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Search Results (579)

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Keywords = receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B

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29 pages, 1550 KiB  
Review
Phytochemical Modulators of Nociception: A Review of Cannabis Terpenes in Chronic Pain Syndromes
by Aniello Alfieri, Sveva Di Franco, Vincenzo Maffei, Pasquale Sansone, Maria Caterina Pace, Maria Beatrice Passavanti and Marco Fiore
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(8), 1100; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18081100 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 693
Abstract
Cannabis sativa L. is a phytochemically rich plant with therapeutic potential across various clinical domains, including pain, inflammation, and neurological disorders. Among its constituents, terpenes are gaining recognition for their capacity to modulate the pathophysiological processes underlying chronic pain syndromes. Traditionally valued for [...] Read more.
Cannabis sativa L. is a phytochemically rich plant with therapeutic potential across various clinical domains, including pain, inflammation, and neurological disorders. Among its constituents, terpenes are gaining recognition for their capacity to modulate the pathophysiological processes underlying chronic pain syndromes. Traditionally valued for their aromatic qualities, terpenes such as myrcene, β-caryophyllene (BCP), limonene, pinene, linalool, and humulene have demonstrated a broad spectrum of biological activities. Beyond their observable analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anxiolytic outcomes, these compounds exert their actions through distinct molecular mechanisms. These include the activation of cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2), the modulation of transient receptor potential (TRP) and adenosine receptors, and the inhibition of pro-inflammatory signalling pathways such as Nuclear Factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). This narrative review synthesizes the current preclinical and emerging clinical data on terpene-mediated analgesia, highlighting both monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, and discusses their potential for synergistic interaction with cannabinoids, the so-called entourage effect. Although preclinical findings are promising, clinical translation is limited by methodological variability, the lack of standardized formulations, and insufficient pharmacokinetic characterization. Further human studies are essential to clarify their therapeutic potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacology)
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22 pages, 3771 KiB  
Article
Integrated Transcriptome and Metabolome Analyses Uncover Cholesterol-Responsive Gene Networks
by Ruihao Zhang, Qi Sun, Lixia Huang and Jian Li
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7108; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157108 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 368
Abstract
Cholesterol stress profoundly modulates cellular processes, but its underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. To investigate cholesterol-responsive networks, we performed integrated transcriptome (RNA-seq) and metabolome (LC-MS) analyses on HeLa cells treated with cholesterol for 6 and 24 h. Through transcriptomic analysis of cholesterol-stressed HeLa [...] Read more.
Cholesterol stress profoundly modulates cellular processes, but its underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. To investigate cholesterol-responsive networks, we performed integrated transcriptome (RNA-seq) and metabolome (LC-MS) analyses on HeLa cells treated with cholesterol for 6 and 24 h. Through transcriptomic analysis of cholesterol-stressed HeLa cells, we identified stage-specific responses characterized by early-phase stress responses and late-phase immune-metabolic coordination. This revealed 1340 upregulated and 976 downregulated genes after a 6 h cholesterol treatment, including induction and suppression of genes involved in cholesterol efflux and sterol biosynthesis, respectively, transitioning to Nuclear Factor kappa-B (NF-κB) activation and Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor (PPAR) pathway modulation by 24 h. Co-expression network analysis prioritized functional modules intersecting with differentially expressed genes. We also performed untargeted metabolomics using cells treated with cholesterol for 6 h, which demonstrated extensive remodeling of lipid species. Interestingly, integrated transcriptomic and metabolic analysis uncovered GFPT1-driven Uridine Diphosphate-N-Acetylglucosamine (UDP-GlcNAc) accumulation and increased taurine levels. Validation experiments confirmed GFPT1 upregulation and ANGPTL4 downregulation through RT-qPCR and increased O-GlcNAcylation via Western blot. Importantly, clinical datasets further supported the correlations between GFPT1/ANGPTL4 expression and cholesterol levels in Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) liver cancer patients. This work establishes a chronological paradigm of cholesterol sensing and identifies GFPT1 and ANGPTL4 as key regulators bridging glycosylation and lipid pathways, providing mechanistic insights into cholesterol-associated metabolic disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Genetics and Genomics)
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27 pages, 2385 KiB  
Review
Butyrate Produced by Gut Microbiota Regulates Atherosclerosis: A Narrative Review of the Latest Findings
by Leon M. T. Dicks
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(14), 6744; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26146744 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 622
Abstract
Atherosclerosis (AS), a progressive inflammatory disease of coronary arteries, the aorta, and the internal carotid artery, is considered one of the main contributors to cardiovascular disorders. Blood flow is restricted by accumulating lipid-rich macrophages (foam cells), calcium, fibrin, and cellular debris into plaques [...] Read more.
Atherosclerosis (AS), a progressive inflammatory disease of coronary arteries, the aorta, and the internal carotid artery, is considered one of the main contributors to cardiovascular disorders. Blood flow is restricted by accumulating lipid-rich macrophages (foam cells), calcium, fibrin, and cellular debris into plaques on the intima of arterial walls. Butyrate maintains gut barrier integrity and modulates immune responses. Butyrate regulates G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling and activates nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), activator protein-1 (AP-1), and interferon regulatory factors (IFRs) involved in the production of proinflammatory cytokines. Depending on the inflammatory stimuli, butyrate may also inactivate NF-κB, resulting in the suppression of proinflammatory cytokines and the stimulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Butyrate modulates mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) to promote or suppress macrophage inflammation, muscle cell growth, apoptosis, and the uptake of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) in macrophages. Activation of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) pathway plays a role in lipid metabolism, inflammation, and cell differentiation. Butyrate inhibits interferon γ (IFN-γ) signaling and suppresses NOD-, LRR-, and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) involved in inflammation and scar tissue formation. The dual role of butyrate in AS is discussed by addressing the interactions between butyrate, intestinal epithelial cells (IECs), endothelial cells (ECs) of the main arteries, and immune cells. Signals generated from these interactions may be applied in the diagnosis and intervention of AS. Reporters to detect early AS is suggested. This narrative review covers the most recent findings published in PubMed and Crossref databases. Full article
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28 pages, 7888 KiB  
Article
Estradiol Prevents Amyloid Beta-Induced Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Neurotoxicity in Alzheimer’s Disease via AMPK-Dependent Suppression of NF-κB Signaling
by Pranav Mishra, Ehsan K. Esfahani, Paul Fernyhough and Benedict C. Albensi
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(13), 6203; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26136203 - 27 Jun 2025
Viewed by 700
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common form of dementia, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory loss and cognitive decline. In addition to its two major pathological hallmarks, extracellular amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), recent evidence highlights the [...] Read more.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common form of dementia, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory loss and cognitive decline. In addition to its two major pathological hallmarks, extracellular amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), recent evidence highlights the critical roles of mitochondrial dysfunction and neuroinflammation in disease progression. Aβ impairs mitochondrial function, which, in part, can subsequently trigger inflammatory cascades, creating a vicious cycle of neuronal damage. Estrogen receptors (ERs) are widely expressed throughout the brain, and the sex hormone 17β-estradiol (E2) exerts neuroprotection through both anti-inflammatory and mitochondrial mechanisms. While E2 exhibits neuroprotective properties, its mechanisms against Aβ toxicity remain incompletely understood. In this study, we investigated the neuroprotective effects of E2 against Aβ-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and neuroinflammation in primary cortical neurons, with a particular focus on the role of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). We found that E2 treatment significantly increased phosphorylated AMPK and upregulated the expression of mitochondrial biogenesis regulator peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1 α (PGC-1α), leading to improved mitochondrial respiration. In contrast, Aβ suppressed AMPK and PGC-1α signaling, impaired mitochondrial function, activated the pro-inflammatory nuclear factor kappa-light-chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), and reduced neuronal viability. E2 pretreatment also rescued Aβ-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, suppressed NF-κB activation, and, importantly, prevented the decline in neuronal viability. However, the pharmacological inhibition of AMPK using Compound C (CC) abolished these protective effects, resulting in mitochondrial collapse, elevated inflammation, and cell death, highlighting AMPK’s critical role in mediating E2’s actions. Interestingly, while NF-κB inhibition using BAY 11-7082 partially restored mitochondrial respiration, it failed to prevent Aβ-induced cytotoxicity, suggesting that E2’s full neuroprotective effects rely on broader AMPK-dependent mechanisms beyond NF-κB suppression alone. Together, these findings establish AMPK as a key mediator of E2’s protective effects against Aβ-driven mitochondrial dysfunction and neuroinflammation, providing new insights into estrogen-based therapeutic strategies for AD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Neurobiology)
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13 pages, 340 KiB  
Review
Zingerone as a Neuroprotective Agent Against Cognitive Disorders: A Systematic Review of Preclinical Studies
by Tosin A. Olasehinde and Oyinlola O. Olaokun
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(13), 6111; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26136111 - 25 Jun 2025
Viewed by 444
Abstract
Cognitive problems are associated with impaired learning ability and memory dysfunction. Neuroinflammation has been identified as an important factor in the progression of anxiety and depressive disorders. Zingerone is a phenolic alkanone derived from ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), which is known for its [...] Read more.
Cognitive problems are associated with impaired learning ability and memory dysfunction. Neuroinflammation has been identified as an important factor in the progression of anxiety and depressive disorders. Zingerone is a phenolic alkanone derived from ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), which is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. A number of studies have investigated the effect of zingerone on neuroinflammation and cognitive impairment. However, this evidence has not been systematically reviewed. This study sought to systematically review the effect of zingerone on neuroinflammation and neurobehavioural changes associated with memory and learning impairment and anxiety-like and depressive-like behaviours. A systematic review was conducted using pre-defined search criteria on Google Scholar, Scopus and Web of Science. The records obtained were screened based on inclusion criteria, and data was extracted from the included studies. Out of the 482 studies that were identified, only 9 studies met the inclusion criteria. Neuroinflammatory markers such as interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule (IBA-1), as well as behavioural parameters including Morris water maze, Y-Maze, recognition test, passive avoidance test, elevated plus maze, sucrose preference test and forced swimming test were measured. Zingerone exhibited anti-neuroinflammatory effects by improving IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α levels. However, zingerone did not show any significant changes on activated microglia. The anti-neuroinflammatory mechanisms of zingerone were linked to the inhibition of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) activation and the NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, as well as the reduction in neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). The anxiolytic and anti-depressive effects of zingerone were also associated with an improvement in cortical cholinergic transmission, the mitigation of oxidative stress and the upregulation of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. This review provides scientific evidence on the cognitive enhancing and neuroprotective mechanisms of zingerone, which may be beneficial for future experimental investigations. Full article
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18 pages, 3942 KiB  
Article
High Dietary Phosphorus Impairs Bone Microarchitecture and Induces Alterations in the LGR4–R-Spondins Axis in Rats with Normal Renal Function
by Sara Fernández-Villabrille, Francisco Baena-Huerta, Laura Suárez-Fernández, Elena Nefyodova, Paula Calvó, Nerea González-García, Helena Gil-Peña, Carlos Gómez-Alonso, Cristina Alonso-Montes, Manuel Naves-Díaz, Christa Maes, Natalia Carrillo-López and Sara Panizo
Nutrients 2025, 17(12), 2049; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17122049 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1957
Abstract
Background: The increasing prevalence of processed foods has significantly elevated dietary phosphorus intake globally, posing a risk to skeletal health. Elevated serum phosphate promotes parathyroid hormone (PTH) release, leading to bone resorption and decreased bone formation. Objective: This study investigated the influence [...] Read more.
Background: The increasing prevalence of processed foods has significantly elevated dietary phosphorus intake globally, posing a risk to skeletal health. Elevated serum phosphate promotes parathyroid hormone (PTH) release, leading to bone resorption and decreased bone formation. Objective: This study investigated the influence of chronically elevated phosphorus intake on bone structure in rats with normal renal function, focusing on the Receptor Activator of Nuclear factor Kappa-B (RANK)/RANK ligand (RANKL)/osteoprotegerin (OPG) pathway and its related components, leucine rich repeat containing G protein-coupled receptor 4 (LGR4), and R-spondins (RSPOs). Methods: Rats were fed a high-phosphorus diet, followed by assessment of the bone microstructure and of the expression of key signalling molecules. Results: Elevated phosphorus intake induced significant bone deterioration, particularly in the trabecular bone compartment, associated with alterations in the RANK/RANKL/OPG pathway and in the LGR4 and RSPO1 and RSPO4 signalling components in bone. Moreover, we also observed changes in RANKL, RSPO1 and RSPO4 serum levels in the rats that had received a high-phosphorus diet. Conclusions: These findings highlight the detrimental impact of excessive dietary phosphorus on skeletal health, even without renal impairment, and suggest that components of this pathway, particularly RSPO1 and RSPO4, could serve as potential biomarkers of bone deterioration. The widespread consumption of phosphorus-rich processed foods underscores the importance of nutritional education to mitigate these skeletal risks in industrialized populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Micronutrients and Human Health)
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17 pages, 6100 KiB  
Article
Effects of Modified Messenger RNA of Adiponectin Delivered by Lipid Nanoparticles on Adipogenesis and Bone Metabolism In Vitro and In Vivo
by Ying Xie, Qian Ma, Jinghao Wang, Zoe Xiaofang Zhu, Rady E. El-Araby, Maxwell Tu, Zhongyu Li, Xiaoyang Xu, Qisheng Tu and Jake Chen
Cells 2025, 14(12), 891; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells14120891 - 13 Jun 2025
Viewed by 851
Abstract
Adiponectin (APN) is a secreted adipokine that plays a key role in modulating energy and bone metabolism, as well as regulating inflammatory responses. The overexpression of APN has been proposed as a potential therapeutic strategy for treating obesity and related disorders. Lipid nanoparticles [...] Read more.
Adiponectin (APN) is a secreted adipokine that plays a key role in modulating energy and bone metabolism, as well as regulating inflammatory responses. The overexpression of APN has been proposed as a potential therapeutic strategy for treating obesity and related disorders. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are promising vectors for transporting messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) molecules. This study tested whether delivering a stabilized version of adiponectin mRNA (APN mRNA) using lipid nanoparticles could reduce fat formation and promote bone repair in vitro and in vivo. We demonstrated that transfection with APN-LNP upregulated the mRNA and protein expression of APN, while inhibiting adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. APN-LNP enhanced osteogenic gene expression in MC3T3-E1 cells in a dose-dependent manner. It also reduced matrix metalloproteinase 9 expression in receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand (RANKL)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells, suggesting an anti-resorptive effect. In vivo, a femoral fracture model was established to explore the application of APN-LNP in promoting bone healing in diet-induced obese mice. Micro-computed tomography and histology analysis indicated that intravenous injection with APN-LNP promoted bone healing. Fasting blood glucose and body weight were decreased in the APN-LNP group. Moreover, APN-LNP increased bone sialoprotein and runt-related transcription factor 2 expression in contralateral femurs, as well as interleukin-10 expression in white adipose tissues. Thus, our study provides promising preclinical data on the potential use of APN-LNP for treating bone disorders in obesity. Full article
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34 pages, 1218 KiB  
Systematic Review
Unveiling the Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Antidepressants: A Systematic Review of Human Studies over the Last Decade
by Layla Bleibel, Paulina Sokołowska, Gabriela Henrykowska, Jacek Owczarek and Anna Wiktorowska-Owczarek
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(6), 867; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18060867 - 10 Jun 2025
Viewed by 2185
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Depression ranks among the most prevalent mental health conditions globally, marked by a variety of symptoms that frequently cause significant emotional distress and impairment in individuals, alongside a high recurrence rate. The predominant approach to treating depression revolves around monoamine theory, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Depression ranks among the most prevalent mental health conditions globally, marked by a variety of symptoms that frequently cause significant emotional distress and impairment in individuals, alongside a high recurrence rate. The predominant approach to treating depression revolves around monoamine theory, utilizing SSRIs and SNRIs, with Esketamine emerging as a supplementary option in recent times. Nevertheless, there is a growing focus on exploring the relationship between inflammation and depression, revealing a strong correlation between the two. This insight prompts consideration of the anti-inflammatory properties of current antidepressants in their therapeutic application. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using the PubMed database to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and clinical trials (CTs) that assessed the in vivo anti-inflammatory effects of SSRIs (fluoxetine, escitalopram, sertraline, and paroxetine), the SNRI venlafaxine, and esketamine/ketamine in human subjects undergoing treatment for depression. The included studies were evaluated based on changes in levels of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory markers in response to the antidepressant treatments. Results: SSRIs, SNRIs, esketamine, and ketamine (a racemic mixture of S- and R-ketamine not formally approved for the treatment of depression) exhibit anti-inflammatory effects through diverse mechanisms, such as reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines or enhancing anti-inflammatory cytokines in serum or within specific brain regions like the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. These actions are mediated through various inflammatory pathways, including nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), the brain Nod-like receptor pyrin-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, the glutamatergic system, the gut–brain axis, the hypothalamic–pituitary axis, impaired neuroplasticity, and the kynurenine pathway. Conclusions: In summary, SSRIs, SNRIs, esketamine, and ketamine exert an anti-inflammatory role alongside their antidepressant effects via these intricate mechanisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacology of Antidepressants: Recent Advances)
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18 pages, 1844 KiB  
Article
Pseudopterosin A-D Modulates Dendritic Cell Activation in Skin Sensitization
by Johanna Maria Hölken, Katja Friedrich, Russel Kerr and Nicole Elisabeth Teusch
Mar. Drugs 2025, 23(6), 245; https://doi.org/10.3390/md23060245 - 10 Jun 2025
Viewed by 761
Abstract
This study investigates the anti-inflammatory effects of the marine diterpene glycosides pseudopterosin A-D (PsA-D) in mitigating nickel sulfate (NiSO4)-induced skin sensitization. In dermal dendritic cell (DDC) surrogates, PsA-D pre-treatment significantly reduced NiSO4-induced upregulation of key activation surface markers, cluster [...] Read more.
This study investigates the anti-inflammatory effects of the marine diterpene glycosides pseudopterosin A-D (PsA-D) in mitigating nickel sulfate (NiSO4)-induced skin sensitization. In dermal dendritic cell (DDC) surrogates, PsA-D pre-treatment significantly reduced NiSO4-induced upregulation of key activation surface markers, cluster of differentiation (CD)54 (~1.2-fold), and CD86 (~1.6-fold). Additionally, PsA-D inhibited the NiSO4-induced activation of the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) pathway by suppressing inhibitor of kappa B alpha (IκBα) degradation. Furthermore, PsA-D suppressed inflammatory responses by inhibiting the NiSO4-induced secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-8 (~6.8-fold), IL-6 (~2.2-fold), and IL-1β (~5.3-fold). In a full-thickness human skin model incorporating DDC surrogates, topical application of PsA-D effectively attenuated NiSO4-induced mRNA expression of IL-8 (~2.1-fold), IL-6 (~2.6-fold), and IL-1β (~2.2-fold), along with the key inflammatory mediators cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) (~3.5-fold) and NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) (~2.1-fold). Overall, PsA-D demonstrated comparable efficacy to dexamethasone, a benchmark corticosteroid, providing a promising therapeutic alternative to corticosteroids for the treatment of skin sensitization and allergic contact dermatitis. However, to maximize PsA-D’s therapeutic potential, future studies on optimizing the bioavailability and formulation of PsA-D are required. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Natural Products with Immunomodulatory Activity)
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18 pages, 2033 KiB  
Article
Imiquimod, a Promising Broad-Spectrum Antiviral, Prevents SARS-CoV-2 and Canine Coronavirus Multiplication Through the MAPK/ERK Signaling Pathway
by Josefina Vicente, Freddy Armando Peñaranda Figueredo, Stefania Mantovani, Daniela Laura Papademetrio, Sergio Ivan Nemirovsky, Andrea Alejandra Barquero, Carina Shayo and Carlos Alberto Bueno
Viruses 2025, 17(6), 801; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17060801 - 31 May 2025
Viewed by 871
Abstract
Respiratory viruses can cause life-threatening conditions such as sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome. However, vaccines and effective antivirals are available for only a limited number of infections. The majority of approved antivirals are direct-acting agents, which target viral proteins essential for infection. [...] Read more.
Respiratory viruses can cause life-threatening conditions such as sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome. However, vaccines and effective antivirals are available for only a limited number of infections. The majority of approved antivirals are direct-acting agents, which target viral proteins essential for infection. Unfortunately, mutations have already emerged that confer resistance to these antivirals. In addition, there is an urgent need for broad-spectrum antivirals to address the unpredictable emergence of new viruses with pandemic potential. One promising strategy involves modulating the innate immune response and cellular signaling. Imiquimod, a Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) agonist, has shown efficacy in murine models of influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Additionally, it demonstrates antiviral activity against herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and RSV independent of the TLR7/nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, with protein kinase A (PKA) as a crucial downstream effector. In this study, we demonstrate that imiquimod exhibits concentration-dependent antiviral activity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and canine coronavirus (CCoV) in epithelial cells, underscoring its broad-spectrum action against coronaviruses. Moreover, its anti-coronavirus effect appears to be independent of the TLR/NF-κB and PKA/exchange protein directly activated by cyclic adenosine monophosphate (EPAC) pathways and may instead be linked to the activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway. The ability of imiquimod to inhibit coronavirus replication via the MEK/ERK pathway, coupled with its immunomodulatory properties, highlights its potential as a broad-spectrum antiviral. Full article
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25 pages, 4271 KiB  
Article
Cyclic GMP-AMP Synthase (cGAS) Deletion Promotes Less Prominent Inflammatory Macrophages and Sepsis Severity in Catheter-Induced Infection and LPS Injection Models
by Chatsuree Suksamai, Warerat Kaewduangduen, Pornpimol Phuengmaung, Kritsanawan Sae-Khow, Awirut Charoensappakit, Suwasin Udomkarnjananun, Sutada Lotinun, Patipark Kueanjinda and Asada Leelahavanichkul
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(11), 5069; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26115069 - 24 May 2025
Viewed by 837
Abstract
Activation of cGAS, a cytosolic receptor recognizing double-stranded DNA, in macrophages is important in sepsis (a life-threatening condition caused by infection). The responses against sepsis induced by subcutaneous implantation of the Pseudomonas-contaminated catheters in cGAS-deficient (cGAS−/−) mice were lower than [...] Read more.
Activation of cGAS, a cytosolic receptor recognizing double-stranded DNA, in macrophages is important in sepsis (a life-threatening condition caused by infection). The responses against sepsis induced by subcutaneous implantation of the Pseudomonas-contaminated catheters in cGAS-deficient (cGAS−/−) mice were lower than in wild-type (WT) mice as indicated by liver enzymes, white blood cell count, cytokines, and M1-polarized macrophages in the spleens. Likewise, a lethal dose of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced less severe sepsis severity as determined by mortality, organ injury, cell-free DNA, and serum cytokines. Patterns of the transcriptome of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated bone marrow-derived macrophages were clearly different between cGAS−/− and WT cells. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA; a computational statistical determination of the gene set) indicated more prominent enrichment of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS; the mitochondrial function) and mTORC1 pathways in LPS-activated cGAS−/− macrophages compared with WT. Meanwhile, LPS upregulated cGAS and increased cGAMP (a cGAS inducer) only in WT macrophages along with less severe inflammation in cGAS−/− macrophages, as indicated by supernatant cytokines, pro-inflammatory molecules (nuclear factor kappa B; NF-κB), M1 polarization (IL-1β, CD80, and CD86), and macrophage extracellular traps (METs; web-like structures composed of DNA, histones, and other proteins) through the detection of citrullinated histone 3 (CitH3) in supernatant and immunofluorescent visualization. In conclusion, less prominent pro-inflammatory responses of cGAS−/− macrophages than WT were demonstrated in mice (catheter-induced sepsis and LPS injection model) and in vitro (transcriptomic analysis, macrophage polarization, and METs). Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Pathology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics)
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20 pages, 4072 KiB  
Article
Impact of Black Soldier Fly Larvae Oil on Immunometabolic Processes
by Hadas Inbart Richter, Ofer Gover, Amit Hamburg, Keren Bendalak, Tamar Ziv and Betty Schwartz
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(10), 4855; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26104855 - 19 May 2025
Viewed by 622
Abstract
The oil extract derived from black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae (BSFL) is characterized by a distinctive fatty acid composition and bioactive compounds with demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, as shown in our previous work. The present study aims to mechanistically explore the [...] Read more.
The oil extract derived from black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae (BSFL) is characterized by a distinctive fatty acid composition and bioactive compounds with demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, as shown in our previous work. The present study aims to mechanistically explore the immunomodulatory effects of a saponified form of BSFL oil (MBSFL) and its potential interaction with metabolic signaling pathways. Using Pam3CSK4-polarized M1 primary human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), we demonstrate that MBSFL phenotypically suppressed the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNFα, IL-6, IL-17, and GM-CSF (p < 0.01) without altering anti-inflammatory cytokine levels (TGFβ1, IL-13, and IL-4). A phosphoproteomic analysis of Pam3CSK4-stimulated THP-1 macrophages revealed MBSFL-mediated downregulation of CK2 and ERK kinases (p < 0.05), key regulators of NF-κB signaling activation. We confirmed that MBSFL directly inhibits NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation (p < 0.05), using both immunofluorescence staining and a western blot analysis of nuclear and cytoplasmic fractions. In the context of metabolism, using a luciferase reporter assay, we demonstrate that MBSFL functions as a weak agonist of PPARγ and PPARδ (p < 0.05), which are nuclear receptors involved in lipid metabolism and immune regulation. However, subsequent immunoblotting revealed a macrophage polarization-dependent regulation: MBSFL upregulated PPARγ in M0 macrophages but did not prevent its suppression upon Pam3CSK4 stimulation, whereas it specifically enhanced PPARδ expression during M1 polarization (p < 0.05). This study provides novel experimental evidence supporting our hypothesis of MBSFL’s role in immunometabolism. We demonstrate for the first time that MBSFL acts as a dual regulator by suppressing NF-κB-mediated inflammation while promoting PPARδ activity—an inverse relationship with potential relevance to immunometabolic disorders. Full article
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26 pages, 4181 KiB  
Article
Alleviating the Effect of Branched-Chain Fatty Acids on the Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Response in Calf Small Intestinal Epithelial Cells
by Siqi Zhang, Qingyuan Yu, Yukun Sun, Guangning Zhang, Yonggen Zhang and Hangshu Xin
Antioxidants 2025, 14(5), 608; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14050608 - 19 May 2025
Viewed by 822
Abstract
This study examined branched-chain fatty acids (BCFAs)’ effects on oxidative stress, energy metabolism, inflammation, tight junction disruption, apoptosis, and Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa-B (TLR4/NF-κB) signaling in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced calf small intestinal epithelial cells (CSIECs). Eight groups were used: a control [...] Read more.
This study examined branched-chain fatty acids (BCFAs)’ effects on oxidative stress, energy metabolism, inflammation, tight junction disruption, apoptosis, and Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa-B (TLR4/NF-κB) signaling in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced calf small intestinal epithelial cells (CSIECs). Eight groups were used: a control group, an LPS-induced group, and six BCFA treatment groups (12-methyltridecanoic acid (iso-C14:0), 13-methyltetradecanoic acid (iso-C15:0), 14-methylpentadecanoic acid (iso-C16:0), 15-methylhexadecanoic acid (iso-C17:0), 12-methyltetradecanoic acid (anteiso-C15:0), and 14-methylhexadecanoic acid (anteiso-C17:0)) with LPS. The BCFA pretreatments significantly increased CSIEC activity compared to the LPS-induced group, with iso-C14:0 showing the highest activity (89.73%). BCFA reduced Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) generation and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and improved the superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) activities and glutathione (GSH) levels. Iso-C16:0 optimized total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC). BCFA enhanced the mitochondrial membrane potential, Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) enzyme activity, and ATP content, with iso-C14:0 increasing ATP by 27.01%. BCFA downregulated interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and interferon (INF)-γ gene expression, reduced IL-6 levels, and increased IL-10 expression. Myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) mRNA levels were reduced. BCFA alleviated Zonula Occludin (ZO-1), Claudin-1, and Claudin-4 decrease and increased Occludin levels. BCFA mitigated LPS-induced increases in Caspase-3 and BCL2-Associated X (BAX) mRNA levels, reduced Caspase-8 and Caspase-9 expression, and increased B-Cell Lymphoma-2 (BCL-2) mRNA levels. The Entropy Weight-TOPSIS method was adopted, and it was discovered that iso-C15:0 has the best effect. In summary, BCFA supplementation mitigated oxidative stress and enhanced mitochondrial function. BCFA inhibited TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway overactivation, regulated inflammatory cytokine gene expression, reduced cellular apoptosis, preserved tight junction integrity, and supported barrier function. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Health Outcomes of Antioxidants and Oxidative Stress)
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16 pages, 517 KiB  
Review
The Role of microRNAs in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
by Aneta Sokal-Dembowska, Sara Jarmakiewicz-Czaja, Kacper Helma and Rafał Filip
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(10), 4750; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26104750 - 15 May 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 953
Abstract
Deregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) has been implicated in the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Specific miRNAs are differentially expressed in patients with IBD compared to healthy individuals. Regulation of their expression can modulate the inflammatory response, the composition of the intestinal microbiota, [...] Read more.
Deregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) has been implicated in the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Specific miRNAs are differentially expressed in patients with IBD compared to healthy individuals. Regulation of their expression can modulate the inflammatory response, the composition of the intestinal microbiota, and intestinal barrier function. miRNAs can regulate the immune and inflammatory response via multiple mechanisms, from Th1/Th17 regulation and ferroptosis to modulation of NLRP3 (NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain-containing 3) and control of the NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells) pathway. The use of miRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets may help monitor IBD treatment and support the development of new, more individualized therapies that minimize common side effects. Full article
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22 pages, 6428 KiB  
Article
Rebamipide Enhances Pathogen Defense and Mitigates Inflammation in a Particulate Matter-Induced Ocular Surface Inflammation Rat Model
by Basanta Bhujel, Se-Heon Oh, Woojune Hur, Seorin Lee, Hun Lee, Ho-Seok Chung and Jae Yong Kim
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(8), 3922; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26083922 - 21 Apr 2025
Viewed by 915
Abstract
Particulate matter (PM) exposure is known to induce significant ocular surface inflammation, necessitating effective therapeutic interventions. This study compared the efficacy of 2% rebamipide (REB) with 0.1% hyaluronic acid (HA) eye drops in investigating the anti-inflammatory and pathogen-clearance effects in a PM-induced ocular [...] Read more.
Particulate matter (PM) exposure is known to induce significant ocular surface inflammation, necessitating effective therapeutic interventions. This study compared the efficacy of 2% rebamipide (REB) with 0.1% hyaluronic acid (HA) eye drops in investigating the anti-inflammatory and pathogen-clearance effects in a PM-induced ocular surface inflammation model using Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats. Parameters including clinical signs, histological changes, mucin secretions, inflammatory cytokines, mast cell degranulation, dysregulated cell proliferation, and cellular apoptosis were evaluated. 2% REB alleviated ocular surface inflammation by downregulating the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) inflammatory pathway and upregulating epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling, thereby enhancing mucin secretion and promoting pathogen clearance. Histopathological analysis, western blot, and immunohistochemical staining revealed a marked reduction in inflammatory markers including MMP-9, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-17, and CD-4, decreased mast cell degranulation, increased goblet cell density, and enhanced expression of mucins, including MUC5AC and MUC16, in the 2% REB-treated group compared to the 0.1% HA-treated and PM-exposed groups. Moreover, 2% REB demonstrated decreased apoptosis (TUNEL) and reduced uncontrolled cell proliferation (Ki67), indicating improved cellular integrity. In conclusion, 2% REB is a promising treatment option for PM-induced ocular surface inflammation in a rat model compared with 0.1% HA, offering the benefits of reducing inflammation, clearing pathogens, and protecting overall ocular health. Full article
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