Bavachin attenuates LPS-induced inflammatory response and inhibits the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in macrophages
Abstract
Background: Bavachin, a natural compound derived from Psoralea corylifolia L., has been used as a traditional remedy in Asian countries. However, its anti-inflammatory effects on LPS-induced inflammation and NLRP3 inflammasome activation in macrophages are not well understood.
Purpose: This study aimed to explore the anti-inflammatory effects of bavachin on LPS-activated murine macrophage cell line J774A.1 and murine peritoneal macrophages.
Methods: J774A.1 cells and murine peritoneal macrophages were pre-treated with bavachin before exposure to LPS. The concentrations of NO, PGE2, IL-6, and IL-12p40 in the culture supernatant were measured. Western blotting was used to analyze the expression of iNOS, COX-2, mPGES-1, and MAPKs, while NF-κB activity was assessed through a promoter reporter assay. To evaluate NLRP3 inflammasome activation, J774A.1 cells were treated with LPS, followed by bavachin and ATP. The concentration of IL-1β in the supernatant was measured, and Western blotting was performed to examine the expression of NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, and IL-1β. Inflammasome complex formation was visualized using immunofluorescence microscopy.
Results: Bavachin significantly reduced LPS-induced NO and PGE2 production, as well as the expression of iNOS and mPGES-1. It also decreased IL-6 and IL-12p40 production, suppressed MAPK and NF-κB activation, and inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome-derived IL-1β secretion. Additionally, bavachin reduced caspase-1 activation, inhibited mature IL-1β expression, and prevented inflammasome complex formation. Similarly, bavachin suppressed the production of NO, IL-6, and IL-12p40 in LPS-stimulated murine peritoneal macrophages.
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that bavachin exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by attenuating LPS-induced inflammation and inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation in macrophages. These results indicate INF195 that bavachin may have therapeutic potential for treating inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.