Augmented regeneration of partial liver allograft induced by nuclear factor-kB decoy oligodeoxynucleotides-modified dendritic cells

AIM:To investigate the effect of NF-κB decoyoligodeoxynuleotides(ODNs)-modified dendritic cells(DCs)on regeneration of partial liver allograft.METHODS:Bone marrow(BM)-derived DCs from SD ratswere propagated in the presence of GM-CSF or GM-CSF IL-4 to obtain immature DCs or mature DCs,respectively.GM-CSF-propagated DCs were treated with double-strand NF-~Bdecoy ODNs containing two NF-κB binding sites or scrambledODNs.Allogeneic(SD rat to LEW rat)50% partial livertransplantation was performed.Normal saline(group A),GM-CSF-propagated DCs(group B),GM-CSF IL-4-propagated DCs(group C),and GM-CSF NF-κB decoy ODNs(group D)or scrambled ODNs-propagated DCs(group E)were injected intravenously into recipient LEW rats 7 daysprior to liver transplantation and immediately aftertransplantation.DNA synthesis(BrdU labeling)and apoptosisof hepatocytes were detected with immunostaining andTUNEL staining postoperative 24 h,48 h,72 h and 84 h,respectively.Liver graft-resident NK cell activity,hepaticIFN-γ mRNA expression and recipient serum IFN-γ level atthe time of the maximal liver allograft regeneration weremeasured with ~(51)Cr release assay,semiquantitative RT-PCRand ELISA,respectively.RESULTS:Regeneration of liver allograft was markedlypromoted by NF-κB decoy ODNs-modified immature DCsbut was significantly suppressed by mature DCs,the DNAsynthesis of hepatocytes peaked at postoperative 72 h ingroup A,group B and group E rats,whereas the DNAsynthesis of hepatocytes peaked at postoperative 84 h ingroup C rats and 48 h in group D rats,respectively.Themaximal BrdU labeling index of hepatocytes in group D ratswas significantly higher than that in the other groups rats.NF-κB decoy ODNs-modified immature DCs markedlysuppressed but mature DCs markedly promoted apoptosisof hepatocytes,liver-resident NK cell activity,hepatic IFN~mRNA expression and recipient serum IFN-γ production.Atthe time of the maximal regeneration of liver allograft,theminimal apoptosis of hepatocytes,the minimal activity ofliver-resident NK cells,the minimal hepatic IFN-γ mRNAexpression and serum IFN-γ production were detected ingroup D rats.The apoptotic index of hepatooltes,the activity of liver-resident NK cells,the hepatic IFN-γ mRNA expressionlevel and the serum IFN-γ level in group D rats were significantlylower than that in the other groups rats at the time of themaximal regeneration of liver allograft.CONCLUSION:The data suggest that the augmentedregeneration of partial liver allograft induced by NF-κB decoyODNs-modified DCs may be attributable to the reducedapoptotic hepatocytes,the suppressed activity of liver-resident NK cells and the reduced IFN-γ production.     

Prolongation of liver allograft survival by dendritic cells modified with NF-κB decoy oligodeoxynucleotides

AIM: To induce the tolerance of rat liver allograft by dendritic cells (DCs) modified with NF-κB decoy oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs).METHODS: Bone marrow (BM)-derived DCs from SD rats were propagated in the presence of GM-CSF or GM-CSF+IL-4 to obtain immature DCs or mature DCs. GM-CSF+IL-4-propagated DCs were treated with double-strand NF-κB decoy ODNs containing two NF-κB binding sites or scrambled ODNs to ascertain whether NF-κB decoy ODNs might prevent DC maturation. GM-CSF-propagated DCs, GM-CSF+NF-κB decoy ODNs or scrambled ODNs-propagated DCs were treated with LPS for 18 h to determine whether NF-κB decoy ODNs could prevent LPS-induced IL-12 production in DCs. NF-κB binding activities, costimulatory molecule (CD40, CD80, CD86) surface expression, IL-12 protein expression and allostimulatory capacity of DCs were measured with electrophoretic mobility shift assay (ENSA),flow cytometry, Western blotting, and mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR), respectively. GM-CSF-propagated DCs, GM-CSF+IL-4 -propagated DCs, and GM-CSF+NF-κB decoy ODNs or scrambled ODNs-propagated DCs were injected intravenously into recipient LEW rats 7 d prior to liver transplantation and immediately after liver transplantation.Histological grading of liver graft rejection was determined 7 d after liver transplantation. Expression of IL-2, IL-4 and IFN-γ, mRNA in liver graft and in recipient spleen was analyzed by semiquantitative RT-PCR. Apoptosis of liver allograft-infiltrating cells was measured with TUNEL staining.RESULTS: GM-CSF-propagated DCs, GM-CSF+NF-κB decoy ODNs-propagated DCs and GM-CSF+ scrambled ODNs-propagated DCs exhibited features of immature DCs, with similar low level of costimulatory molecule(CD40, CD80,CD86) surface expression, absence of NF-κB activation,and few allocostimulatory activities. GM-CSF+IL-4-propagated DCs displayed features of mature DCs, with high levels of costimulatory molecule (CD40, CD80, CD86) surface expression, marked NF-κB activation, and significant allocostimulatory activity. NF-κB decoy ODNs completely abrogated IL-4-induced DC maturation and allocostimulatory activity as well as LPS-induced NF-κB activation and IL-12 protein expression in DCs. GM-CSF+NF-κB decoy ODNs-propagated DCs promoted apoptosis of liver allograft-infiltrating cells within portal areas, and significantly decreased the expression of IL-2 and IFN-γ mRNA but markedly elevated IL-4 mRNA expression both in liverallograft and in recipient spleen, and consequently suppressed liver allograft rejection, and promoted liverallograft survival.CONCLUSION: NF-κB decoy ODNs-rnodified DCs canprolong liver allograft survival by promoting apoptosis of graft-infiltrating cells within portal areas as well as down-regulating IL-2 and IFN-γ mRNA and up-regulating IL-4 rnRNA expression both in liver graft and in recipient spleen.     

Prolongation of liver allograft survival by dendritic cells modified with NF_(-k)B decoy oligodeoxynucleotides

AIM:To induce the tolerance of rat liver allograft bydendritic cells (DCs) modified with NF-κB decoyoligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs).METHODS:Bone marrow (BM)-derived DCs from SD ratswere propagated in the presence of GM-CSF or GM-CSF IL-4to obtain immature DCs or mature DCs.GM-CSF IL-4-propagated DCs were treated with double-strand NF-κBdecoy ODNs containing two NF-KB binding sites or scrambledODNs to ascertain whether NF-KB decoy ODNs mightprevent DC maturation.GM-CSF-propagated Des,GM-CSF NF-κB decoy ODNs or scrambled ODNs-propagatedDes were treated with LPS for 18 h to determine whetherNF-κB decoy ODNs could prevent LPS-induced IL-12production in Des.NF-κB binding activities,costimulatorymolecule (CD40,CD80,CD86) surface expression,IL-12protein expression and allostimulatory capacity of Des weremeasured with electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA),flow cytometry,Western blotting,and mixed lymphocytereaction (MLR),respectively.GM-CSF-propagated DCs,GM-CSF IL-4 -propagated DCs,and GM-CSF NF-κB decoyODNs or scrambled ODNs-propagated DCs were injectedintravenously into recipient LEW rats 7 d prior to livertransplantation and immediately after liver transplantation.Histological grading of liver graft rejection was determined7 d after liver transplantation.Expression of IL-2,IL-4 andIFN-γ mRNA in liver graft and in recipient spleen wasanalyzed by semiquantitative RT-PCR.Apoptosis of liverallograft-infiltrating cells was measured with TUNELstaining.RESULTS:GM-CSF-propagated DCs,GM-CSF NF-κB decoyODNs-propagated Des and GM-CSF scrambled ODNs-propagated DCs exhibited features of immature DCs,withsimilar low level of costimulatory molecule(CD40,CD80,CD86) surface expression,absence of NF-κB activation,and few allocostimulatory activities.GM-CSF IL-4-propagatedDCs displayed features of mature DCs,with high levels ofcostimulatory molecule (CD40,CD80,CD86) surfaceexpression,marked NF-κB activation,and significantallocostimulatory activity.NF-κB decoy ODNs completelyabrogated IL-4-induced DC maturation and allocostimulatoryactivity as well as LPS-induced NF-κB activation and IL-12 protein expression in DCs.GM-CSF NF-κB decoy ODNs-propagated DCs promoted apoptosis of liver allograft-infiltrating cells within portal areas,and significantlydecreased the expression of IL-2 and IFN-7 mRNA butmarkedly elevated IL-4 mRNA expression both in liverallograft and in recipient spleen,and consequentlysuppressed liver allograft rejection,and promoted liverallograft survival.CONCLUSION:NF-κB decoy ODNs-modified DCs canprolong liver allograft survival by promoting apoptosis ofgraft-infiltrating cells within portal areas as well as down-regulating IL-2 and IFN-γ mRNA and up-regulating IL-4 mRNAexpression both in liver graft and in recipient spleen.     

Nuclear factor-KB decoy oligodeoxynucleotides attenuates ischemia/reperfusion injury in rat liver graft

AIM: To evaluate the protective effect of NF-κB decoy oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) on ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in rat liver graft. METHODS: Orthotopic syngeneic rat liver transplantation was performed with 3 h of cold preservation of liver graft in University of Wisconsin solution containing phosphorothioated double-stranded NF-κB decoy ODNs or scrambled ODNs. NF-κB decoy ODNs or scrambled ODNs were injected intravenously into donor and recipient rats 6 and 1 h before operation, respectively. Recipients were killed 0 to 16 h after liver graft reperfusion. NF-κB activity in the liver graft was analyzed by electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). Hepatic mRNA expression of TNF-α, IFN-γ and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) were determined by semiquantitative RT-PCR. Serum levels of TNF-α and IFN-γ were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Serum level of alanine transaminase (ALT) was measured using a diagnostic kit. Liver graft myeloperoxidase (MPO) content was assessed. RESULTS: NF-κB activation in liver graft was induced in a time-dependent manner, and NF-κB remained activated for 16 h after graft reperfusion. NF-κB activation in liver graft was significant at 2 to 8 h and slightly decreased at 16 h after graft reperfusion. Administration of NF-κB decoy ODNs significantly suppressed NF-κB activation as well as mRNA expression of TNF-α, IFN-γ and ICAM-1 in the liver graft. The hepatic NF-κB DNA binding activity [presented as integral optical density (IOD) value] in the NF-κB decoy ODNs treatment group rat was significantly lower than that of the I/R group rat (2.16±0.78 vs 36.78 ±6.35 and 3.06±0.84 vs 47.62± 8.71 for IOD value after 4 and 8 h of reperfusion, respectively, P<0.001). The hepatic mRNA expression level of TNF-α, IFN-γ and ICAM-1 [presented as percent of p-actin mRNA (%)] in the NF-κB decoy ODNs treatment group rat was significantly lower than that of the I/R group rat (8.31 ±3.48 vs 46.37±10.65 and 7.46± 3.72 vs 74.82±12.25 for hepatic TNF-a mRNA, 5.58±2.16 vs 50.46±9.35 and 6.47±2.53 vs 69.72±13.41 for hepatic IFN-y mRNA, 6.79 ±2.83 vs 46.23±8.74 and 5.28±2.46 vs 67.44±10.12 for hepatic ICAM-1 mRNA expression after 4 and 8 h of reperfusion, respectively, P<0.001). Administration of NF-κB decoy ODNs almost completely abolished the increase of serum level of TNF-α and IFN-γ induced by hepatic ischemia/reperfusion, the serum level (pg/mL) of TNF-α and IFN-γ in the NF-kB decoy ODNs treatment group rat was significantly lower than that of the I/R group rat (42.7±13.6 vs 176.7±15.8 and 48.4±15.1 vs 216.8±17.6 for TNF-α level, 31.5±12.1 vs 102.1±14.5 and 40.2±13.5 vs 118.6±16.7 for IFN-γ level after 4 and 8 h of reperfusion, respectively, P<0.001). Liver graft neutrophil recruitment indicated by MPO content and hepatocellular injury indicated by serum ALT level were significantly reduced by NF-κB decoy ODNs, the hepatic MPO content (A655) and serum ALT level (IU/L) in the NF-κB decoy ODNs treatment group rat was significantly lower than that of the I/R group rat (0.17±0.07 vs 1.12 ±0.25 and 0.46±0.17 vs 1.46±0.32 for hepatic MPO content, 71.7±33.2 vs 286.1±49.6 and 84.3±39.7 vs 467.8±62.3 for ALT level after 4 and 8 h of reperfusion, respectively, P< 0.001). CONCLUSION: The data suggest that NF-κB decoy ODNs protects against I/R injury in liver graft by suppressing NF-κB activation and subsequent expression of proinflammatory mediators.     

NF－κB activation and zinc finger protein A20 expression in mature dendritic cells derived from liver allografts undergoing acute rejection

AIM：To investigate the role of NF-κB activation and zinc finger protein A20 expression in the regulation of maturation of dendritic cells (DCs) derived from liver allografts undergoing acute acute rejection.METHODS:Sixty donor male SD rats and sixty recipient male lew rats weighing 220-300 g were randomly divided into whole liver transplantation group and partial liver transplantation group. Allogeneic (SD rat to LEW rat) whole and 50% partial liver transplantation were performed. DCs from liver grafts 0 hour and 4 days after transplantation were isolated and propagated in the presence of GM-CSF in vitro. Morphological characteristics and phenotypical features of DCs propagated for 10 days were analyzed by electron microscopy and flow cytometry,respectively. NF-κB binding activity, IL-1 2P70 Protein and zinc finger protein A20 expression on these DCs were measured by EMSA and Western blotting, respectively. Histological grading of rejection was determined.RESULTS: Allogeneic whole liver grafts showed no signs of rejection on day 4 after the transplantation. In contrast,allogeneic partial liver grafts demonstrated moderate to severe rejection on day 4 after the transplantation. After propagation for 10 days in the presence of GM-CSF in vitro,DCs from allogeneic whole liver grafts exhibited features of immature DC with absence of CD40 surface expression,these DCs were found to exhibit detectable but very low level of NF-κB activity, 1L-12 p70 protein and zinc finger protein A20 expression. Whereas, DCs from allogeneic partial liver graft 4 days after transplantation displayed features of mature DC, with high level of CD40 surface expression, and as a consequence, higher expression of lL-12p70 protein, higher activities of NF-κB and higher expression of zinc finger protein A20 compared with those of DCs from whole liver grafts (P&lt;0.001).CONCLUSION: These results suggest that A20 expression is up-regulated in response to NF-κB activation in mature DCs derived from allogeneic liver grafts undergoing acute rejection. Given the NF-κB inhibition function of this gene, it is suggested that their expression survives to limit NF-κB activation and maturation of DCs,and consequently inhibits the acute rejection and induces acceptance of liver graft.     

NF-κB activation and zinc finger protein A20 expression in mature dendritic cells derived from liver allografts undergoing acute rejection

AIM: To investigate the role of NF-κB activation and zinc finger protein A20 expression in the regulation of maturation of dendritic cells (DCs) derived from liver allografts undergoing acute rejection. METHODS: Sixty donor male SD rats and sixty recipient male LEW rats weighing 220-300 g were randomly divided into whole liver transplantation group and partial liver transplantation group. Allogeneic (SD rat to LEW rat) whole and 50 % partial liver transplantation were performed. DCs from liver grafts 0 hour and 4 days after transplantation were isolated and propagated in the presence of GM-CSF in vitro. Morphological characteristics and phenotypical features of DCs propagated for 10 days were analyzed by electron microscopy and flow cytometry, respectively. NF-κB binding activity, IL-12p70 protein and zinc finger protein A20expression in these DCs were measured by EMSA and Western blotting, respectively. Histological grading of rejection was determined. RESULTS: Allogeneic whole liver grafts showed no signs of rejection on day 4 after the transplantation. In contrast,allogeneic partial liver grafts demonstrated moderate to severe rejection on day 4 after the transplantation. After propagation for 10 days in the presence of GM-CSF in vitro,DCs from allogeneic whole liver grafts exhibited features of immature DC with absence of CD40 surface expression,these DCs were found to exhibit detectable but very low level of NF-κB activity, IL-12 p70 protein and zinc finger protein A20 expression. Whereas, DCs from allogeneic partial liver graft 4 days after transplantation displayed features of mature DC, with high level of CD40 surface expression, and as a consequence, higher expression of IL-12p70 protein, higher activities of NF-κB and higher expression of zinc finger protein A20 compared with those of DCs from whole liver grafts (P＜0.001). CONCLUSION: These results suggest that A20expression is up-regulated in response to NF-κB activation in mature DCs derived from allogeneic liver grafts undergoing acute rejection. Given the NF-κB inhibition function of this gene, it is suggested that their expression survives to limit NF-κB activation and maturation of DCs,and consequently inhibits the acute rejection and induces acceptance of liver graft.     

Augmented regeneration of partial liver allograft induced by nuclear factor-κB decoy oligodeoxynucleotides-modified dendritic cells

AIM: To investigate the effect of NF-κB decoy oligodeoxynuleotides (ODNs) - modified dendritic cells (DCs)on regeneration of partial liver allograft.METHODS: Bone marrow (BM)- derived DCs from SD rats were propagated in the presence of GM-CSF or GM-CSF+IL4 to obtain immature DCs or mature DCs, respectively. GMCSF-propagated DCs were treated with double-strand NF-κB decoy ODNs containing two NF-κB binding sites or scrambled ODNs. Allogeneic (SD rat to LEW rat) 50% partial liver transplantation was performed. Normal saline (group A),GM-CSF -propagated DCs (group B), GM-CSF+IL-4 -propagated DCs (group C), and GM-CSF+NF-κB decoy ODNs (group D) or scrambled ODNs -propagated DCs (group E)were injected intravenously into recipient LEW rats 7 days prior to liver transplantation and immediately after transplantation. DNA synthesis (BrdU labeling) and apoptosis of hepatocytes were detected with immunostaining and TUNEL staining postoperative 24 h, 48 h, 72 h and 84 h,respectively. Liver graft-resident NK cell activity, hepatic IFN-y mRNA expression and recipient serum IFN-γ level at the time of the maximal liver allograft regeneration were measured with 51Cr release assay, semiquantitative RT-PCR and ELISA, respectively.RESULTS: Regeneration of liver allograft was markedly promoted by NF-κB decoy ODNs-modified immature DCs but was significantly suppressed by mature DCs, the DNA synthesis of hepatocytes peaked at postoperative 72 h in group A, group B and group E rats, whereas the DNA synthesis of hepatocytes peaked at postoperative 84 h in group C rats and 48 h in group D rats, respectively. The maximal BrdU labeling index of hepatocytes in group D rats was significantly higher than that in the other groups rats.NF-κB decoy ODNs-modified immature DCs markedly suppressed but mature DCs markedly promoted apoptosis of hepatocytes, liver-resident NK cell activity, hepatic IFN-γmRNA expression and recipient serum IFN-γ production. At the time of the maximal regeneration of liver allograft, the minimal apoptosis of hepatocytes, the minimal activity of liver-resident NK cells, the minimal hepatic IFN-γ mRNA expression and serum IFN-γ production were detected in group D rats. The apoptotic index of hepatocytes, the activity of liver- resident NK cells, the hepatic IFN-γ mRNA expression level and the serum IFN-γlevel in group D rats were significantly lower than that in the other groups rats at the time of the maximal regeneration of liver allograft.CONCLUSION: The data suggest that the augmented regeneration of partial liver allograft induced by NF-κB decoy ODNs-modified DCs may be attributable to the reduced apoptotic hepatocytes, the suppressed activity of liverresident NK cells and the reduced IFN-γ production.     

Prolongation of liver allograft survival by dendritic cells modified with NF-κB decoy oligodeoxynucleotides

AIM: To induce the tolerance of rat liver allograft by dendritic cells (DCs) modified with NF-κB decoy oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs).METHODS: Bone marrow (BM)-derived DCs from SD rats were propagated in the presence of GM-CSF or GM-CSF+IL-4to obtain immature DCs or mature DCs. GM-CSF+IL-4-propagated DCs were treated with double-strand NF-κB decoy ODNs containing two NF-κB binding sites or scrambled ODNs to ascertain whether NF-κB decoy ODNs might prevent DC maturation. GM-CSF-propagated DCs, GMCSF+NF-κB decoy ODNs or scrambled ODNs-propagated DCs were treated with LPS for 18 h to determine whether NF-κB decoy ODNs could prevent LPS-induced IL-12production in DCs. NF-κB binding activities, costimulatory molecule (CD40, CD80, CD86) surface expression, IL-12protein expression and allostimulatory capacity of DCs were measured with electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA),flow cytometry, Western blotting, and mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR), respectively. GM-CSF-propagated DCs, GMCSF+IL-4 -propagated DCs, and GM-CSF+NF-κB decoy ODNs or scrambled ODNs-propagated DCs were injected intravenously into recipient LEW rats 7 d prior to liver transplantation and immediately after liver transplantation.Histological grading of liver graft rejection was determined 7 d after liver transplantation. Expression of IL-2, IL-4 and IFN-γ mRNA in liver graft and in recipient spleen was analyzed by semiquantitative RT-PCR. Apoptosis of liver allograft-infiltrating cells was measured with TUNEL staining.RESULTS: GM-CSF-propagated DCs, GM-CSF+NF-κB decoy ODNs-propagated DCs and GM-CSF+ scrambled ODNspropagated DCs exhibited features of immature DCs, with similar low level of costimulatory molecule(CD40, CD80,CD86) surface expression, absence of NF-κB activation,and few allocostimulatory activities. GM-CSF+IL-4-propagated DCs displayed features of mature DCs, with high levels of costimulatory molecule (CD40, CD80, CD86) surface expression, marked NF-κB activation, and significant allocostimulatory activity. NF-κB decoy ODNs completely abrogated IL-4-induced DC maturation and allocostimulatory activity as well as LPS-induced NF-κB activation and IL-12protein expression in DCs. GM-CSF+NF-κB decoy ODNspropagated DCs promoted apoptosis of liver allograftinfiltrating cells within portal areas, and significantly decreased the expression of IL-2 and IFN-γ mRNA but markedly elevated IL-4 mRNA expression both in liver allograft and in recipient spleen, and consequently suppressed liver allograft rejection, and promoted liver allograft survival.CONCLUSION: NF-κB decoy ODNs-modified DCs can prolong liver allograft survival by promoting apoptosis of graft-infiltrating cells within portal areas as well as downregulating IL-2 and IFN-γ mRNA and up-regulating IL-4 mRNA expression both in liver graft and in recipient spleen.     

Nuclear factor-kappaB decoy oligodeoxynucleotides attenuates ischemia/reperfusion injury in rat liver graft

AIM: To evaluate the protective effect of NF-kappaB decoy oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) on ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in rat liver graft. METHODS: Orthotopic syngeneic rat liver transplantation was performed with 3 h of cold preservation of liver graft in University of Wisconsin solution containing phosphorothioated double-stranded NF-kappaB decoy ODNs or scrambled ODNs. NF-kappaB decoy ODNs or scrambled ODNs were injected intravenously into donor and recipient rats 6 and 1 h before operation, respectively. Recipients were killed 0 to 16 h after liver graft reperfusion. NF-kappaB activity in the liver graft was analyzed by electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). Hepatic mRNA expression of TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) were determined by semiquantitative RT-PCR. Serum levels of TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Serum level of alanine transaminase (ALT) was measured using a diagnostic kit. Liver graft myeloperoxidase (MPO) content was assessed. RESULTS: NF-kappaB activation in liver graft was induced in a time-dependent manner, and NF-kappaB remained activated for 16 h after graft reperfusion. NF-kappaB activation in liver graft was significant at 2 to 8 h and slightly decreased at 16 h after graft reperfusion. Administration of NF-kappaB decoy ODNs significantly suppressed NF-kappaB activation as well as mRNA expression of TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma and ICAM-1 in the liver graft. The hepatic NF-kappaB DNA binding activity [presented as integral optical density (IOD) value] in the NF-kappaB decoy ODNs treatment group rat was significantly lower than that of the I/R group rat (2.16+/-0.78 vs 36.78+/-6.35 and 3.06+/-0.84 vs 47.62+/- 8.71 for IOD value after 4 and 8 h of reperfusion, respectively, P<0.001). The hepatic mRNA expression level of TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma and ICAM-1 [presented as percent of beta-actin mRNA (%)] in the NF-kappaB decoy ODNs treatment group rat was significantly lower than that of the I/R group rat (8.31+/-3.48 vs 46.37+/-10.65 and 7.46+/- 3.72 vs 74.82+/-12.25 for hepatic TNF-alpha mRNA, 5.58+/-2.16 vs 50.46+/-9.35 and 6.47+/-2.53 vs 69.72+/-13.41 for hepatic IFN-gamma mRNA, 6.79+/-2.83 vs 46.23+/-8.74 and 5.28+/-2.46 vs 67.44+/-10.12 for hepatic ICAM-1 mRNA expression after 4 and 8 h of reperfusion, respectively, P<0.001). Administration of NF-kappaB decoy ODNs almost completely abolished the increase of serum level of TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma induced by hepatic ischemia/reperfusion, the serum level (pg/mL) of TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma in the NF-kappaB decoy ODNs treatment group rat was significantly lower than that of the I/R group rat (42.7+/-13.6 vs 176.7+/-15.8 and 48.4+/-15.1 vs 216.8+/-17.6 for TNF-alpha level, 31.5+/-12.1 vs 102.1+/-14.5 and 40.2+/-13.5 vs 118.6+/-16.7 for IFN-gamma level after 4 and 8 h of reperfusion, respectively, P<0.001). Liver graft neutrophil recruitment indicated by MPO content and hepatocellular injury indicated by serum ALT level were significantly reduced by NF-kappaB decoy ODNs, the hepatic MPO content (A655) and serum ALT level (IU/L) in the NF-kappaB decoy ODNs treatment group rat was significantly lower than that of the I/R group rat (0.17+/-0.07 vs 1.12+/-0.25 and 0.46+/-0.17 vs 1.46+/-0.32 for hepatic MPO content, 71.7+/-33.2 vs 286.1+/-49.6 and 84.3+/-39.7 vs 467.8+/-62.3 for ALT level after 4 and 8 h of reperfusion, respectively, P<0.001). CONCLUSION: The data suggest that NF-kappaB decoy ODNs protects against I/R injury in liver graft by suppressing NF-kappaB activation and subsequent expression of proinflammatory mediators.     

Nuclear factor-κB decoy oligodeoxynucleotides attenuates ischemia/reperfusion injury in rat liver graft

AIM: To evaluate the protective effect of NF-κB decoy oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) on ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in rat liver graft.METHODS: Orthotopic syngeneic rat liver transplantation was performed with 3 h of cold preservation of liver graft in University of Wisconsin solution containing phosphorothioated double-stranded NF-κB decoy ODNs or scrambled ODNs. NF-κB decoy ODNs or scrambled ODNs were injected intravenously into donor and recipient rats 6 and 1 h before operation,respectively. Recipients were killed 0 to 16 h after liver graft reperfusion. NF-κB activity in the liver graft was analyzed by electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). Hepatic mRNA expression of TNF-α, IFN-γand intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) were determined by semiquantitative RT-PCR. Serum levels of TNF-α and IFN-γ were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Serum level of alanine transaminase (ALT) was measured using a diagnostic kit. Liver graft myeloperoxidase (MPO) content was assessed.RESULTS: NF-κB activation in liver graft was induced in a time-dependent manner, and NF-κB remained activated for 16 h after graft reperfusion. NF-κB activation in liver graft was significant at 2 to 8 h and slightly decreased at 16 h after graft reperfusion. Administration of NF-κB decoy ODNs significantly suppressed NF-κB activation as well as mRNA expression of TNF-α, IFN-γ and ICAM-1 in the liver graft. The hepatic NF-κB DNA binding activity [presented as integral optical density (IOD) value] in the NF-κB decoy ODNs treatment group rat was significantly lower than that of the I/R group rat (2.16±0.78 vs 36.78±6.35 and 3.06±0.84 vs 47.62± 8.71 for IOD value after 4 and 8 h of reperfusion, respectively, P＜0.001).The hepatic mRNA expression level of TNF-α, IFN-y and ICAM-1 [presented as percent of β-actin mRNA(%)] in the NF-κBdecoy ODNs treatment group rat was significantly lower than that of the I/R group rat (8.31 ±3.48 vs 46.37±10.65 and 7.46± 3.72 vs 74.82±12.25for hepatic TNF-α mRNA, 5.58±2.16 vs 50.46±9.35 and6.47±2.53 vs 69.72±13.41 for hepatic IFN-γ mRNA, 6.79±2.83 vs 46.23±8.74 and 5.28±2.46 vs 67.44±10.12for hepatic ICAM-1 mRNA expression after 4 and 8 h of reperfusion, respectively, P＜0.001). Administration of NF-κB decoy ODNs almost completely abolished the increase of serum level of TNF-α and IFN-γ induced by hepatic ischemia/reperfusion, the serum level (pg/mL)of TNF-α and IFN-γ in the NF-κB decoy ODNs treatment group rat was significantly lower than that of the I/R group rat (42.7±13.6 vs 176.7±15.8 and 48.4±15.1 vs216.8±17.6 for TNF-α level, 31.5±12.1 vs 102.1±14.5and 40.2±13.5 vs 118.6±16.7 for IFN-γ level after 4 and8 h of reperfusion, respectively, P＜0.001). Liver graft neutrophil recruitment indicated by MPO content and hepatocellular injury indicated by serum ALT level were significantly reduced by NF-κB decoy ODNs, the hepatic MPO content (A655) and serum ALT level (IU/L) in the NF-κB decoy ODNs treatment group rat was significantly lower than that of the I/R group rat (0.17±0.07 vs 1.12±0.25 and 0.46±0.17 vs 1.46±0.32 for hepatic MPO content, 71.7±33.2 vs 286.1±49.6 and 84.3±39.7 vs467.8±62.3 for ALT level after 4 and 8 h of reperfusion,respectively, P＜ 0.001).CONCLUSION: The data suggest that NF-κB decoy ODNs protects against I/R injury in liver graft by suppressing NF-κB activation and subsequent expression of proinflammatory mediators.     

FK506 promotes liver regeneration by suppressing natural killer cell activity

We examined the mechanism of promotion of liver regeneration by tacrolimus hydrate (FK506), a potent immunosuppressant, after partial hepatectomy. The administration of FK506 significantly increased the bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) labelling index at 36 and 48 h after 70% hepatectomy compared with the placebo group. Using the same model, we examined the effect of FK506 on the expression of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and found no changes in HGF and TGF-β1 mRNA expression in the liver or in the HGF protein concentration in plasma. We found that pretreatment with FK506 markedly reduced the activity and number of liver-resident natural killer (NK) cells at the time of partial hepatectomy. Our observations suggest that the promotion of liver regeneration by FK506 may be attributable to a reduction in the number of liver-resident NK cells and to inhibition of their activity.     

Dendritic cells, the liver, and transplantation

Interstitial liver dendritic cells (DCs) exhibit phenotypic diversity and functional plasticity. They play important roles in both innate and adaptive immunity. Their comparatively low inherent T cell stimulatory ability and the outcome of their interactions with CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells, as well as with natural killer (NK) T cells and NK cells within the liver, may contribute to regulation of hepatic inflammatory responses and liver allograft outcome. Liver DCs migrate in the steady state and after liver transplantation to secondary lymphoid tissues, where the outcome of their interaction with antigen-specific T cells determines the balance between tolerance and immunity. Systemic and local environmental factors that are modulated by ischemia-reperfusion injury, liver regeneration, microbial infection, and malignancy influence hepatic DC migration, maturation, and function. Current research in DC biology is providing new insights into the role of these important antigen-presenting cells in the complex events that affect liver transplant outcome.     

核转录因子-κB圈套寡核苷酸对环格列酮诱导肺癌细胞分化作用的影响

目的 探讨核转录因子-κB(NF-κB)圈套寡核苷酸在环格列酮对肺癌细胞A549增殖抑制和分化调控过程中的影响。方法 运用基因转染技术将NF-κB圈套寡核苷酸转入人肺癌细胞A549中,凝胶阻滞分析实验(EMSA)检测转染前后NF-κB活性的变化,免疫印迹观察转染前后多药耐药蛋白(mdrl)的变化。进而以。100μmol/L环格列酮处理转染和未转染的细胞1-4d,生长曲线观察A549细胞生长,流式细胞仪进行细胞周期分析,免疫印迹观察处理前后细胞周期素D1的变化。结果 (1)EMSA显示转染后NF-κB活性明显下降,mdrl蛋白表达水平降低。(2)环格列酮能抑制A549细胞增殖。(3)转染NF-κB圈套寡核苷酸增强环格列酮对A549细胞增殖的抑制作用,更多的细胞被阻滞于G1／G0期,细胞中细胞周期素D1的水平更低。结论NF-κB圈套寡核苷酸能增加肺癌细胞A549对环格列酮的敏感性,即NF-κB圈套寡核苷酸能协同环格列酮抑制肺癌细胞A549的恶性增殖及诱导其分化。