Palmitate Potentiates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced IL-6 Production via Coordinated Acetylation of H3K9/H3K18, p300, and RNA Polymerase II.

IL-6 is elevated in obese individuals and participates in the metabolic dysfunction associated with that condition. However, the mechanisms that promote IL-6 expression in obesity are incompletely understood. Because elevated levels of palmitate and LPS have been reported in obesity, we investigated whether these agents interact to potentiate IL-6 production. In this study, we report that LPS induces higher levels of IL-6 in human monocytes in the presence of palmitate. Notably, the priming effect of palmitate is associated with enhanced p300 binding and transcription factor recruitment to Il6 promoter regions. Gene silencing of p300 blocks this action of palmitate. RNA polymerase II recruitment was also enhanced at the Il6 promoter in palmitate/LPS-exposed cells. Acetylation levels of H3K9 and H3K18 were increased in monocytes treated with palmitate. Moreover, LPS stimulation of palmitate-treated cells led to increased levels of the transcriptionally permissive acetylation marks H3K9/H3K18 in the Il6 promoter compared with LPS alone. The effect of palmitate on LPS-induced IL-6 production was suppressed by the inhibition of histone acetyltransferases. Conversely, histone deacetylase inhibitors trichostatin A or sodium butyrate can substitute for palmitate in IL-6 production. Esterification of palmitate with CoA was involved, whereas ß-oxidation and ceramide biosynthesis were not required, for the induction of IL-6 and H3K9/H3K18 acetylation. Monocytes of obese individuals showed significantly higher H3K9/H3K18 acetylation and Il6 expression. Overall, our findings support a model in which increased levels of palmitate in obesity create a setting for LPS to potentiate IL-6 production via chromatin remodeling, enabling palmitate to contribute to metabolic inflammation.

Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Promotes the Expression of TNF-α in THP-1 Cells by Mechanisms Involving ROS/CHOP/HIF-1α and MAPK/NF-κB Pathways.

Obesity and metabolic syndrome involve chronic low-grade inflammation called metabolic inflammation as well as metabolic derangements from increased endotoxin and free fatty acids. It is debated whether the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in monocytic cells can contribute to amplify metabolic inflammation; if so, by which mechanism(s). To test this, metabolic stress was induced in THP-1 cells and primary human monocytes by treatments with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), palmitic acid (PA), or oleic acid (OA), in the presence or absence of the ER stressor thapsigargin (TG). Gene expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and markers of ER/oxidative stress were determined by qRT-PCR, TNF-α protein by ELISA, reactive oxygen species (ROS) by DCFH-DA assay, hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α), p38, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-1,2, and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) phosphorylation by immunoblotting, and insulin sensitivity by glucose-uptake assay. Regarding clinical analyses, adipose TNF-α was assessed using qRT-PCR/IHC and plasma TNF-α, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), malondialdehyde (MDA), and oxidized low-density lipoprotein (OX-LDL) via ELISA. We found that the cooperative interaction between metabolic and ER stresses promoted TNF-α, ROS, CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP), activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6), superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) expression (p ≤ 0.0183),. However, glucose uptake was not impaired. TNF-α amplification was dependent on HIF-1α stabilization and p38 MAPK/p65 NF-κB phosphorylation, while the MAPK/NF-κB pathway inhibitors and antioxidants/ROS scavengers such as curcumin, allopurinol, and apocynin attenuated the TNF-α production (p ≤ 0.05). Individuals with obesity displayed increased adipose TNF-α gene/protein expression as well as elevated plasma levels of TNF-α, CRP, MDA, and OX-LDL (p ≤ 0.05). Our findings support a metabolic-ER stress cooperativity model, favoring inflammation by triggering TNF-α production via the ROS/CHOP/HIF-1α and MAPK/NF-κB dependent mechanisms. This study also highlights the therapeutic potential of antioxidants in inflammatory conditions involving metabolic/ER stresses.

ROS/TNF-α Crosstalk Triggers the Expression of IL-8 and MCP-1 in Human Monocytic THP-1 Cells via the NF-κB and ERK1/2 Mediated Signaling.

IL-8/MCP-1 act as neutrophil/monocyte chemoattractants, respectively. Oxidative stress emerges as a key player in the pathophysiology of obesity. However, it remains unclear whether the TNF-α/oxidative stress interplay can trigger IL-8/MCP-1 expression and, if so, by which mechanism(s). IL-8/MCP-1 adipose expression was detected in lean, overweight, and obese individuals, 15 each, using immunohistochemistry. To detect the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS)/TNF-α synergy as a chemokine driver, THP-1 cells were stimulated with TNF-α, with/without H2O2 or hypoxia. Target gene expression was measured by qRT-PCR, proteins by flow cytometry/confocal microscopy, ROS by DCFH-DA assay, and signaling pathways by immunoblotting. IL-8/MCP-1 adipose expression was significantly higher in obese/overweight. Furthermore, IL-8/MCP-1 mRNA/protein was amplified in monocytic cells following stimulation with TNF-α in the presence of H2O2 or hypoxia (p ˂ 0.0001). Synergistic chemokine upregulation was related to the ROS levels, while pre-treatments with NAC suppressed this chemokine elevation (p ≤ 0.01). The ROS/TNF-α crosstalk involved upregulation of CHOP, ERN1, HIF1A, and NF-κB/ERK-1,2 mediated signaling. In conclusion, IL-8/MCP-1 adipose expression is elevated in obesity. Mechanistically, ROS/TNF-α crosstalk may drive expression of these chemokines in monocytic cells by inducing ER stress, HIF1A stabilization, and signaling via NF-κB/ERK-1,2. NAC had inhibitory effect on oxidative stress-driven IL-8/MCP-1 expression, which may have therapeutic significance regarding meta-inflammation.

Short Chain Fatty Acid Acetate Increases TNFα-Induced MCP-1 Production in Monocytic Cells via ACSL1/MAPK/NF-κB Axis.

Short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) acetate, a byproduct of dietary fiber metabolism by gut bacteria, has multiple immunomodulatory functions. The anti-inflammatory role of acetate is well documented; however, its effect on monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) production is unknown. Similarly, the comparative effect of SCFA on MCP-1 expression in monocytes and macrophages remains unclear. We investigated whether acetate modulates TNFα-mediated MCP-1/CCL2 production in monocytes/macrophages and, if so, by which mechanism(s). Monocytic cells were exposed to acetate with/without TNFα for 24 h, and MCP-1 expression was measured. Monocytes treated with acetate in combination with TNFα resulted in significantly greater MCP-1 production compared to TNFα treatment alone, indicating a synergistic effect. On the contrary, treatment with acetate in combination with TNFα suppressed MCP-1 production in macrophages. The synergistic upregulation of MCP-1 was mediated through the activation of long-chain fatty acyl-CoA synthetase 1 (ACSL1). However, the inhibition of other bioactive lipid enzymes [carnitine palmitoyltransferase I (CPT I) or serine palmitoyltransferase (SPT)] did not affect this synergy. Moreover, MCP-1 expression was significantly reduced by the inhibition of p38 MAPK, ERK1/2, and NF-κB signaling. The inhibition of ACSL1 attenuated the acetate/TNFα-mediated phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, ERK1/2, and NF-κB. Increased NF-κB/AP-1 activity, resulting from acetate/TNFα co-stimulation, was decreased by ACSL1 inhibition. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the proinflammatory effects of acetate on TNF-α-mediated MCP-1 production via the ACSL1/MAPK/NF-κB axis in monocytic cells, while a paradoxical effect was observed in THP-1-derived macrophages.

The Synergy between Palmitate and TNF-α for CCL2 Production Is Dependent on the TRIF/IRF3 Pathway: Implications for Metabolic Inflammation.

The chemokine CCL2 (also known as MCP-1) is a key regulator of monocyte infiltration into adipose tissue, which plays a central role in the pathophysiology of obesity-associated inflammation and insulin resistance. It remains unclear how CCL2 production is upregulated in obese humans and rodents. Because elevated levels of the free fatty acid (FFA) palmitate and TNF-α have been reported in obesity, we studied whether these agents interact to trigger CCL2 production. Our data show that treatment of THP-1 and primary human monocytic cells with palmitate and TNF-α led to a marked increase in CCL2 production compared with either treatment alone. Mechanistically, we found that cooperative production of CCL2 by palmitate and TNF-α did not require MyD88, but it was attenuated by blocking TLR4 or TRIF. IRF3-deficient cells did not show synergistic CCL2 production in response to palmitate/TNF-α. Moreover, IRF3 activation by polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid augmented TNF-α-induced CCL2 secretion. Interestingly, elevated NF-κB/AP-1 activity resulting from palmitate/TNF-α costimulation was attenuated by TRIF/IRF3 inhibition. Diet-induced C57BL/6 obese mice with high FFAs levels showed a strong correlation between TNF-α and CCL2 in plasma and adipose tissue and, as expected, also showed increased adipose tissue macrophage accumulation compared with lean mice. Similar results were observed in the adipose tissue samples from obese humans. Overall, our findings support a model in which elevated FFAs in obesity create a milieu for TNF-α to trigger CCL2 production via the TLR4/TRIF/IRF3 signaling cascade, representing a potential contribution of FFAs to metabolic inflammation.

TNF-α Drives the CCL4 Expression in Human Monocytic Cells: Involvement of the SAPK/JNK and NF-κB Signaling Pathways.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Increased circulatory levels of both TNF-α and CCL4/MIP-1ß are found in metabolic diseases. However, it is unclear whether TNF-α which is a signature proinflammatory cytokine involved in metabolic inflammation, can induce/promote the expression of CCL4. METHODS: THP-1 human monocytic cells and THP-1-derived macrophages were stimulated with TNF-α and LPS-treatment as a positive control. CCL4 mRNA/protein expression was measured using qRT-PCR/ELISA, respectively. Stress-activated protein kinases (SAPK)/ c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activity was determined using the assay kit. Mechanistic pathways were studied using anti-TNFR1/2 antibodies, pharmacological inhibitors, siRNAs, and NF-κB/AP-1 reporter-expressing THP-1-XBlue cells. Phosphorylation of signaling molecules was assessed by Western blotting. RESULTS: TNF-α induces CCL4 expression at mRNA and protein levels, in both THP-1 monocytic cells and macrophages (P<0.05). TNF-α-driven CCL4 production was markedly abrogated by pre-treatment with anti-TNFR1/2 neutralizing antibodies. TNF-α treatment induced phosphorylation of SAPK/JNK, c-Jun, and NF-κB. Genetic and/or pharmacologic inhibition of SAPK/JNK and NF-κB pathways suppressed the TNF-α-induced CCL4 expression (P<0.05). NF-κB/AP-1 activity was found to be significantly increased in TNFα-treated SEAP reporter-expressing monocytic cells. CONCLUSION: These data suggest that TNF-α drives CCL4 expression in THP-1 monocytic cells/macrophages via the activation of SAPK/JNK and NF-κB pathways. The findings may provide new insights into understanding the regulatory role of TNF-α in augmenting CCL4 expression during inflammatory conditions.

MIP-1α Induction by Palmitate in the Human Monocytic Cells Implicates TLR4 Signaling Mechanism.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: MIP-1α (macrophage inflammatory protein 1α)/CCL3 chemokine is associated with the adipose tissue inflammation in obesity. Both MIP-1α and free fatty acids are elevated in obesity/T2D. We asked if free fatty acid palmitate could modulate MIP1α expression in the human monocytic cells. METHODS: Human monocytic THP-1 cells and macrophages were stimulated with palmitate and TNF-α (positive control). MIP-1α expression was measured with real time RT-PCR, Flow Cytometry and ELISA. Signaling pathways were identified by using THP-1-XBlue™ cells, THP-1-XBlue™-defMyD cells, anti-TLR4 mAb and TLR4 siRNA. RESULTS: Our data show that palmitate induced significant increase in MIP1α production in monocytic THP-1 cells/macrophages. MIP-1α induction was significantly suppressed when cells were treated with anti-TLR4 antibody prior stimulation with palmitate. Using TLR4 siRNA, we further demonstrate that palmitate-induced MIP-1α expression in monocytic cells requires TLR4. Moreover, THP1 cells defective in MyD88, a major adaptor protein involved in TLR4 signaling, were unable to induce MIP-1α production in response to palmitate. Palmitate-induced MIP-1α expression was suppressed by inhibition of MAPK, NFkB and PI3K signaling pathways. In addition, palmitate-induced NF-κB/AP-1 activation was observed while production of MIP-1α. However, this activation of NF-κB/AP-1 was abrogated in MyD88 deficient cells. CONCLUSION: Overall, these results show that palmitate induces TLR4dependent MIP-1α expression requiring the MyD88 recruitment and activation of MAPK, NF-κB/AP-1 and PI3K signaling. It implies that the increased systemic levels of free fatty acid palmitate in obesity/T2D may contribute to metabolic inflammation through excessive production of MIP-1a.

Oxidative Stress Induces Expression of the Toll-Like Receptors (TLRs) 2 and 4 in the Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells: Implications for Metabolic Inflammation.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Innate immune toll-like receptors (TLRs) are emerging as nutrient sensors. Oxidative stress in the adipose tissue in obesity acts as a critical early trigger of altered pathophysiology. TLR2/TLR4 adipose upregulation has been associated with insulin resistance in humans; however, it remains unclear whether oxidative stress can modulate expression of TLR2/4 and related immune-metabolic regulators (IRF3/5) in immune cells. We, therefore, assessed their expression along with proinflammatory cytokines in the human PBMC following induction of oxidative stress. METHODS: PBMC were isolated from blood of healthy donors using Ficoll-Paque method and cells were treated with H2O2 to induce oxidative stress. ROS was measured by DCFH-DA assay. Target gene and protein expression was determined using real-time RT-PCR and flow cytometry/confocal microscopy, respectively. TLR2/4 expression by H2O2 in presence of ROS-inhibitors or leptin/LPS/fatty acids was also assessed. Expression of phosphorylated/total ERK1/2, c-Jun, p38, and NF-κB was determined by western blotting. The data (mean±SEM) were compared using unpaired student's t-test or ANOVA; all P-values <0.05 were considered significant. RESULTS: TLR2/4 mRNA/protein expression was elevated by oxidative stress in PBMC compared to controls (P<0.001). This induction was abrogated by apocynin/N-acetyl cysteine treatments (P<0.01). H2O2-induced TLR2/4 gene expression was further enhanced by leptin, LPS, oleate, or palmitate (P<0.05). Oxidative stress also promoted expression of IRF3/5 and proinflammatory cytokines including IFN-γ, IL-1ß, IL-6, TNF-α, and MCP-1/CCL2. This oxidative stress in PBMC involved MAPK/NF-κB dependent signaling. CONCLUSION: Taken together, oxidative stress upregulates expression of TLR2/4, IRF3/5 and signature proinflammatory cytokines in PBMC, involving MAPK/NF-κB dependent signaling, all of which may have implications for metabolic inflammation.

Adipose tissue expression of CCL19 chemokine is positively associated with insulin resistance.

BACKGROUND: Chemokines produced by adipose tissue (AT) are involved in the development of chronic low-grade inflammation in obese humans and rodents. AT CCL19 expression in obesity and its association with metabolic inflammation and insulin resistance are poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the effects of CCL19 gene expression on inflammatory markers in subcutaneous AT and insulin resistance. METHODS: Subcutaneous adipose samples were collected from 56 non-diabetic (26-obese, 21-overweight, and 9-lean) individuals. Expression of CCL19 and inflammatory markers was determined using real-time RT-PCR. Plasma C-reactive protein (CRP) and adiponectin were measured by ELISA. Insulin sensitivity was assessed using homeostasis model assessment index (HOMA). RESULTS: CCL19 expression was significantly higher in obese compared with lean individuals (P < 0.034). The elevated expression of CCL19 associated positively with body mass index (r = 0.253; P = 0.049). CCL19 expression correlated positively with IL-8 (r = 0.39; P = 0.006), IL-12 (r = 0.43; P = 0.003), IP-10 (r = 0.25; P = 0.07), CCL5 (r = 0.37; P = 0.011), CCR2 (r = 0.44; P = 0.001), and CCR5 (r = 0.35; P = 0.009). Additionally, CCL19 was positively correlated with triglycerides (TG: r = 0.41; P = 0.001), fasting blood glucose (FBG: r = 0.49; P < 0.0001), glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c: r = 0.396; P = 0.001), and CRP (r = 0.387; P = 0.019) whereas it had negative association with HDL cholesterol (r = -0.282; P = 0.035) and adiponectin (-0.393; P = 0.019). Notably, HOMA-IR correlated positively with CCL19 (r = 0.38; P = 0.01). In multiple regression analysis, CCL19 is an independent predictor of IL-8 and IL-12. CONCLUSIONS: These data demonstrate that increased AT expression of CCL19 in obesity may represent a molecular link between metabolic inflammation and insulin resistance.

The Cooperative Induction of CCL4 in Human Monocytic Cells by TNF-α and Palmitate Requires MyD88 and Involves MAPK/NF-κB Signaling Pathways.

Chronic low-grade inflammation, also known as metabolic inflammation, is a hallmark of obesity and parallels with the presence of elevated circulatory levels of free fatty acids and inflammatory cytokines/chemokines. CCL4/MIP-1ß chemokine plays a key role in the adipose tissue monocyte recruitment. Increased circulatory levels of TNF-α, palmitate and CCL4 are co-expressed in obesity. We asked if the TNF-α/palmitate could interact cooperatively to augment the CCL4 production in human monocytic cells and macrophages. THP-1 cells/primary macrophages were co-treated with TNF-α/palmitate and CCL4 mRNA/protein expression was assessed using qRT-PCR/ELISA. TLR4 siRNA, a TLR4 receptor-blocking antibody, XBlue™-defMyD cells and pathway inhibitors were used to decipher the signaling mechanisms. We found that TNF-α/palmitate co-stimulation augmented the CCL4 expression in monocytic cells and macrophages compared to controls (p < 0.05). TLR4 suppression or neutralization abrogated the CCL4 expression in monocytic cells. Notably, CCL4 cooperative induction in monocytic cells was: (1) Markedly less in MyD88-deficient cells, (2) IRF3 independent, (3) clathrin dependent and (4) associated with the signaling mechanism involving ERK1/2, c-Jun, JNK and NF-κB. In conclusion, TNF-α/palmitate co-stimulation promotes the CCL4 expression in human monocytic cells through the mechanism involving a TLR4-MyD88 axis and MAPK/NF-κB pathways. These findings unravel a novel mechanism of the cooperative induction of CCL4 by TNF-α and palmitate which could be relevant to metabolic inflammation.

TNF-α in Combination with Palmitate Enhances IL-8 Production via The MyD88- Independent TLR4 Signaling Pathway: Potential Relevance to Metabolic Inflammation.

Elevated levels of IL-8 (CXCL8) in obesity have been linked with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes (T2D). The mechanisms that lead to the profound production of IL-8 in obesity remains to be understood. TNF-α and saturated free fatty acids (FFAs) are increased in obese humans and correlate with insulin resistance. Hence, we sought to investigate whether the cooccurrence of TNF-α and FFAs led to increase the production of IL-8 by human monocytes. We found that co-stimulation of human monocytes with palmitate and TNF-α led to increased IL-8 production as compared to those stimulated with palmitate or TNF-α alone. The synergistic production of IL-8 by TNF-α/palmitate was suppressed by neutralizing anti- Toll like receptor 4 (TLR4) antibody and by genetic silencing of TLR4. Both MyD88-deficient and MyD88-competent cells responded comparably to TNF-α/Palmitate. However, TIR-domain-containing adapter-inducing interferon (TRIF) inhibition or interferon regulatory transcription factor 3 (IRF3) knockdown partly blocked the synergistic production of IL-8. Our human data show that increased adipose tissue TNF-α expression correlated positively with IL-8 expression (r = 0.49, P = 0.001). IL-8 and TNF-α correlated positively with macrophage markers including CD68, CD163 and CD86 in adipose tissue. These findings suggest that the signaling cross-talk between saturated fatty acid palmitate and TNF-α may be a key driver in obesity-associated chronic inflammation via an excessive production of IL-8.

Palmitate Activates CCL4 Expression in Human Monocytic Cells via TLR4/MyD88 Dependent Activation of NF-κB/MAPK/ PI3K Signaling Systems.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Obesity is associated with adipose tissue inflammation which plays a key role in the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Saturated free fatty acids (SFAs) levels are found to be elevated in obesity and T2D. Chemokines are known to have potent inflammatory functions in a wide range of biological processes linked to immunological disorders. Since CCL4 (Chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 4), also known as macrophage inflammatory protein-1ß (MIP-1ß), plays an important role in the migration of monocytes into the adipose tissue, we investigated the expression of CCL4 in monocytic cells/macrophages following activation with free fatty acid palmitate. METHODS: Human monocytic cell line THP-1 and macrophages derived from THP-1 and primary monocytes were stimulated with palmitate and LPS (positive control). CCL4 expression and secretion were measured with real time RT-PCR and ELISA respectively. Signaling pathways were identified by using THP-1-XBlueTM cells, THP-1-XBlueTM-defMyD cells, anti-TLR4 mAb and TLR4 siRNA. RESULTS: Palmitate induces CCL4 expression at both mRNA and protein levels in human monocytic cells. Palmitate-induced CCL4 production was markedly suppressed by neutralizing anti-TLR-4 antibody. Additionally, silencing of TLR4 by siRNA also significantly suppressed the palmitate-induced up-regulation of CCL4. MyD88-deficient cells did not express CCL4 in response to palmitate treatment. Inhibition of NF-kB and MAPK pathways suppressed the palmitate mediated induction of CCL4. Moreover, induction of CCL4 was blocked by PI3 Kinase inhibitors LY294002 and wortmannin. CONCLUSION: Collectively, our results show that palmitate induces CCL4 expression via activation of the TLR4-MyD88/NF-kB/MAPK/ PI3K signaling cascade. Thus, our findings suggest that the palmitate-induced CCL4 production might be an underlying mechanism of metabolic inflammation.

Increased Expression of the Innate Immune Receptor TLR10 in Obesity and Type-2 Diabetes: Association with ROS-Mediated Oxidative Stress.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Metabolic diseases such as obesity and type-2 diabetes (T2D) are known to be associated with chronic low-grade inflammation called metabolic inflammation together with an oxidative stress milieu found in the expanding adipose tissue. The innate immune Toll-like receptors (TLR) such as TLR2 and TLR4 have emerged as key players in metabolic inflammation; nonetheless, TLR10 expression in the adipose tissue and its significance in obesity/T2D remain unclear. METHODS: TLR10 gene expression was determined in the adipose tissue samples from healthy non-diabetic and T2D individuals, 13 each, using real-time RT-PCR. TLR10 protein expression was determined by immunohistochemistry, confocal microscopy, and flow cytometry. Regarding in vitro studies, THP-1 cells, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), or primary monocytes were treated with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) for induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated oxidative stress. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was measured using a commercial kit. Data (mean±SEM) were compared using unpaired student's t-test and P<0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: The adipose tissue TLR10 gene/protein expression was found to be significantly upregulated in obesity as well as T2D which correlated with body mass index (BMI). ROS-mediated oxidative stress induced high levels of TLR10 gene/protein expression in monocytic cells and PBMC. In these cells, oxidative stress induced a time-dependent increase in SOD activity. Pre-treatment of cells with anti-oxidants/ROS scavengers diminished the expression of TLR10. ROS-induced TLR10 expression involved the nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB)/mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling as well as endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. H2O2-induced oxidative stress interacted synergistically with palmitate to trigger the expression of TLR10 which associated with enhanced expression of proinflammatory cytokines/chemokine. CONCLUSION: Oxidative stress induces the expression of TLR10 which may represent an immune marker for metabolic inflammation.

Pam3CSK4 Induces MMP-9 Expression in Human Monocytic THP-1 Cells.

BACKGROUND: Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 is known to degrade the extracellular matrix and increased MMP-9 levels are related with the pathogenesis of many inflammatory conditions including obesity. Pam3CSK4 is a synthetic triacylated lipopeptide (LP) which is a potent activator of immune cells and induces cytokine production. However, it is unclear whether Pam3CSK4 is able to induce MMP-9 expression in monocytic cells. We, therefore, determined MMP-9 production by Pam3CSK4-treated THP-1 cells and also investigated the signal transduction pathway(s) involved. METHODS: MMP-9 expression was determined by real-time qPCR and ELISA. MMP-9 activity was assessed by zymography. THP-1 cells, THP1-XBlueTM cells, THP1-XBlueTM-defMyD cells, anti-TLR2 mAb and selective pharmacological inhibitors were used to study signaling pathways involved. Phosphorylated and total proteins were detected by western blotting. RESULTS: Pam3CSK4 induced MMP-9 expression (P<0.05) at both mRNA and protein levels in human monocytic THP-1 cells. Increased NF-κB/AP-1 activity was detected in Pam3CSK4-treated THP-1 cells and MMP-9 production in these cells was significantly suppressed by pre-treatment with anti-TLR2 neutralizing antibody or by inhibition of clathrin-dependent endocytosis. Also, MyD88-/- THP-1 cells did not express MMP-9 following treatment with Pam3CSK4. Inhibition of JNK, MEK/ERK, p38 MAPK and NF-κB significantly suppressed MMP-9 gene expression (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Pam3CSK4 induces MMP-9 production in THP-1 cells through the TLR-2/MyD88-dependent mechanism involving MEK/ERK, JNK, p38 MAPK and NF-κB/AP-1 activation.

IL-1ß-Induced CXCL10 Expression in THP-1 Monocytic Cells Involves the JNK/c-Jun and NF-κB-Mediated Signaling.

CXCL10 (IP-10) plays a key role in leukocyte homing to the inflamed tissues and its increased levels are associated with the pathophysiology of various inflammatory diseases including obesity and type 2 diabetes. IL-1ß is a key proinflammatory cytokine that is found upregulated in meta-inflammatory conditions and acts as a potent activator, inducing the expression of cytokines/chemokines by immune cells. However, it is unclear whether IL-1ß induces the expression of CXCL10 in monocytic cells. We, therefore, determined the CXCL10 induction using IL-1ß in THP1 monocytic cells and investigated the mechanisms involved. Monocytes (human monocytic THP-1 cells) were stimulated with IL-1ß. CXCL10 gene expression was determined with real-time RT-PCR. CXCL10 protein was determined using ELISA. Signaling pathways were identified by using Western blotting, inhibitors, siRNA transfections, and kinase assay. Our data show that IL-1ß induced the CXCL10 expression at both mRNA and protein levels in monocytic cells (p = 0.0001). Notably, only the JNK inhibitor (SP600125) significantly suppressed the IL-1ß-induced CXCL10 expression, while the inhibitors of MEK1/2 (U0126), ERK1/2 (PD98059), and p38 MAPK (SB203580) had no significant effect. Furthermore, IL-1ß-induced CXCL10 expression was decreased in monocytic cells deficient in JNK/c-Jun. Accordingly, inhibiting the JNK kinase activity markedly reduced the IL-1ß-induced JNK/c-Jun phosphorylation in monocytic cells. NF-κB inhibition by Bay-117085 and resveratrol also suppressed the CXCL10 expression. Our findings provide preliminary evidence that IL-1ß stimulation induces the expression of CXCL10 in monocytic cells which requires signaling via the JNK/c-Jun/NF-κB axis.

Differential effects of fish-oil and cocoa-butter based high-fat/high-sucrose diets on endocrine pancreas morphology and function in mice.

Introduction: A high-fat/high-sucrose diet leads to adverse metabolic changes that affect insulin sensitivity, function, and secretion. The source of fat in the diet might inhibit or increase this adverse effect. Fish oil and cocoa butter are a significant part of our diets. Yet comparisons of these commonly used fat sources with high sucrose on pancreas morphology and function are not made. This study investigated the comparative effects of a fish oil-based high-fat/high-sucrose diet (Fish-HFDS) versus a cocoa butter-based high-fat/high-sucrose diet (Cocoa-HFDS) on endocrine pancreas morphology and function in mice. Methods: C57BL/6 male mice (n=12) were randomly assigned to dietary intervention either Fish-HFDS (n=6) or Cocoa-HFDS (n=6) for 22 weeks. Intraperitoneal glucose and insulin tolerance tests (IP-GTT and IP-ITT) were performed after 20-21 weeks of dietary intervention. Plasma concentrations of c-peptide, insulin, glucagon, GLP-1, and leptin were measured by Milliplex kit. Pancreatic tissues were collected for immunohistochemistry to measure islet number and composition. Tissues were multi-labelled with antibodies against insulin and glucagon, also including expression on Pdx1-positive cells. Results and discussion: Fish-HFDS-fed mice showed significantly reduced food intake and body weight gain compared to Cocoa-HFDS-fed mice. Fish-HFDS group had lower fasting blood glucose concentration and area under the curve (AUC) for both GTT and ITT. Plasma c-peptide, insulin, glucagon, and GLP-1 concentrations were increased in the Fish-HFDS group. Interestingly, mice fed the Fish-HFDS diet displayed higher plasma leptin concentration. Histochemical analysis revealed a significant increase in endocrine pancreas ß-cells and islet numbers in mice fed Fish-HFDS compared to the Cocoa-HFDS group. Taken together, these findings suggest that in a high-fat/high-sucrose dietary setting, the source of the fat, especially fish oil, can ameliorate the effect of sucrose on glucose homeostasis and endocrine pancreas morphology and function.

Gut Dysbiosis Shaped by Cocoa Butter-Based Sucrose-Free HFD Leads to Steatohepatitis, and Insulin Resistance in Mice.

BACKGROUND: High-fat diets cause gut dysbiosis and promote triglyceride accumulation, obesity, gut permeability changes, inflammation, and insulin resistance. Both cocoa butter and fish oil are considered to be a part of healthy diets. However, their differential effects on gut microbiome perturbations in mice fed high concentrations of these fats, in the absence of sucrose, remains to be elucidated. The aim of the study was to test whether the sucrose-free cocoa butter-based high-fat diet (C-HFD) feeding in mice leads to gut dysbiosis that associates with a pathologic phenotype marked by hepatic steatosis, low-grade inflammation, perturbed glucose homeostasis, and insulin resistance, compared with control mice fed the fish oil based high-fat diet (F-HFD). RESULTS: C57BL/6 mice (5-6 mice/group) were fed two types of high fat diets (C-HFD and F-HFD) for 24 weeks. No significant difference was found in the liver weight or total body weight between the two groups. The 16S rRNA sequencing of gut bacterial samples displayed gut dysbiosis in C-HFD group, with differentially-altered microbial diversity or relative abundances. Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria were highly abundant in C-HFD group, while the Verrucomicrobia, Saccharibacteria (TM7), Actinobacteria, and Tenericutes were more abundant in F-HFD group. Other taxa in C-HFD group included the Bacteroides, Odoribacter, Sutterella, Firmicutes bacterium (AF12), Anaeroplasma, Roseburia, and Parabacteroides distasonis. An increased Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B) ratio in C-HFD group, compared with F-HFD group, indicated the gut dysbiosis. These gut bacterial changes in C-HFD group had predicted associations with fatty liver disease and with lipogenic, inflammatory, glucose metabolic, and insulin signaling pathways. Consistent with its microbiome shift, the C-HFD group showed hepatic inflammation and steatosis, high fasting blood glucose, insulin resistance, increased hepatic de novo lipogenesis (Acetyl CoA carboxylases 1 (Acaca), Fatty acid synthase (Fasn), Stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 (Scd1), Elongation of long-chain fatty acids family member 6 (Elovl6), Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (Pparg) and cholesterol synthesis (ß-(hydroxy ß-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (Hmgcr). Non-significant differences were observed regarding fatty acid uptake (Cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36), Fatty acid binding protein-1 (Fabp1) and efflux (ATP-binding cassette G1 (Abcg1), Microsomal TG transfer protein (Mttp) in C-HFD group, compared with F-HFD group. The C-HFD group also displayed increased gene expression of inflammatory markers including Tumor necrosis factor alpha (Tnfa), C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (Ccl2), and Interleukin-12 (Il12), as well as a tendency for liver fibrosis. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that the sucrose-free C-HFD feeding in mice induces gut dysbiosis which associates with liver inflammation, steatosis, glucose intolerance and insulin resistance.

Unraveling Verapamil's Multidimensional Role in Diabetes Therapy: From ß-Cell Regeneration to Cholecystokinin Induction in Zebrafish and MIN6 Cell-Line Models.

This study unveils verapamil's compelling cytoprotective and proliferative effects on pancreatic ß-cells amidst diabetic stressors, spotlighting its unforeseen role in augmenting cholecystokinin (CCK) expression. Through rigorous investigations employing MIN6 ß-cells and zebrafish models under type 1 and type 2 diabetic conditions, we demonstrate verapamil's capacity to significantly boost ß-cell proliferation, enhance glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, and fortify cellular resilience. A pivotal revelation of our research is verapamil's induction of CCK, a peptide hormone known for its role in nutrient digestion and insulin secretion, which signifies a novel pathway through which verapamil exerts its therapeutic effects. Furthermore, our mechanistic insights reveal that verapamil orchestrates a broad spectrum of gene and protein expressions pivotal for ß-cell survival and adaptation to immune-metabolic challenges. In vivo validation in a zebrafish larvae model confirms verapamil's efficacy in fostering ß-cell recovery post-metronidazole infliction. Collectively, our findings advocate for verapamil's reevaluation as a multifaceted agent in diabetes therapy, highlighting its novel function in CCK upregulation alongside enhancing ß-cell proliferation, glucose sensing, and oxidative respiration. This research enriches the therapeutic landscape, proposing verapamil not only as a cytoprotector but also as a promoter of ß-cell regeneration, thereby offering fresh avenues for diabetes management strategies aimed at preserving and augmenting ß-cell functionality.

Adipose Tissue Caveolin-1 Upregulation in Obesity Involves TNF-α/NF-κB Mediated Signaling.

Obesity is characterized by chronic low-grade inflammation. Obese people have higher levels of caveolin-1 (CAV1), a structural and functional protein present in adipose tissues (ATs). We aimed to define the inflammatory mediators that influence CAV1 gene regulation and the associated mechanisms in obesity. Using subcutaneous AT from 27 (7 lean and 20 obese) normoglycemic individuals, in vitro human adipocyte models, and in vivo mice models, we found elevated CAV1 expression in obese AT and a positive correlation between the gene expression of CAV1, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB). CAV1 gene expression was associated with proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines and their cognate receptors (r ≥ 0.447, p ≤ 0.030), but not with anti-inflammatory markers. CAV1 expression was correlated with CD163, indicating a prospective role for CAV1 in the adipose inflammatory microenvironment. Unlike wild-type animals, mice lacking TNF-α exhibited reduced levels of CAV1 mRNA/proteins, which were elevated by administering exogenous TNF-α. Mechanistically, TNF-α induces CAV1 gene transcription by mediating NF-κB binding to its two regulatory elements located in the CAV1 proximal regulatory region. The interplay between CAV1 and the TNF-α signaling pathway is intriguing and has potential as a target for therapeutic interventions in obesity and metabolic syndromes.

ACSL1 is a key regulator of inflammatory and macrophage foaming induced by short-term palmitate exposure or acute high-fat feeding.

Foamy and inflammatory macrophages play pathogenic roles in metabolic disorders. However, the mechanisms that promote foamy and inflammatory macrophage phenotypes under acute-high-fat feeding (AHFF) remain elusive. Herein, we investigated the role of acyl-CoA synthetase-1 (ACSL1) in favoring the foamy/inflammatory phenotype of monocytes/macrophages upon short-term exposure to palmitate or AHFF. Palmitate exposure induced a foamy/inflammatory phenotype in macrophages which was associated with increased ACSL1 expression. Inhibition/knockdown of ACSL1 in macrophages suppressed the foamy/inflammatory phenotype through the inhibition of the CD36-FABP4-p38-PPARδ signaling axis. ACSL1 inhibition/knockdown suppressed macrophage foaming/inflammation after palmitate stimulation by downregulating the FABP4 expression. Similar results were obtained using primary human monocytes. As expected, oral administration of ACSL1 inhibitor triacsin-C in mice before AHFF normalized the inflammatory/foamy phenotype of the circulatory monocytes by suppressing FABP4 expression. Our results reveal that targeting ACSL1 leads to the attenuation of the CD36-FABP4-p38-PPARδ signaling axis, providing a therapeutic strategy to prevent the AHFF-induced macrophage foaming and inflammation.