Prevention of macrophage adhesion molecule-1 (Mac-1)-dependent neutrophil firm adhesion by taxifolin through impairment of protein kinase-dependent NADPH oxidase activation and antagonism of G protein-mediated calcium influx

Taxifolin has been reported to down-regulate the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), a receptor-mediating firm adhesion with beta2 integrin (e.g., Mac-1) expressed on leukocytes. To evaluate whether taxifolin could modulate Mac-1-dependent firm adhesion by neutrophils, and the possible mechanism(s) underlying its anti-inflammatory action, its effects on N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP) or phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA)-activated peripheral human neutrophils were studied. Pretreatment with taxifolin (1-100 microM) concentration-dependently diminished fMLP- or (PMA)-induced Mac-1-dependent firm adhesion and upexpression of surface Mac-1. Mobilisation of intracellular calcium and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) signal the upexpression of Mac-1 and firm adhesion by neutrophils. Taxifolin impeded the calcium influx induced by fMLP (a receptor-mediated activator) or AlF(4)(-) (a G protein-mediated activator). Taxifolin also effectively inhibited the fMLP- or PMA-induced ROS production with 50% inhibitory concentration (IC(50)) less than 10microM, possibly through impairing the activation of NADPH oxidase, a major ROS-generating enzyme in neutrophils, by restricting the activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) and protein kinase C (PKC). In conclusion, we propose that impairment of ROS production by NADPH oxidase through interfering with p38 MAPK- and/or PKC-dependent signals, and antagonism of G protein-mediated calcium influx may account for the inhibition of Mac-1-dependent neutrophil firm adhesion that confers taxifolin the anti-inflammatory activity.     

Anti-inflammatory effects of the partially purified extract of radix Stephaniae tetrandrae: comparative studies of its active principles tetrandrine and fangchinoline on human polymorphonuclear leukocyte functions

We hypothesized that prevention of neutrophil from activation may underlie the myocardial protective effect of the specially processed extract of radix Stephaniae tetrandrae (SPRST). Inflammatory responses in isolated peripheral human neutrophils were studied in the presence or absence of SPRST. SPRST (1-10 microg/ml) concentration-dependently prevented N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP)- or leukotriene B(4) (LTB(4))-induced neutrophil adhesion and transmigration. Comparable results were also observed in neutrophils pretreated with fangchinoline (Fan) or tetrandrine (Tet), two active components in SPRST. It has been reported that neutrophil adhesion/transmigration is mainly Mac-1 (CD11b/CD18)-dependent and could be modulated by reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. SPRST, Tet, and Fan diminished fMLP- or LTB4-induced Mac-1 up-regulation and ROS production. SPRST, Fan, Tet, and verapamil impaired fMLP-induced rapid intracellular alkalization, an essential mechanism for neutrophil ROS production, and [Ca(2+)](i) increment, suggesting that a calcium dependent pathway might be involved. Direct G protein activation by AlF(4)(-) also triggered [Ca(2+)](i) increment and adhesion that could be abolished by pertussis toxin and were partially reversed by SPRST, Fan, and Tet. These results reveal that inhibition of neutrophil adhesion and transmigration may account for SPRST's myocardial protective effect. This effect of SPRST may be mediated by component(s) in addition to Tet and Fan because combination of 0.1 microg/ml of Tet and Fan did not mimic the effect of SPRST. We conclude that SPRST exerts anti-inflammatory effects by interfering with ROS production and Ca(2+) influx through G protein modulation to prevent Mac-1 up-regulation in neutrophil activation.     

Evaluation of the anti-inflammatory activity of zhankuic acids isolated from the fruiting bodies of Antrodia camphorata

We have previously shown that a concentrated ethanol extract of the fruiting bodies of Antrodia camphorata exhibited immunomodulating effects in human leukocytes and fourteen compounds including zhankuic acids A, B, C, and antcin K were identified in the extract. In this study, an acute cellular model in isolated peripheral human neutrophils was established to elucidate the anti-inflammatory effects of these compounds. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and firm adhesion by neutrophils display two important responses during inflammation. To evaluate whether these compounds could prevent inflammatory responses by neutrophils, their effects on N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP) or phorbol 12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA)-activated peripheral human neutrophils were examined. Pretreatment with 1 - 25 microM of zhankuic acids A, B, C, or antcin K concentration-dependently diminished fMLP- or PMA-induced ROS production, as measured by a lucigenin-amplified chemiluminescence, with IC (50) (microM) around 5 - 20 microM. Zhankuic acids A, B, C, or antcin K also effectively inhibited the fMLP- or PMA-induced firm adhesion without interfering with the up-expression of surface Mac-1 (CD11b/CD18), a beta2 integrin mediating the firm adhesion of neutrophils to endothelium. The anti-inflammatory actions of these drugs were not due to cytotoxic effects because no significant difference in cell viability was observed compared to vehicle control. These data suggest that inhibition of both ROS production and firm adhesion by neutrophils has no significant cytotoxic effect that could give these drugs the potential to be anti-inflammatory agents for the clinical treatment.     

Inhibition of nitric oxide/cyclic GMP-mediated relaxation by purified flavonoids, baicalin and baicalein, in rat aortic rings

The dried roots of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (Huangqin) are widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. We purified two flavonoids, baicalin and baicalein from S. baicalensis Georgi and examined their effects on isolated rat aortic rings. Baicalin (3-50 microM) inhibited endothelium/nitric oxide (NO)-dependent relaxation induced by acetylcholine (Ach) or cyclopiazonic acid (CPA). Baicalein at 50 microM abolished Ach-induced relaxation and markedly reduced CPA-induced relaxation. Treatment with 1mM L-arginine partially but significantly reversed the effects of baicalin (50 microM) or baicalein (50 microM) on Ach-induced relaxation. In endothelium-denuded rings, treatment with baicalin, baicalein or methylene blue partially inhibited relaxations induced by the NO donors, sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and hydroxylamine. Both flavonoids markedly reduced the increase in cyclic GMP levels stimulated by Ach in endothelium-intact rings and by SNP in endothelium-denuded rings. In contrast, exposure of endothelium-denuded rings to baicalin or baicalein did not affect relaxations induced by pinacidil or NS 1619, putative K+ channel activators. Neither flavonoids affected agonist-induced increase in the endothelial [Ca2+]i. Our results indicate that baicalin and baicalein attenuated NO-mediated aortic relaxation and cyclic GMP increases, likely through inhibition of NO-dependent guanylate cyclase activity.     

Inhibition of Mac-1-dependent leukocyte adhesion by Y-24180, an anti-inflammatory agent, in mice

Y-24180 (4-(2-chlorophenyl)-2-[2-(4-isobutylphenyl)ethyl]-6,9-dimethyl-6H-thieno[3,2-f][1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a][1,4]-diazepine), an antagonist of platelet-activating factor (PAF), has been already clarified to suppress the expression of an adhesion molecule, Mac-1, on human neutrophils in the previous in vitro study. In the present paper, we examined the effect of Y-24180 on in vivo Mac-1 expression on mouse neutrophils using a lipopolysaccharide-induced leukocyte reduction model in which Mac-1-dependent infiltration of neutrophils was involved. Prophylactic oral administration of Y-24180 inhibited the induction of Mac-1-strongly positive neutrophils by intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide and prevented the reduction of leukocyte number. In contrast, WEB 2086 (3-[4-(2-chlorophenyl)-9-methyl-6H-thieno[3,2-f][1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a][1,4]diazepine-2-yl]-1-(4-morpholinyl)-1-propanone), another PAF antagonist, showed little effect. PAF injection failed to induce the Mac-1-strongly positive neutrophils in peripheral blood and the reduction of circulating leukocytes, indicating that PAF was not concerned with the lipopolysaccharide-induced up-regulation of Mac-1 expression and leukocyte reduction. Y-24180 inhibited the leukocyte infiltration also in the thioglycollate medium-induced peritonitis, which was mediated by Mac-1-dependent leukocyte adhesion. These results indicate that Y-24180 inhibits the leukocyte infiltration into the inflamed sites by suppressing Mac-1 expression on leukocytes in vivo and can contribute to the improvement of inflammatory diseases in which the Mac-1-dependent leukocyte adhesion is involved.     

Suppression of receptor-mediated Ca2+ mobilization and functional leukocyte responses by hyperforin

We have recently identified hyperforin, a lipophilic constituent of the herb Hypericum perforatum (St. John's wort), as a dual inhibitor of the proinflammatory enzymes cyclooxygenase-1 and 5-lipoxygenase. The aim of the present study was to further elucidate antiinflammatory properties and respective targets of hyperforin. We found that hyperforin inhibited the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) as well as the release of leukocyte elastase (degranulation) in human isolated polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL), challenged by the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) ligand N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP) with an IC 50 approximately equal 0.3 microM. When PMNL were stimulated with phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) or ionomycin, hyperforin (up to 10 microM) failed to inhibit ROS production and elastase release, respectively. Moreover, hyperforin blocked receptor-mediated Ca(2+) mobilization ( IC 50 approximately equal 0.4 and 4 microM, respectively) in PMNL and monocytic cells, and caused a rapid decline of the intracellular Ca(2+) concentration in resting cells. In contrast, the Ca(2+) influx induced by ionomycin or thapsigargin was not suppressed. Comparative studies with the specific phospholipase C inhibitor U-73122 and hyperforin revealed similarities between both compounds. Thus, U-73122 and hyperforin blocked fMLP- and PAF-induced Ca(2+) mobilization, ROS formation, and elastase release, but failed to suppress these responses when cells were stimulated by PMA or ionomycin. Also, both compounds rapidly decreased basal Ca(2+) levels in resting cells and led to a rapid decline of the Ca(2+) elevations evoked by fMLP or PAF. Our data suggest that hyperforin targets component(s) within G protein signaling cascades that regulate Ca(2+) homeostasis, coupled to proinflammatory leukocyte functions.     

Andrographolide prevents oxygen radical production by human neutrophils: possible mechanism(s) involved in its anti-inflammatory effect

We have reported that andrographolide (ANDRO), an active component of Andrographis paniculata, inhibits inflammatory responses by rat neutrophils. To further elucidate the possible mechanism(s) underlying the ANDRO's effect, N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP)-induced adhesion and transmigration of isolated peripheral human neutrophils were studied. Pretreatment with ANDRO (0.1 - 10 microM) concentration-dependently prevented fMLP-induced neutrophil adhesion and transmigration. We further examined the up-expression of surface Mac-1 (CD11b/CD18), an essential integrin mediated in neutrophil adhesion and transmigration. ANDRO pretreatment significantly decreased fMLP-induced up-expression of both CD11b and CD18. Accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) as well as quick intracellular calcium ([Ca(++)](i)) mobilization induced by fMLP displays two important signalling pathways in regulating the up-expression of Mac-1 by neutrophils. That ANDRO pretreatment diminished fMLP-induced production of H(2)O(2) and O(2)*(-), but failed to block that of [Ca(++)](i) mobilization suggested that the ROS but not [Ca(++)](i) signalling could be modulated by ANDRO. To clarify whether ROS production impeded by ANDRO could be an antagonism of fMLP binding, phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA), a direct protein kinase C (PKC) activator, was introduced to activate ROS production. PMA triggered remarkable ROS production and adhesion, and were partially reversed by ANDRO. This indicated that a PKC-dependent mechanism might be interfered by ANDRO. We conclude that the prevention of ROS production through, at least in part, modulation of PKC-dependent pathway could confer ANDRO the ability to down-regulate Mac-1 up-expression that is essential for neutrophil adhesion and transmigration.     

Possible involvement of transient receptor potential channels in electrophile-induced insulin secretion from RINm5F cells

Endogenously produced reactive oxygen species reportedly stimulate insulin secretion from islet β-cells. However, the molecular machinery that governs the oxidant-induced insulin secretion has yet to be determined. The present study demonstrates, using rat islet β-cell-derived RINm5F cells, the involvement of the transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channels in the insulin secretion induced by the lipid peroxidation product 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal. Short-term (1 h) exposure of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal induced a transient increase in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration and subsequent insulin secretion in a concentration-dependent manner. The increase in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration seemed to be due to an influx through the L-type voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channel, since it was not observed when extracellular Ca(2+) was absent and was inhibited almost completely by diltiazem or nifedipine. Ruthenium red, a non-specific inhibitor of TRP channels, inhibited the Ca(2+) influx and insulin secretion evoked by 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal. Among the TRP channels, TRPA1 was found to be predominantly expressed, not only in RINm5F cells, but also rat islets. TRPA1 agonists, allylisothiocyanate and 15-deoxy-Δ(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2), significantly induced Ca(2+) influx, and a specific inhibitor TRPA1, HC-030031, blocked the effects elicited by 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal. These results suggest that 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal induces Ca(2+) influx via the activation of TRP channels, including TRPA1, which appears to be coupled with the L-type voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channel, and ultimately insulin secretion in RINm5F cells.     

Inhibition of aggregation of rabbit and human platelets induced by adrenaline and 5-hydroxytryptamine by KB-R7943, a Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange inhibitor

1. We investigated the effect of KB-R7943, a Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange inhibitor, on the aggregation response induced by adrenaline and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), alone or in combination in human and rabbit platelets in the presence or absence of ouabain. 2. KB-R7943 inhibited aggregation induced by the combination of adrenaline and 5-HT in a concentration-dependent manner. The IC(50) values of KB-R7943 were 4.2+/-2.0 or 3.0+/-0.7 microM with washed rabbit platelets with or without ouabain pretreatment, respectively. 3. In platelet-rich human plasma, the aggregation was biphasic. The IC(50) value of KB-R7943 was 17.2+/-4.4 microM for the first phase aggregation. 4. KB-R7943 did not inhibit the first phase of aggregation induced by adrenaline alone, or the monophasic aggregation induced by 5-HT alone. 5. The aggregation of rabbit platelets depended on the presence of K(+) in the medium, and K(+)-dependent and K(+)-independent Ca(2+) influx were observed in resting platelets. Ouabain treatment increased only the K(+)-dependent but not the K(+)-independent Ca(2+) influx. 6. KB-R7943 inhibited K(+)-dependent Ca(2+) influx with or without ouabain pretreatment, but not K(+)-independent Ca(2+) influx. 7. From these results, we conclude that KB-R7943 inhibits the adrenaline plus 5-HT induced aggregation of rabbit and human platelets by inhibiting K(+)-dependent Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange (NCKX). Our results suggest that NCKX plays an important role in platelet aggregation.     

Effect of xanthine oxidase-catalyzed reactive oxygen species generation on secretagogue-evoked calcium mobilization in mouse pancreatic acinar cells.

In the present study we have employed fura-2 loaded isolated mouse pancreatic acinar cells to monitor the effect that xanthine oxidase (XOD)-catalyzed reactive oxygen species generation presents on Ca(2+) mobilization by the secretagogue cholecystokinin octapeptide (CCK-8). Our results show that perfusion of pancreatic acinar cells with CCK-8 at a physiological concentration (20 pM) induced low frequency oscillations in intracellular free calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) at a rate of 1 per minute; this oscillatory pattern was completely inhibited by the introduction in the perifusion medium of 20 mU/mL XOD to generate reactive oxygen species. In addition, perfusion of pancreatic acinar cells with 20 mU/mL XOD in the absence of extracellular calcium led to a transient increase in [Ca(2+)](i,) that blocked the initiation of the Ca(2+) signals in response to 20 pM CCK-8. Similarly, XOD was also able to block acetylcholine evoked Ca(2+) spikes. However, reactive oxygen species had no effect either on Ca(2+) extrusion or on re-uptake into intracellular stores, but CCK-8-evoked Ca(2+) entry was reduced by XOD. In conclusion, our results show that XOD-evoked reactive oxygen species generation leads to a reduction either of Ca(2+) mobilization, following stimulation of pancreatic acinar cells with the Ca(2+)-mobilizing agonists CCK-8 and acetylcholine, and Ca(2+) influx evoked by CCK-8 depletion of intracellular stores. The possible XOD inhibitory mechanism on Ca(2+) mobilization by agonists is discussed.     

The Role of Intestinal Microflora in Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Baicalin in Mice

Baicalin, a main constituent of the rhizome of Scutellaria baicalensis, is metabolized to baicalein and oroxylin A in the intestine before its absorption. To understand the role of intestinal microflora in the pharmacological activities of baicalin, we investigated its anti-inflammatory effect in mice treated with and without antibiotics. Orally administered baicalin showed the anti-inflammatory effect in mice than intraperitoneally treated one, apart from intraperitoneally administered its metabolites, baicalein and oroxylin A, which potently inhibited LPS-induced inflammation. Of these metabolites, oroxylin A showed more potent anti-inflammatory effect. However, treatment with the mixture of cefadroxil, oxytetracycline and erythromycin (COE) significantly attenuated the anti-inflammatory effect of orally administered baicalin in mice. Treatment with COE also reduced intestinal bacterial fecal β-glucuronidase activity. The metabolic activity of human stools is significantly different between individuals, but neither between ages nor between male and female. Baicalin was metabolized to baicalein and oroxylin A, with metabolic activities of 1.427 ± 0.818 and 1.025 ± 0.603 pmol/min/mg wet weight, respectively. Baicalin and its metabolites also inhibited the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α and IL-1β, and the activation of NF-κB in LPS-stimulated peritoneal macrophages. Of them, oroxylin A showed the most potent inhibition. Based on these findings, baicalin may be metabolized to baicalein and oroxylin A by intestinal microflora, which enhance its anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting NF-κB activation.     

Potentiating effects on contractions by purified baicalin and baicalein in the rat mesenteric artery

The effects of purified baicalin and baicalein from the traditional Chinese herb, Huangqin, on contractions induced by phenylephrine, U46619, and high extracellular K+ were investigated in isolated rat mesenteric arteries. Both baicalin (1-100 microM) and baicalein (1-50 microM) potentiated the contractile response to phenylephrine in a concentration-related manner. Both flavonoids (10 microM) also enhanced the U46619- or 40 mM K+-induced contractions. Baicalein (100-300 microM) reduced the phenylephrine-induced tone. Prazosin at 1 microM did not affect U46619-induced contraction in the absence and presence of baicalein or baicalin. Neither baicalin (1-100 microM) nor baicalein (1-100 microM) affected the basal tension. Removal of the functional endothelium abolished the potentiating effects of baicalin and baicalein in arteries preconstricted by both constrictors. Pretreatment of endothelium-intact rings with 100 microM N(G)-nitro-L-arginine also potentiated phenylephrine- or U46619-induced contraction but completely inhibited the effects of baicalin and baicalein. Pretreatment with 1 mM L-arginine reversed the enhancing effect of baicalin but not of baicalein on phenylephrine-evoked contraction. Pretreatment with 10 microM baicalin or 10 microM baicalein significantly reduced the endothelium-dependent relaxation induced by acetylcholine or ionomycin. These results indicate that both baicalin and baicalein potentiated the evoked contractile response, likely through inhibition of nitric oxide formation and/or release in the endothelium.     

Convulsion-related activities of Scutellaria flavones are related to the 5,7-dihydroxyl structures

We screened the major bioactive flavones isolated from Scutellaria baicalensis (baicalin, baicalein and oroxylin A) for their convulsion related activities. In electrogenic response score system and the pentylenetetrazole seizure model, baicalein but not oroxylin A and baicalin exhibited anticonvulsant effects. In vitro studies also revealed that baicalein induced intracellular Cl(-) influx, whereas oroxylin A blocked muscimol- and baicalein-induced intracellular Cl(-) influx. The anticonvulsant effect of baicalein was inhibited by flumazenil, a benzodiazepine(BZD) receptor antagonist. Therefore, anticonvulsive effect of baicalein was mediated by the BZD binding site of GABA(A) receptor. The 5, 7-dihydroxyl group is present in the structure of the three flavones. It is postulated that this group played a key role in inducing convulsion-related activities.     

Inhibitory effects of C4a on chemoattractant and secretagogue functions of the other anaphylatoxins via Gi protein-adenylyl cyclase inhibition pathway in mast cells

A recombinant complement anaphylatoxin, C4a, inhibited chemotaxis, respiratory burst and histamine release in mast cell-like HMC-1 cells that were treated with recombinant C5a anaphylatoxin. C4a also inhibited histamine release from HMC-1 cells that were induced by recombinant C3a. The inhibition of C5a- and C3a-induced leukocyte reactions by C4a was recapitulated in peripheral blood CD133(+) cell-derived differentiated mast cells. In HMC-1 cells, C4a inhibited cytoplasmic Ca(2+) influx, an event that precedes anaphylatoxin-induced chemotactic and secretary responses. A conditioned medium of HMC-1 cells after shortly treated with C4a also inhibited the anaphylatoxin-induced Ca(2+) influx even after removal of C4a, indicating that the effect of C4a is to liberate an autocrine inhibitor from the mast cells. The inhibitor secretion by C4a was prevented with pertussis toxin or with a phosphodiesterase inhibitor. Conversely, an adenylyl cyclase inhibitor reproduced the effect of C4a. C4a decreased the intracellular cyclic AMP concentration of HMC-1 cells, indicating that C4a elicited the Gi protein-adenylyl cyclase inhibition pathway. Neither C4a nor the conditioned medium, however, inhibited Ca(2+) influx and respiratory burst in C5a- or C3a-stimulated peripheral neutrophils, suggesting that these cells lack this inhibitory system. Additionally, in HMC-1 cells, C4a did not inhibit Ca(2+)-independent, Leu72Gln-C5a-stimulated chemotactic response. In agreement with this finding, C4a treatment inhibited ERK1/2 phosphorylation in HMC-1 cells stimulated with other anaphylatoxins but did not inhibit p38MAPK phosphorylation in cells stimulated with Leu72Gln-C5a. Taken together, these findings suggest that the autocrine inhibitory effect elicited by C4a is attributed to interruption of Ca(2+)-dependent intracellular signaling pathway.     

Melittin-induced [Ca2+]i increases and subsequent death in canine renal tubular cells

The effect of melittin on cytosolic free Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) and viability is largely unknown. This study examined whether melittin alters Ca(2+) levels and causes Ca(2+)-dependent cell death in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells. [Ca(2+)](i) and cell death were measured using the fluorescent dyes fura-2 and WST-1 respectively. Melittin at concentrations above 0.5 microM increased [Ca(2+)](i) in a concentration-dependent manner. The Ca(2+) signal was reduced by 75% by removing extracellular Ca(2+). The melittin-induced Ca(2+) influx was also implicated by melittin-caused Mn(2+) influx. After pretreatment with 1 microM thapsigargin (an endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) pump inhibitor), melittin-induced Ca(2+) release was inhibited; and conversely, melittin pretreatment abolished thapsigargin-induced Ca(2+) release. At concentrations of 0.5-20 microM, melittin killed cells in a concentration-dependent manner. The cytotoxic effect of 0.5 microM melittin was nearly completely reversed by prechelating cytosolic Ca(2+) with BAPTA. Melittin at 0.5-2 microM caused apoptosis as assessed by flow cytometry of propidium iodide staining. Collectively, in MDCK cells, melittin induced a [Ca(2+)](i) rise by causing Ca(2+) release from endoplasmic reticulum and Ca(2+) influx from extracellular space. Furthermore, melittin can cause Ca(2+)-dependent cytotoxicity in a concentration-dependent manner.     

Effect of anandamide on cytosolic Ca(2+) levels and proliferation in canine renal tubular cells

The effect of the endogenous cannabinoid anandamide on cytosolic free Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) and proliferation is largely unknown. This study examined whether anandamide altered Ca(2+) levels and caused Ca(2+)-dependent cell death in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells. [Ca(2+)](i) and cell death were measured using the fluorescent dyes fura-2 and WST-1 respectively. Anandamide at concentrations above 5 muM increased [Ca(2+)](i) in a concentration-dependent manner. The Ca(2+) signal was reduced by 78% by removing extracellular Ca(2+). The anandamide-induced Ca(2+) influx was insensitive to L-type Ca(2+) channel blockers and the cannabinoid receptor antagonist AM 251, but was inhibited differently by aristolochic acid, WIN 55,212-2 (a cannabinoid receptor agonist), phorbol ester, GF 109203X and forskolin. After pretreatment with thapsigargin (an endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) pump inhibitor), anandamide-induced Ca(2+) release was inhibited. Inhibition of phospholipase C with U73122 did not change anandamide-induced Ca(2+) release. At concentrations of 100 muM and 200 muM, anandamide killed 50% and 95% cells, respectively. The cytotoxic effect of 100 muM anandamide was completely reversed by pre-chelating cytosolic Ca(2+) with BAPTA. Collectively, in MDCK cells, anandamide induced [Ca(2+)](i) rises by causing Ca(2+) release from endoplasmic reticulum and Ca(2+) influx from extracellular space. Furthermore, anandamide can cause Ca(2+)-dependent cytotoxicity in a concentration-dependent manner.     

Potential role of store-operated Ca2+ entry in Th2 response induced by histamine in human monocyte-derived dendritic cells

Store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) is the main Ca(2+) influx pathway of dendritic cells (DCs). DCs primed with histamine facilitate Th2 immune response via different types of histamine receptors. Histamine induces DCs to release Ca(2+) from internal store. Therefore, we wonder that whether histamine could activate SOCE in DCs through its receptors, and what's the functional relevance of the Ca(2+) influx through SOCE induced by histamine in Th(2) response. We certificate that histamine induced a transient Ca(2+) release followed by pronounced Ca(2+) influx after re-addition of external Ca(2+) which could be inhibited by SOCE blockers SKF-96365 and BTP-2. Moreover, the percentages of DCs that showed an obvious Ca(2+) release response to histamine were decreased in the presence of histamine 1 (H1) receptor antagonist pyridylethylamine (Pyr) or histamine 4 (H4) receptor antagonist JNJ7777120 (JNJ). Histamine up-regulated the mRNA expression of STIM1 in DCs, one of the two major proteins of SOCE channel. SOCE blocker BTP-2 and histamine receptor antagonists JNJ and Pyr inhibited the increase of CD86 induced by histamine on DCs. Histamine increased the level of IL-10 and decreased the level of IL-12p70 secreted by DCs. SOC blockers SKF and BTP-2 inhibited the level of both IL-10 and IL-12p70 secreted by DCs. Pretreatment of SOC blockers and H1, H4 receptor antagonists with DCs inhibited the Th2 polarization of T helper cells induced by histamine in mixed lymphocyte responses (MLR). We demonstrated that SOCE was involved in histamine-induced maturation and Th(2) response of DCs which was through histamine 1 and 4 receptor.     

Comparative effects of flavonoids on oxidant scavenging and ischemia-reperfusion injury in cardiomyocytes

Since flavonoids scavenge reactive oxygen species, they may potentially protect against ischemia/reperfusion injury. This study compared the scavenging capacity of specific flavonoids towards different reactive oxygen species. Whether the differential oxidant scavenging capacity correlated with their protective efficacy in ischemia/reperfusion injury of cardiomyocytes was determined. The free radical scavenging capacity of five flavonoids (wogonin, baicalin, baicalein, catechin and procyanidin B2) was analyzed using electron spin resonance spectrometry for 3 radicals: 1,1-diphenyl-2picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), superoxide and hydroxyl radical. A well-established chick cardiomyocyte model of ischemia (1 h)/reperfusion (3 h) was used to evaluate flavonoid-induced protection against ischemia/reperfusion injury in chronic treatment (pretreated 72 h and treated through ischemia/reperfusion) and acute treatment protocols (during ischemia/reperfusion or only at reperfusion). The cell viability was assessed by propidium iodide. The DPPH scavenging was most significant with catechin, followed by procyanidin B2, baicalein, baicalin, and wogonin. The superoxide scavenging was, similarly, most significant with catechin, followed by baicalein, procyanidin B2, and baicalin. For hydroxyl radical, only baicalein showed a significant scavenging capacity (>50% reduction in ESR signal). For the cardiomyocyte studies, all flavonoids but wogonin showed protection against ischemia/reperfusion injury in the chronic treatment protocol. When flavonoids were administered only during ischemia/reperfusion, baicalein, procyanidin B2, and catechin significantly reduced cell death. If flavonoids were administered just at reperfusion, only baicalein and procyanidin B2 had protective effects, and the efficacy was less. Flavonoids possess specific but differential radical scavenging capacity, which, in conjunction with the timing of treatment, affects their protective efficacy in cardiomyocytes exposed to ischemia/reperfusion.     

Eupatilin blocks mediator release via tyrosine kinase inhibition in activated guinea pig lung mast cells

Eupatilin, an extract from Artemisia asiatica Nakai, is known to exert anti-gastric ulcer, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory effects. The aim of this study was to elucidate whether eupatilin has antiallergic reactions in activated guinea pig lung mast cells compared to apigenin and genistein. Mast cells were purified from guinea pig lung tissues by using enzyme digestion and rough and discontinuous density Percoll gradient. The purified mast cells were sensitized with immunoglobulin (Ig) G(1) (anti-OVA antibody) and challenged with ovalbumin (OVA). Histamine was assayed using an automated fluorometric analyzer, leukotrienes by radioimmunoassay, and tyrosine phosphorylation by immunoblotting. Intracellular Ca(2+) was analyzed by confocal laser scanning microscopy, protein kinase C (PKC) activity using protein phosphorylated with [gamma-(32)P]ATP, and phopholipase D activity (PLD) and phosphatidic acid by using labeled phosphatidyl alcohol. Eupatilin, apigenin, or genistein reduced histamine release and leukotriene synthesis in a does-dependent manner. Eupatilin inhibited mediators to a greater extent than apigenin or genistein. Eupatilin, apigenin, and genistein initially blocked phosphorylation of Syk tyrosine and Ca(2+) influx, PLD activity, phosphatidic acid, and Ca(2+)-dependent PKC alpha/betaII activities during mast cell activation in a dose-dependent manner. Our data suggest that eupatilin initially inhibits Syk kinase, and then blocks downstream multisignal pathways and Ca(2+) influx during mast cell activation triggered by a specific antigen-antibody reaction. Thus, eupatilin may have use clinically as a treatment for inflammatory disorders associated with allergic diseases including asthma.     

Benidipine, an anti-hypertensive drug, inhibits reactive oxygen species production in polymorphonuclear leukocytes and oxidative stress in salt-loaded stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats

Oxidative stress is associated with exacerbation of renal injuries in hypertension. In clinical studies benidipine hydrochloride (benidipine), a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker with antioxidant activity, reduced oxidative stress. However, the mechanism of suppression of oxidative stress remains to be fully characterized. Reactive oxygen species production by polymorphonuclear leukocyte plays important pathological roles in hypertension. Therefore, we examined the effects of benidipine both on reactive oxygen species production of human polymorphonuclear leukocytes and oxidative stress of an animal model. Human peripheral polymorphonuclear leukocytes or polymorphonuclear leukocyte-like differentiated HL-60 cells were used to examine effects of benidipine (0.1-30 microM) on formyl-Met-Leu-Phe-induced reactive oxygen species production, calcium mobilization, NADPH oxidase activation and phosphorylation of protein kinase C substrates. High-salt (8% NaCl) loaded stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats were treated with or without benidipine (1, 3, 10 mg/kg/day) for 2 weeks, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, a plasma oxidative stress marker, and renal expression of oxidative stress-induced genes were measured. Benidipine concentration-dependently suppressed formyl-Met-Leu-Phe-induced reactive oxygen species production in polymorphonuclear leukocytes more potently than other calcium channel blockers such as amlodipine, azelnidipine, nitrendipine and nifedipine. Benidipine partially inhibited all of intracellular Ca(2+) elevation, protein kinase C activation and NADPH oxidase activation. Salt loading in stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats augmented plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive substances levels; renal dysfunction; and renal expression of transforming growth factor-beta, collagen I and collagen III mRNAs; which were attenuated by benidipine treatment. These results indicate that benidipine prevents the polymorphonuclear leukocyte-derived reactive oxygen species production, which is due at least in part to its antioxidant action and inhibition of Ca(2+)/protein kinase C/NADPH oxidase signaling. The attenuation of reactive oxygen species production might contribute to the drug's reduction of oxidative stress and renal injuries in hypertension.