral deficits. Fisetin-loaded chitosan loaded nanoparticles exerted neuroprotective effect (at subtherapeutic dose) in pilocarpine-induced temporal lobe epilepsy model by inhibiting ROS/TNF-α-NLRP3 inflammasomes pathway. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acupuncture exerts an anti-inflammatory effect and is recommended by the World Health Organization as a complementary therapy for stroke. This study investigated the improvement in neurological function outcome in acute-stage intervention of acute ischemic stroke (AIS), and the anti-inflammatory effect of early acupuncture. Fifty patients with AIS were randomly assigned to either a control group (CG, 25 patients, received sham acupuncture) or treatment group (TG, 25 patients, received acupuncture treatment). Acupuncture intervention was administered twice a week for a total of 8 sessions over 4 consecutive weeks. The primary outcome was the changes in the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), modified Rankin Scale (mRS), and Barthel Index (BI) scores. The secondary outcome was the changes in serum inflammation-related biomarker levels.(ANAIS trial) A total of 35 patients (18 patients in the CG and 17 patients in the TG) completed the trial. The reduction in NIHSS scores was greater in the TG than in the CG between V2 (second assessment administered after acupuncture intervention) and V1 (first assessment administered before acupuncture intervention; 4.33 ± 1.91 vs. 2.68 ± 1.42, p = 0.005) and between V3 (third assessment administered 28 days after last acupuncture intervention) and V1 (6.00 ± 2.53 vs. 3.83 ± 2.31, p = 0.012). The increase in BI scores was greater in the TG than in the CG between V2 and V1 (28.89 ± 15.39 vs. 14.21 ± 19.38, p = 0.016) and between V3 and V1 (39.41 ± 20.98 vs. 25.00 ± 18.47, p = 0.038). Among participants with high inflammation, the increase in serum IL-12p70 level between V2 and V1 was greater in the TG than in the CG (0.20 ± 0.19 vs. −0.14 ± 0.30, pg/mL p = 0.006). Acupuncture improved the neurological function of patients with AIS, and the relationship between acupuncture improving neurological function and anti-inflammatory effect needs further study. In addition, studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-ups as well as multicenter clinical trials are expected in the future. • This is a double-blinded randomized controlled trial to investigate the therapeutic effect of acupuncture treats acute ischemic stroke. • This study also investigated the relationship between effect of acupuncture and its anti-inflammation. • Acupuncture treatment could improve neurologic function and also can reduce inflammation in acute ischemic stroke patients with high inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pumpkin pulp contains a greater composition of edible polysaccharides and has reported with excellent biological applications. This research pertains to optimize the extraction of polysaccharides from the fleshy portion of the pumpkin using aqueous assisted extraction (AAE). The result showed that the optimal extraction condition of pumpkin polysaccharide was as follows: extraction temperature at 55 °C, pH 4.5, and enzyme concentration of 4000 µ/g for 80 min. Under the optimal extraction condition, the yield of pumpkin polysaccharide via AAE (15.4) was significantly higher. The biological activities of extracted polysaccharide including α-amylase inhibition (57.41% at 1000 µg/mL) and anti-inflammatory (50.41% at 25 µg/mL) activity increased significantly. Additionally, the antioxidant activities of extracted pumpkin polysaccharides including IC 50 values of DPPH and ABTS were 59.87% and 58.74%, respectively. The pumpkin polysaccharide has maximum inhibitory effects against bacterial strains especially for Escherichia coli than that of fungal strains. It is suggested that the aqueous assisted extraction of is a cost-effective promising method to decrease the processing time as well as enhancing extracted polysaccharide yield – times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: We aimed at explaining the mechanism of therapeutic effect of Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells (UCMSC) in subjects with COVID-19 Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Patients with COVID-19 ARDS present with a hyperinflammatory response characterized by high levels of circulating pro-inflammatory mediators, including tumor necrosis factor a and ß (TNFa and TNFß). Inflammatory functions of these TNFs can be inhibited by soluble TNF Receptor 2 (sTNFR2). In patients with COVID-19 ARDS, UCMSC appear to impart a robust anti-inflammatory effect, and treatment is associated with remarkable clinical improvements. We investigated the levels of TNFa, TNFß and sTNFR2 in blood plasma samples collected from subjects with COVID-19 ARDS enrolled in our trial of UCMSC treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We analyzed plasma samples from subjects with COVID-19 ARDS (n=24) enrolled in a Phase 1/2a randomized controlled trial of UC-MSC treatment. Plasma samples were obtained at Day 0 (baseline, before UC-MSC or control infusion), and Day 6 post infusion. Plasma concentrations of sTNFR2, TNFa, and TNFß were evaluated using a quantitative multiplex protein array. RESULTS: Our data indicate that at Day 6 after infusion, UC-MSC recipients develop significantly increased levels of plasma sTNFR2 and significantly decreased levels of TNFa and TNFß, compared to controls. CONCLUSIONS: These observations suggest that sTNFR2 plays a mechanistic role in mediating UC-MSC effect on TNFa and TNFß plasma levels, determining a decrease in inflammation in COVID-19 ARDS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Inflammation process in human body can lead to many serious inflammation-related diseases. Hence, there are urge to find better solution for the treatment of the inflammation processes. Solution can be found in application of poly(methacrylic acid) hydrogels which have potential for targeted delivery and controlled release of drugs. These pH-sensitive hydrogels can swell at the pH values between 5 and 8, and release drug in the process. So, taking into account that pH value at the inflammation site is around 6, these hydrogels are materials of choice. It is very important that the system for controlled release be prepared through mild and non-toxic conditions in order to preserve bioactivity of the drug and keep good impact on environment. Enzymes are good candidates for ecofriendly preparation of hydrogels, because these green substances can initiate polymerisation of various monomers. EXPERIMENTAL (or Materials and Methods): In this study, hydrogels based on poly(methacrylic acid) were prepared through eco-friendly method by using enzyme/hydrogen peroxide (HP)/ascorbic acid (AA) as initiator. Two groups of the samples were prepared: in the first group peroxidase isolated from potato peel waste (with activity of 0.8 IU) was used in the initiation system, whereas in the second group peroxidase isolated from soya bean coats (with activity of 0.8 IU) was employed in the initiation system. The amounts of HP and AA in both series were 40 µL and 10 mg, respectively. Anti-inflammatory drugs, dexamethasone (5 mg/mL) and diclofenac (4.5 mg/mL) were encapsulated in the first and the second group of the PMAA samples, respectively. Anti-inflammatory effect of the PMAA hydrogels with encapsulated drugs were tested on the Bovine Chondrocytes cells. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Results showed that the level of pro-inflammatory mediators NO and IL-8 decreased. The PCR analysis showed that the proinflammatory TNα, IL-6 genes expression level decreased, the matrix catabolism MMP1 and MMP3 genes expression level decreased and the fibrotic COL2 and ACAN genes expression level increased. CONCLUSIONS: The study showed that the PMAA hydrogels have anti-inflammatory effect and have potential for treatment of the inflammation processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The short release half-life of carbon monoxide (CO) is a major obstacle to the effective therapeutic use of carbon monoxide-releasing molecule-2 (CORM-2). The potential of CORM-2-entrapped ultradeformable liposomes (CORM-2-UDLs) to enhance the release half-life of CO and alleviate skin inflammation was investigated in the present study. CORM-2-UDLs were prepared by using soy phosphatidylcholine to form lipid bilayers and Tween 80 as an edge activator. The deformability of CORM-2-UDLs was measured and compared with that of conventional liposomes by passing formulations through a filter device at a constant pressure. The release profile of CO from CORM-2-UDLs was evaluated by myoglobin assay. In vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory effects of CORM-2-UDLs were assessed in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages and TPA-induced ear edema model, respectively. The deformability of the optimized CORM-2-UDLs was 2.3 times higher than conventional liposomes. CORM-2-UDLs significantly prolonged the release half-life of CO from 30 s in a CORM-2 solution to 21.6 min. CORM-2-UDLs demonstrated in vitro anti-inflammatory activity by decreasing nitrite production and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. Furthermore, CORM-2-UDLs successfully ameliorated skin inflammation by reducing ear edema, pathological scores, neutrophil accumulation, and inflammatory cytokines expression. The results demonstrate that CORM-2-UDLs could be used as promising therapeutics against acute skin inflammation. The short release half-life of carbon monoxide is a major obstacle to the effective therapeutic use of carbon monoxide-releasing molecule-2 (CORM-2). Herein, CORM-2-entrapped ultradeformable liposomes (CORM-2-UDLs) were designed to prolong carbon monoxide release half-life and enhance skin permeation of CORM-2 for better anti-inflammatory effects in skin inflammation model. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wutou-Gancao herb-pair is extensively used to attenuate the toxicity and enhance the efficacy of aconite. In this study, potential synergic mechanism of the herb pair was investigated by utilizing multiple approaches. In silico and in vitro Caco-2 cell models were applied to study the potential binding mode of bioactive ingredients existing in liquorice with P-glycoprotein (P-gp), as well as the inhibition effects on P-gp. Additionally, anti-inflammatory activity of aconitine (AC) combined with active ingredients of liquorice, as well as pharmacokinetic patterns of AC after co-administration was investigated. Anti-inflammatory effect of AC (1 mg/kg) in rats was enhanced in combination with bioactive ingredients of liquorice (10 mg/kg). In the meanwhile, the exposure of AC in vivo was altered, in terms of Cmax and AUC. For instance, the Cmax and AUC were increased to 1.9 and 1.3 folds, respectively, when used in combination with liquiritigenin. The in silico study revealed the potential binding mode with outward facing conformation of P-gp. The resulting data obtained from transport of rhodamine-123 (Rh-123) across Caco-2 cell monolayer further indicated that the function of P-gp was inhibited by chemicals in liquorice. The synergic effect was therefore proposed to be attributed to inhibition of P-gp by liquorice since AC has been demonstrated to be the substrate of P-gp. The resuls revealed that potential synergic mechanism of Wutou-Gancao herb-pair by inhibiting function of key efflux transporter P-gp to enhance the exposure of AC in systematic circulation, and further the anti-inflammatory effect, which helps clarify the compatibility rationale of these two herbs. Image 1 • The binding of active ingredients of liquorice with P-gp was revealed by docking. • The permeation of Rho 123 was inhibited by active ingredients of liquorice. • The PK behavior of aconitine was affected by active ingredients of liquorice. • The efficacy of aconitine were enhanced by active ingredients of liquorice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study underpins the therapeutic potential of SEL001, a bioactive product isolated from Lactobacillus sakei probio65, in terms of its anti-inflammatory properties and its effect on gut-microbiota in a TNBS-induced ulcerative colitis mouse model. Ulcerative colitis was developed in mice by intra rectal administration of trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid. Bioactive product SEL001 (50 mg/kg b.w.) was administered orally. Myeloperoxidase activity was measured using 3,3′, 5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine. The entire colon was sampled for post-mortem clinical assessment. Colonic injury was assessed through histological and histomorphometric examinations. The 454 pyrosequencing and QIIME pipeline were used for gut microbiota analysis and statistical analysis were conducted using R. mRNA extraction from colon tissue and RT-PCR approaches were employed to determine the changes in the level of specific biomarker genes associated with UC. The results depict that SEL001 significantly lowered pro-inflammatory cytokines, including CD4, TNF-α, and interleukin-6. Examination of clinical and histopathological traits revealed that SEL001 was effective and potent in reducing the inflammatory signatures of UC to a similar extent as did by the standard drug mesalamine (5-ASA). Pyro-sequencing 16S data revealed that the reduction in the major member of phylum Firmicutes, which has been previously associated with a higher risk of UC. The SEL001, an anti-inflammatory bioactive product originated from a probiotic strain L. sakei probio65 could be an alternative therapeutic agent for treatment of UC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluated the anti-inflammatory effect of horse oil in 2, 4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-treated BALB/c mice. After the application of DNCB, the mice showed atopic dermatitis symptoms, including severe erythema, hemorrhage, and erosion, whereas those symptoms were alleviated by treatment with horse oil. To explain the anti-dermatitis effect of horse oil, the gene expression levels in the healing process in dorsal skin were observed using a cDNA microarray. The cDNA microarray analysis revealed that the expression levels of 30 genes related to the inflammation, including Ccr1, Ccr2, Ccl20, Anxa1, and Hc genes, were up-regulated (higher than 2.0-fold) in the DNCB group compared to the levels in the control group, whereas the levels were restored to the control level in the DNCB + horse oil-treated group. In contrast, the gene expression levels of 28 genes related to inflammation, including chemokine genes Ccl5, Ccl7, Ccl8, Cxcl10, and Cxcl13 genes, were down-regulated (lower than 0.5-fold) in the DNCB group compared to the levels in the control group, whereas the levels were restored to the control level in the DNCB + horse oiltreated group. Overall, the results show that horse oil restores the expression levels of genes related to inflammation that were perturbed by DNCB treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solanum nigrum L., which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, has been used for disease prevention and treatment. Although the various effects of Solanum nigrum L. are well known, studies on the application of Solanum nigrum L. are insufficient. Herein, we analyzed the active constituents of Solanum nigrum L. extract, and evaluated the anti-inflammatory effect on an acute ear edema mouse model. It was confirmed that Solanum nigrum L. fruit extract contained more polyphenol and flavonoid contents than the whole plant extract. In addition, the evaluation of nitric oxide (NO) production inhibition showed the concentration-dependent inhibitory effect of Solanum nigrum L. extract. Moreover, Solanum nigrum L. fruit extract in 80% ethanol on 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA)-induced acute ear edema mouse model showed less edema and greater suppression of inflammation than indomethacin, an inflammation inhibitor. These results show that the fruit extract of Solanum nigrum L. has anti-inflammatory activity, and can be used as an anti-inflammatory substance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One new dimeric cyclohexylethanoid derivative (1) and one new rearranged abietane diterpenoid (2) were isolated from Clerodendrum bungei and C. inerme , respectively, together with 11 known compounds. The structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated by detailed spectroscopic and ECD analyses. The absolute configuration of 2 was unequivocally determined using single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. Compound 1 showed the greatest inhibitory effect on NO production in RAW 264.7 murine macrophages induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) with the IC 50 value of 6.328 µM. Compound 1 also suppressed the proinflammatory cytokines IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-1β, iNOS and IL-6 mRNA expression, while increased the mRNA expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4, IL-10 and Arg-1 through NF-κB signaling pathway. The further experiments confirmed that compound 1 demonstrated the strong in vivo anti-inflammatory effect by reducing mortality, the serum TNF-α, IL-6 and IFN-γ levels, and tissue toxicity in CLP-induced septic mice. Collectively, these findings suggested that compound 1 might serve as a potential anti-inflammatory agent candidate for the sepsis treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Structures of 7 megastigmane glycosides including 3 new ones, were isolated from the leaves of Laurus nobilis L. • The structures of new compounds were determined by 1D and 2D NMR spectra and MS data. • All of the isolates were evaluated for their inhibition of NO production in lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW264.7 cells. Two new megastigmane glycosides, laurusides E-F (1 and 3) and three known ones (2 , 5 , and 7), together with a new abscisic acid glycoside, lauruside G (4) and a known one (6), were isolated from a methanolic extract of Laurus nobilis L. leaves using various chromatographic techniques. The structures of these compounds were fully characterized using a combination of spectroscopic techniques including multinuclear and multidimensional NMR and mass spectrometry. All of the isolates were evaluated for their inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We previously reported that the major component of Enterococcus faecalis strain EC-12 (EC-12) inducing production of Interleukin (IL)-12 in mouse/human immune cells was its own RNA. This study aimed to investigate if RNase A-treated EC-12 could also produce IL-10 and to evaluate the possible effects of IL-10 produced by RNase A-treated EC-12. Three experiments were conducted: (1) Assessment of the effect of RNase A-treated EC-12 on transcriptome profiles and biological pathways in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells; (2) Determination of cytokine concentration in its culture supernatants; and (3) Supplementation of RNase A-treated EC-12 (RN) to mice with dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis. Treatment of EC-12 with RNase A inhibited inflammatory response including the potency to induce IL-12 production, while it did not affect IL-10 production (Experiment 1 and 2). Colitis symptoms were milder in RN than in PBS-supplemented controls (Experiment 3). RNase A-treated EC-12 likely became an anti-inflammatory agent primarily inducing IL-10 production. RNase A-treated Enterococcus faecalis strain EC-12 (EC-12) likely became an anti-inflammatory agent primarily inducing IL-10 production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • ACE-inhibitory peptides LY, RALP, and GHS have anti-inflammatory effect on RAW264.7 cells. • ACE-inhibitory peptides LY, RALP, and GHS show anti-inflammatory effect on spontaneously hypertensive rats. • ACE-inhibitory peptides LY, RALP, and GHS have anti-oxidative effect. • ACE-inhibitory peptide LY, RALP, and GHS prevent cardiac tissue abnormalities. Abstract Food-derived bioactive peptides have received considerable attention as low toxicity nutrient supplements with multiple physiological activities, such as antioxidant, antihypertensive and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, a RAW 264.7 cell model and spontaneously hypertensive rats model were employed to investigate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory peptides Leu-Tyr (LY), Arg-Ala-Leu-Pro (RALP) and Gly-His-Ser (GHS). The results showed that in vitro , LY, RALP and GHS significantly inhibited the secretion of nitric oxide, interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. In vivo , LY, RALP and GHS inhibited the release of nitric oxide and the production of lipid peroxides and reactive oxygen species, and improved cell damage caused by oxidative stress in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Furthermore, LY, RALP, and GHS inhibited proinflammatory cytokines including interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α in plasma. Thus, LY, RALP and GHS can protect the body from oxidative and inflammatory damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective Observe anti-inflammatory effect and the effect on acute pharyngitis rats model induced by ammonia water of compound Lobelia oral liquid, providing experimental basis for its clinical use. Methods Use egg white establish foot swelling rats model and use carboxymethyl cellulose establish white blood cell migration rats model. Then observe the anti-inflammatory effect of compound Lobelia oral liquid. Use 15% ammonia spray at pharyngeal establish acute pharyngitis rats model, Visual observation and conduct grading of pharyngeal tissue stimulation in rats, measure the levels of TNF-α and IL-6 in serum. Pharyngeal tissue was taken to observe the morphological changes. Result All dose groups of compound Lobelia oral liquid can reduce the rate of foot swelling of rats at all time points (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05), and significantly reduce the number of white blood cells of rats (P < 0.01); And improve the local hyperemia degree, reduce secretion, reduce local swelling of pharyngeal tissue, reduce the serum TNF-α and IL-6 levels of acute pharyngitis rats with different degrees (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). Conclusion Compound Lobelia oral liquid has a good anti-inflammatory effect on foot swelling and white blood cell migration rats model, as well as significant improvement effect on acute pharyngitis rats model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fatty acid monoesters of hydroxytyrosol [2-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)ethanol] were synthesized in two steps from tyrosol (4-hydroxyphenylethanol) by successive Candida antarctica lipase B-catalyzed chemoselective acylation on the primary aliphatic hydroxy group over phenolic hydroxy group in tyrosol, and 2-iodoxybenzoic acid (IBX)-mediated hydroxylation adjacent to the remaining free phenolic hydroxy group. Examination of their suppression effects on nitric oxide production stimulated by lipopolysaccharides in RAW264.7 cells showed that hydroxytyrosol butyrate exhibited the highest inhibition (IC50 7.0 μM) among the tested compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Mango water extract had the highest total phenolic content and antioxidant activity. • Orange and mango water extracts decreased the highest levels of NO. • Mango water extract stimulated the folate production by the co-culture TH-4 and LGG. • All fruit by-product water extracts increased LGG adhesion to Caco-2 cells. Abstract Fibre content, phenolic content, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities were evaluated for water extracts of fruit by-products (passion fruit, orange, acerola, and mango). The impact of these extracts on microbial growth, folate production, and adhesion ability of Streptococcus thermophilus TH-4 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus LGG was investigated. Mango water extract (MWE) presented the highest phenolic content and antioxidant activity. Orange water extract (OWE) and MWE showed the best anti-inflammatory potential by decreasing the highest nitric oxide levels. When TH-4 and LGG were grown together, folate production was only stimulated by MWE. Passion fruit water extract and OWE increased the TH-4 adhesion whereas acerola water extracts and MWE improved LGG adhesion when strains were used individually. These results showed that fruit by-product water extracts (FWE), especially from mango, presented potential beneficial biological and functional properties. These FWE could be used to develop new functional antioxidant foods and natural pharmaceutical ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Three new iridoid glycosides were isolated from the whole plant of Scrophularia umbrosa. • All known compounds were isolated for the first time from Scrophularia umbrosa. • Preliminary structure–activity relationships for these compounds were determined. Abstract Three new iridoid glycosides, namely umbrosides A–C (1 – 3); ten known iridoid glycosides (4 – 8 and 16 – 20); and seven known phenylethanoid glycosides (9 – 15) were isolated from Scrophularia umbrosa Dumortier, and their structures were established through spectroscopic methods including 1D and 2D NMR experiments and ESIMS analysis. The inhibitory activities of the isolated compounds on LPS-stimulated nitric oxide (NO) production in RAW 264.7 cells were investigated. Compounds 1 – 3 , 7 , 9 – 10 , 13 – 16 , and 19 – 20 inhibited NO production, with IC 50 values ranging from 9.0 to 40.3 μM. Their structure–activity relationships are preliminarily discussed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terbutaline aerosol and budesonide suspension are commonly used in the treatment of bronchial asthma, and budesonide suspension has local high efficiency and anti-inflammatory effects. In this paper, we selected 240 patients with bronchial asthma and randomly divided them into two groups. The experimental group was treated with atomization inhalation of terbutaline, after 5 minutes interval, nebulized inhalation of budesonide was performed. The control group was treated with atomized inhalation of mixed liquid as terbutaline and budesonide. After treatment, the cough scores of the two groups decreased, and the dyspnea score improved significantly compared with that before treatment (P<0.05). After treatment, the levels of IL-6, BNP and CRP were decreased in the two groups. There was a significant difference between the two groups after treatment (P<0.05). The incidence of adverse drug reactions was low. There were 2 cases of panic disorder and 8 cases of pharyngeal discomfort in the experimental group. The results show that the interval medication of terbutaline and budesonide in the treatment of bronchial asthma can achieve better clinical efficacy and can provide reference for clinical treatment. In addition, this method can effectively reduce the level of inflammatory factors in acute asthma patients, thereby reducing the damage of inflammatory factors to the body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a great interest in the use of hazelnut proteins as functional food. Although their immunomodulatory activity has been demonstrated, their potential anti-inflammatory activity is scarcely explored. Here, we have investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of a novel peptide Leu-Asp-Ala-Pro-Gly-His-Arg (LDAPGHR) derived from Corylus heterophylla Fisch, in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages. The results showed that LDAPGHR exerted effective anti-inflammatory activity through inhibition of production and mRNA expression of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. LDAPGHR suppressed (1) iNOS and COX-2 expression at protein and mRNA levels, leading to the consequent decrease in the production of NO and PGE2; (2) phosphorylation and degration of IκBα, and phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of p65; (3) phosphorylation of the signal proteins (JNK, ERK, and p38). This research proved that LDAPGHR exerted anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting the activation of NF-κB and MAPK pathways, suggesting that it could be an attractive natural ingredient for developing novel functional foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is able to be treated and delayed. Many interventions include smoking cessation and daily maintenance of drug therapy. In clinical practice, although respiratory physicians have given optimal drug treatment to patients, there is no treatment for etiological factors in these treatments, and they have little effect on the long-term prognosis of COPD. Therefore, this paper puts forward a method of continuing care. Through Meta analysis of the therapeutic effects of statins, it is shown that statins have a positive impact on the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. On the other hand, the study shows that continuing care can reduce the SGRQ (St George's respiratory questionnaire) score of the patient, thereby improving the patient's quality of life. Therefore, both drug therapy and continuing care are effective methods for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which can be effectively combined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pathological progression of lung injury (LI) to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a common feature of the development of lung disease. At present, effective strategies for preventing this progression are unavailable. Baicalin has been reported to specifically inhibit the progression of LI to IPF. Therefore, this meta-analysis aimed to assess its clinical application and its potential as a therapeutic drug for lung disease based on integrative analysis. We systematically searched preclinical articles in eight databases and reviewed them subjectively. The CAMARADES scoring system was used to assess the degree of bias and quality of evidence, whereas the STATA software (version 16.0 software) was used for statistical analysis, including a 3D analysis of the effects of dosage frequency of baicalin in LI and IPF. The protocol of this meta-analysis is documented in the PROSPERO database (CRD42022356152). A total of 23 studies and 412 rodents were included after several rounds of screening. Baicalin was found to reduce the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, HYP, TGF-β and MDA and the W/D ratio and increase the levels of SOD. Histopathological analysis of lung tissue validated the regulatory effects of baicalin, and the 3D analysis of dosage frequency revealed that the effective dose of baicalin is 10–200 mg/kg. Mechanistically, baicalin can prevent the progression of LI to IPF by modulating p-Akt, p-NF-κB–p65 and Bcl-2–Bax–caspase-3 signalling. Additionally, baicalin is involved in signalling pathways closely related to anti-apoptotic activity and regulation of lung tissue and immune cells. Baicalin at the dose of 10–200 mg/kg exerts protective effects against the progression of LI to IPF through anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic pathways. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new compounds, named lyciumlignan D ( 1 ) and lyciumphenyl propanoid A ( 2 ), along with seven known compounds, were isolated from the root bark of Lycium chinense . Their structures were elucidated using spectroscopic data (UV, IR, HR-ESI-MS, 1D and 2D NMR, CD), as well as by comparison with those of the literature. Compounds 3 9 were isolated from this genus for the first time. In the in vitro assay, compounds 3 , 6 , and 7 exhibited stronger anti-inflammatory effects than the positive control curcumin at a concentration of 10 μmol/L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Elaeagnus angustifolia fruit has been traditionally used in Iranian herbal medicine to treat diarrhea and rheumatoid arthritis. In the present study, the effects of E. angustifolia fruit extract on the acute and chronic phases of formalin-induced rat paw edema were examined. Methods: The acute and chronic anti-inflammatory effects of E. angustifolia fruit extract were investigated through the subcutaneous injection of 100 μL of formalin (2.5%) into a rat's hind paw. Thirty minutes before the procedure, the experimental groups were treated intraperitoneally with hydroalcoholic fruit extracts of E. angustifolia (concentrations of 100, 300, 700, and 1000 mg/kg); sodium salicylate (SS, 400 mg/kg) and distilled water were used as positive and negative control groups, respectively. Treatment with SS and the fruit extracts were performed daily for 8 days, and the degree of edema was measured by using mercury plethysmometer and digital caliper. Results: In the acute anti-inflammatory study, the extract showed a significant anti-inflammatory effect in a dosedependent manner. The results of 1000 mg/kg of the extract was significantly different compared with the negative control group (p < 0.05) and was comparable to sodium salicylate (p < 0.05). Results from the chronic study suggested that E. angustifolia extract significantly reduced paw edema and inflammation in a dose-dependent manner. The results also showed that the measurement by digital caliper and mercury plethysmometer were both reliable and might be applied interchangeably (p < 0.01). Phytochemical tests indicated that the hydroalcoholic fruit extract of E. angustifolia was positive for cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids, and saponins. Conclusions: Based on our findings, the E. angustifolia fruit extract probably has acute and chronic antiinflammatory activities to support its applications in folk medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Hydroxytyrosol is a phenolic compound found in the fruit and leaves of the olive. • Hydroxytyrosol ameliorated LPS-induced liver pathological morphology and decreased ALT and AST levels in mice. • Hydroxytyrosol inhibited overexpression of F4/80 and modulated the balance between M1/M2 phenotype macrophage of LPS-induced acute liver injury in mice. • Hydroxytyrosol inhibited TLR4/NF-κB pathway activation of LPS-induced acute liver injury in mice. Olive oil and olive leaves are essential components of the Mediterranean diet with well-established antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties attributed to their high content of phenolic compounds, especially hydroxytyrosol (HT). Herein, we investigated whether HT exerts an anti-inflammatory effect on LPS-induced acute liver injury (ALI) in mice. Our data showed that HT ameliorated LPS-induced liver injury and decreased ALT and AST levels, with a more potent antioxidant capacity observed in the LPS + HT group than in the LPS group. HT inhibited LPS-induced overexpression of F4/80 and mRNA expression of M1 macrophage markers (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β) and upregulated the mRNA levels of M2 macrophage markers (Mrc1, IL-10 and Arg1). HT downregulated the expression of mRNAs (TLR4, MyD88 and NF-κB) and proinflammatory factor proteins (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β) associated with the TLR4/NF-κB pathway in LPS group. Overall, HT may modulate the balance between M1/M2 phenotype macrophage and inhibit TLR4/NF-κB activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elemental selenium, a new type of selenium supplement, can be biosynthesized via microorganisms. This study is to characterize a patent probiotic bacteria Enterococcus durans A8–1 , capable of reducing selenite (Se6+ or Se4+) to elemental selenium (Se0) with the formation of Se nanoparticles (SeNPs). The selenium nanoparticles synthesized from A8–1 were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray photoelectron energy (XPS). The Caco2 cells were used to investigate the effects of Se-enriched A8–1 on the viability, membrane integrity, and the regulation of cellular inflammation through MTT and ELISA assays. The selenium-enriched metabolic function of A8–1 was analyzed by transcriptome sequencing. E. durans A8–1 has the ability to synthesize intracellular SeNPs that are incubated with 60 mg/L sodium selenite for 18 h at 37 °C with 7 % inoculum under aerobic conditions. The selenium-enriched transformation rate increased to 43.46 %. After selenium enrichment, there were no significant morphological changes in E. durans A8–1 cells. The cells also exhibited no cytotoxicity when incubated with Caco-2 cells, and increased cellular proliferation. Furthermore, Se-enriched A8–1 cells antagonize the adhesion of S. typhimurium ATCC14028 onto the surface of Caco-2 cells protecting cell membrane integrity and was assessed by measuring LDH and AKP activities (P <0.001, P <0.001). Moreover, Se-enriched A8–1 could protect Caco-2 cells from inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide and help the cells alleviate the inflammation through the reduced expression of cytokine IL-8 (P = 0.0012, P <0.001) and TNF-α (P <0.001, P <0.001). Based on transcriptome sequencing in Se-enriched E. durans A8–1 cells, there were 485 up-regulated genes and 322 down-regulated genes (P adj < 0.05). There were 19 predicted up-regulated genes that are highly related to the potential selenium metabolism pathway, which focuses on the transportation of Na 2 SeO 3 by membrane proteins, and gradually reduces Na 2 SeO 3 to elemental selenium aggregates that are deposited onto the membrane surface via the intracellular redox response. E. durans A8–1 could convert extracellular selenite into intracellular biological SeNPs via redox pathway with strong selenium-rich metabolism, and its biological SeNPs have anti-inflammatory properties, which have the potential for the development of composite selenium nanomaterials and can be further studied for the function of SeNPs with potential applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluated the anti-inflammatory effect of tyrosol (Tyr) on endotoxin-induced uveitis (EIU) in rats. EIU was induced in male Lewis rats by subcutaneous injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Tyr (10, 50 or 100 mg/kg) was intravenously injected 2 hr before, simultaneously and 2 hr after LPS injection. The aqueous humor (AqH) was collected 24 hr after LPS injection; the infiltrating cell number, protein concentration, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, prostaglandin (PG)-E2 and nitric oxide (NO) levels were determined. Histopathologic examination and immunohistochemical studies for nuclear factor (NF)-κB, inhibitor of κB (IκB)-α, cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 and inducible NO synthase (iNOS) in the iris--ciliary body (ICB) were performed at 3 or 24 hr after LPS injection. To further clarify the anti-inflammatory effects, RAW264.7 macrophages were stimulated with LPS in the presence or absence of Tyr. Tyr reduced, in a dose-dependent manner, the infiltrating cell number, protein concentration, and TNF-α, PGE2 and NO levels in AqH and improved histopathologic scores of EIU. Tyr also inhibited LPS-induced COX-2 and iNOS expression, IκB-α degradation and nuclear translocation of activated NF-κB in ICB. Tyr significantly suppressed inflammatory mediator production in the culture medium and COX-2 and iNOS expression and activated NF-κB translocation in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. These results suggest that Tyr suppresses ocular inflammation of EIU by inhibiting NF-κB activation and subsequent proinflammatory mediator production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The in vivo immunomodulatory effect of a bioactive peptide from Amaranthus hypochondriacus grains in an IgE-mediated food allergy mouse model was examined. The synthetic SSEDIKE peptide was orally administered to prevent food allergy. Upon oral challenge with milk allergens we observed an alleviation of hypersensitivity symptoms with negativization of skin test, a significant inhibition of specific IgE and IgG1 secretion, a substantial reduction in the secretion of IL-5 and IL-13 by antigen-stimulated spleen cells and mucosal reduction of transcripts coding for ccl20 , gata-3 and nf-kb . In addition tgf-β and foxp3 mRNA levels were up-regulated in jejunum. The charged SSEDIKE peptide from Amaranth inhibited the allergy reaction in a mouse model of food allergy, with suppression of IgE secretion and control of the intestinal inflammation preventing the activation of NF-κB, which might be attributed to the induction of local tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to investigate the therapeutic efficacy of post-inflammatory treatment with luteolin on endotoxin-induced uveitis (EIU) in rats. Intraperitoneal injection of 10 mg/kg luteolin or 1 mg/kg prednisolone (Pred) at 4 hr post-lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection (200 μg) was associated at 24 hr post-LPS injection with decreased clinical severity scores, number of inflammatory cells, protein levels and levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin (PG) E2 in the aqueous humor (AqH) and degrees of histological ocular tissue injury. The anti-inflammatory potency of luteolin was comparable to that of Pred. Luteolin exhibited robust efficacy in the treatment of EIU in rats, indicating its potential clinical utility in treating uveitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to investigate the efficacy of luteolin on endotoxin-induced uveitis (EIU) in rats. EIU was induced in Lewis rats by subcutaneous injections of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). One hr before the LPS injection, 0.1, 1 or 10 mg/kg luteolin or 1 mg/kg prednisolone was intraperitoneally injected. We investigated its effect upon clinical scores, cellular infiltration and protein leakage, as well as on the level of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin (PG) E2 in the aqueous humor (AqH). Histologic examination and immunohistochemical analysis in the iris-ciliary body (ICB) were performed to determine the expressions of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 and inducible NO synthase (iNOS), and then the activated nuclear factor (NF)-κB p65, I kappa B (IκB)-α degradation, phosphorylated (p)-IκB kinase (IKK) α/β and activator protein (AP)-1 c-Jun. Luteolin suppressed, in a dose-dependent manner, the clinical scores, number of inflammatory cells, the protein concentration, and the TNF-α, NO and PGE2 levels in the AqH and improved the histiologic status of the ocular tissue. Luteolin suppressed the expression of iNOS and COX-2 and the activated NF-κB p65, IκB-α degradation, p-IKKα/β and AP-1 p-c-Jun in the ICB. The anti-inflammatory potency of 10 mg/kg luteolin was as strong as that observed with 1 mg/kg prednisolone. These results demonstrate that luteolin attenuates ocular inflammation by inhibiting expression and release of inflammatory markers, along with the inhibition of the activated NF-κB pathway and at least partly AP-1 activity in the ICB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Caulis Lonicerae japonicae (CLJ) is often used for the treatment of inflammation such as acute fever, headache, respiratory infection and epidemic diseases. Nevertheless, domestic and foreign researches simply fail to focus on reports of CLJ, especially its anti-inflammatory effects and correlative components.Purpose: In this study, we investigated anti-inflammatory effects and serum components of Caulis Lonicerae japonicae (CLJ) in models of acute inflammation and correlative analysis between anti-inflammatory effects and serum components of CLJ in rat serum to analyze the changes in the relative contents of components in serum with time and in the corresponding values to characterize active fractions of CLJ and identify the major active components of CLJ in rats.Study Design: Active fractions of CLJ were screened using xylene-induced ear oedema mice model. Anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated using carrageenan-induced paw oedema rat model, and then correlative components in rat serum were demonstrated with HPLC-QTOF/MS/MS method explored.Methods: HPLC-QTOF/MS/MS was developed to analyze the components absorbed in rat serum after oral administration of CLJ.Results: Ethyl acetate extracts (ECLJ) and n-butanol extracts (BCLJ) of CLJ were preliminarily screened as active fractions of CLJ (EBCLJ) using xylene-induced ear oedema mice model, and effectively inhibited edema and values of interleukin-1 (IL-l), nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kB), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) activities and prostaglandinE2 (PGE2) productions using carrageenan-induced paw oedema rat model. 33 peaks were found in total ion current chromatograms of EBCLJ, and 27 components were observed in EBCLJ-treated rat serum, only 11 of which were correlated with anti-inflammatory effects.Conclusions: The present study contributes to the study on the pharmacodynamic basis of CLJ and provides potent evidence for developing CLJ as a safe and promising natural drug in inflammation treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Background & aims Licochalcone (lico) F is a novel synthetic retrochalcone. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of lico F in vitro , and its effects on obesity-induced chronic inflammation, glucose intolerance, and fatty liver in vivo . Methods The inhibitory effects of lico F on TNFα-induced inflammation were investigated using NF-κB luciferase reporter assay and RT-PCR. Diet-induced obese mice were treated orally, once per day, with vehicle or lico F (10 mg/kg/day), for 3 weeks, and blood, liver, and adipose tissues were analyzed. Results Lico F inhibited TNFα-induced NF-κB activation and mRNA expression of TNFα, COX-2, IL-6, IL-1β, and NOS2. In obese mice, lico F administration significantly alleviated glucose tolerance without changes in body weight gain and food intake. Lico F reduced adipocyte size and macrophage infiltration into white adipose tissue and improved hepatic lesions, by decreasing fat droplets and glycogen deposition. The mRNA expression levels of TNFα, MCP-1, and CD68 in white adipose tissue also decreased markedly. Moreover, lico F enhanced Akt signaling, but reduced p38 MAPK signaling in white adipose tissue. Conclusions Lico F had anti-inflammatory effects and showed beneficial effects on glucose metabolism, which could be partially caused by activation of the Akt signal pathway and obesity-induced chronic inflammation, probably by downregulating p38 signal pathway. Moreover, lico F could be used as a potential novel therapeutic compound against type 2 diabetes and obesity-induced chronic inflammation without the deleterious effects of body weight gain and fatty liver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boerhavia diffusa L. is a green vegetable used as an herbal medicine in several Asian countries for the treatment of hepatitis, kidney stones, liver disorders, nephritis, urinary disorders, and urinary retention. In this study, the anti-inflammatory activity and the molecular inhibitory mechanisms of B. diffusa L. ethanol extract (Bd-EE) in vitro and in vivo were evaluated. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated peritoneal macrophage RAW264.7 cells and a mouse gastritis model induced by HCl/EtOH treatment were chosen to determine the in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory activities of Bd-EE. This extract (100 and 200 µg/ml) significantly ( P  < 0.01) inhibited nitric oxide (NO) and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α production in peritoneal macrophages and in RAW264.7 cells during LPS exposure at both. The inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and TNF-α mRNA expression levels were decreased. In addition, nuclear levels of p65, p50, c-Fos, and c-Jun transcription factors were reduced by Bd-EE treatment; moreover, it inhibited NF-κB upstream signalling via IκBα, PI3K, Syk, and Src. Furthermore, analysis of AP-1 upstream signalling revealed that the AP-1 activation pathway consisting of TRAF6, TAK1, MKK4/7, and MKK3/6 was also predominantly inhibited by Bd-EE. By HPLC analysis, luteolin was identified as a major ingredient displaying NO inhibitory activity. The data provided here strongly suggest that the anti-inflammatory property of Bd-EE is linked to the suppression of Syk, Src, and TRAF6. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research examined antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic activities of ethanolic extract of C. bonducella whole seeds in experimental albino rats. Three doses, 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg of the whole seed ethanolic extract prepared as a suspension in 2 ml of 2% gum acacia were used. Acute inflammatory and antipyretic activities were evaluated in experimental animals by carrageenan induced paw edema and brewer's yeast-induced pyrexia models, respectively. A significant (/K0.05) reduction in paw volumes, and pyrexia was noted in experimental animals when compared with control animals. The ethanol see extract (400 mg/kg) displayed in vivo anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and analgesic in terms of reduction in paw edema, % writhes inhibition and rectal temperature by (0.24±0.03), (31.38%) and (36.2±0.1), respectively. Overall the whole ethanolic seed extract at all tested concentrations produced significant (/<0.05) anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and analgesic activities. The results obtained in this study clearly indicated the ethno-medicinal potential of C. bonducella in curing pain and inflammation related disorders, supporting its efficacy as a natural analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Portulide glucoside A ( 1 ), 14-acetoxy-9- epi -britanlin A ( 2 ), and dichroditerpene A ( 3 ) along with eight known compounds were isolated from Dichrocephala integrifolia . Diterpenoids 3 and 5 showed antineutrophilic inflammatory activities against not only superoxide anion generation with IC 50 values of 1.74 and 4.40 μM, but also elastase release with IC 50 values of 1.32 and 3.67 μM, respectively. Additionally, sinapyl alcohols 8 and 9 showed moderate cytotoxicity toward DU145 human prostate cancer cell line with IC 50 values of 24.1 and 19.0 μM, respectively. Isolates 1–10 were found for the first time in this plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) contains monounsaturated fatty acids and multiple minor components with biological properties and health benefits. We evaluate whether a diet supplemented on Oleaster®(OT), an EVOO obtained by a new process aimed to increase phenolic composition, provided additional benefits to those observed in the animals fed a diet rich in traditional EVOO on atherosclerosis development and vasomotor function in aortic vessel of ApoE −/− mice. Results were compared with those obtained in mice fed an EVOO, a standard diet (SD) or a high fat diet (HFD) rich in saturated fatty acids. Both extra-virgin olive oils reduced macrophage accumulation and protein expression of iNOS, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1, TNF-α and NF-κB, independently of its phenolic content toward values found in SD. Superoxide anion production was also reduced to the same extent in Apo E −/− mice fed EVOO or OT. Endothelial function assessed by ACh-induced vasodilatation, and lipid accumulation within the atherosclerotic plaque were restored in OT- but not in EVOO-fed mice. We conclude that EVOO contribute to prevent the inflammatory markers of atherosclerosis plaque progression but the polyphenolic content is not responsible for this effect. However, those compounds are able to restore endothelial function and to reduce lipid accumulation within the atherosclerotic lesion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacillus polyfermenticus KU3 was isolated from kimchi , a Korean dish made from fermented vegetables and its potential probiotic characteristics were investigated. The spore cell of B. polyfermenticus KU3 was highly resistant to artificial gastric juice and survived for 24 h in artificial bile acid. B. polyfermenticus KU3 did not generate the carcinogenic enzymes, β-glucosidase, N-acetyl-β-glucosaminidase, and β-glucuronidase, and adhered strongly to HT-29 human intestinal epithelial cell lines. Using the [3–4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyletrazolium bromide assay, we found that B. polyfermenticus KU3 strongly inhibited the proliferation of cancer cells such as HeLa, LoVo, HT-29, AGS, and MCF-7 cells. The supernatant of B. polyfermenticus KU3 had an anticancer effect against HeLa and LoVo cells. Conversely, the proliferation of normal MRC-5 cells was not inhibited. We also demonstrated the anti-inflammatory activity of B. polyfermenticus KU3 under inflammatory conditions, as shown by the reduction in nitric oxide and proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-10, TGF-β2, and COX-2). These results demonstrate the probiotic characteristics of B. polyfermenticus KU3 and provide evidence for the effect of this bacterium against various cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meloxicam (MLX) is a poorly water-soluble non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). The main objective of the present work was to enhance the dissolution of MLX and thus its bioavailability by the aid of additives. The novelty of this work rises from the utilization of spray drying technology to produce micro particulates solid dispersion systems containing MLX in the presence of small amount of additives. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and Scan Electron Microscope (SEM) were used for studying the physico-chemical and morphological properties of MLX samples. The dissolution of MLX samples was investigated in two different pH media. The morphology of MLX solid dispersion micro-particles was spherical in shape according to SEM. FT-IR profiles indicated that a complex was formed between MLX and the additives. DSC patterns of the MLX micro-particles suggested a reduction in the crystallinity of MLX and probability of presence of an interaction between MLX and the additives. The rate of dissolution of the spray-dried MLX enhanced as compared with the unprocessed MLX in both acidic and neutral media. It was found that 100% of the added MLX released within 5 min in phosphate buffer dissolution medium (pH 7.4) compared to that of the unprocessed MLX (15% in 60 min). Such increase rate in the dissolution of the spray dried MLX could be attributed to the increase in wettability of MLX particles and the hydrophilic nature of the additives. The anti-inflammatory effect of the spray dried MLX was explored using formalin induced rat paw edema model. The spray-dried samples showed an increase in the anti-inflammatory activity of MLX as compared to the unprocessed MLX. This work reveals that the spray drying technique is suitable for preparation of micro-particles with improved dissolution and anti-inflammatory effect of MLX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Loquat tea extracts inhibited the production of pro-inflammatory mediators. [•] Downregulation of cellular inflammatory signaling were involved in the mechanisms. [•] Mouse paw edema model confirmed the in vivo anti-inflammatory effects. [•] Cellular and animal models clarified the anti-inflammatory effects and mechanisms. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] OJH inhibits LPS-induced pro-inflammatory molecules. [•] OJH inhibits LPS-induced activation of NF-κB and PI3K signaling. [•] OJH is an interesting target for the treatment of inflammatory disease. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

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