This study examined the effects of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid(ω-3PUFA) on the expression of toll-like receptor 2(TLR2),toll-like receptor 4(TLR4) and some related inflammatory factors in peripheral blood m...This study examined the effects of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid(ω-3PUFA) on the expression of toll-like receptor 2(TLR2),toll-like receptor 4(TLR4) and some related inflammatory factors in peripheral blood mononuclear cells(PBMCs) of patients with early-stage severe multiple trauma.Thirty-two patients who were admitted to the Department of Traumatic Surgery,Tongji Hospital(Wuhan,China) between May 2010 and November 2010,and diagnosed as having severe multiple trauma with a injury severity score(ISS) no less than 16,were enrolled in the study and divided into two groups at random(n=16 in each):ω-3PUFA group and control group in which routine parenteral nutrition supplemented with ω-3PUFA or not was administered to the patients in two groups for consecutive 7 days.Peripheral blood from these patients was collected within 2 h of admission(day 0),and 1,3,5 and 7 days after the nutritional support.PBMCs were isolated and used for detection of the mRNA and protein expression of TLR2 and TLR4 by using real-time PCR and flow cytometry respectively,the levels of NF-κB by quantum dots-based immunofluorescence assay,the levels of TNF-α,IL-2,IL-6 and COX-2 by ELISA,respectively.The results showed that the mRNA and protein expression of TLR2 and TLR4 in PBMCs was significantly lower in ω-3PUFA group than in control group 5 and 7 days after nutrition support(both P0.05).The levels of TNF-α,IL-2,IL-6 and COX-2 were found to be substantially decreased in PBMCs in ω-3PUFA group as compared with control group at 5th and 7th day(P0.05 for all).It was concluded that ω-3PUFA can remarkably decrease the expression of TLR2,TLR4 and some related inflammatory factors in NF-κB signaling pathway in PBMCs of patients with severe multiple trauma,which suggests that ω-3PUFA may suppress the excessive inflammatory response meditated by the TLRs/NF-κB signaling pathway.展开更多
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are germ line encoded innate immune sensors that recognize conserved microbial structures and host alarmins, and signal expression of major histocompatibility complex proteins, costimulatory...Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are germ line encoded innate immune sensors that recognize conserved microbial structures and host alarmins, and signal expression of major histocompatibility complex proteins, costimulatory molecules, and inflammatory mediators by macrophages, neutrophils, dendritic cells, and other cell types. These protein receptors are characterized by their ability to respond to invading pathogens promptly by recognizing particular TLR ligands, including flagellin and lipopolysaccharide of bacteria, nucleic acids derived from viruses, and zymosan of fungi. There are 2 major TLR pathways; one is mediated by myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MYD88) adaptor proteins, and the other is independent of MYD88. The MYD88-dependent pathway involves early-phase activation of nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells 1 (NF-κB1) and all the TLRs, except TLR3, have been shown to activate this pathway. TLR3 and TLR4 act via MYD88-independent pathways with delayed activation of NF-κB signaling. TLRs play a vital role in activating immune responses. TLRs have been shown to mediate inflammatory responses and maintain epithelial barrier homeostasis, and are highly likely to be involved in the activation of a number of pathways following cancer therapy. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers, and accounts for almost half a million deaths annually worldwide. Inflammation is considered a risk factor for many common malignancies including cancers of the colorectum. The key molecules involved in inflammation-driven carcinogenesis include TLRs. As sensors of cell death and tissue remodeling, TLRs may have a universal role in cancer; stimulation of TLRs to activate the innate immune system has been a legitimate therapeutic strategy for some years. TLRs 3/4/7/8/9 are all validated targets for cancer therapy, and a number of companies are developing agonists and vaccine adjuvants. On the other hand, antagonists may favor inhibition of signaling responsible for autoimmune responses. In this paper, we review TLR signaling in CRC from carcinogenesis to cancer therapy.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Toll-like receptor 2 and 4 (TLR2/4) may play important roles in ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can prevent the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by I/R inju...BACKGROUND: Toll-like receptor 2 and 4 (TLR2/4) may play important roles in ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can prevent the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by I/R injury. This study aimed to investigate the changes in TLR2/4 gene expression in the liver and lung after I/R injury with or without NAC pretreatment. METHODS: BALB/c mice were used in a model of partial hepatic I/R injury and randomly assigned to a sham-operated control group (SH), a hepatic ischemiaeperfusion group (I/R) or a NAC pretreated, hepatic I/R group (I/R-NAC). The levels of TNF-alpha in the portal vein and plasma alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were measured at 1 and 3 hours after reperfusion. The lung wet-to-dry ratio was measured, and the expression of TLR2/4 mRNA and protein in the liver and lung were assessed with RT-PCR and Western blotting at the same time points. RESULTS: Compared with the I/R group, the expression of TLR2/4 mRNA and protein in the liver and lung in the I/R-NAC group was decreased at the same time point (P<0.05). The levels of portal vein TNF-a and plasma ALT increased continuously in the l/R group at I and 3 hours of reperfusion compared with the SH group; however, they declined significantly in the group pretreated with NAC (P<0.05). The extent of lung edema was relieved in the I/R-NAC group compared with the I/R group (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: TLR2/4 was activated in the liver and lung in the process of partial hepatic I/R injury. NAC inhibited the activation of TLR2/4 and the induction of TNF-alpha resulting from I/R injury via modulating the redox state, thus it may mitigate liver and lung injury following partial hepatic I/R in mice.展开更多
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are germline-encoded pattern-recognition receptors that initiate innate immune re- sponses by recognizing molecular structures shared by a wide range of pathogens, known as pathogen-associ...Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are germline-encoded pattern-recognition receptors that initiate innate immune re- sponses by recognizing molecular structures shared by a wide range of pathogens, known as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). After tissue injury or cellular stress, TLRs also detect endogenous ligands known as danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). TLRs are expressed in both non-neuronal and neuronal cell types in the central nervous system (CNS) and contribute to both infectious and non-infectious disorders in the CNS. Following tissue insult and nerve injury, TLRs (such as TLR2, TLR3, and TLR4) induce the activation of microglia and astrocytes and the production of the proinflammatory cytokines in the spinal cord, leading to the development and maintenance of inflammatory pain and neu- ropathic pain. In particular, primary sensory neurons, such as nociceptors, express TLRs (e.g., TLR4 and TLR7) to sense exogenous PAMPs and endogenous DAMPs released after tissue injury and cellular stress. These neuronal TLRs are new players in the processing of pain and itch by increasing the excitability of primary sensory neurons. Given the prevalence of chronic pain and itch and the suffering of affected people, insights into TLR signaling in the nervous system will open a new avenue for the management of clinical pain and itch.展开更多
Nuclear factor kappa B(NF-κB) in the spinal cord is involved in pro-infl ammatory cytokine-mediated pain facilitation. However, the role of NF-κB activation in chronic morphine-induced analgesic tolerance and the ...Nuclear factor kappa B(NF-κB) in the spinal cord is involved in pro-infl ammatory cytokine-mediated pain facilitation. However, the role of NF-κB activation in chronic morphine-induced analgesic tolerance and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In the present study, we found that the level of phosphorylated NF-κB p65(p-p65) was increased in the dorsal horn of the lumbar 4–6 segments after intrathecal administration of morphine for 7 consecutive days, and the p-p65 was co-localized with neurons and astrocytes. The expression of TNF-α and IL-1β was also increased in the same area. In addition, pretreatment with pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate(PDTC) or SN50, inhibitors of NF-κB, prevented the development of morphine analgesic tolerance and alleviated morphine withdrawal-induced allodynia and hyperalgesia. The increase in TNF-α and IL-1β expression induced by chronic morphine exposure was also partially blocked by PDTC pretreatment. In another experiment, rats receiving PDTC or SN50 beginning on day 7 of morphine injection showed partial recovery of the anti-nociceptive effects of morphine and attenuation of the withdrawal-induced abnormal pain. Meanwhile, intrathecal pretreatment with lipopolysaccharide from Rhodobacter sphae-roides, an antagonist of toll-like receptor 4(TLR4), blocked the activation of NF-κB, and prevented the development of morphine tolerance and withdrawal-induced abnormal pain. These data indicated that TLR4-mediated NF-κB activation in the spinal cord is involved in the development and maintenance of morphine analgesic tolerance and withdrawalinduced pain hypersensitivity.展开更多
OBJECTIVE: Celastrol has been established as a nuclear factor-κB(NF-κB) activation inhibitor; however, the exact mechanism behind this action is still unknown. Using text-mining technology, the authors predicted ...OBJECTIVE: Celastrol has been established as a nuclear factor-κB(NF-κB) activation inhibitor; however, the exact mechanism behind this action is still unknown. Using text-mining technology, the authors predicted that int erleukin-1 receptor-associated kinases(IRA Ks) are potential celastrol targets, and hypothesized that targeting IRAKs might be one way that celastrol inhibits NF-κB. This is because IRAKs are key molecules for some crucial pathways to activate NF-κB(e.g., the inter leukin-1 receptor(IL-1R)/Toll- like receptor(TLR) superfamily).METHODS: The human hepatocellular cell line(Hep G2) treated with palmitic acid(PA) was used as a model for stimulating TLR4/NF-κB activation, in order to observe the potential effects of celastrol in IRAK regulation and NF-κB inhibition. The transfection of small interfering RNA was used for down-regulating TLR4, IRAK1 and IRAK4, and the Western blot method was used to detect changes in the protein expressions.RESULTS: The results showed that celastrol could effectively inhibit PA-caused TLR4-dependent NF-κB activation in the Hep G 2 cells; PA also activated IRAKs, which were inhibited by celastrol. Knocking down IRAKs abolished PA-caused NF-κB activation.CONCLUSION: The results for the first time show that targeting IRAKs is one way in which celastrol inhibits NF-κB activation.展开更多
The central nervous system is recognized as an immunoprivileged site because peripheral immune cells do not typically enter it. Microglial cells are thought to be the main immune cells in brain. However, recent report...The central nervous system is recognized as an immunoprivileged site because peripheral immune cells do not typically enter it. Microglial cells are thought to be the main immune cells in brain. However, recent reports have indicated that neurons express the key players of innate immunity, including Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and their adaptor proteins (Sarml, Myd88, and Trif), and may produce cytokines in response to pathogen infection. In the absence of an immune challenge, neuronal TLRs can detect intrinsic danger signals and modulate neuronal morphology and function. In this article, we review the recent findings on the involvement of TLRs and Sarml in controlling neuronal morphogenesis and neurodegeneration. Abnormal behaviors in TLR- and Sarml-deficient mice are also discussed.展开更多
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) family may play important roles in inflammatory bowel dis- ease. This study examined the expression of TLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 in the colonic tissues of patients with ulcerative colitis 0AC) ...Toll-like receptors (TLRs) family may play important roles in inflammatory bowel dis- ease. This study examined the expression of TLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 in the colonic tissues of patients with ulcerative colitis 0AC) and explored their roles in the pathogenesis of UC. Colonic biQpsies were taken from the colon of 30 patients with mild or moderate UC (at active phase) and 10 healthy con- trois during colonoscopy. TLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 protein expression levels were immunohisto- chemically detected. The mRNA expression levels of TLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 were assessed by re- verse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The disease activity index (DAI), colono- scopic and histologic grades and fecal microbial flora were determined. Histological examination showed that the intestinal mucous membrane of UC patients underwent acute inflammation changes. Immunohistochemistry exhibited that the expression levels of TLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 in colon epi- thelia and inflammatory cells were higher in UC patients than in control group (P〈0.01). The mRNA expression levels of TLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 were increased in UC patients but were not detected in the normal controls. Expression levels ofTLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 were positively correlated, and bore close correlation with DAI, colonoscopic and histologic grades and fecal microbial flora. An impor- tant mechanism of UC might be that abnormal activation of mucosal immunity by intestinal dysbac- teriosis caused dysregulation of TLRS that mediates innate immunity.展开更多
AIM:To elucidate the effect of rapamycin on regulating the production of interleukin(IL)-1β in Aspergillus fumigatus(A.fumigatus)-induced keratitis and to verify whether the expression of IL-1β in A.fumigatus k...AIM:To elucidate the effect of rapamycin on regulating the production of interleukin(IL)-1β in Aspergillus fumigatus(A.fumigatus)-induced keratitis and to verify whether the expression of IL-1β in A.fumigatus keratitis is associated with the mammalian target of rapamycin(mT OR)/Toll-like receptor 4(TLR4) signaling pathway.METHODS:Fungal keratitis mouse models of susceptible C57 BL/6 mice were established using A.fumigatus.The mice were subsequently treated with rapamycin.The protein levels of p-mT OR,TLR4,and IL-1β in normal and infected corneal tissue were measured by Western blot.The TLR4 and IL-1β m RNA levels were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction(PCR).RESULTS:In C57 BL/6 mice,rapamycin treatment decreased the clinical scores and production of the pro-inflammatory cytokine,IL-1β.The expression of TLR4,stimulated by A.fumigatus,was reduced as well when the mT OR signaling pathway was suppressed by rapamycin.CONCLUSION:Rapamycin is beneficial for the outcome of fungal keratitis and has an inhibitory effect expression of the inflammatory cytokine IL-1β.The inhibitory effect on IL-1β expression can be associated with the mT OR/TLR4 signaling pathway in A.fumigatus infection in mice.展开更多
AIM:To test whether ethanol feeding could induce Toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)responses,assess the hepatoprotective effect of betaine and its inhibitive effect on TLR4 in animal models of alcoholic liver injury.METHODS:F...AIM:To test whether ethanol feeding could induce Toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)responses,assess the hepatoprotective effect of betaine and its inhibitive effect on TLR4 in animal models of alcoholic liver injury.METHODS:Forty-eight female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups as control,model,low and high dose betaine groups.Except control group,all rats were fed with high fat-containing diet plus ethanol and fish oil gavages for 8 wk.Betaine was administered intragastrically after exposure of ethanol for 4 wk.The changes of liver histology were examined.The expression of TLR4 mRNA and protein was detected by RT-PCR and Western blotting,respectively.The serum aminotransferase activity alanine transarninase(ALT),aspartate aminotransferase(AST),serum endotoxin,and liver inflammatory factors tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α),interferon-γ(IFN-γ),interleukin-18(IL-18)were also assayed.RESULTS:Compared with control group,rats of model group developed marked liver injury,accompanied by an increase of ALT(159.41±7.74 U/L vs 59.47± 2.34 U/L,P<0.0001),AST(248.25±1.40 U/L vs 116.89±3.48 U/L,P<0.0001),endotoxin(135.37± 30.17 ng/L vs 44.15±7.54 ng/L,P<0.0001),TNF-α(20.81±8.58 pg/mL vs 9.34±2.57 pg/mL,P=0.0003),IFN-γ(30.18±7.60 pg/mL vs 16.86±9.49 pg/mL,P= 0.0039)and IL-18(40.99±8.25 pg/mL vs 19.73±9.31 pg/mL,P=0.0001).At the same time,the expression of TLR4 mRNA and protein was markedly induced in the liver after chronic ethanol consumption(1.45±0.07 vs 0.44±0.04,P<0.0001;1.83±0.13 vs 0.56±0.08,P<0.0001).Compared with model group,betaine feeding resulted in significant decreases of ALT(64.93 ±6.06 U/L vs 159.41±7.74 U/L,P<0.0001),AST(188.73±1.11 U/L vs 248.25±1.40 U/L,P<0.0001),endotoxin(61.80±12.56 ng/L vs 135.37±30.17 ng/L,P<0.0001),TNF-α(9.79±1.32 pg/mL vs 20.81± 8.58 pg/mL,P=0.0003),IFN-γ(18.02±5.96 pg/mL vs 30.18±7.60 pg/mL,P=0.0008)and IL-18(18.23±7.01 pg/mL vs 40.99±8.25 pg/mL,P<0.0001).Betaine also improved liver steatosis.The expression levels of TLR4 mRNA or protein in liver tissues were significantly lowered(0.62±0.04 vs 1.45±0.07,P<0.0001;and 0.65±0.06 vs 1.83±0.13,P<0.0001).There was a statistical difference of TLR4 mRNA and protein expression between high-and low-dose betaine groups(0.62±0.04 vs 0.73±0.05,P<0.0001,and 0.65±0.06 vs 0.81±0.09,P<0.0001).CONCLUSION:Betaine can prevent the alcoholinduced liver injury effectively and improve the liver function.The expression of TLR4 increases significantly in ethanol-fed rats and betaine administration can inhibit TLR4 expression.展开更多
Osteonecrosis of the femoral head is frequently observed in patients treated with excessive corticosteroids. However, the pathogenesis of corticosteroid-induced osteonecrosis remains unclear. The purpose of this study...Osteonecrosis of the femoral head is frequently observed in patients treated with excessive corticosteroids. However, the pathogenesis of corticosteroid-induced osteonecrosis remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of Toil-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling pathway in steroid-induced femoral head osteonecrosis in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were injected intramus- cularly with 20 mg/kg methylprednisolone (MP) for 8 weeks, twice per week. The animals were sacri- ficed at 2, 4 and 8 weeks after the last MP injection, respectively, and then allocated to the 2-, 4- and 8-week model groups (n=24 each). Rats in the control group (n=12) were not given any treatment. Histopathological analysis was performed and the concentration of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) in plasma was determined. The activation of osteoclasts in the femoral head was assessed by TRAP staining. The expression of TLR4, MyD88, TRAF6 and NF-Id3 p65 that are involved in TLR4 signaling, and MCP-1 production were detected by using real-time PCR (RT-PCR) and Western blotting. The results showed that the osteonecrosis in the femoral head was clearly observed and the concentra- tion of TRAP in the plasma was increased in the model rats. The femoral head tissues in MP-treated rats were positive for TRAP and the intensity of TRAP staining was greater in MP-treated rats than in con- trol rats. As compared with the control group, the mRNA expression of TLR4 signaling-related factors was enhanced significantly at 4 and 8 weeks, and the protein levels of these factors increased signifi- cantly with time. It was concluded that MP could induce the femoral head osteonecrosis in rats, which was associated with osteoclast activation via the TLR4 signaling pathway. These findings suggest that TLR4 signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of steroid-induced osteonecrosis.展开更多
In order to investigate the effects of different terms of inhaled nitric oxide (NO) preconditioning with low concentration on the activations of Toll-like receptor 2 and 4 (TLR2/4) in the lung ischemia-reperfusion...In order to investigate the effects of different terms of inhaled nitric oxide (NO) preconditioning with low concentration on the activations of Toll-like receptor 2 and 4 (TLR2/4) in the lung ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury in mice, we divided the male C57BL mice into five groups: sham (S) group, IR group, NO 1-min preconditioning group (15 ppm NO inhalation for 1 min before ischemia, NO 1-min), NO 10-min preconditioning group (15 ppm NO inhalation for 10 min before ischemia, NO 10-min), NO 60-min preconditioning group (15 ppm NO inhalation for 60 min before ischemia, NO 60-min). The changes of partial pressure of oxygen in artery (PaO2), left lung wet-to-dry weight ratio (W/D), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) in the injured lung were measured in every group at 6th h of reperfusion after 60 min of left lung ischemia. The changes of TLR2/4 activations and plasma TNF-a were measured in this procedure in additional mice. As compared with IR group, PaO2 increased, MPO and W/D decreased evidently after reperfusion in NO 10-min group. The changes in NO 60-min group were similar to those in NO 10-rain group. There was no difference between NO 1-min and IR group. In NO inhalation group, the expressions levels of TLR2/4 mRNA and proteins were diminished, TNF-~t concentrations were decreased, and the lung injuries were ameliorated effectively. We concluded that short term inhalation of NO protected lung IR injury. But the protective effect of NO was not increased with extension of inhaled NO. Inhaled NO could inhibit the activations of TLR2/4 in the lung after IR injury. TLR signal pathway might contribute to the effect of protection with NO in this model.展开更多
This study investigated the effects of propofol on the mRNA expression of Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) in BV-2 cells during mimic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury in vitro. BV-2 cells, a mouse microglia line, were...This study investigated the effects of propofol on the mRNA expression of Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) in BV-2 cells during mimic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury in vitro. BV-2 cells, a mouse microglia line, were cultured and divided into 4 groups at random: control group (group C), ischemiaeperfusion group (group I/R), low-dose propofol (25 μmol/L) intervention group (group PF25) and high-dose propofol (100 μmol/L) intervention group (group PF100). The mRNA expression of TLR4 and NF-κB was measured by means of RT-PCR. TNF-α levels in the supernatants of BV-2 cells were detected by ELISA. The results showed that the mRNA expression of TLR4 and NF-κB was significantly higher in groups I/R, PF25 and PF100 than in group C (P〈0.01). And the TNF-α level in the supernatants was elevated in groups I/R, PF25 and PF100 as compared with that in group C (P〈0.01). After pre-treatment with propofol, the mRNA expressions of TLR4 and NF-κB and the TNF-α level were significantly decreased in groups PF25 and PF100 in comparison to those in group I/R (P〈0.01). And the decrease in those indicators was more significant in group PF100 than in group PF25 (P〈0.01). It was concluded that propofol exerted brain-protecting effects during I/R injury by suppressing the mRNA expressions of TLR4 and NF-κB and deceasing the TNF-α level.展开更多
The aim of the present study was to investigate the expression of toll-like receptors (TLR) 9 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of patients with chronic hepatitis B and C with different virus copies. Th...The aim of the present study was to investigate the expression of toll-like receptors (TLR) 9 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of patients with chronic hepatitis B and C with different virus copies. The study group included 90 patients (60 with chronic hepatitis B, and 30 with chronic hepatitis C), and 20 healthy people served as control group. The protein and mRNA levels of TLR9 were detected by using flow cytometry and real-time PCR. The serum viral copies of HBV and HCV were measured in all patients, and the correlation between HBV-DNA copies or HCV-RNA copies and the TLR9 expression was analyzed. Our results demonstrated that HBV or HCV infection led to a decreased expression of TLR9 mRNA and protein compared to the control group (P〈0.05). The TLR9 protein and mRNA levels were negatively correlated with serum viral copies of HBV and HCV (r=-0.632, r=-0.909, P〈0.01). It was concluded that TLR9 mRNA and protein are down-regulated in PBMC of HBV-infected or HCV-infected patients, and they are negatively correlated with serum viral copies and play an important role in detecting viral replication of HBV and HCV.展开更多
Background: Inflammation is often linked with the progress and poor outcome of lung cancer. The understanding of the relationship between tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and lung cancer cells involves in the un...Background: Inflammation is often linked with the progress and poor outcome of lung cancer. The understanding of the relationship between tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and lung cancer cells involves in the underlying mechanism of inflammatory cytokine production. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are engaged in promoting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and play an important role in tumor immunology. Methods: To investigate the mechanisms by which TAMs influence the production of pro-inflammatory cytoldnes in lung cancer cells, we established an in vitro coculture system using TAMs and human non- small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell line SPC-A1. Levels of interleukin (IL)-113, IL-6 and IL-8 in SPC-A1 were evaluated by RT-PCR and cytometric bead array assay after being cocultured with TAMs. Expression changes of TLRs and TLRs signaling pathway proteins in SPC-Al were further confirmed by RT-PCR and western blot. The level changes of IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 in SPC-Al were also detected after the stimulation of TLRs agonists. Results: We found that the phenotype markers of TAMs were highly expressed after stimulating human monocyte cell line THP-1 by phorbol-12-myristate-β-acetate (PMA). Higher mRNA and supernate secretion levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 were detected in SPC-A1 after being eocultured with TAMs. We also found that TLR1, TLR6 and TLR7 were up-regulated in SPC-A1 in the coculture system with TAMs. Meanwhile, TLRs signaling pathway proteins were also significantly activated. Moreover, pre-treatment with agonist ligands for TLR1, TLR6 and TLR7 could dramatically promote inductions of IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8. Conclusions: These findings demonstrated that TAMs may enhance IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 expressions via TLRs signaling pathway. We conclude that TAMs contribute to maintain the inflammation microenvironment and ultimately promote the development and progression of lung cancer.展开更多
Summary: The mechanisms of increased expression of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) during the formation of foam cells were explored. Low density lipoprotein (LDL) was prepared by density gradient ultracentrifugation...Summary: The mechanisms of increased expression of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) during the formation of foam cells were explored. Low density lipoprotein (LDL) was prepared by density gradient ultracentrifugation and oxidized by incubation with CuClz. The human monocytic leukemia cell line (THP-1) was cultured in RPMI1640. The differentiation of THP-1 cells into macrophages (MPs) was induced by using myristate acetate (PMA) for 48 h. The macrophages were then incubated with oxidized LDL (ox-LDL) to generate foam cells (FCs). The mRNA and protein expression levels of human TLR-4 were detected by immunocytochemistry, Western blotting and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The results showed that the TLR-4 mRNA and the protein expression levels were significantly increased during the differentiation of monocytes into macrophages (P〈0. 05) as well as during the formation of lipid-laden foam cells (P〈0.05). It was concluded that the upregulation of human TLR-4 gene expression during the differentiation of monocytes into macrophages and the differentiation of macrophages into foam cells could increase TLR-4 protein synthesis dramatically, which may enhance the ability of foam cells inflammation reaction in atherosclerosis.展开更多
In order to investigate the role of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in cerebrocardiac syndrome (CCS), the partial cerebral ischemiaeperfusion (I/R) models in mice with different TLR4 genotypes were established in th...In order to investigate the role of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in cerebrocardiac syndrome (CCS), the partial cerebral ischemiaeperfusion (I/R) models in mice with different TLR4 genotypes were established in the present study. TLR4 wild-type (C3H/HeN) and mutant (C3H/HeJ) mice of 6-8 weeks of age were divided into 4 groups at random: C3H/HeN sham group (n=10), C3H/HeJ sham group (n=10), C3H/HeN model group (n=10) and C3H/HeJ model group (n=10). Partial cerebral I/R was caused by the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) to duplicate CCS models in mice. After the operation, the electrocardiogram (ECG), the level of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-c0 in myocardial tissue and the cardiac pathological changes were observed in each group. It was shown that the brain infarct volume in C3H/HeN model group was larger than that in C3H/HeJ model group (P〈0.01). The ST segment change and T wave inversion occurred frequently in model groups. Moreover, the TNF-ct level in C3H/HeN model group was higher than that in C3H/HeJ model group (P〈0.01). The myocar- dial injury was aggravated in C3H/HeN group as compared with C3H/HeJ group. It was concluded that TLR4 was implicated in the development of CCS.展开更多
The expression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in neonatal cord blood mononuclear cells (MNCs) and serum TNF-α were investigated in order to explore the roles of TLR4 in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.The study enro...The expression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in neonatal cord blood mononuclear cells (MNCs) and serum TNF-α were investigated in order to explore the roles of TLR4 in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.The study enrolled 27 patients suffering from preeclampsia (experimental group) and 21 normal pregnancy patients (control group).After MNCs were separated, the expression of TLR4 mRNA and protein was detected by using real-time quantitative PCR and Western blotting respectively, and the expression of TNF-α by using ELISA.The results showed the TLR4 mRNA level in cord blood MNCs (2-CT:0.07±0.17), TLR4 protein expression level (absorbance ratio:0.81%±0.15%) and TNF-α level (9.5±1.73 pg/mL) were all increased in experimental group as compared with control group with the differences being statistically significant (P【0.05).There was a positive correlation between the expression of TLR4 mRNA and TNF-α in both experimental group and control group (r=0.54 and 0.53, respectively, P【0.05).It was concluded that TLR4 expression in the experimental group of cord blood MNCs was increased and there was a positive correlation between the expression of TLR4 mRNA and TNF-α in both groups.TLR4-mediated release of inflammatory cytokines may be one of the important reasons leading to preeclampsia.展开更多
基金supported by a grant from the Scientific Research Foundation for the Returned Overseas Chinese Scholars,State Education Ministry of China (No. 2009-1001)
摘要This study examined the effects of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid(ω-3PUFA) on the expression of toll-like receptor 2(TLR2),toll-like receptor 4(TLR4) and some related inflammatory factors in peripheral blood mononuclear cells(PBMCs) of patients with early-stage severe multiple trauma.Thirty-two patients who were admitted to the Department of Traumatic Surgery,Tongji Hospital(Wuhan,China) between May 2010 and November 2010,and diagnosed as having severe multiple trauma with a injury severity score(ISS) no less than 16,were enrolled in the study and divided into two groups at random(n=16 in each):ω-3PUFA group and control group in which routine parenteral nutrition supplemented with ω-3PUFA or not was administered to the patients in two groups for consecutive 7 days.Peripheral blood from these patients was collected within 2 h of admission(day 0),and 1,3,5 and 7 days after the nutritional support.PBMCs were isolated and used for detection of the mRNA and protein expression of TLR2 and TLR4 by using real-time PCR and flow cytometry respectively,the levels of NF-κB by quantum dots-based immunofluorescence assay,the levels of TNF-α,IL-2,IL-6 and COX-2 by ELISA,respectively.The results showed that the mRNA and protein expression of TLR2 and TLR4 in PBMCs was significantly lower in ω-3PUFA group than in control group 5 and 7 days after nutrition support(both P0.05).The levels of TNF-α,IL-2,IL-6 and COX-2 were found to be substantially decreased in PBMCs in ω-3PUFA group as compared with control group at 5th and 7th day(P0.05 for all).It was concluded that ω-3PUFA can remarkably decrease the expression of TLR2,TLR4 and some related inflammatory factors in NF-κB signaling pathway in PBMCs of patients with severe multiple trauma,which suggests that ω-3PUFA may suppress the excessive inflammatory response meditated by the TLRs/NF-κB signaling pathway.
基金Supported by grant from United States National Institute of Health(NIH),No.P01 CA87969(to SE Hankinson),No.UM1 CA167552,and No.P01 CA55075(to WC Willett),No.R01 CA137178(to AT Chan),No.P50 CA127003(to CS Fuchs),No.R01 CA151993(to S Ogino)Bennett Family Fund for Targeted Therapies ResearchEntertainment Industry Foundation through National Colorectal Cancer Research Alliance
摘要Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are germ line encoded innate immune sensors that recognize conserved microbial structures and host alarmins, and signal expression of major histocompatibility complex proteins, costimulatory molecules, and inflammatory mediators by macrophages, neutrophils, dendritic cells, and other cell types. These protein receptors are characterized by their ability to respond to invading pathogens promptly by recognizing particular TLR ligands, including flagellin and lipopolysaccharide of bacteria, nucleic acids derived from viruses, and zymosan of fungi. There are 2 major TLR pathways; one is mediated by myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MYD88) adaptor proteins, and the other is independent of MYD88. The MYD88-dependent pathway involves early-phase activation of nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells 1 (NF-κB1) and all the TLRs, except TLR3, have been shown to activate this pathway. TLR3 and TLR4 act via MYD88-independent pathways with delayed activation of NF-κB signaling. TLRs play a vital role in activating immune responses. TLRs have been shown to mediate inflammatory responses and maintain epithelial barrier homeostasis, and are highly likely to be involved in the activation of a number of pathways following cancer therapy. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers, and accounts for almost half a million deaths annually worldwide. Inflammation is considered a risk factor for many common malignancies including cancers of the colorectum. The key molecules involved in inflammation-driven carcinogenesis include TLRs. As sensors of cell death and tissue remodeling, TLRs may have a universal role in cancer; stimulation of TLRs to activate the innate immune system has been a legitimate therapeutic strategy for some years. TLRs 3/4/7/8/9 are all validated targets for cancer therapy, and a number of companies are developing agonists and vaccine adjuvants. On the other hand, antagonists may favor inhibition of signaling responsible for autoimmune responses. In this paper, we review TLR signaling in CRC from carcinogenesis to cancer therapy.
基金This work was supported by a grant from theNational Natural Science Foundation of China(No.30200272).
摘要BACKGROUND: Toll-like receptor 2 and 4 (TLR2/4) may play important roles in ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can prevent the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by I/R injury. This study aimed to investigate the changes in TLR2/4 gene expression in the liver and lung after I/R injury with or without NAC pretreatment. METHODS: BALB/c mice were used in a model of partial hepatic I/R injury and randomly assigned to a sham-operated control group (SH), a hepatic ischemiaeperfusion group (I/R) or a NAC pretreated, hepatic I/R group (I/R-NAC). The levels of TNF-alpha in the portal vein and plasma alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were measured at 1 and 3 hours after reperfusion. The lung wet-to-dry ratio was measured, and the expression of TLR2/4 mRNA and protein in the liver and lung were assessed with RT-PCR and Western blotting at the same time points. RESULTS: Compared with the I/R group, the expression of TLR2/4 mRNA and protein in the liver and lung in the I/R-NAC group was decreased at the same time point (P<0.05). The levels of portal vein TNF-a and plasma ALT increased continuously in the l/R group at I and 3 hours of reperfusion compared with the SH group; however, they declined significantly in the group pretreated with NAC (P<0.05). The extent of lung edema was relieved in the I/R-NAC group compared with the I/R group (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: TLR2/4 was activated in the liver and lung in the process of partial hepatic I/R injury. NAC inhibited the activation of TLR2/4 and the induction of TNF-alpha resulting from I/R injury via modulating the redox state, thus it may mitigate liver and lung injury following partial hepatic I/R in mice.
基金supported by the US National Institutes of Health (R01-DE17794, R01-NS54362 and R01-NS67686)
摘要Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are germline-encoded pattern-recognition receptors that initiate innate immune re- sponses by recognizing molecular structures shared by a wide range of pathogens, known as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). After tissue injury or cellular stress, TLRs also detect endogenous ligands known as danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). TLRs are expressed in both non-neuronal and neuronal cell types in the central nervous system (CNS) and contribute to both infectious and non-infectious disorders in the CNS. Following tissue insult and nerve injury, TLRs (such as TLR2, TLR3, and TLR4) induce the activation of microglia and astrocytes and the production of the proinflammatory cytokines in the spinal cord, leading to the development and maintenance of inflammatory pain and neu- ropathic pain. In particular, primary sensory neurons, such as nociceptors, express TLRs (e.g., TLR4 and TLR7) to sense exogenous PAMPs and endogenous DAMPs released after tissue injury and cellular stress. These neuronal TLRs are new players in the processing of pain and itch by increasing the excitability of primary sensory neurons. Given the prevalence of chronic pain and itch and the suffering of affected people, insights into TLR signaling in the nervous system will open a new avenue for the management of clinical pain and itch.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (31171070 and 81171060)
摘要Nuclear factor kappa B(NF-κB) in the spinal cord is involved in pro-infl ammatory cytokine-mediated pain facilitation. However, the role of NF-κB activation in chronic morphine-induced analgesic tolerance and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In the present study, we found that the level of phosphorylated NF-κB p65(p-p65) was increased in the dorsal horn of the lumbar 4–6 segments after intrathecal administration of morphine for 7 consecutive days, and the p-p65 was co-localized with neurons and astrocytes. The expression of TNF-α and IL-1β was also increased in the same area. In addition, pretreatment with pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate(PDTC) or SN50, inhibitors of NF-κB, prevented the development of morphine analgesic tolerance and alleviated morphine withdrawal-induced allodynia and hyperalgesia. The increase in TNF-α and IL-1β expression induced by chronic morphine exposure was also partially blocked by PDTC pretreatment. In another experiment, rats receiving PDTC or SN50 beginning on day 7 of morphine injection showed partial recovery of the anti-nociceptive effects of morphine and attenuation of the withdrawal-induced abnormal pain. Meanwhile, intrathecal pretreatment with lipopolysaccharide from Rhodobacter sphae-roides, an antagonist of toll-like receptor 4(TLR4), blocked the activation of NF-κB, and prevented the development of morphine tolerance and withdrawal-induced abnormal pain. These data indicated that TLR4-mediated NF-κB activation in the spinal cord is involved in the development and maintenance of morphine analgesic tolerance and withdrawalinduced pain hypersensitivity.
基金the Shanghai Gongli Hospital Youth Project (No. 2014GLQN16 for YS and No. 2012GLQN09 for XZ)the Shanghai Pudong District Science and Technology Innovation Project (No. PKJ2013-Y03 for YW)+5 种基金the Shanghai Pudong Youth Talent Project in Medicine (No. PWRq2013-11 for FC)the Shanghai Yang Fan Project (No. 15YF1410800 for FC)the International Science & Technology Cooperation Project of China (Grant 2011DFB30010 for GU)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 81102349 for BP and No. 81400793 for YW)the Shanghai Excellent Academic Leader in Medicine (No. XBR2011054 for DZ)the Shanghai Traditional Chinese Medicine Content Construction Innovation Project (No. ZY3-CCCX-3-7001 for DZ)
摘要OBJECTIVE: Celastrol has been established as a nuclear factor-κB(NF-κB) activation inhibitor; however, the exact mechanism behind this action is still unknown. Using text-mining technology, the authors predicted that int erleukin-1 receptor-associated kinases(IRA Ks) are potential celastrol targets, and hypothesized that targeting IRAKs might be one way that celastrol inhibits NF-κB. This is because IRAKs are key molecules for some crucial pathways to activate NF-κB(e.g., the inter leukin-1 receptor(IL-1R)/Toll- like receptor(TLR) superfamily).METHODS: The human hepatocellular cell line(Hep G2) treated with palmitic acid(PA) was used as a model for stimulating TLR4/NF-κB activation, in order to observe the potential effects of celastrol in IRAK regulation and NF-κB inhibition. The transfection of small interfering RNA was used for down-regulating TLR4, IRAK1 and IRAK4, and the Western blot method was used to detect changes in the protein expressions.RESULTS: The results showed that celastrol could effectively inhibit PA-caused TLR4-dependent NF-κB activation in the Hep G 2 cells; PA also activated IRAKs, which were inhibited by celastrol. Knocking down IRAKs abolished PA-caused NF-κB activation.CONCLUSION: The results for the first time show that targeting IRAKs is one way in which celastrol inhibits NF-κB activation.
基金supported by grants from Academia Sinica (AS 103-TP-B05)he Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST 102-2321-B-001-054 and 102-2321-B-001-029)
摘要The central nervous system is recognized as an immunoprivileged site because peripheral immune cells do not typically enter it. Microglial cells are thought to be the main immune cells in brain. However, recent reports have indicated that neurons express the key players of innate immunity, including Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and their adaptor proteins (Sarml, Myd88, and Trif), and may produce cytokines in response to pathogen infection. In the absence of an immune challenge, neuronal TLRs can detect intrinsic danger signals and modulate neuronal morphology and function. In this article, we review the recent findings on the involvement of TLRs and Sarml in controlling neuronal morphogenesis and neurodegeneration. Abnormal behaviors in TLR- and Sarml-deficient mice are also discussed.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81170361)
摘要Toll-like receptors (TLRs) family may play important roles in inflammatory bowel dis- ease. This study examined the expression of TLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 in the colonic tissues of patients with ulcerative colitis 0AC) and explored their roles in the pathogenesis of UC. Colonic biQpsies were taken from the colon of 30 patients with mild or moderate UC (at active phase) and 10 healthy con- trois during colonoscopy. TLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 protein expression levels were immunohisto- chemically detected. The mRNA expression levels of TLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 were assessed by re- verse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The disease activity index (DAI), colono- scopic and histologic grades and fecal microbial flora were determined. Histological examination showed that the intestinal mucous membrane of UC patients underwent acute inflammation changes. Immunohistochemistry exhibited that the expression levels of TLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 in colon epi- thelia and inflammatory cells were higher in UC patients than in control group (P〈0.01). The mRNA expression levels of TLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 were increased in UC patients but were not detected in the normal controls. Expression levels ofTLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 were positively correlated, and bore close correlation with DAI, colonoscopic and histologic grades and fecal microbial flora. An impor- tant mechanism of UC might be that abnormal activation of mucosal immunity by intestinal dysbac- teriosis caused dysregulation of TLRS that mediates innate immunity.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81470609No.81500695)
摘要AIM:To elucidate the effect of rapamycin on regulating the production of interleukin(IL)-1β in Aspergillus fumigatus(A.fumigatus)-induced keratitis and to verify whether the expression of IL-1β in A.fumigatus keratitis is associated with the mammalian target of rapamycin(mT OR)/Toll-like receptor 4(TLR4) signaling pathway.METHODS:Fungal keratitis mouse models of susceptible C57 BL/6 mice were established using A.fumigatus.The mice were subsequently treated with rapamycin.The protein levels of p-mT OR,TLR4,and IL-1β in normal and infected corneal tissue were measured by Western blot.The TLR4 and IL-1β m RNA levels were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction(PCR).RESULTS:In C57 BL/6 mice,rapamycin treatment decreased the clinical scores and production of the pro-inflammatory cytokine,IL-1β.The expression of TLR4,stimulated by A.fumigatus,was reduced as well when the mT OR signaling pathway was suppressed by rapamycin.CONCLUSION:Rapamycin is beneficial for the outcome of fungal keratitis and has an inhibitory effect expression of the inflammatory cytokine IL-1β.The inhibitory effect on IL-1β expression can be associated with the mT OR/TLR4 signaling pathway in A.fumigatus infection in mice.
摘要AIM:To test whether ethanol feeding could induce Toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)responses,assess the hepatoprotective effect of betaine and its inhibitive effect on TLR4 in animal models of alcoholic liver injury.METHODS:Forty-eight female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups as control,model,low and high dose betaine groups.Except control group,all rats were fed with high fat-containing diet plus ethanol and fish oil gavages for 8 wk.Betaine was administered intragastrically after exposure of ethanol for 4 wk.The changes of liver histology were examined.The expression of TLR4 mRNA and protein was detected by RT-PCR and Western blotting,respectively.The serum aminotransferase activity alanine transarninase(ALT),aspartate aminotransferase(AST),serum endotoxin,and liver inflammatory factors tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α),interferon-γ(IFN-γ),interleukin-18(IL-18)were also assayed.RESULTS:Compared with control group,rats of model group developed marked liver injury,accompanied by an increase of ALT(159.41±7.74 U/L vs 59.47± 2.34 U/L,P<0.0001),AST(248.25±1.40 U/L vs 116.89±3.48 U/L,P<0.0001),endotoxin(135.37± 30.17 ng/L vs 44.15±7.54 ng/L,P<0.0001),TNF-α(20.81±8.58 pg/mL vs 9.34±2.57 pg/mL,P=0.0003),IFN-γ(30.18±7.60 pg/mL vs 16.86±9.49 pg/mL,P= 0.0039)and IL-18(40.99±8.25 pg/mL vs 19.73±9.31 pg/mL,P=0.0001).At the same time,the expression of TLR4 mRNA and protein was markedly induced in the liver after chronic ethanol consumption(1.45±0.07 vs 0.44±0.04,P<0.0001;1.83±0.13 vs 0.56±0.08,P<0.0001).Compared with model group,betaine feeding resulted in significant decreases of ALT(64.93 ±6.06 U/L vs 159.41±7.74 U/L,P<0.0001),AST(188.73±1.11 U/L vs 248.25±1.40 U/L,P<0.0001),endotoxin(61.80±12.56 ng/L vs 135.37±30.17 ng/L,P<0.0001),TNF-α(9.79±1.32 pg/mL vs 20.81± 8.58 pg/mL,P=0.0003),IFN-γ(18.02±5.96 pg/mL vs 30.18±7.60 pg/mL,P=0.0008)and IL-18(18.23±7.01 pg/mL vs 40.99±8.25 pg/mL,P<0.0001).Betaine also improved liver steatosis.The expression levels of TLR4 mRNA or protein in liver tissues were significantly lowered(0.62±0.04 vs 1.45±0.07,P<0.0001;and 0.65±0.06 vs 1.83±0.13,P<0.0001).There was a statistical difference of TLR4 mRNA and protein expression between high-and low-dose betaine groups(0.62±0.04 vs 0.73±0.05,P<0.0001,and 0.65±0.06 vs 0.81±0.09,P<0.0001).CONCLUSION:Betaine can prevent the alcoholinduced liver injury effectively and improve the liver function.The expression of TLR4 increases significantly in ethanol-fed rats and betaine administration can inhibit TLR4 expression.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81101363)
摘要Osteonecrosis of the femoral head is frequently observed in patients treated with excessive corticosteroids. However, the pathogenesis of corticosteroid-induced osteonecrosis remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of Toil-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling pathway in steroid-induced femoral head osteonecrosis in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were injected intramus- cularly with 20 mg/kg methylprednisolone (MP) for 8 weeks, twice per week. The animals were sacri- ficed at 2, 4 and 8 weeks after the last MP injection, respectively, and then allocated to the 2-, 4- and 8-week model groups (n=24 each). Rats in the control group (n=12) were not given any treatment. Histopathological analysis was performed and the concentration of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) in plasma was determined. The activation of osteoclasts in the femoral head was assessed by TRAP staining. The expression of TLR4, MyD88, TRAF6 and NF-Id3 p65 that are involved in TLR4 signaling, and MCP-1 production were detected by using real-time PCR (RT-PCR) and Western blotting. The results showed that the osteonecrosis in the femoral head was clearly observed and the concentra- tion of TRAP in the plasma was increased in the model rats. The femoral head tissues in MP-treated rats were positive for TRAP and the intensity of TRAP staining was greater in MP-treated rats than in con- trol rats. As compared with the control group, the mRNA expression of TLR4 signaling-related factors was enhanced significantly at 4 and 8 weeks, and the protein levels of these factors increased signifi- cantly with time. It was concluded that MP could induce the femoral head osteonecrosis in rats, which was associated with osteoclast activation via the TLR4 signaling pathway. These findings suggest that TLR4 signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of steroid-induced osteonecrosis.
摘要In order to investigate the effects of different terms of inhaled nitric oxide (NO) preconditioning with low concentration on the activations of Toll-like receptor 2 and 4 (TLR2/4) in the lung ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury in mice, we divided the male C57BL mice into five groups: sham (S) group, IR group, NO 1-min preconditioning group (15 ppm NO inhalation for 1 min before ischemia, NO 1-min), NO 10-min preconditioning group (15 ppm NO inhalation for 10 min before ischemia, NO 10-min), NO 60-min preconditioning group (15 ppm NO inhalation for 60 min before ischemia, NO 60-min). The changes of partial pressure of oxygen in artery (PaO2), left lung wet-to-dry weight ratio (W/D), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) in the injured lung were measured in every group at 6th h of reperfusion after 60 min of left lung ischemia. The changes of TLR2/4 activations and plasma TNF-a were measured in this procedure in additional mice. As compared with IR group, PaO2 increased, MPO and W/D decreased evidently after reperfusion in NO 10-min group. The changes in NO 60-min group were similar to those in NO 10-rain group. There was no difference between NO 1-min and IR group. In NO inhalation group, the expressions levels of TLR2/4 mRNA and proteins were diminished, TNF-~t concentrations were decreased, and the lung injuries were ameliorated effectively. We concluded that short term inhalation of NO protected lung IR injury. But the protective effect of NO was not increased with extension of inhaled NO. Inhaled NO could inhibit the activations of TLR2/4 in the lung after IR injury. TLR signal pathway might contribute to the effect of protection with NO in this model.
摘要This study investigated the effects of propofol on the mRNA expression of Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) in BV-2 cells during mimic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury in vitro. BV-2 cells, a mouse microglia line, were cultured and divided into 4 groups at random: control group (group C), ischemiaeperfusion group (group I/R), low-dose propofol (25 μmol/L) intervention group (group PF25) and high-dose propofol (100 μmol/L) intervention group (group PF100). The mRNA expression of TLR4 and NF-κB was measured by means of RT-PCR. TNF-α levels in the supernatants of BV-2 cells were detected by ELISA. The results showed that the mRNA expression of TLR4 and NF-κB was significantly higher in groups I/R, PF25 and PF100 than in group C (P〈0.01). And the TNF-α level in the supernatants was elevated in groups I/R, PF25 and PF100 as compared with that in group C (P〈0.01). After pre-treatment with propofol, the mRNA expressions of TLR4 and NF-κB and the TNF-α level were significantly decreased in groups PF25 and PF100 in comparison to those in group I/R (P〈0.01). And the decrease in those indicators was more significant in group PF100 than in group PF25 (P〈0.01). It was concluded that propofol exerted brain-protecting effects during I/R injury by suppressing the mRNA expressions of TLR4 and NF-κB and deceasing the TNF-α level.
基金supported by a grant from Natural Sciences Foundation of Hubei Province, China (No. 2006ABA139)
摘要The aim of the present study was to investigate the expression of toll-like receptors (TLR) 9 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of patients with chronic hepatitis B and C with different virus copies. The study group included 90 patients (60 with chronic hepatitis B, and 30 with chronic hepatitis C), and 20 healthy people served as control group. The protein and mRNA levels of TLR9 were detected by using flow cytometry and real-time PCR. The serum viral copies of HBV and HCV were measured in all patients, and the correlation between HBV-DNA copies or HCV-RNA copies and the TLR9 expression was analyzed. Our results demonstrated that HBV or HCV infection led to a decreased expression of TLR9 mRNA and protein compared to the control group (P〈0.05). The TLR9 protein and mRNA levels were negatively correlated with serum viral copies of HBV and HCV (r=-0.632, r=-0.909, P〈0.01). It was concluded that TLR9 mRNA and protein are down-regulated in PBMC of HBV-infected or HCV-infected patients, and they are negatively correlated with serum viral copies and play an important role in detecting viral replication of HBV and HCV.
基金the technical support from National Key Clinical Department of Laboratory Medicine of Jiangsu Province Hospitalsupported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(No. 81272324,81371894)+1 种基金Key Laboratory for Medicine of Jiangsu Province of China(No.XK201114)project funded by the Priority Academic Program Development ofJiangsu Higher Education Institutions
摘要Background: Inflammation is often linked with the progress and poor outcome of lung cancer. The understanding of the relationship between tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and lung cancer cells involves in the underlying mechanism of inflammatory cytokine production. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are engaged in promoting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and play an important role in tumor immunology. Methods: To investigate the mechanisms by which TAMs influence the production of pro-inflammatory cytoldnes in lung cancer cells, we established an in vitro coculture system using TAMs and human non- small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell line SPC-A1. Levels of interleukin (IL)-113, IL-6 and IL-8 in SPC-A1 were evaluated by RT-PCR and cytometric bead array assay after being cocultured with TAMs. Expression changes of TLRs and TLRs signaling pathway proteins in SPC-Al were further confirmed by RT-PCR and western blot. The level changes of IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 in SPC-Al were also detected after the stimulation of TLRs agonists. Results: We found that the phenotype markers of TAMs were highly expressed after stimulating human monocyte cell line THP-1 by phorbol-12-myristate-β-acetate (PMA). Higher mRNA and supernate secretion levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 were detected in SPC-A1 after being eocultured with TAMs. We also found that TLR1, TLR6 and TLR7 were up-regulated in SPC-A1 in the coculture system with TAMs. Meanwhile, TLRs signaling pathway proteins were also significantly activated. Moreover, pre-treatment with agonist ligands for TLR1, TLR6 and TLR7 could dramatically promote inductions of IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8. Conclusions: These findings demonstrated that TAMs may enhance IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 expressions via TLRs signaling pathway. We conclude that TAMs contribute to maintain the inflammation microenvironment and ultimately promote the development and progression of lung cancer.
摘要Summary: The mechanisms of increased expression of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) during the formation of foam cells were explored. Low density lipoprotein (LDL) was prepared by density gradient ultracentrifugation and oxidized by incubation with CuClz. The human monocytic leukemia cell line (THP-1) was cultured in RPMI1640. The differentiation of THP-1 cells into macrophages (MPs) was induced by using myristate acetate (PMA) for 48 h. The macrophages were then incubated with oxidized LDL (ox-LDL) to generate foam cells (FCs). The mRNA and protein expression levels of human TLR-4 were detected by immunocytochemistry, Western blotting and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The results showed that the TLR-4 mRNA and the protein expression levels were significantly increased during the differentiation of monocytes into macrophages (P〈0. 05) as well as during the formation of lipid-laden foam cells (P〈0.05). It was concluded that the upregulation of human TLR-4 gene expression during the differentiation of monocytes into macrophages and the differentiation of macrophages into foam cells could increase TLR-4 protein synthesis dramatically, which may enhance the ability of foam cells inflammation reaction in atherosclerosis.
基金supported by the National Nature Science Foundation of China(No.81201444,No.81101401)
摘要In order to investigate the role of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in cerebrocardiac syndrome (CCS), the partial cerebral ischemiaeperfusion (I/R) models in mice with different TLR4 genotypes were established in the present study. TLR4 wild-type (C3H/HeN) and mutant (C3H/HeJ) mice of 6-8 weeks of age were divided into 4 groups at random: C3H/HeN sham group (n=10), C3H/HeJ sham group (n=10), C3H/HeN model group (n=10) and C3H/HeJ model group (n=10). Partial cerebral I/R was caused by the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) to duplicate CCS models in mice. After the operation, the electrocardiogram (ECG), the level of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-c0 in myocardial tissue and the cardiac pathological changes were observed in each group. It was shown that the brain infarct volume in C3H/HeN model group was larger than that in C3H/HeJ model group (P〈0.01). The ST segment change and T wave inversion occurred frequently in model groups. Moreover, the TNF-ct level in C3H/HeN model group was higher than that in C3H/HeJ model group (P〈0.01). The myocar- dial injury was aggravated in C3H/HeN group as compared with C3H/HeJ group. It was concluded that TLR4 was implicated in the development of CCS.
摘要The expression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in neonatal cord blood mononuclear cells (MNCs) and serum TNF-α were investigated in order to explore the roles of TLR4 in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.The study enrolled 27 patients suffering from preeclampsia (experimental group) and 21 normal pregnancy patients (control group).After MNCs were separated, the expression of TLR4 mRNA and protein was detected by using real-time quantitative PCR and Western blotting respectively, and the expression of TNF-α by using ELISA.The results showed the TLR4 mRNA level in cord blood MNCs (2-CT:0.07±0.17), TLR4 protein expression level (absorbance ratio:0.81%±0.15%) and TNF-α level (9.5±1.73 pg/mL) were all increased in experimental group as compared with control group with the differences being statistically significant (P【0.05).There was a positive correlation between the expression of TLR4 mRNA and TNF-α in both experimental group and control group (r=0.54 and 0.53, respectively, P【0.05).It was concluded that TLR4 expression in the experimental group of cord blood MNCs was increased and there was a positive correlation between the expression of TLR4 mRNA and TNF-α in both groups.TLR4-mediated release of inflammatory cytokines may be one of the important reasons leading to preeclampsia.