Factor NF (factor + nf)

Distribution by Scientific Domains
Distribution within Medical Sciences

Kinds of Factor NF

  • transcription factor nf


  • Selected Abstracts


    New insights into the pathophysiology of diabetic nephropathy: from haemodynamics to molecular pathology

    EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INVESTIGATION, Issue 12 2004
    G. Wolf
    Abstract Although debated for many years whether haemodynamic or structural changes are more important in the development of diabetic nephropathy, it is now clear that these processes are interwoven and present two sides of one coin. On a molecular level, hyperglycaemia and proteins altered by high blood glucose such as Amadori products and advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) are key players in the development of diabetic nephropathy. Recent evidence suggests that an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation induced by high glucose-mediated activation of the mitochondrial electron-transport chain is an early event in the development of diabetic complications. A variety of growth factors and cytokines are then induced through complex signal transduction pathways involving protein kinase C, mitogen-activated protein kinases, and the transcription factor NF-,B. High glucose, AGEs, and ROS act in concert to induce growth factors and cytokines. Particularly, TGF-, is important in the development of renal hypertrophy and accumulation of extracellular matrix components. Activation of the renin-angiotensin system by high glucose, mechanical stress, and proteinuria with an increase in local formation of angiotensin II (ANG II) causes many of the pathophysiological changes associated with diabetic nephropathy. In fact, it has been shown that angiotensin II is involved in almost every pathophysiological process implicated in the development of diabetic nephropathy (haemodynamic changes, hypertrophy, extracellular matrix accumulation, growth factor/cytokine induction, ROS formation, podocyte damage, proteinuria, interstitial inflammation). Consequently, blocking these deleterious effects of ANG II is an essential part of every therapeutic regiment to prevent and treat diabetic nephropathy. Recent evidence suggests that regression of diabetic nephropathy could be achieved under certain circumstances. [source]


    Identification of a novel nuclear factor-kappaB sequence involved in expression of urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor

    FEBS JOURNAL, Issue 11 2000
    Yao Wang
    We have previously defined the promoter of human urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) gene in a 188-bp fragment between bases ,141 and +47 relative to the translation start site. Here, we report that a novel nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-,B)-like sequence (5,-GGGAGGAGTC-3,) at ,45 is located in the uPAR promoter and one of the two DNase I-protected regions, region I between bases ,51 and ,30. This NF-,B-like motif differs at positions 7,9 from the decameric consensus sequences of NF-,B (5,-GGGRNNYYCC-3, where R indicates A or G, Y indicates C or T, and N indicates any nucleotide) and at positions 1 and 7,9 from the ,B-like motifs (5,-HGGARNYYCC-3, where H indicates A, C, or T, R indicates A or G, Y indicates C or T, and N indicates any nucleotide). Nuclear extracts from HCT116 cells contain proteins that specifically bind to the NF-,B-like site at position ,45. Mutation of the NF-,B-like motif decreased the binding of transcription factor NF-,B and reduced the uPAR promoter activity in comparison with the wild-type sequences. Co-transfection with a dominant negative I-,B kinase-2 expression vector reduced uPAR promoter activity by 65,75%. These results demonstrate that a previously uncharacterized NF-,B motif is required for uPAR promoter activity. [source]


    PRDX4, a member of the peroxiredoxin family, is fused to AML1 (RUNX1) in an acute myeloid leukemia patient with a t(X;21)(p22;q22)

    GENES, CHROMOSOMES AND CANCER, Issue 4 2004
    Yanming Zhang
    The AML1 gene (also known as RUNX1) at 21q22 codes for core binding factor (CBF) ,, which forms a heterodimer with CBF , that acts as a transcriptional activating factor. CBF is a critical regulator in the generation and differentiation of definitive hematopoietic stem cells and is frequently disrupted in leukemia through chromosome translocations. We cloned a novel AML1 partner gene, PRDX4, in an X;21 translocation in a 74-year-old male patient diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia,M2. Chromosome analysis detected a t(X;21)(p22;q22) as the sole abnormality in bone marrow samples. The involvement of AML1 was confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridization studies. Using 3, RACE-PCR, we cloned a fusion between exon 5 of AML1 and exon 2 of PRDX4. RT-PCR confirmed the fusion and detected another fusion between exon 6 of AML1 and exon 2 of PRDX4, indicating alternative splicing of exon 6 of AML1 in the fusion transcripts. PRDX4 is one of six peroxiredoxin-family genes that are highly conserved in eukaryotes and prokaryotes and are ubiquitously expressed. Peroxiredoxin genes exhibit thioredoxin-dependent peroxidase activity and have been implicated in a number of other cellular functions such as cell proliferation and differentiation. PRDX4 plays a regulatory role in the activation of the transcription factor NF-,B and is significantly down-regulated in acute promyelocytic leukemia. This is the first example of antioxidant enzyme involvement in a chromosome translocation in leukemia. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


    Transcription factor NF-,B activation after in vivo perforant path LTP in mouse hippocampus

    HIPPOCAMPUS, Issue 6 2004
    Ramiro Freudenthal
    Abstract There is increasing evidence that transcription factors (TFs) play a critical role in maintaining later phases of hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP). We have been led to study the role in synaptic plasticity of the powerful, yet generally unheralded, NF-,B TF because it may serve as both a signaling molecule after its activation at the synapse and then a transcription initiator upon reaching the nucleus. In the present study, we show that LTP activates NF-,B in the intact mouse hippocampus. Mice were sacrificed 15 min after one of three treatments: tetanization (high-frequency stimulation [HFS]), low-frequency stimulation (LFS), or no stimulated control animals (CT). In a first study, nuclear NF-,B activity from hippocampus was estimated by electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs). A higher level of hippocampal TF binding to the NF-,B recognition element was found in the HFS group compared with LFS or CT. In a second study, NF-,B activity was evaluated by immunohistochemistry with a specific antibody that recognizes the activated form of NF-,B. This antibody binds to the exposed nuclear location sequence on the p65 subunit of NF-,B consequent to its dissociation from the inhibitory I,B molecule. In the four subfields of hippocampus examined,granule cell layer, hilus of the dentate gyrus, CA3 and CA1 pyramidal fields of the hippocampal gyrus,the highest levels of activated NF-,B, statistically significant in all cases were found after HFS. In certain comparisons, LFS animals also showed significant elevation with respect to CT. These results support the role of NF-,B as part of the synaptic signaling and transcriptional regulation mechanism required in long-term plasticity, emphasizing the combinatorial nature of TF function. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


    The p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase regulates interleukin-1,-induced IL-8 expression via an effect on the IL-8 promoter in intestinal epithelial cells

    IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 4 2003
    Kuljit Parhar
    Summary Several lines of evidence implicate the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) in the proinflammatory response to bacterial agents and cytokines. Equally, the transcription factor, nuclear factor (NF)-,B, is recognized to be a critical determinant of the inflammatory response in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs). However, the precise inter-relationship between the activation of p38 MAPK and activation of the transcription factor NF-,B in the intestinal epithelial cell (IEC) system, remains unknown. Here we show that interleukin (IL)-1, activates all three MAPKs in Caco-2 cells. The production of IL-8 and monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1) was attenuated by 50% when these cells were preincubated with the p38 MAPK inhibitor, SB 203580. Further investigation of the NF-,B signalling system revealed that the inhibitory effect was independent of the phosphorylation and degradation of I,B,, the binding partner of NF-,B. This effect was also independent of the DNA binding of the p65 Rel A subunit, as well as transactivation, determined by an NF-,B luciferase construct, using both SB 203580 and dominant,negative p38 MAPK. Evaluation of IL-8 and MCP-1 RNA messages by reverse transcription,polymerase chain reaction (RT,PCR) revealed that the inhibitory effect of SB 203580 was associated with a reduction in this parameter. Using an IL-8,luciferase promoter construct, an effect of p38 upon its activation by both pharmacological and dominant,negative p38 construct co-transfection was demonstrated. It is concluded that p38 MAPK influences the expression of chemokines in intestinal epithelial cells, through an effect upon the activation of the chemokine promoter, and does not directly involve the activation of the transcription factor NF-,B. [source]


    Mucosal NOD2 expression and NF-,B activation in pediatric Crohn's disease

    INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASES, Issue 3 2008
    Laura Stronati PhD
    Abstract Background: Recent advances in the pathogenesis of Crohn's disease (CD) have suggested that an aberrant innate immune response initiates the cascade of events leading to T-cell activation and to disease development. NOD2 protein, which is mainly expressed by innate immunity cells, appears to play a key role against bacteria by triggering a host defense response through the activation of the transcriptor factor NF-,B and a consequent proinflammatory cytokine production. The present study was aimed at investigating the expression and activity of NOD2, NF-,B, and of 2 proinflammatory cytokines, TNF, and IL-1,, in mucosal biopsies of CD affected children compared to healthy controls. Methods: In all, 22 children with active CD and 10 matched controls were entered in the study. mRNA and protein expressions were detected using reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot; NF-,B binding activity was assessed by electromobility gel shift assay (EMSA). Results: NOD2 and IL-1, mRNAs were upregulated in CD children. Protein levels of NOD2, TNF,, and nuclear NF-,B, as well as the binding activity of NF-,B to a consensus DNA sequence, were significantly increased in inflamed mucosa of patients as compared to controls. Moreover, NF-,B activity was strongly upregulated in patients also when bound to the NOD2 promoter site. No difference was seen between patients and controls when NF-,B binding activity was determined in the uninflamed tissue. Conclusions: This study suggests that altered mechanisms regulating NOD2 induction, NF-,B activation and cytokine production may contribute to dysregulate the innate immune response underlying pediatric CD. (Inflamm Bowel Dis 2007) [source]


    Interleukin-1, induces MMP-9 expression via p42/p44 MAPK, p38 MAPK, JNK, and nuclear factor-,B signaling pathways in human tracheal smooth muscle cells

    JOURNAL OF CELLULAR PHYSIOLOGY, Issue 3 2007
    Kao-Chih Liang
    Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are responsible for degradation of extracellular matrix and play important roles in cell migration, proliferation, and tissue remodeling related to airway inflammation. Interleukin-1, (IL-1,) has been shown to induce MMP-9 production in many cell types and contribute to airway inflammatory responses. However, the mechanisms underlying MMP-9 expression induced by IL-1, in human tracheal smooth muscle cells (HTSMCs) remain unclear. Here, we investigated the roles of p42/p44 MAPK, p38 MAPK, JNK, and NF-,B pathways for IL-1,-induced MMP-9 production in HTSMCs. IL-1, induced production of MMP-9 protein and mRNA in a time- and concentration-dependent manner determined by zymographic, Western blotting, and RT-PCR analyses, which was attenuated by inhibitors of MEK1/2 (U0126), p38 MAPK (SB202190), JNK (SP600125), and NF-,B (helenalin), and transfection with dominant negative mutants of MEK1/2, p38 and JNK, respectively. IL-1,-stimulated phosphorylation of p42/p44 MAPK, p38 MAPK, and JNK was attenuated by pretreatment with U0126, SB202190, SP600125, or transfection with these dominant negative mutants of MEK, ERK, p38 and JNK, respectively. Furthermore, IL-1,-stimulated translocation of NF-,B into the nucleus and degradation of I,B-, was blocked by helenalin. Finally, the reporter gene assay revealed that MAPKs and NF-,B are required for IL-1,-induced MMP-9 luciferase activity in HTSMCs. MMP-9 promoter activity was enhanced by IL-1, in HTSMCs transfected with MMP-9-Luc, which was inhibited by helenalin, U0126, SB202190, and SP600125. Taken together, the transcription factor NF-,B, p42/p44 MAPK, p38 MAPK, and JNK that are involved in MMP-9 expression in HTSMCs exposed to IL-1, have now been identified. J. Cell. Physiol. 211: 759,770, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


    Modulation of inflammation in brain: a matter of fat

    JOURNAL OF NEUROCHEMISTRY, Issue 3 2007
    Akhlaq A. Farooqui
    Abstract Neuroinflammation is a host defense mechanism associated with neutralization of an insult and restoration of normal structure and function of brain. Neuroinflammation is a hallmark of all major CNS diseases. The main mediators of neuroinflammation are microglial cells. These cells are activated during a CNS injury. Microglial cells initiate a rapid response that involves cell migration, proliferation, release of cytokines/chemokines and trophic and/or toxic effects. Cytokines/chemokines stimulate phospholipases A2 and cyclooxygenases. This results in breakdown of membrane glycerophospholipids with the release of arachidonic acid (AA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Oxidation of AA produces pro-inflammatory prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and thromboxanes. One of the lyso-glycerophospholipids, the other products of reactions catalyzed by phospholipase A2, is used for the synthesis of pro-inflammatory platelet-activating factor. These pro-inflammatory mediators intensify neuroinflammation. Lipoxin, an oxidized product of AA through 5-lipoxygenase, is involved in the resolution of inflammation and is anti-inflammatory. Docosahexaenoic acid is metabolized to resolvins and neuroprotectins. These lipid mediators inhibit the generation of prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and thromboxanes. Levels of prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and thromboxanes are markedly increased in acute neural trauma and neurodegenerative diseases. Docosahexaenoic acid and its lipid mediators prevent neuroinflammation by inhibiting transcription factor NF,B, preventing cytokine secretion, blocking the synthesis of prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and thromboxanes, and modulating leukocyte trafficking. Depending on its timing and magnitude in brain tissue, inflammation serves multiple purposes. It is involved in the protection of uninjured neurons and removal of degenerating neuronal debris and also in assisting repair and recovery processes. The dietary ratio of AA to DHA may affect neurodegeneration associated with acute neural trauma and neurodegenerative diseases. The dietary intake of docosahexaenoic acid offers the possibility of counter-balancing the harmful effects of high levels of AA-derived pro-inflammatory lipid mediators. [source]


    Binding of nerve growth factor to its p75 receptor in stressed cells induces selective I,B-, degradation and NF-,B nuclear translocation

    JOURNAL OF NEUROCHEMISTRY, Issue 2 2001
    Jose Miguel Cosgaya
    Nerve growth factor (NGF) regulates the activity of the transcription factor NF-,B (nuclear factor-,B) through its low affinity receptor, p75. In the present study we found that NGF binding to p75 induces nuclear translocation of p65 and increases NF-,B binding activity in a cell line overexpressing p75, but only after the cells have been subjected to a previous stress. Under physiological conditions, in the absence of stress, NGF is unable to alter p65 nuclear levels. Tumor necrosis factor-, (TNF-,) induces a down-regulation of I,B-,, -, and -, both in physiological and in stress, i.e. serum-free, conditions. In contrast, NGF only induces the specific degradation of I,B-, after serum withdrawal, without affecting I,B-, or -, either in the presence or in the absence of stress. I,B-, consists of several isoforms, whose relative abundance is regulated by serum withdrawal. NGF does not target all the I,B-, isoforms with the same potency, being more effective in reducing the levels of the isoforms up-regulated by serum withdrawal. TRAF-6 is expressed at the same level under both physiological and stress conditions. These results indicate that NGF is able to induce NF-,B nuclear translocation by a mechanism that involves specific I,B-, degradation only after the cells have been subjected to a severe stress. [source]


    Titanium particles induce the immediate early stress responsive chemokines IL-8 and MCP-1 in osteoblasts

    JOURNAL OF ORTHOPAEDIC RESEARCH, Issue 3 2002
    Elizabeth A. Fritz
    Abstract Exposure of human osteoblasts to ultrafine titanium (Ti) particles has been shown to alter osteoblast gene expression. We previously reported that Ti particles can increase IL-6 release and suppress the gene expression of procollagens ,1[I] and ,1[III] in human osteoblasts. In this study, we now demonstrate that Ti particles can rapidly induce the chemotactic cytokines interleukin-8 (IL-8) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), two immediate early stress responsive chemokines important for the activation and chemotaxis of neutrophils and macrophages, respectively. In MG-63 osteosarcoma cells and bone marrow derived primary osteoblasts Ti particles selectively increased the steady state levels of IL-8 and MCP-1 mRNA in a time and concentration dependent manner. The increased chemokine mRNA correlated with increased secretion of IL-8 and MCP-1 protein. Actinomycin D, a potent RNA polymerase II inhibitor, blocked the Ti particle induction of IL-8 and MCP-1 mRNA expression, whereas cycloheximide, which inhibits protein synthesis, failed to inhibit chemokine gene expression suggesting Ti particles directly target activation of chemokine gene transcription. Consistent with a transcriptional mechanism not involving new protein synthesis, we demonstrate that Ti particles induce the binding of the p65 and p50 subunits of the latent transcription factor NF-,B to the IL-8 gene promoter. Taken together, these data demonstrate that Ti particles can activate transcription of the stress responsive chemokine genes IL-8 and MCP-1 in human osteoblasts. © 2002 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved. [source]


    Overexpression of degenerative spermatocyte homolog 1 up-regulates the expression of cyclin D1 and enhances metastatic efficiency in esophageal carcinoma Eca109 cells,

    MOLECULAR CARCINOGENESIS, Issue 10 2009
    Wu Zhou
    Abstract Cyclin D1 plays a pivotal role in cell-cycle transition through G1 phase. In this article, we found that Degenerative Spermatocyte Homolog 1 (DEGS1) up-regulated the expression of cyclin D1 and the activation of transcription factor NF-,B was essential for DEGS1-induced cyclin D1 production. Forced expression of DEGS1 in Esophageal carcinoma cell line Eca109 cells increased their ability of cell migration and significantly induced tumor metastasis in nude mice, whereas RNA interference-mediated knockdown of DEGS1 cells significantly inhibited cell migration in vitro, as well as tumor metastasis in vivo. Our results demonstrated that expression of DEGS1 up-regulated the expression of cyclin D1 and enhanced the efficiency of tumor metastasis. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


    Protective effect of vitamin E on ultraviolet B light,induced damage in keratinocytes

    MOLECULAR CARCINOGENESIS, Issue 3 2002
    Samar Maalouf
    Abstract Ultraviolet (UV) B radiation is the most common environmental factor in the pathogenesis of skin cancer. Exposure of human skin to UVB radiation leads to the depletion of cutaneous antioxidants, the activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-,B), and programmed cell death (apoptosis). Although antioxidant supplementation has been shown to prevent UVB-induced photooxidative damage, its effect on components of cell signaling pathways leading to gene expression has not been clearly established. In the present study, the effect of the antioxidant vitamin, ,-tocopherol (,-T), and its acetate analog, ,-tocopherol acetate (,-TAc), on UVB-induced damage in primary and neoplastic mouse keratinocytes was investigated. The ability of both vitamins to modulate UVB-induced apoptosis and activation of the transcription factor NF-,B were studied. Treatment of normal and neoplastic mouse epidermal keratinocytes (308 cells) with 30,60 mJ/cm2 UVB markedly decreased viable cell number and was accompanied by DNA fragmentation. When both vitamins were applied to cells at times before and after UVB radiation, a significant increase in the percentage of viable cells and concomitant decrease in the number of apoptotic cells was noted, with vitamin pretreatment providing a better protection than posttreatment. Simultaneous posttreatment of irradiated cells with ,-TAc abolished the cytotoxic effects of UVB and restored cell viability to control levels. In addition, simultaneous posttreatment of irradiated cells with ,-T reduced the number of apoptotic cells by half, indicating a synergistic effect of two such treatments compared with any single one. Flow cytometry analysis indicated that vitamin treatment suppressed both an increase in pre-G0 cells and a decrease in cycling cells by UVB exposure. In addition, NF-,B activation was detected 2 h after UV exposure and was maintained for up to 8 h. Pretreatment with vitamins significantly inhibited NF-,B activation at 4 and 8 h. These results indicate that vitamin E and its acetate analog can modulate the cellular response to UVB partly through their action on NF-,B activation. Thus, these antioxidant vitamins are potential drugs for the protection from or the reduction of UVB-associated epidermal damage. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


    Xanthohumol, a chalcon derived from hops, inhibits hepatic inflammation and fibrosis

    MOLECULAR NUTRITION & FOOD RESEARCH (FORMERLY NAHRUNG/FOOD), Issue S2 2010
    Christoph Dorn
    Abstract Xanthohumol (XN) is a major prenylated chalcone found in hops, which is used to add bitterness and flavor to beer. In this study, we first investigated the effects of XN on hepatocytes and hepatic stellate cells (HSC), the central mediators of liver fibrogenesis. XN inhibited the activation of primary human HSC and induced apoptosis in activated HSC in vitro in a dose dependent manner (0,20,,M). In contrast, XN doses as high as 50,,M did not impair viability of primary human hepatocytes. However, in both cell types XN inhibited activation of the transcription factor NF,B and expression of NF,B dependent proinflammatory genes. In vivo, feeding of XN reduced hepatic inflammation and expression of profibrogenic genes in a murine model of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. These data indicate that XN has the potential as functional nutrient for the prevention or treatment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis or other chronic liver disease. [source]


    , -secretase inhibitors exerts antitumor activity via down-regulation of Notch and Nuclear factor kappa B in human tongue carcinoma cells

    ORAL DISEASES, Issue 6 2007
    J Yao
    Objective:, To investigate the effect of the , -secretase inhibitors (GSIs) on the growth of human tongue carcinoma cells and to provide the molecular mechanism for potential application of GSIs in the treatment of tongue carcinoma. Materials and methods:, Human tongue carcinoma Tca8113 cells were cultured with the GSI L-685 458. Cell growth was determined by the methylthiazole tetrazolium method. Cell cycle and apoptosis were analyzed by flow cytometry and/or confocal microscopy. RT-PCR and Western blot were employed to determine the intracellular expression levels. Nuclear factor kappa B (NF- ,B) activation was examined by electrophoretic mobility shift assay. Results:, L-685,458 dose-dependently inhibited the growth of human tongue carcinoma Tca8113 cells by inducing G0,G1 cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. The mRNA and protein levels of Hairy/Enhancer of Split-1, a target of Notch activation, were decreased dose-dependently by L-685,458. Furthermore, L-685,458 down-regulated cyclin D1, B-cell lymphocytic-leukemia proto-oncogene 2 and c-Myc expressions, which are regulated by the transcription factor NF- ,B. Coincident with this observation, L-685,458 induced a dose-dependent reduction of constitutive NF- ,B activation in Tca8113 cells. Conclusions:, The GSI L-685,458 may have a therapeutic value for the treatment of human tongue carcinoma. Moreover, the effects of L-685,458 in tumor inhibition may act partially via the modulation of Notch and NF- ,B. [source]


    Azorellane diterpenoids from Laretia acaulis inhibit nuclear factor-kappa B activity

    PHYTOTHERAPY RESEARCH, Issue 11 2007
    Jorge Borquez
    Abstract Transcription factor NF- ,B plays a key role in the inducible expression of genes mediating proinflammatory effects, and is thus an important target for the development of antiinflammatory drugs. Laretia acaulis (Cav.) Gill et Hook (Apiaceae) is a medicinal plant used in the high Andes mountains for different ailments such as diabetes, inflammation and for general pain. In addition to the known azorellanol (2) and 7-deacetylazorellanol (4), 13-epiazorellanol (1) was also isolated from the aerial part of this plant. Its structure was based on spectroscopic comparison with azorellanol (2) and by chemical characterization. While compounds 2 and 4 showed potent anti-NF- ,B activity by targeting the activity of the I,B, kinase, compound 1 was completely inactive highlighting the importance of position 13 in the biological activities of this class of tetracyclic diterpenoids. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


    Discoidin domain receptor 2 mediates the collagen II-dependent release of interleukin-6 in primary human chondrocytes,

    THE JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY, Issue 2 2009
    Andreas R Klatt
    Abstract We deciphered constituent parts of a signal transduction cascade that is initiated by collagen II and results in the release of various pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), in primary human chondrocytes. This cascade represents a feed-forward mechanism whereby cartilage matrix degradation is exacerbated by the mutually inducing effect of released collagen II fragments and pro-inflammatory cytokines. We previously proposed discoidin domain receptor 2 as a central mediator in this event. Since this cascade plays a prominent role in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis, our study further investigates the hypothesis that discoidin domain receptor 2 is a candidate receptor for collagen II, and that transcription factor NF,B, lipid kinase PI3K, and the MAP kinases are constituent parts of this very signal transduction cascade. To accomplish this, we selectively knocked down the molecules of interest in primary human chondrocytes, induced the specified cascade by incubating primary human chondrocytes with collagen II, and observed the outcome, specifically the changes in interleukin-6 release. Knockdown was performed by siRNA-mediated gene silencing in the case of discoidin domain receptor 2 (DDR2) or by using specific inhibitors for the remainder of the molecules. Results indicated that discoidin domain receptor 2 mediates the collagen II-dependent release of interleukin-6 in primary human chondrocytes and that MAP kinases p38, JNK and ERK, as well as transcription factor NF,B, are integral components of intracellular collagen II signalling. Given the detrimental role of these molecules in osteoarthritis, our findings provide new targets for more specific therapeutics, which may have fewer side effects than those currently applied. Copyright © 2009 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


    Constitutive activation of PI3K-Akt and NF-,B during prostate cancer progression in autochthonous transgenic mouse model

    THE PROSTATE, Issue 3 2005
    Sanjeev Shukla
    Abstract BACKGROUND Cancer progression is usually facilitated by independent growth signals that may lead to increased cell survival and evasion of apoptosis. Phosphatidylinositol 3,-OH kinase (PI3K)-Akt and transcription factor NF-,B are important signaling molecules and key survival factors involved in the control of cell proliferation, apoptosis, and oncogenesis. Although PI3K-Akt and NF-,B have been implicated in the development and progression of prostate cancer, expression of these molecules during progression of autochthonous disease has not been elucidated. METHODS Prostate cancer growth and progression in autochthonous transgenic adenocarcinoma of the mouse prostate (TRAMP) mice and male non-transgenic littermates were observed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Expression patterns of PI3K-Akt, NF-,B, I,B, and associated signaling molecules during different stages of cancer progression in these mice were examined by Western blot analysis, electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA), enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay (ELISA), kinase assay, and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Sequential MRI and gross analysis of prostate gland exhibited increasing prostate volume associated with the development and progression of prostatic adenocarcinoma in TRAMP mice, compared to male non-transgenic littermates. Differential protein expression of PI3K, phosphorylated-Akt (Ser473), I,B, and its phosphorylation, IKK kinase activity, NF-,B/p65, p50, DNA binding, and transcriptional-regulated genes, viz., Bcl2, cyclin D1, MMP-9, and VEGF were observed during prostate cancer progression in TRAMP mice, compared to male non-transgenic littermates. Expressions of these molecules were significantly increased during cancer progression observed at 24 and 32 weeks of age. CONCLUSIONS Differential expression pattern of PI3K-Akt, NF-,B and I,B during prostate cancer progression in TRAMP mice suggest that these molecules represent potential molecular targets for prevention and/or therapeutic intervention. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


    Attenuation of pain and inflammation in adjuvant-induced arthritis by the proteasome inhibitor MG132

    ARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 7 2010
    Aisha S. Ahmed
    Objective In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), pain and joint destruction are initiated and propagated by the production of proinflammatory mediators. Synthesis of these mediators is regulated by the transcription factor NF-,B, which is controlled by the ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS). The present study explored the effects of the proteasome inhibitor MG132 on inflammation, pain, joint destruction, and expression of sensory neuropeptides as markers of neuronal response in a rat model of arthritis. Methods Arthritis was induced in rats by injection of heat-killed Mycobacterium butyricum. Arthritis severity was scored, and nociception was evaluated by mechanical pressure applied to the hind paw. Joint destruction was assessed by radiologic and histologic analyses. NF-,B DNA-binding activity was analyzed by electromobility shift assay, and changes in the expression of the p50 NF-,B subunit and the proinflammatory neuropeptides substance P (SP) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) were detected by immunohistochemistry. Results Arthritic rats treated with MG132 demonstrated a marked reduction in inflammation, pain, and joint destruction. The elevated DNA-binding activity of the NF-,B/p50 homodimer and p50, as well as the neuronal expression of SP and CGRP, observed in the ankle joints of arthritic rats were normalized after treatment with MG132. Conclusion In arthritic rats, inhibition of proteasome reduced the severity of arthritis and reversed the pain behavior associated with joint inflammation. These effects may be mediated through the inhibition of NF-,B activation and may possibly involve the peripheral nervous system. New generations of nontoxic proteasome inhibitors may represent a novel pharmacotherapy for RA. [source]


    Role of EHEC O157:H7 virulence factors in the activation of intestinal epithelial cell NF-,B and MAP kinase pathways and the upregulated expression of interleukin 8

    CELLULAR MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 10 2002
    M. Cecilia Berin
    Summary Enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157:H7 (EHEC) is a gastrointestinal pathogen that is generally non-invasive for intestinal epithelial cells, yet causes acute intestinal inflammation, diarrhoea, haemorrhagic colitis and haemolytic uraemic syndrome. To study signal transduction pathways activated in human intestinal epithelial cells by EHEC, we took advantage of EHEC O157:H7 and isogenic mutants deficient in the major EHEC virulence factors, intimin (eae,) and Shiga toxin (stx,). Infection with wild-type EHEC activated p38 and ERK MAP kinases and the nuclear translocation of the transcription factor NF-,B. Downstream, this was accompanied by increased expression of mRNA and protein for the neutrophil chemoattractant IL-8. Isogenic eae, and stx, mutants also activated p38 and ERK MAP kinases, and NF-,B and stimulated increases in IL-8 protein secretion similar to those of wild-type EHEC. Further, inhibition of either p38, ERK or NF-,B activation abrogated the IL-8 response induced by wild-type EHEC and the mutants. Epithelial cell MAP kinase and NF-,B pathways leading to IL-8 secretion were also activated by isolated EHEC H7 flagellin, which was active when added to either the apical or basolateral surface of polarized human intestinal epithelial cells. We conclude that EHEC interacting with intestinal epithelial cells activates intracellular signalling pathways and an epithelial cell proinflammatory response independent of either Shiga toxin or intimin, two of the major known virulence factors of EHEC. The activation of proinflammatory signals in human colon epithelial cells in response to this non-invasive pathogen appears to depend to a significant extent on H7 flagellin. [source]


    Leukocyte Recruitment and the Acute Inflammatory Response

    BRAIN PATHOLOGY, Issue 1 2000
    Paul Kubes
    Leukocyte recruitment is a hallmark feature of the inflammatory response. This review summarizes the generally accepted paradigm of leukocyte recruitment based on studies using intravital microscopy to visualize the microcirculation. The role of selectins and ,4 -integrin in rolling as well as integrin-mediated adhesion is discussed. However, it is becoming increasingly clear that the recruitment cascade within organs differs and therefore the review also attempts to highlight what is and is not known regarding leukocyte recruitment into the brain microvasculature. In the second part of this review, we provide some discussion of mechanisms by which the inflammatory response may be terminated. Particular emphasis on nuclear factor Nf,B and how IL10, IL13 and secreted leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) may impact upon the Nf,B-dependent inflammatory response is presented. [source]


    Transcription factors NF-,B and Sp1 are major determinants of the basal promoter activity of the rat GD3-synthase gene

    JOURNAL OF NEUROCHEMISTRY, Issue 2002
    G. Zeng
    GD3-synthase is one of the key sialyltransferases responsible for synthesis of ganglioside GD3, the substrate for initiation of the ,b' and ,c' series ganglioside synthesis. We have previously cloned the rat GD3-synthase gene promoter, and preliminary characterization has identified a minimal 0.5-kb region that has a strong basal promoter activity, and is GC-rich and has no CAAT or TATA boxes. In this study, we showed that the Sp1 and NF-,B sites in this region significantly contributed to basal GD3-synthase promoter activity. When either the Sp1 or NF-,B sites were deleted, a 50% decrease in promoter activity was observed. The same results were obtained by a decoy strategy using oligonucleotides containing the Sp1 or NF-,B sites. The binding to the Sp1 and NF-,B sites was confirmed by electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA), competition and supershift EMSA. In addition, cell-type specific activation of the promoter was also determined. The promoter was highly activated in the GD3-expressing F-11 cells while repressed in NG-108 cells in which GD3 is almost undetectable. An additional band of NF-,B family was identified only in the F-11 nuclear extract using the NF-,B consensus probe by EMSA. DNA pull-down assays were further carried out to screen proteins that bound to the promoter including the basal region and the potential negative-regulatory region between ,526 and ,769. More than 10 major binding proteins were pulled down, some of which were present only in the F-11 or NG-108 nuclear extracts. Our data demonstrate that NF-,B and Sp1 are the major determinants for the basal promoter activity and some factors such as NF-,B may be involved in cell type-specific expression of the gene. [source]


    Resistin induces expression of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines in human articular chondrocytes via transcription and messenger RNA stabilization

    ARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 7 2010
    Zhiqi Zhang
    Objective To elucidate the effects of resistin on human articular chondrocytes and to generate a picture of their regulation at the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels. Methods Human articular chondrocytes were cultured with resistin. Changes in gene expression were analyzed at various doses and times. Cells were also treated with the transcription inhibitor actinomycin D after resistin treatment or with the NF-,B inhibitor IKK-NBD before resistin treatment. Gene expression was tested by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Computational analysis for transcription factor binding motifs was performed on the promoter regions of differentially expressed genes. TC-28 chondrocytes were transfected with CCL3 and CCL4 promoter constructs, pNF-,B reporter, and NF-,B and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein , (C/EBP,) expression vectors with or without resistin. Results Resistin-treated human articular chondrocytes increased the expression of cytokines and chemokines. Levels of messenger RNA (mRNA) for matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1), MMP-13, and ADAMTS-4 also increased, while type II collagen ,1 (COL2A1) and aggrecan were down-regulated. The cytokine and chemokine genes could be categorized into 3 groups according to the pattern of mRNA expression over a 24-hour time course. One pattern suggested rapid regulation by mRNA stability. The second and third patterns were consistent with transcriptional regulation. Computational analysis suggested the transcription factors NF-,B and C/EBP, were involved in the resistin-induced up-regulation. This prediction was confirmed by the cotransfection of NF-,B and C/EBP, and the IKK-NBD inhibition. Conclusion Resistin has diverse effects on gene expression in human chondrocytes, affecting chemokines, cytokines, and matrix genes. Messenger RNA stabilization and transcriptional up-regulation are involved in resistin-induced gene expression in human chondrocytes. [source]


    Animal performance and stress: responses and tolerance limits at different levels of biological organisation

    BIOLOGICAL REVIEWS, Issue 2 2009
    Karin S. Kassahn
    ABSTRACT Recent advances in molecular biology and the use of DNA microarrays for gene expression profiling are providing new insights into the animal stress response, particularly the effects of stress on gene regulation. However, interpretation of the complex transcriptional changes that occur during stress still poses many challenges because the relationship between changes at the transcriptional level and other levels of biological organisation is not well understood. To confront these challenges, a conceptual model linking physiological and transcriptional responses to stress would be helpful. Here, we provide the basis for one such model by synthesising data from organismal, endocrine, cellular, molecular, and genomic studies. We show using available examples from ectothermic vertebrates that reduced oxygen levels and oxidative stress are common to many stress conditions and that the responses to different types of stress, such as environmental, handling and confinement stress, often converge at the challenge of dealing with oxygen imbalance and oxidative stress. As a result, a common set of stress responses exists that is largely independent of the type of stressor applied. These common responses include the repair of DNA and protein damage, cell cycle arrest or apoptosis, changes in cellular metabolism that reflect the transition from a state of cellular growth to one of cellular repair, the release of stress hormones, changes in mitochondrial densities and properties, changes in oxygen transport capacities and changes in cardio-respiratory function. Changes at the transcriptional level recapitulate these common responses, with many stress-responsive genes functioning in cell cycle control, regulation of transcription, protein turnover, metabolism, and cellular repair. These common transcriptional responses to stress appear coordinated by only a limited number of stress-inducible and redox-sensitive transcription factors and signal transduction pathways, such as the immediate early genes c-fos and c-jun, the transcription factors NF,B and HIF - 1,, and the JNK and p38 kinase signalling pathways. As an example of environmental stress responses, we present temperature response curves at organismal, cellular and molecular levels. Acclimation and physiological adjustments that can shift the threshold temperatures for the onset of these responses are discussed and include, for example, adjustments of the oxygen delivery system, the heat shock response, cellular repair system, and transcriptome. Ultimately, however, an organism's ability to cope with environmental change is largely determined by its ability to maintain aerobic scope and to prevent loss in performance. These systemic constraints can determine an organism's long-term survival well before cellular and molecular functions are disturbed. The conceptual model we propose here discusses some of the crosslinks between responses at different levels of biological organisation and the central role of oxygen balance and oxidative stress in eliciting these responses with the aim to help the interpretation of environmental genomic data in the context of organismal function and performance. [source]


    Inflammatory stimuli from macrophages and cancer cells synergistically promote tumor growth and angiogenesis

    CANCER SCIENCE, Issue 12 2007
    Yusuke N. Kimura
    The focus of the present study was whether and how infiltrating macrophages play a role in angiogenesis and the growth of cancer cells in response to the inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-1,. Lewis lung carcinoma cells overexpressing IL-1, grew faster and induced greater neovascularization than a low IL-1,-expressing counterpart in vivo. When macrophages were depleted using clodronate liposomes, both neovascularization and tumor growth were reduced in the IL-1,-expressing tumors. Co-cultivation of IL-1,-expressing cancer cells with macrophages synergistically augmented neovascularization and the migration of vascular endothelial cells. In these co-cultures, production of the angiogenic factors vascular endothelial growth factor-A and IL-8, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and matrix metalloproteinase-9 were increased markedly. The production of these factors, induced by IL-1,-stimulated lung cancer cells, was blocked by a nuclear factor (NF)-,B inhibitor, and also by the knockdown of p65 (NF-,B) and c-Jun using small interference RNA, suggesting involvement of the transcription factors NF-,B and AP-1. These results demonstrated that macrophages recruited into tumors by monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and other chemokines could play a critical role in promoting tumor growth and angiogenesis, through interactions with cancer cells mediated by inflammatory stimuli. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 2009,2018) [source]


    Apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1-mediated sustained p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase activation regulates mycoplasmal lipoprotein- and staphylococcal peptidoglycan-triggered Toll-like receptor 2 signalling pathways

    CELLULAR MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 9 2005
    Takeshi Into
    Summary Toll-like receptor (TLR) 2 functions as a sensor for detecting various microbial components conserved in bacteria or fungi in innate immunity. TLR2 induces several signalling pathways linking to activation of the transcriptional factors NF-,B and AP-1 as well as induction of cell death. In human embryonic kidney 293 cells expressed human TLR2, mycoplasmal lipoproteins (MLP) or staphylococcal peptidoglycans (PGN) induced sustained phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), accompanied by generation of reactive oxygen species. This observation encouraged us to examine roles of apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) in TLR2 signalling, because ASK1 is an upstream activator of p38 MAPK during exposure to oxidative stress and other stressful stimuli. A kinase-inactive mutant of ASK1 greatly impaired the sustained phosphorylation of p38 MAPK induced by MLP or PGN. This mutant also attenuated MLP- or PGN-induced transcriptional activities of NF-,B and AP-1 via inhibition of p38 MAPK activation. MLP- or PGN-induced cell death reactions, including DNA fragmentation and caspase-3/7 activation, were also downregulated by the ASK1 mutant via p38 MAPK inhibition. Furthermore, TLR2 signalling had a potential to phosphorylate and dephosphorylate ASK1 at Ser83 residue. Thus, MLP and PGN have capabilities to induce ASK1-dependent signalling pathways which regulate p38 MAPK activation through TLR2, leading to activation of NF-,B and AP-1 as well as induction of cell death. [source]


    Synthetic double-stranded RNA induces multiple genes related to inflammation through Toll-like receptor 3 depending on NF-,B and/or IRF-3 in airway epithelial cells

    CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL ALLERGY, Issue 8 2006
    S. Matsukura
    Summary Background We hypothesized that synthetic double-stranded (ds)RNA may mimic viral infection and induce expression of genes related to inflammation in airway epithelial cells. Objective We analysed what gene was up-regulated by synthetic dsRNA poly I : C and then focused this study on the role of Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3), a receptor of dsRNA and its transcriptional pathway. Methods Airway epithelial cell BEAS-2B and normal human bronchial epithelial cells were cultured in vitro. Expression of targets RNA and protein were analysed by PCR and ELISA. Localization of TLR3 expression in the cells was analysed with flow cytometry. To analyse the role of TLR3 and transcription factors, knockdown of these genes was performed with short interfering RNA (siRNA). Results Real-time PCR revealed that poly I : C significantly increased the expression of mRNAs for chemokines IP-10, RANTES, LARC, MIP-1,, IL-8, GRO-, and ENA-78 and cytokines IL-1,, GM-CSF, IL-6 and the cell adhesion molecule ICAM-1 in both cell types. Increases in protein levels were also observed. Expression of these genes was significantly inhibited in BEAS-2B cells in which TLR3 expression was knocked down. However, pre-treatment with anti-TLR3 mAb, which interferes with the function of TLR3 expressed on the cell surface, did not inhibit the genes expression and these data were concordant with the results that TLR3 was expressed inside airway epithelial cells. The study of siRNA for NF-,B and IRF3 showed that they transduce the signal of poly I : C, but their roles were different in each target gene. Conclusion TLR3 is expressed inside airway epithelial cells and transduces synthetic dsRNA signals. These signals may increase expression of inflammatory cytokines, chemokines and ICAM-1 through activation of transcription factors NF-,B and/or IRF3 in airway epithelial cells. [source]


    Cellular and molecular mechanisms in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: an overview

    CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL ALLERGY, Issue 8 2004
    A. Di Stefano
    Summary In the last decade, the analysis of bronchial biopsies and lung parenchyma obtained from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients compared with those from smokers with normal lung function and non-smokers has provided new insights on the role of the different inflammatory and structural cells, their signalling pathways and mediators, contributing to a better knowledge of the pathogenesis of COPD. This review summarizes and discusses the lung pathology of COPD patients with emphasis on inflammatory cell phenotypes that predominate in different clinical conditions. In bronchial biopsies, a cascade of events takes place during progression from mild-to-severe disease. T lymphocytes, particularly CD8+ cells and macrophages are the prevalent inflammatory cells in the lung of healthy smokers and patients with mild COPD, while total and activated neutrophils predominate in severe COPD. The number of CD4+, CD8+ cells and macrophages expressing nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-,B), STAT-4 and IFN-, proteins as well as endothelial adhesion molecule-1 in endothelium is increased in mild/moderate disease. In contrast, activated neutrophils (MPO+ cells) and increased nitrotyrosine immunoreactivity develops in severe COPD. In bronchial biopsies obtained during COPD exacerbations, some studies have shown an increased T cell and granulocyte infiltration. Regular treatment with high doses of inhaled glucocorticoids does not significantly change the number of inflammatory cells in bronchial biopsies from patients with moderate COPD. The profile in lung parenchyma is similar to bronchial biopsies. ,Healthy' smokers and mild/moderate diseased patients show increased T lymphocyte infiltration in the peripheral airways. Pulmonary emphysema is associated with a general increase of inflammatory cells in the alveolar septa. The molecular mechanisms driving the lymphocyte and neutrophilic prevalence in mild and severe disease, respectively, needs to be extensively studied. Up-regulation of pro-inflammatory transcription factors NF-,B and STAT-4 in mild, activated epithelial and endothelial cells in the more severe disease may contribute to this differential prevalence of infiltrating cells. [source]