Adjuvant-induced arthritis promotes vascular hyporesponsiveness to phenylephrine through a nitric oxide-related mechanism.

Arthritis has important cardiovascular repercussions. Phenylephrine-induced vasoconstriction is impaired in rat aortas in the early phase of the adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA), around the 15th day post-induction. Therefore, the present study aimed to verify the effects of AIA on hyporesponsiveness to phenylephrine in rat aortas. AIA was induced by intradermal injection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (3.8 mg/dL) in the right hind paw of male Wistar rats (n=27). Functional experiments in isolated aortas were carried out 15 days after AIA induction. Morphometric and stereological analyses of the aortas were also performed 36 days after the induction of AIA. AIA did not promote structural modifications in the aortas at any of the time points studied. AIA reduced phenylephrine-induced contraction in endothelium-intact aortas, but not in endothelium-denuded aortas. However, AIA did not change KCl-induced contraction in either endothelium-intact or denuded aortas. L-NAME (non-selective NOS inhibitor), 1400W (selective iNOS inhibitor), and ODQ (guanylyl cyclase inhibitor) reversed AIA-induced hyporesponsiveness to phenylephrine in intact aortas. 7-NI (selective nNOS inhibitor) increased the contraction induced by phenylephrine in aortas from AIA rats. In summary, the hyporesponsiveness to phenylephrine induced by AIA was endothelium-dependent and mediated by iNOS-derived NO through activation of the NO-guanylyl cyclase pathway.

Joint Damage and Neuropathic Pain in Rats Treated With Lysophosphatidic Acid.

Joint pain is a complex phenomenon that involves multiple endogenous mediators and pathophysiological events. In addition to nociceptive and inflammatory pain, some patients report neuropathic-like pain symptoms. Examination of arthritic joints from humans and preclinical animal models have revealed axonal damage which is likely the source of the neuropathic pain. The mediators responsible for joint peripheral neuropathy are obscure, but lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) has emerged as a leading candidate target. In the present study, male and female Wistar rats received an intra-articular injection of LPA into the right knee and allowed to recover for 28 days. Joint pain was measured by von Frey hair algesiometry, while joint pathology was determined by scoring of histological sections. Both male and female rats showed comparable degenerative changes to the LPA-treated knee including chondrocyte death, focal bone erosion, and synovitis. Mechanical withdrawal thresholds decreased by 20-30% indicative of secondary allodynia in the affected limb; however, there was no significant difference in pain sensitivity between the sexes. Treatment of LPA animals with the neuropathic pain drug amitriptyline reduced joint pain for over 2 hours with no sex differences being observed. In summary, intra-articular injection of LPA causes joint degeneration and neuropathic pain thereby mimicking some of the characteristics of neuropathic osteoarthritis.

OX40-Fc Fusion Protein Alleviates PD-1-Fc-Aggravated Rheumatoid Arthritis by Inhibiting Inflammatory Response.

BACKGROUND: Researches have confirmed that the abnormal signals of OX40 and PD-1 lead to the changes of T cell biological behavior, thus participating the immunopathological process of RA. However, the pathogenesis of RA immunopathological process has not been clarified yet. METHODS: 30 DBA/1 mice were randomly divided into 5 groups (6 mice per group): control group, collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) group, PD-1-Fc/CIA group, OX40-Fc/CIA group, and PD-1-Fc + OX40-Fc/CIA group. The pathological changes in mice joints were observed by H&E staining. The proportion of CD4+ T, CD8+ T, CD28+, and CD19+ cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was detected by flow cytometry. Serum inflammatory factors (CRP, IL-2, IL-4, IL-1ß, INF-γ) and bone metabolism-related genes (CTX-I, TRACP-5b, BALP) were detected by ELISA assay. Western blotting was applied to measure the NF-κB signaling pathway-related protein (p-IKKß, p-IκBα, p50) expression in synovial tissue of mice joint. RESULTS: Compared with the control group, CIA mice showed significant increases in arthritis score and pathological score. In the CIA group, a marked decrease was identified in the proportion of CD8+ T, CD19+, and CD68+ cells. Additionally, the CIA group was associated with upregulation of secretion of inflammatory factors in serum and expression of bone metabolism-related genes and NF-κB pathway-related proteins. Compared with the CIA group, the same indexes above showed a further aggravation in the PD-1-Fc group while all indexes improved in the OX40-Fc group. Besides, OX40-Fc fusion protein slowed down significantly the further deterioration of CIA mouse pathological process caused by PD-1-Fc fusion protein. CONCLUSION: OX40-Fc fusion protein alleviates PD-1-Fc-aggravated RA by inhibiting inflammatory response. This research provides biological markers with clinical significance for diagnosis and prognosis of RA, as well as offers theoretical and experimental foundation to the new targets for immune intervention.

Impact of delayed type hypersensitivity arthritis on development of heart failure by aortic constriction in mice.

AIMS: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have increased risk of heart failure (HF). The mechanisms and cardiac prerequisites explaining this association remain unresolved. In this study, we sought to determine the potential cardiac impact of an experimental model of RA in mice subjected to HF by constriction of the ascending aorta. METHODS: Aorta was constricted via thoracotomy and placement of o-rings with inner diameter 0.55 mm or 0.66 mm, or sham operated. RA-like phenotype was instigated by delayed-type hypersensitivity arthritis (DTHA) two weeks after surgery and re-iterated after additional 18 days. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed before surgery and at successive time points throughout the study. Six weeks after surgery the mice were euthanized, blood and tissue were collected, organ weights were documented, and expression levels of cardiac foetal genes were analysed. In a supplemental study, DTHA-mice were euthanized throughout 14 days after induction of arthritis, and blood was analysed for important markers and mediators of RA (SAP, TNF-α and IL-6). In order to put the latter findings into clinical context, the same molecules were analysed in serum from untreated RA patients and compared to healthy controls. RESULTS: Significant elevations of inflammatory markers were found in both patient- and murine blood. Furthermore, the DTHA model appeared clinically relevant when compared to the inflammatory responses observed in three prespecified RA severity disease states. Two distinct trajectories of cardiac dysfunction and HF development were found using the two o-ring sizes. These differences were consistent by both MRI, organ weights and cardiac foetal gene expression levels. Still, no difference within the HF groups, nor within the sham groups, could be found when DTHA was induced. CONCLUSION: DTHA mediated systemic inflammation did not cause, nor modify HF caused by aortic constriction. This indicates other prerequisites for RA-induced cardiac dysfunction.

Daphnes Cortex and its licorice-processed products suppress inflammation via the TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway and regulation of the metabolic profile in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Daphnes Cortex (Daphne Giraldii Nitsche, DGN) is a popular traditional Chinese herbal medicine for traumatic injuries and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in the Shaanxi and Gansu provinces of China. Due to skin irritation caused by raw DGN (RDGN), licorice-processed DGN products are usually used in clinical practice. However, the efficacy and mechanisms of action between DGN and its licorice-processed DGN products in treating RA have not been compared. AIMS: This study compared the efficacy and elucidated the mechanisms in vitro and in vivo between RDGN and its licorice-processed DGN products in treating RA. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A collagen-induced RA rat model was established, and treated with different doses of RDGN and its licorice-processed DGN products for 4 weeks to explore the therapeutic effects. The anti-inflammatory effects were assessed in RAW 264.7 macrophages stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Analyses of the differential quality markers (DQMs) between DGN and its licorice-processed DGN products using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry, and non-targeted metabolomics analyses of rat synovial tissues were used to systematically explore correlations between DGN processing and its efficacy. RESULTS: Licorice-processed DGN products significantly ameliorated RA symptoms in CIA rats. Licorice-processed DGN products also regulated inflammatory cytokines, matrix metalloproteinases, and vascular endothelial growth factor in the serum and cell supernatants. Licorice-processed DGN products significantly inhibited Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa B/NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain containing 3 (TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3) signaling in CIA rats and LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells. The DQMs between RDGN and its licorice-processed DGN products were identified, most of which were amino acids or energy-related metabolites present in licorice-processed DGN products. Correlations between DQMs with differential metabolites and differential metabolic pathways were established. CONCLUSIONS: Licorice-processed DGN products displayed better anti-inflammatory effects via the TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway on CIA rats and LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells, and regulation of the metabolic profile in treating RA.

Effects of different doses of complete Freund's adjuvant on nociceptive behaviour and inflammatory parameters in polyarthritic rat model mimicking rheumatoid arthritis.

Complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) has been used to develop the arthritic or inflammatory condition in the animal, but there is a lack of information concerning high CFA doses on nociceptive behaviour and inflammatory parameters. This study aimed to compare the effects of different high doses of CFA in rat to closely mimic nociceptive and inflammatory parameters of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in humans. Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6): Control (C), CFA-induced polyarthritic groups at 5.0 mg/mL (CFA 5.0), 7.5 mg/mL (CFA 7.5) and 10.0mg/mL (CFA 10.0). The rats' right hindpaw was inoculated with CFA intradermally and developed into a polyarthritic state within 20 days. Nociceptive behavioural assessments, including von Frey and hot plate tests and spontaneous activities, were conducted on day 0, 7, 15 and 20. Bilateral ankle joints diameter and circumference, full blood count, joints and paw histological examinations were also conducted throughout the study period. Based on the results, CFA 5.0 and CFA 7.5 groups showed a significant increase in spontaneous activities and development of thermal hyperalgesia but no change in body weight and food intake, no development of tactile allodynia and haematological indices, and no significant morphological changes of joints histology. Meanwhile, CFA 10.0 group demonstrated significant and constant changes in all nociceptive and inflammatory parameters investigated. In conclusion, CFA at the dose of 10mg/mL has the most potential and reliable dosage to develop polyarthritis in a rat model to mimic RA condition in humans.

Verification of pain-related neuromodulation mechanisms of icariin in knee osteoarthritis.

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a common disease with no specific treatment. Icariin (ICA) is considered an agent for KOA. This study aimed to confirm the pain-related neuromodulation mechanisms of ICA on KOA. Three experiments were designed: (1) verifying the therapeutic effects of ICA in vivo and in vitro, (2) exploring the potential pain-related neuromodulation pathways involved in ICA treatment by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and virus retrograde tracing (VRT) and (3) confirming the pain-related targets by tandem mass tag (TMT)-based quantitative proteomics and bioinformatic analyses. Experiment 1 verified the efficacy of ICA in OA animal and cell models. Experiment 2 found a series of brain regions associated with KOA reversed by ICA treatment, indicating that a pain-related hypothalamic-mediated neuromodulation pathway and an endocannabinoid (EC)-related pathway contribute to ICA mechanisms. Experiment 3 explored and confirmed four pain-related genes involved in KOA and ICA treatment. We confirmed the key role of pain-related neuromodulation mechanisms in ICA treatment associated with its analgesic effect. Our findings contribute to considering ICA as a novel therapy for KOA.

Metabolic regulation of RA macrophages is distinct from RA fibroblasts and blockade of glycolysis alleviates inflammatory phenotype in both cell types.

Recent studies have shown the significance of metabolic reprogramming in immune and stromal cell function. Yet, the metabolic reconfiguration of RA macrophages (MΦs) is incompletely understood during active disease and in crosstalk with other cell types in experimental arthritis. This study elucidates a distinct regulation of glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation in RA MΦs compared to fibroblast (FLS), although PPP (Pentose Phosphate pathway) is similarly reconfigured in both cell types. 2-DG treatment showed a more robust impact on impairing the RA M1 MΦ-mediated inflammatory phenotype than IACS-010759 (IACS, complexli), by reversing ERK, AKT and STAT1 signaling, IRF8/3 transcription and CCL2 or CCL5 secretion. This broader inhibitory effect of 2-DG therapy on RA M1 MΦs was linked to dysregulation of glycolysis (GLUT1, PFKFB3, LDHA, lactate) and oxidative PPP (NADP conversion to NADPH), while both compounds were ineffective on oxidative phosphorylation. Distinctly, in RA FLS, 2-DG and IACS therapies constrained LPS/IFNγ-induced AKT and JNK signaling, IRF5/7 and fibrokine expression. Disruption of RA FLS metabolic rewiring by 2-DG or IACS therapy was accompanied by a reduction of glycolysis (HIF1α, PFKFB3) and suppression of citrate or succinate buildup. We found that 2-DG therapy mitigated CIA pathology by intercepting joint F480+iNOS+MΦ, Vimentin+ fibroblast and CD3+T cell trafficking along with downregulation of IRFs and glycolytic intermediates. Surprisingly, IACS treatment was inconsequential on CIA swelling, cell infiltration, M1 and Th1/Th17 cytokines (IFN-γ/IL-17) and joint glycolytic mediators. Collectively, our results indicate that blockade of glycolysis is more effective than inhibition of complex 1 in CIA, in part due to its effectiveness on the MΦ inflammatory phenotype.

Qing-Luo-Yin Alleviated Monocytes/Macrophages-Mediated Inflammation in Rats with Adjuvant-Induced Arthritis by Disrupting Their Interaction with (Pre)-Adipocytes Through PPAR-γ Signaling.

BACKGROUND: The Chinese herbal formula Qing-Luo-Yin (QLY) has been successfully used in rheumatoid arthritis treatment for decades. It exhibits notable immune and metabolism regulatory properties. Thereby, we investigated its effects on the interplay between (pre)-adipocytes and monocytes/macrophages under adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) circumstances. METHODS: Fat reservoir and histological characteristics of white fat tissues (WAT) in AIA rats receiving QLY treatment were examined upon sacrifice. Metabolic parameters, clinical indicators, and oxidative stress levels were determined using corresponding kits, while mRNA/protein expression was investigated by PCR and immunoblotting methods. M1 macrophage distribution in WAT was assessed by flow cytometry. The effects of QLY on (pre)-adipocytes were further validated by experiments in vitro. RESULTS: Compared with normal healthy controls, body weight and circulating triglyceride were declined in AIA rats, but serological levels of free fatty acids and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were increased. mRNA IL-1ß and iNOS expression in white blood cells and rheumatoid factor, C-reactive protein, anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody, MCP-1 and IL-1ß production in serum/WAT were up-regulated. Obvious CD86+CD11b+ macrophages were enriched in WAT. Meanwhile, expression of PPAR-γ and SIRT1 and secretion of adiponectin and leptin in these AIA rats were impaired. QLY restored all these pathological changes. Of note, it significantly stimulated PPAR-γ expression in the treated AIA rats. Accordingly, QLY-containing serum promoted SCD-1, PPAR-γ, and SIRT1 expression in pre-adipocytes cultured in vitro. AIA rats-derived peripheral blood mononuclear cells suppressed PPAR-γ and SCD-1 expression in co-cultured pre-adipocytes, but serum from AIA rats receiving QLY treatment did not exhibit this potential. The changes on PPAR-γ expression eventually resulted in varied adipocyte differentiation statuses. PPAR-γ selective inhibitor T0070907 abrogated QLY-induced MCP-1 production decline in LPS-primed pre-adipocytes and reduced adiponectin secretion. CONCLUSION: QLY was potent in promoting PPAR-γ expression and consequently disrupted inflammatory feedback in WAT by altering monocytes/macrophages polarization and adipocytes differentiation.

Functional and Anatomical Characterization of Corticotropin-Releasing Factor Receptor Subtypes of the Rat Spinal Cord Involved in Somatic Pain Relief.

Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) orchestrates our body's response to stressful stimuli. Pain is often stressful and counterbalanced by activation of CRF receptors along the nociceptive pathway, although the involvement of the CRF receptor subtypes 1 and/or 2 (CRF-R1 and CRF-R2, respectively) in CRF-induced analgesia remains controversial. Thus, the aim of the present study was to examine CRF-R1 and CRF-R2 expression within the spinal cord of rats with Freund's complete adjuvant-induced unilateral inflammation of the hind paw using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, radioligand binding, and immunofluorescence confocal analysis. Moreover, the antinociceptive effects of intrathecal (i.t.) CRF were measured by paw pressure algesiometer and their possible antagonism by selective antagonists for CRF-R1 and/or CRF-R2 as well as for opioid receptors. Our results demonstrated a preference for the expression of CRF-R2 over CRF-R1 mRNA, protein, binding sites and immunoreactivity in the dorsal horn of the rat spinal cord. Consistently, CRF as well as CRF-R2 agonists elicited potent dose-dependent antinociceptive effects which were antagonized by the i.t. CRF-R2 selective antagonist K41498, but not by the CRF-R1 selective antagonist NBI35965. In addition, i.t. applied opioid antagonist naloxone dose-dependently abolished the i.t. CRF- as well as CRF-R2 agonist-elicited inhibition of somatic pain. Importantly, double immunofluorescence confocal microscopy of the spinal dorsal horn showed CRF-R2 on enkephalin (ENK)-containing inhibitory interneurons in close opposition of incoming mu-opioid receptor-immunoreactive nociceptive neurons. CRF-R2 was, however, not seen on pre- or on postsynaptic sensory neurons of the spinal cord. Taken together, these findings suggest that i.t. CRF or CRF-R2 agonists inhibit somatic inflammatory pain predominantly through CRF-R2 receptors located on spinal enkephalinergic inhibitory interneurons which finally results in endogenous opioid-mediated pain inhibition.

Quercetin-mediated SIRT1 activation attenuates collagen-induced mice arthritis.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Herba taxilli (HT, Sangjisheng in Chinese), which is composed of the dried stems and leaves of Taxillus chinensis (DC.) Danser, has been commonly used to treat inflammation and arthritis in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Quercetin (Que) is a major active flavonoid component isolated from HT and is one of the quality control indexes of HT. In the clinical practice of TCM, formulas containing HT are commonly used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Recent studies have shown that Que exerts antiarthritic effects. However, the mechanism by which Que treatment affects RA is not fully understood. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to explore the antiarthritic activity of Que in a collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mouse model and investigate the underlying mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The antiarthritic activity of Que was evaluated in a CIA mouse model by determining the paw clinical arthritis scores and left ankle thicknesses and by conducting micro-PET imaging and histopathological analysis of ankle joint tissues. The proinflammatory cytokine (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1ß, IL-8, IL-13, IL-17) levels in the serum and ankle joint tissues were measured by ELISA. Mitochondrial oxidative stress was assessed by biochemical methods. Mitochondrial biogenesis was analysed by RT-qPCR. The protein levels of silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), nuclear respiratory factor 1 (NRF1), mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM), high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), p38, phospho-p38, extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK)-1/2, phospho-ERK1/2, p65, and phospho-p65 in ankle joint tissues were detected by Western blot analysis. A total of 30 RA patients were recruited to investigate the relationship between the disease activity score (DAS28) and the SIRT1, PGC-1α, NRF1, and HMGB1 plasma levels. RESULTS: Que treatment decreased the clinical score and left ankle thickness of CIA mice, attenuated the synovial inflammation and hyperplasia and bone/cartilage destruction in ankle joints, and decreased the secretion of IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1ß, IL-8, IL-13, and IL-17. Mechanistically, Que treatment improved impaired mitochondrial biogenesis and mitochondrial function by regulating the SIRT1/PGC-1α/NRF1/TFAM pathway and inhibited inflammation via the HMGB1/TLR4/p38/ERK1/2/NF-κB p65 pathway. Notably, epidemiological data revealed correlations between abnormal circulating levels of SIRT1, PGC-1α, NRF1, HMGB1 and RA disease activity in patients. CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggested a potential role of Que as a dietary therapeutic drug for RA treatment that may act through SIRT1 to target mitochondrial biogenesis. Additionally, the role of impaired mitochondrial biogenesis in RA was evaluated.

Role of Primary Afferents in Arthritis Induced Spinal Microglial Reactivity.

Increased afferent input resulting from painful injury augments the activity of central nociceptive circuits via both neuron-neuron and neuron-glia interactions. Microglia, resident immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS), play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of chronic pain. This study provides a framework for understanding how peripheral joint injury signals the CNS to engage spinal microglial responses. During the first week of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced knee joint injury in male rats, inflammatory and neuropathic pain were characterized by increased firing of peripheral joint afferents. This increased peripheral afferent activity was accompanied by increased Iba1 immunoreactivity within the spinal dorsal horn indicating microglial activation. Pharmacological silencing of C and A afferents with co-injections of QX-314 and bupivacaine, capsaicin, or flagellin prevented the development of mechanical allodynia and spinal microglial activity after MIA injection. Elevated levels of ATP in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and increased expression of the ATP transporter vesicular nucleotide transporter (VNUT) in the ipsilateral spinal dorsal horn were also observed after MIA injections. Selective silencing of primary joint afferents subsequently inhibited ATP release into the CSF. Furthermore, increased spinal microglial reactivity, and alleviation of MIA-induced arthralgia with co-administration of QX-314 with bupivacaine were recapitulated in female rats. Our results demonstrate that early peripheral joint injury activates joint nociceptors, which triggers a central spinal microglial response. Elevation of ATP in the CSF, and spinal expression of VNUT suggest ATP signaling may modulate communication between sensory neurons and spinal microglia at 2 weeks of joint degeneration.

Mammalian Arginase Inhibitory Activity of Methanolic Extracts and Isolated Compounds from Cyperus Species.

Polyphenolic enriched extracts from two species of Cyperus, Cyperus glomeratus and Cyperus thunbergii, possess mammalian arginase inhibitory capacities, with the percentage inhibition ranging from 80% to 95% at 100 µg/mL and 40% to 64% at 10 µg/mL. Phytochemical investigation of these species led to the isolation and identification of two new natural stilbene oligomers named thunbergin A-B (1-2), together with three other stilbenes, trans-resveratrol (3), trans-scirpusin A (4), trans-cyperusphenol A (6), and two flavonoids, aureusidin (5) and luteolin (7), which were isolated for the first time from C.thunbergii and C. glomeratus. Structures were established on the basis of the spectroscopic data from MS and NMR experiments. The arginase inhibitory activity of compounds 1-7 was evaluated through an in vitro arginase inhibitory assay using purified liver bovine arginase. As a result, five compounds (1, 4-7) showed significant inhibition of arginase, with IC50 values between 17.6 and 60.6 µM, in the range of those of the natural arginase inhibitor piceatannol (12.6 µM). In addition, methanolic extract from Cyperus thunbergii exhibited an endothelium and NO-dependent vasorelaxant effect on thoracic aortic rings from rats and improved endothelial dysfunction in an adjuvant-induced arthritis rat model.

Local Administration of Low-Dose Nerve Growth Factor Antibody Reduced Pain in a Rat Osteoarthritis Model.

Systemic injection of a nerve growth factor (NGF) antibody has been proven to have a significant relevance in relieving osteoarthritis (OA) pain, while its adverse effects remain a safety concern for patients. A local low-dose injection is thought to minimize adverse effects. In this study, OA was induced in an 8-week-old male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat joint by monoiodoacetate (MIA) injection for 2 weeks, and the effect of weekly injections of low-dose (1, 10, and 100 µg) NGF antibody or saline (control) was evaluated. Behavioral tests were performed, and at the end of week 6, all rats were sacrificed and their knee joints were collected for macroscopic and histological evaluations. Results showed that 100 µg NGF antibody injection relieved pain in OA rats, as evidenced from improved weight-bearing performance but not allodynia. In contrast, no significant differences were observed in macroscopic and histological scores between rats from different groups, demonstrating that intra-articular treatment does not worsen OA progression. These results suggest that local administration yielded a low effective NGF antibody dose that may serve as an alternative approach to systemic injection for the treatment of patients with OA.

Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein Induced Arthritis-A New Model for Rheumatoid Arthritis in the C57BL/6 Mouse.

The most commonly used strains in experimental research, including genetically modified strains, are C57BL/6 mice. However, so far, no reliable model for rheumatoid arthritis is available, mainly due to the restriction by the MHC class II haplotype H-2b. Collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) is the most widely used animal model of rheumatoid arthritis, but C57BL/6 strain is resistant to CIA because there is no collagen II peptide associated with H-2b. To establish a rheumatoid arthritis model in C57BL/6 mice, we immunized C57BL/6NJ (B6N) mice with human cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), which induced severe arthritis with high incidence, accompanied by a strong auto-antibody response. Native COMP was required, as denatured COMP lost its ability to induce arthritis in B6N mice. An immunodominant COMP peptide was identified as the key T cell epitope, with a perfect fit into the Ab class II peptide binding pocket. A critical amino acid in this peptide was found to be phenylalanine at position 95. Recombinant COMP mutated at position 95 (COMP_F95S) lost its ability to induce arthritis or a strong immune response in the B6N mice. In conclusion, A new model for RA has been established using C57BL/6 mice through immunization with COMP, which is dependent on a COMP specific peptide binding Ab, thus in similarity with CIA in Aq expressing strains.

Guizhi-Shaoyao-Zhimu decoction attenuates bone erosion in rats that have collagen-induced arthritis via modulating NF-κB signalling to suppress osteoclastogenesis.

CONTEXT: Guizhi-Shaoyao-Zhimu decoction (GSZD) is commonly used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but its mechanism is unclear. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of GSZD on bone erosion in type II collagen (CII)-induced arthritis (CIA) in rats and to identify the underlying mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The CIA model was prepared in male Wistar rats by two subcutaneous injections of CII, 1 mg/mL. Fifty CIA rats were randomized equally into the control group given saline daily, the positive group given saline daily and methotrexate 0.75 mg/kg once a week, and three GSZD-treated groups gavaged daily with 800, 1600 and 3200 mg/kg of GSZD for 21 days. GSZD effects were assessed by paw volume, arthritic severity index and histopathology. Cytokine levels were determined by ELISA. The effects of GSZD on RAW264.7 cells were evaluated by receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption assay. Expression of IκB-α and p65 was measured by Western blotting. Major components of GSZD were identified by HPLC. RESULTS: Arthritis index score, paw volume and bone destruction score showed that GSZD improved inflammatory symptoms and reduced joint tissue erosion (p < 0.01). GSZD decreased RANKL, and the number of osteoclasts (OCs) in joint tissues (p < 0.01) and increased osteoprotegerin levels (p < 0.01). GSZD inhibited RANKL-induced RAW264.7 differentiation and reduced bone resorption by OCs. GSZD upregulated IκB (p < 0.01) and p65 (p < 0.01) in the cytoplasm and downregulated p65 (p < 0.01) in the cell nucleus. CONCLUSIONS: Guizhi-Shaoyao-Zhimu decoction has an anti-RA effect, suggesting its possible use as a supplement and alternative drug therapy for RA.

Inhibition of fibrotic changes in infrapatellar fat pad alleviates persistent pain and articular cartilage degeneration in monoiodoacetic acid-induced rat arthritis model.

OBJECTIVE: We have reported that fibrotic changes in infrapatellar fat pad (IFP) after acute joint inflammation are closely associated with persistent pain in rats. In this study, to examine the effects of anti-fibrotic treatment on persistent pain, we used C-type natriuretic peptides (CNP) at the recovery phase after acute joint inflammation. DESIGN: Thirty-two male Wistar rats were used in this study. Monoiodoacetic acid (MIA) was injected intra-articularly to induce IFP fibrosis and persistent pain. CNP was injected after acute inflammatory phase in the same knee joint. Time-course pain-avoidance behavior tests and histological analyses were performed to examine the effects of CNP. RESULTS: Histological evaluations indicated that intra-articular injection of CNP inhibited fibrotic changes in IFP after acute inflammation. Incapacitance tests indicated that MIA injection into rat knee joint quickly decreased the percent weight on ipsilateral limb. In the vehicle group, the decrease was maintained up to day 28, suggesting that pain persistence occurred after acute inflammation (Day 0/Day 28, Est Dif -8.15, CI -10.78∼-5.53, Linear mixed-effect model). In contrast, the pain was alleviated in the CNP group after day 14 (Day0/Day 14, -0.51, -2.62-1.59). In addition, we observed significant improvement in the degree of articular cartilage degeneration at day 14 in the CNP group (OARSI score: vehicle 16.14 ± 4.37 vs CNP 6.87 ± 3.44, P < 0.01; Wilcoxon rank sum test). CONCLUSION: Fibrotic changes in IFP may play important roles in both persistent pain and articular cartilage degeneration.

Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Effects of TRPV1 Polypeptide Modulator APHC3 in Models of Osteo- and Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Arthritis is a widespread inflammatory disease associated with progressive articular surface degradation, ongoing pain, and hyperalgesia causing the development of functional limitations and disability. TRPV1 channel is one of the high-potential targets for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Polypeptide APHC3 from sea anemone Heteractis crispa is a mode-selective TRPV1 antagonist that causes mild hypothermia and shows significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity in different models of pain. We evaluated the anti-inflammatory properties of APHC3 in models of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced osteoarthritis and complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced rheumatoid monoarthritis in comparison with commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as diclofenac, ibuprofen, and meloxicam. Subcutaneous administration of APHC3 (0.1 mg/kg) significantly reversed joint swelling, disability, grip strength impairment, and thermal and mechanical hypersensitivity. The effect of APHC3 was equal to or better than that of reference NSAIDs. Protracted treatment with APHC3 decreased IL-1b concentration in synovial fluid, reduced inflammatory changes in joints, and prevented the progression of cartilage degradation. Therefore, polypeptide APHC3 has the potential to be an analgesic and anti-inflammatory substance for the alleviation of arthritis symptoms.

Anti-rheumatoid arthritis effects of iridoid glucosides from Lamiophlomis rotata (Benth.) kudo on adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats by OPG/RANKL/NF-κB signaling pathways.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Lamiophlomisrotata (Benth.) Kudo. has been used to treat trauma bleeding, rheumatism, yellow water disease in traditional Chinese medicine. AIM: The aim of this work was to evaluate the anti-rheumatoid arthritis (RA) activities and underlying mechanisms of the total iridoid glucosides (TIG) from Lamiophlomisrotata (Benth.) Kudo. METHODS: The chemical constituents of TIG was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with seven reference compounds (penstemonoside, chlorotuberside, shanzhiside methyl ester, phloyoside, 7-epliamalbide, phlorigidoside C and lamalbide). The anti-rheumatoid arthritis effects of TIG were investigated by arthritis indexes and paw swelling degrees, as well as histopathological and Micro-CT analysis in adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) rats. The impacts of TIG on the level of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1ß, TNF-α, IL-6, IFN-γ, IL-17 and IL-10), and the regulation of OPG/RANKL/NF-κB pathways were determined by the ELISA and western blot, respectively. RESULTS: TIG significantly reduced the arthritis indexes and paws swelling in AIA rats, attenuated the inflammation and bone destruction in joint tissues, reduced the generation of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1ß, TNF-α, IL-6, IFN-γ and IL-17, as well as increased the generation of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in serum. Moreover, TIG markedly inhibited the expression of p-IKK-α, p-IκB and p-p65, and decreased the ratio of OPG/RANKL in the synovial tissues. CONCLUSION: TIG possessed significant anti-RA activities on adjuvant-induced arthritis, which might be ascribed to the regulation of inflammatory cytokines IL-1ß, TNF-α, IL-6, IFN-γ IL-17 and IL-10, as well as inhibition of OPG/RANKL/NF-κB signaling pathways.

A mechanistic study of Solenostemma argel as anti-rheumatic agent in relation to its metabolite profile using UPLC/HRMS.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Solenostemma argel (Argel) is a traditional perennial edible herb that is commonly used in folkloric medicine for the treatment of rheumatic pain, inflammation, bronchitis, cold, diabetes, gastrointestinal cramps, and urinary tract infections. No previous reports traced the mechanistic activity of this plant for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in relation to its chemical constituents. AIM OF THE STUDY: The present study was designed to substantiate the anti-arthritic potential of S. argel and identification of its secondary metabolites responsible for the action using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to high resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC/HRMS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The air-dried powder of S. argel was subjected to liquid-liquid fractionation method to yield polar metabolites fraction (PMF) and nonpolar metabolites fraction (NPMF) where the metabolites that represent each fraction were identified using UPLC/HRMS. The in-vitro anti-arthritic effects of both fractions were tested using protein denaturation, membrane stabilization and proteinase inhibition assays, in addition to in-vitro enzyme inhibition assays of COXs, LOX and collagenases. Adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) model was also established to evaluate their anti-arthritic effects in-vivo at two doses (200 and 400 mg/kg) in compared to the standard ibuprofen (5 mg/kg). Physical changes with hind paw edema and body weight gain as well as the assessment of serum rheumatoid biomarkers, inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress markers, and the activity of hyaluronidase and ß-glucouronidase enzymes were studied. The histopathological study of ankle and knee joints and immunohistochemistry of caspase-3 and TNF-α in joint synovium were also examined. RESULTS: The PMF significantly (P < 0.05) reduced paw edema, serum rheumatoid markers, pro-inflammatory mediators, degeneration enzymes of cartilage and bone, and oxidative stress biomarkers. Interestingly, flavonoid glycosides and phenolic acids dominated the polar fraction, which showed the promising anti-arthritic activity of Argel compared to the NPMF which was dominated by pregnane glycosides. CONCLUSIONS: Since arthritis is a chronic disease and there are imperative needs for a lifelong treatment with desirable pharmacological action and lower cost than the currently approved synthetic drugs having severe side effects, the PMF of Argel could be used as a potent anti-rheumatic agent.