BACKGROUND: Calcification is a natural process of bone formation or osteogenesis. However, calcium is able to be deposited abnormally in soft tissues such as the aorta, adipose tissue and liver, causing these to harden. Abnormal calcification in arteries is a common factor contributing to high blood pressure and, further, many severe cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and coronary disease. In liver and adipose tissue, calcification always takes place accompanied by excess extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation which is called fibrosis, contributing to cirrhosis and metabolic disorders including insulin resistance. In addition, it is documented that severe calcification in adipose tissues is able to cause damage to the micro-vascular system, and calcification in perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) is a key effector of arterial stiffness. Dystrophic calcification, one of the most common types of abnormal calcification, usually occurs as a reaction to tissue damage such as obesity-induced inflammation. Increasing numbers of studies indicate that abnormal calcification is the result of re-differentiation towards osteogenesis which occurs in the nascent resident cells under the stimulation of multiple factors. The BMP/Smad signaling pathway is commonly known to participate in bone formation and is implicated in mineralization as well as local induction of inflammation. Importantly, BMP/Smad signaling as an inducer of the osteochondrogenic phenotype in vascular calcification is fully appreciated. However, the molecular events of dystrophic calcification triggered by obesity-induced chronic inflammation still remain unclear. Our previous studies have identified that imbalance with increased activity of neutrophil elastase (NE), a Ser protease mainly released by neutrophils during inflammation, and decreased serum levels of the NE inhibitor α1-antitrypsin A1AT, contributes to the development of obesity-related metabolic complications including insulin resistance, fatty liver and chronic inflammation. This study explored the effects of NE on abnormal calcification in soft tissues, which may be mediated by BMP/Smad signaling pathway, and, furthermore, the molecular mechanism by which NE activates the BMP/Smad signaling pathway. METHODS: Wild-type mice were fed with either a high-fat high-fructose diet (HFHFD), a high-fat diet (HFD) alone or a normal chow diet (NCD), and NE-knockdown mice were fed with a HFHFD. Adipose tissue and liver were extracted from all mice. H&E staining and immunofluorescence staining (IF) detected the inflammation condition. Alizarin staining and von kossa staining were used to detect calcium deposits. 3,3′-Diaminobenzidine (DAB) staining was used to examine active phospho-Smad1/5 signaling. Regarding nascent resident cells which have potential ability of osteogenic re-differentiation, 3t3l1 fibroblast and human hepatic stellate cell (hHSC) were cultured in dishes and 6-well plates with coverslips. In our previous research, mouse aortic smooth muscle cells (mASMC) seeded in 6-well plates grew in an osteogenic medium (10mM β-glycerophosphate and 10mM Calcium chloride) in the presence or absence of NE (10nM). Calcium deposits were detected by Alizarin staining. 3t3l1 and hHSC was treated with NE (20nM, 30nM, 40nM), BMP2, TGFβ1 or NE combined with BMP2, TGFβ1 or NE inhibitor GW311616A (Axon). Further, we used specific chemical inhibitors, LDN-193189, BMP-ALK2/3 inhibitor, SB525334, TGFβ-ALK5 inhibitor, and I-191, PAR2 antagonist to investigate the molecular mechanism of NE’s effects on Smad signaling pathways. Cells in dishes were harvested, and the proteins were measured by western blot. Coverslips in 6-well plates were used for immunofluorescence. RESULTS: The most severe calcification was found in the adipose tissue of HFHFD fed wild-type mice and moderate calcification took place in the HFD mouse group while NCD mice rarely had calcium deposits. NE-knockdown significantly prevented calcium deposits in adipose tissue compared with HFHFD wild-type mice. Consistently, we found increased phospho-Smad1/5 (p-Smad1/5) signaling in the adipose tissues of mice on the HFHFD and HFD mice while p-Smad1/5 was prevented in the NE-knockout group. Furthermore, NE enhanced calcium deposits in mASMC cultured in osteogenic medium. NE significantly activated p-Smad1/5 signaling in hHSC in the dose-effect relationship and contributes to an additive effect on p-Smad1/5 in the presence of BMP2 or TGFβ1. Although p-Smad1/5 was only slightly aroused by NE in 3t3l1 fibroblast, NE was able to promote p-Smad1/5 activation tremendously and specifically in the presence of BMP2 or TGFβ1 but not p-Smad2/3 which is the main downstream signaling of TGFβ1. Chemical inhibition of ALK2/3, not ALK5 or PAR2, was able to completely block NE’s effects in hSHC on p-Smad1/5 activation. In addition, the cleavage of osteoblast-cadherin or CDH11 (OB-cadherin) was observed in hHSC, which may indicate a lower beta-catenin abundance in the hHSC cells which were treated with NE. CONCLUSION: NE has the potential to contribute to abnormal calcification in soft tissues including the liver, adipose tissue and aorta via activating canonical ALK2/3-BMP-Smad1/5 signaling pathway in the mesenchymal stem cell/MSC-lineage cells. In addition, NE is likely to break cell-cell adhesion which may contribute to cell proliferation and re-differentiation towards osteogenesis and fibrosis. / 2024-01-28T00:00:00Z

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O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar se a proteína bifuncional de planta, CrataBL, que tem lectina e as propriedades inibidoras de enzima, modula alterações de mecânica pulmonar, inflamatórias e remodelamento induzidas por elastase intratraqueal em camundongos. Métodos: 36 camundongos C57BL6 receberam elastase (0,025 mg) por instilação intratraqueal (grupo ELA e ELA-CrataBL). Os grupos controles receberam salina (grupo SAL e SAL-CrataBL). Os camundongos foram tratados com instilação intraperitoneal de CrataBL (2mg/kg) nos dias 1, 14 e 21 após a instilação intratraqueal de elastase (grupo SAL-CrataBL e ELA-CrataBL) os animais controle receberam salina no mesmo volume. No dia 28, os camundongos foram anestesiados, ventilados mecanicamente e foram analisados a resistência e elastância do sistema respiratório (Ers e Rrs), elastância e resistência tecidual (Htis e Gtis), resistência das vias aéreas (Raw) e óxido nítrico exalado (NOex). Após, o lavado broncoalveolar (LBA) foi realizado, os pulmões foram retirados e por morfometria, e foram quantificados o intercepto linear médio (Lm), a quantidade de neutrófilos, células positivas para TNF-alfa, fibras colágenas, elásticas, células positivas para MMP-9, MMP-12, TIMP-1, eNOS e iNOS e isoprostano no parênquima pulmonar e vias aéreas. No parênquima foram avaliados os macrófagos nos septos alveolares e nas vias aéreas, foram também avaliadas as células para MUC-5. Resultados: No grupo ELA houve um aumento na Ers, Raw, Gtis, Htis, Lm, NOex, nas células totais, macrófagos, neutrófilos, eosinófilos e linfócitos no LBA em relação aos controles (p < 0,05), sendo que Raw, diminuiu também nos grupos SAL-CrataBL e ELA-CrataBL. Nos grupos tratados com CrataBL houve uma diminuição de Ers (37,0±2,2 cmH2O/L), Htis (37,9±3,5 cmH2O/ml/s), ENO (14,7±0,7 ppb), comparativamente ao grupo ELA (p < 0,05). No LBA houve atenuação de neutrófilos (0,003±0,001 104células/ml), linfócitos (0,003±0,001 104células/ml) e de Lm (54,6±6,0 mm). Complementando a avaliação, no grupo que recebeu elastase houve um aumento no número de macrófagos (22,88 +- 2,24 células/104um2), neutrófilos (1,18 +- 0,15 células/10 4um2), células positivas para TNF-ala (12,52 +- 0,42 células/104um2) no parênquima pulmonar. Nas alterações de remodelamento no parênquima pulmonar, houve um aumento da proporção de volume de fibras colágenas (11,5 +- 0,11%), elásticas (0,5 +- 0,03%), na quantidade de células positivas para MMP-9 (18,59 +- 1,87 células/104?m2), MMP-12 (20,17 +- 1,92 células/104?m2), TIMP-1 (14,42 +- 2,05 células/104um2) em comparação com os controlos (p < 0,001). No estresse oxidativo, houve um aumento de eNOS (13,15 +- 0,40 células/104um2), iNOS (10,49 +- 0,65 células/104um2) e isoprostano (18,11 =- 5,38%). O tratamento CrataBL (grupo ELA-CrataBL) reduziu no parênquima pulmonar a quantidade de macrófagos (9,58 +- 1,36 células/104um2), neutrófilos (0,75 +- 0,1 células/104um2), células positivas para TNF-alfa (10.4±0,49 células/104?m2), fibras colágenas (10,8 +- 0,13%), elásticas (0,3 +- 0,02%), a quantidade de células positivas para a MMP-9 (10,35±0,65 células/104um2), MMP-12 (14,15±0,59 células/104um2), TIMP-1 (9,89 +- 2,79 células/104um2), MUC-5 (3,56 +- 0,54 células/104um2), eNOS (6.98 +- 0.32 células/104um2) e iNOS (6,21 +- 0,42 células/104um2) e isoprostano (8,96 +- 3,08 %) em relação ao grupo ELA (p < 0,001). Nas vias aéreas também ocorreu um aumento significativo de neutrófilos (5,97 +- 1,03 células/104um2), células positivas para TNF-alfa (15,82 +- 1,03 células/104um2). Nas alterações de remodelamento pulmonar nas vias aéreas também ocorreu um aumento da proporção de volume de fibras colágenas (8,73 +- 2,59%), elásticas (2,56 +- 0,18%), na quantidade de células positivas para MMP-9 (14,86 +- 1,77 células/104um2), MMP-12 (18,56 +- 1,79 células/104um2), TIMP-1 (1,31 +- 0,12 células/104um2) e MUC-5 (7,09 +- 1,71 células/104um2) em comparação com os controlos (p < 0,001). No estresse oxidativo, houve um aumento de células positivas para eNOS (3,09 +- 0,08 células/104um2), iNOS (5,4 +- 0,3 células/104um2) e isoprostano (18,11 +- 5,38%) em comparação com os controlos (p < 0,001). O tratamento CrataBL (grupo ELA-CrataBL) reduziu nas vias aéreas a quantidade de neutrófilos (4,62 +- 0,61 células/104um2), TNF- alfa (14,30 +- 1,28 células/104um2), fibras colágenas (7,80 +- 1,37%), elásticas (1,4 +- 0,13%), a quantidade de células positivas para a MMP-9 (9,93 +- 1,39 células/104um2), MMP-12 (12,06 +- 1,15 células/104um2), TIMP-1 (0,73 +- 0,05 células/104?m2), MUC-5 (3,56 +- 0,54 células/104um2), eNOS (1,89 +- 0,16 células/104um2) e iNOS (4,3 +- 0,31 células/104um2), isoprostano (7,34 +- 2,31%) em relação ao grupo ELA (p < 0,001). Conclusão: CrataBL atenua as alterações de mecânica pulmonar, lavado bronco alveolar, responsividade inflamatória, controle do remodelamento e estresse oxidativo induzidas pela elastase. Embora mais estudos devam ser realizados, esta proteína bifuncional pode contribuir como potencial ferramenta terapêutica para o tratamento da DPOC / The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the bifunctional protein plant, CrataBL, which has lectin and enzyme inhibitory properties, modulates changes in lung mechanics, inflammatory and remodeling induced by intratracheal elastase in mice.Methods : 36 C57/Bl6 mice received elastase (0.025 mg) by intratracheal (group ELA and ELA-CrataBL). Control groups received saline (group SAL and SAL-CrataBL).The mice were treated with intraperitoneal instillation of CrataBL (2mg/kg) on days 1, 14 and 21 after intratracheal instillation of elastase (group SAL-CrataBL and ELA-CrataBL), control animals received saline in the same volume. On day 28, the mice were anesthetized and mechanically ventilated were analyzed resistance and respiratory system elastance (Ers and Rrs), elastance and tissue resistance (Htis and Gtis), airway resistance (Raw) and exhaled nitric oxide (ENO). After the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed, the lungs were removed and morphometry were quantified and the linear intercept mean (Lm), the number of neutrophils, positive cells for TNF-alfa, collagen fibers, positive cells for MMP-9, MMP-12, TIMP-1, eNOS, iNOS and isoprostane in lung parenchyma and airways. Parenchyma was also evaluated macrophages in the alveolar septa. Airway was also evaluated MUC-5 cells. Results: In group ELA was an increase in Ers, Raw, Gtis, Htis, Lm, ENO, in total cells, macrophages, neutrophils, eosinophils and lymphocytes in BAL compared to controls (p < 0.05), and Raw, decreased in both groups SAL-CrataBL and ELA-CrataBL. In the groups treated with CrataBL there was a decrease in Ers (37.0±2.2 cmH2O/L) Htis (37 9±3.5 cmH2O/ml/s) and ENO (14.7±0.7 ppb) compared to the ELA group (p < 0.05). In BAL there was attenuation of neutrophils (0.003±0.001 104cells/ml), lymphocytes (0.003±0.001 104cells/ml) and Lm (54.6±6.0 mm). Complementing the assessment, the group that received elastase was an increase in the number of macrophages (22.88±2.24 cells/104um2), neutrophils (1.18±0.15 cells/104um2), positive TNF-alfa cells (12.52±0.42 cells/104um2) in the lung parenchyma. In remodeling changes in lung parenchyma, there was an increase in the volume ratio of collagen fibers (11.5 ± 0.11%), elastic (0.5±0.03%), the number of positive MMP-9 cells (18.59±1.87 cells/104um2), MMP-12 (20.17 ± 1.92 cells/104um2) TIMP-1 (14.42±2.05 cells/104um2) compared to controls (p < 0.001). Oxidative stress, was an increased of eNOS (13.15±0.40 cells/104um2), iNOS (10.49 ± 0.65 cells/104um2) and isoprostane (18.11±5.38%). Treatment CrataBL (ELA-CrataBL group) reduced the amount of parenchymal lung macrophages (9.58±1.36 cells/104um2), neutrophils (0.75±0.1 cells/104um2), positive TNF-alfa cells (10.4±0.49 cells/104um2), collagen (10.8±0.13%), elastic (0.3±0.02%), the number of positive MMP-9 cells (10.35±0.65 cells/104?m2), MMP-12 (14.15±0.59 cells/104um2), TIMP-1 (9.89±2.79 cells/104um2) MUC-5 (3.56±0.54 cells/104um2), eNOS (6.98±0:32 cells/104um2) and iNOS (6.21±0.42 cells/104um2) and isoprostane (8.96 ± 3.08%) compared to group ELA (p < 0.001). Airway was also a significant increase in neutrophils (5.97±1.03 cells/104um2), positive TNF-alfa cells (15.82±1.03 cells/104um2). Changes in lung airway remodeling also occurred an increase in the volume ratio of collagen fibers (8.73±2.59%), elastic (2.56±0.18%), the number of positive MMP-9 cells (14.86±1.77 cells/104um2), MMP-12 (18.56±1.79 cells/104um2) TIMP-1 (1.31±0.12 cells/104um2) and MUC-5 (7.09±1.71 cells/104um2) compared to controls (p < 0.001). Oxidative stress, an increase of eNOS (3.09 ± 0.08 cells/104um2), iNOS (5.4±0.3 cells/104um2) and isoprostane (18.11±5.38%) compared to controls (p < 0.001). Treatment CrataBL (ELA-CrataBL group) reduced the amount airway neutrophils (4.62±0.61 cells/104um2), TNF-alfa (14.30 ± 1.28 cells/104um2), collagen fibers (7 80±1.37%), elastic (1.4±0.13%), the number of positive MMP-9 cells (9.93±1.39 cells/104um2), MMP-12 (12.06±1.15), TIMP-1 (0.73±0.05 cells/104um2), MUC-5 (3.56±0.54 cells/104um2), eNOS (1.89±0,16 cells/104um2) and iNOS (4.3±0.31 cells/104um2), isoprostane (7.34±2.31%) compared to group ELA (p < 0.001). Conclusion: CrataBL attenuates changes in lung mechanics, broncho alveolar inflammatory responsiveness, control remodeling and oxidative stress induced by elastase. Although more studies should be conducted, this bifunctional protein may contribute as a potential therapeutic tool for the treatment of COPD

Introdução: O desequilibrio protease-antiprotease é fundamental para a fisiopatologia da doença pulmonar obstrutiva crónica (DPOC). No entanto, poucos estudos para a inibição da elastase têm sido investigados. Objetivo: O nosso estudo avaliou a capacidade do inibidor proteinase derivada da planta Bauhinia bauhinioides (BbKI) na modulação da inflamação pulmonar induzida pela elastase. Métodos: Camundongos C57BL receberam instilação intratraqueal de elastase (0,025 mg, ELA n=6) ou solução salina (SAL n=6) e foram tratados por via intraperitoneal com BbKI (2 mg/kg, de ELA-BbKI n=6, SAL-BbKI n=6) nos dias 1, 14 e 21. No dia 28 foram realizadas as seguintes análises: (I) avaliação da mecânica pulmonar (II) medida do óxido nítrico exalado (ENO), (III) a determinação do número de céluas no lavado broncoalveolar (FLBA), e ( IV) coloração imunohistoquímica do fluído pulmonar, (V) intercepto linear médio (Lm), Resultados: Além de diminuir alterações mecânicas e a lesão do septo alveolar (Lm), BbKI reduziu o número de células no fluido de FLBA e diminuiu a expressão celular de TNF-alfa, MMP-9, MMP-12, TIMP-1, eNOS e iNOS em vias aéreas e nas paredes alveolares em comparação com o grupo de ELA (p < 0,05). BbKI diminuiu a proporção de volume de 8-iso-PGF2, as fibras colagenas e as elásticas nas vias aéreas e paredes alveolares em comparação com o grupo de ELA (p < 0,05). Houve redução do número de células para positivas MUC-5 nas paredes das vias aéreas (p < 0,05). Houve redução do número de neutrófilos em vias aereas e parenquima e de macrófagosnas paredes alveolares. Conclusão: BbKI foi eficaz na redução da inflamação pulmonar, mecânica pulmonar e do remodelamento da matriz extracelular induzida por elastase. BbKI pode ser uma ferramenta farmacológica potencial para o tratamento da DPOC; no entanto, são necessárias análises adicionais / Introduction: The protease-antiprotease imbalance is essential to the pathophysiology of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, few studies for inhibition of elastase have been investigated. Objective: Our study evaluated the ability of proteinase inhibitor derived Bauhinia bauhinioides plant (BbKI) in modulating lung inflammation induced by elastase. Methods: Mice C57BL received intratracheal elastase instillation (0.025 mg, ELA n = 6) or saline (SAL n = 6) and were treated intraperitoneally with BbKI (2 mg/kg of ELA-BbKI n = 6, SAL-BbKI n = 6) on days 1, 14 and 21. On the 28th the following analyzes were performed: (i) assessment of pulmonary mechanics (II) measurement of exhaled nitric oxide (ENO), (III) determining the number of cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and (IV) immunohistochemical staining of lung fluid, (V) mean linear intercept (Lm) Results: In addition to reducing mechanical changes and Lm, BbKI reduced the number of cells in BALF fluid and decreased cellular expression of TNF-alfa, MMP-9, MMP-12, TIMP-1, eNOS and iNOS in the airway and alveolar walls compared with ELA group (p < 0.05). BbKI decreased volume proportion of 8-iso-PGF2, collagen fibers and elastic airway and alveolar walls compared with ELA group (p < 0.05). There was a reduction from MUC-5 positive cells in the airway walls (p < 0.05). There was a reduction in the number of neutrophils in airway and alveolar walls (p < 0.005) and a reduction in macrophages in alveolar walls (p < 0.005). Conclusion: BbKI was effective in reducing inflammation, pulmonary mechanics and remodeling of the extracellular matrix induced by elastase. BbKI may be a potential pharmacological agent for the treatment of COPD; however, additional tests are required

In der vorliegenden Arbeit wurde eine Beeinflussung der Aktivität der humanen neutrophilen Elastase (EC 3.4.21.37) durch wässrige und Dichlormethan-Extrakte von 15 Basidiomyceten festgestellt. Durch aktivitätsgeleitete Fraktionierung (mehrfache SC, GC-MS) der Dichlormethan-Extrakte von Heterobasidion annosum (Fr.) Bref. und Lactarius deterrimus Grög. wurden Fraktionen freier langkettiger Fettsäuren als ein wirksames Prinzip der Elastase-Hemmung und auch der Kollagenase-Hemmung (Clostridium histolyticum Kollagenase, EC 3.4.24.3) isoliert und identifiziert. Das Screening von 17 freien langkettigen Fettsäuren zeigte, dass einfach ungesättigte Fettsäuren eine stärkere Hemmung der Elastase-Aktivität bewirkten als ihre gesättigten bzw. mehrfach ungesättigten Homologa: Ölsäure (C18:1 cis-9): IC50 5µM; Stearin-(C18:0), Linolsäure (C18:2 cis-9,12): IC50 10µM; alpha- (C18:3 cis-9,12,15), gamma-Linolensäure (C18:3 cis-6,9,12): IC50 15µM. Inhibitorisch am stärksten wirksam war Erucasäur! e (C22:1 cis-13): IC50 450nM. Für Kollagenase wurde hingegen gezeigt, dass die gesättigten Fettsäuren eine erheblich stärkere Hemmaktivität als ihre ungesättigten Homologa aufwiesen. Aktivste Verbindungen waren Palmitin- (C16:0), Heptadecan- (C17:0), Stearin- und Nonadecansäure (C19:0) mit IC50-Werten von 20-45µM. Die Untersuchung von 9 ausgewählten Fettsäuren bezüglich der Hemmung der Aktivität der MMP-9 (EC 3.4.24.35) zeigte als aktivste Verbindungen Palmitolein- (16:1 cis-9), alpha- und gamma-Linolensäure. Die wirksamen Konzentrationen (250µM) lagen jedoch sehr hoch. Zytotoxizitätsuntersuchungen (ECV-304) der Extrakte von H. annosum und L. deterrimus sowie der freien Fettsäuren schlossen sich ebenso wie Untersuchungen zur Proteaseaktivität der Zelllinien ECV-304, MCF-7 und MDA-MB 231 an. Die Proteaseaktivität der Zellen nahm in der Reihenfolge ECV-304 < MCF-7 < MDA-MB 231 zu. Die einzig untersuchte Fettsäure gamma-Linolensäure zeigte keine reproduzierbare Beeinflussung d! er Proteaseaktivität. / In the present paper it was established that the activity of humane neutrophil elastase (EC 3.4.21.37) is affected by aqueous and dichloromethane extracts of 15 basidiomycetes. Bioassay-guided fractionation (repeated CC, GC-MS) of dichloromethane extracts of Heterobasidion annosum (Fr.) Bref. and Lactarius deterrimus Grög. led to isolation and identification of fractions of free fatty acids as one active principle of elastase inhibition as well as collagenase inhibition (Clostridium histolyticum collagenase, EC 3.4.24.3). By testing 17 free fatty acids for elastase inhibition it was shown that the inhibition rate of unsaturated acids was much higher than the rate of the saturated ones: oleic acid (C18:1 cis-9): IC50 5µM; stearic acid (C18:0), linoleic acid (C18:2 cis-9,12): IC50 10µM; linolenic acid (C18:3 cis-9,12,15), gamma-linolenic acid (C18:3 cis-6,9,12): IC50 15µM. The highly active erucic acid with an IC50 value of 450nM is remarkable. As a result for collagenase we can assume that the saturated fatty acids were more potent than the unsaturated ones. Palmitic acid (C16:0), heptadecanoic acid (C17:0), stearic acid, and nonadecanoic acid (C19:0) were the most potent fatty acids with IC50 values of 20-45µM. 9 selected fatty acids were investigated for their ability to inhibit the activity of MMP-9 (EC 3.4.24.35). Palmitoleic acid (16:1 cis-9), linolenic acid, and gamma-linolenic acid were the most potent fatty acids but their inhibiting concentrations were very high (250µM). Investigation of cytotoxicity of the extracts of H. annosum, L. deterrimus, and free fatty acids as well as investigation of protease activity of ECV-304, MCF-7, and MDA-MB 231 cells followed. Protease activity of cells increased in the following manner: ECV-304 < MCF-7 < MDA-MB 231. The only investigated fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid did not influence protease activity reproducibly.

Os modelos experimentais têm sido utilizados para o estudo dos mecanismos fisiopatológicos envolvidos no desenvolvimento da Doença Pulmonar Obstrutiva Crônica (DPOC). O modelo que melhor mimetiza a doença em humanos é o que utiliza a exposição à fumaça de cigarro. No entanto, a utilização deste modelo experimental requer um longo tempo de exposição (6 meses) e a lesão do parênquima obtida é considerada leve. O desequilíbrio protease/anti-protease é considerado um importante mecanismo fisiopatológico envolvido no desenvolvimento da DPOC. Desta forma, neste estudo propomos o desenvolvimento de um modelo experimental no qual associamos a instilação de elastase previamente ao início da exposição ao fumo na tentativa de obter um maior grau de lesão tecidual em um menor espaço de tempo. Para tanto, camundongos C57Bl/6 foram divididos em quatro grupos: Controle, Elastase, Fumo, Fumo/Elastase 1 dose e Fumo/Elastase 2 doses e analisados após dois meses de exposição. Os animais do grupo Fumo/Elastase 1 dose e 2 doses foram submetidos à instilação intranasal de elastase pancreática de porco (0,33UI) e expostos a fumaça de cigarro por dois meses. O grupo controle recebeu o mesmo tratamento com solução fisiológica (NaCl 0.9%). A exposição ao fumo foi feita por 30min, 2 vezes/dia, 5 dias da semana. Após dois meses, os animais foram sacrificados e observamos aumento de LM no grupo Fumo/Elastase 1 dose e 2 doses comparado aos grupos Controle e Fumo; aumento de células positivas para MAC-2 no parênquima (Fumo/Elastase 2 doses) e vias aéreas (Fumo/Elastase 1 dose e 2 doses), MMP-12 no parênquima pulmonar (Fumo/Elastase 2 doses), GP91 no parênquima (Fumo/Elastase 1 dose e 2 doses) e vias aéreas (Fumo e Fumo/Elastase 1 dose) e aumento de proporção de fibras elásticas no parênquima pulmonar do grupo Fumo/Elastase 1 dose e do grupo Fumo, caracterizando presença de enfisema pulmonar. A instilação de elastase pancreática de porco juntamente com a exposição à fumaça de cigarro aumentou a susceptibilidade ao desenvolvimento do enfisema / Experimental models have been used to study the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the development of COPD. Cigarette Smoke exposure (CS) is considered the best model to mimetize the disease in humans. However, the CS requires a long exposure time (6 months) and the parenchymal destruction obtained is considered mild. The protease / anti - protease imbalance is considered an important pathophysiological mechanism involved in the development of COPD. Thus, in this study we propose the development of an experimental model in which we associate instillation of elastase before the start of exposure to smoke, trying to increase the parenchymal destruction degree in a shorter time. For that, C57BL / 6 mice were divided into four groups: Control, Elastase, Smoke and Smoke/Elastase 1 dose and Smoke/Elastase 2 doses and analyzed in two months after the CS exposition. The Smoke/Elastase 1 dose and 2 doses animals group received an intranasal instillation of porcine pancreatic elastase (0.33 IU) and exposed to cigarette smoke for two months. The control group received the same treatment with saline (NaCl 0.9 %). Animals were exposed to CS for 30min, 2 times / day, 5 days a week. After two months, we observed increased mean linear intercept (LM) and positive cells for MAC-2, MMP-12 and GP91 in the airways and lung parenchyma and increase of elastic fibers in the lung parenchyma characterizing the presence of pulmonary emphysema. The instillation of porcine pancreatic elastase along the exposure to cigarette smoke increased susceptibility to the development of emphysema

Introdução: As proteinases tem um papel importante no desenvolvimento, na destruição tecidual e na produção de muco causada pela DPOC. O inibidor de proteinase de origem vegetal Enterolobium contortisiliquum Tripsin Inhibitor (EcTI) inibe tanto as proteinases da classe serina quanto da classe cisteína. Objetivos: Avaliar os efeitos do tratamento com EcTI nas alterações pulmonares induzidas pela elastase em camundongos. Métodos: Camundongos C57Bl6 receberam elastase via intratraqueal (50 uL/animal, grupo ELA) ou salina (grupo SAL). Os camundongos foram tratados com EcTI (2mg/kg) nos dias 1, 15 e 21 após a instilação de elastase (grupo ELA-EcTI) ou salina (grupo SAL-EcTI). No dia 28 do protocolo, os animais foram anestesiados, a mecânica pulmonar foi medida e o óxido nítrico exalado coletado. Posteriormente, foi realizado o lavado broncoalveolar e os pulmões foram removidos para a preparação de lâminas de histoquímica e imunohistoquímica. Por meio de morfometria analisamos o número de células positivas para neutrófilos, TNF-alfa, MMP-9, MMP-12, TIMP-1, iNOS, eNOS assim como a fração de volume de 8-iso-PGF2alfa, fibras colágenas e elásticas, nos septos alveolares e nas vias aéreas. Também foram avaliados o número de células positivas para macrófagos nos septos alveolares e MUC5ac nas vias aéreas. Resultados: O inibidor de proteinase EcTI reduziu as alterações de mecânica pulmonar (Ers, Htis e Raw), destruição do septo alveolar (Lm) e o número de células no lavado broncoalveolar (células totais, macrófagos, neutrófilos, linfócitos e eosinógilos) induzidos pela elastase. Em relação a resposta inflamatória, o EcTI reduziu o número de neutrófilos e de células TNFalfa positivas no septo alveolar e nas vias aéreas além de reduzir o número de macrófagos no septo alveolar. Considerando o remodelamento de matriz extracelular, o inibidor de proteinase atenuou a fração de volume de fibras colágenas e o número de células MMP-9 e MMP-12 positivas nos septos alveolares e nas vias aéreas. Além disso, nas vias aéreas ocorreu uma atenuação da fração de volume de fibras elásticas, e nos septos alveolares uma atenuação da quantidade de células que expressam TIMP-1. Em relação a resposta de estresse oxidativo, o EcTI reduziu a fração de volume de isoprostano e o número de células iNOS e eNOS positivas tanto nos septos alveolares quanto nas vias aéreas. O EcTI também reduziu o número de células MUC5ac positivas nas vias aéreas. Conclusões: O tratamento como inibidor EcTI modulou a mecânica pulmonar e reduziu as alterações inflamatórias, de remodelamento e de estresse oxidativo induzidas pela elastase intratraqueal. Embora sejam necessários mais estudos para elucidar os mecanismos envolvidos neste processo, o inibidor de proteinase EcTI pode ser considerado como um potencial instrumento terapêutico para o tratamento da DPOC / Background: Proteinases play a key role on emphysema development, tissue destruction and mucus production. Enterolobium contortisiliquum Tripsin Inhibitor (EcTI) is a proteinase inhibitor from plant that neutralizes serine and cysteine proteinases. Aims: To evaluated the effects of the EcTI treatment in pulmonary alterations induced by elastase in mice. Methods: C57Bl6 mice received elastase intratracheally (50 uL/animal, ELA group) or saline (SAL group). Afterwards, mice were treated with EcTI (2 mg/kg) at days 1, 15 and 21 after elastase instillation (ELA-EcTI group). Control group received saline and EcTI using the same protocol (SAL-EcTI group). At day 28, mice were anesthetized, respiratory mechanics were collected, and exhaled nitric oxide were analyzed. Afterwards, broncoalveolar lavage fluid was obtained and lungs were removed to perform histochemistry and immunohistochemistry stains. By morphometry, the number of neutrophils, TNF-alfa, MMP-9, MMP-12, TIMP-1, iNOS, eNOS positive cells as well as the volume proportion of 8-iso-PGF2alfa, collagen and elastic fibers content in alveolar septum and airways walls were performed. In airways walls, we also analyzed the number of MUC-5 positive cells and the number of macrophages. Results: The proteinase inhibitor EcTI was able to reduce the pulmonary mechanical alterations (Ers, Htis and Raw), alveolar septum disruption (Lm) and the BAL cell count (total cells, macrophages, neutrophils, lymphocytes and eosinophils) induced by elastase. Regarding the inflammatory response, EcTI also reduced the number of neutrophils and TNFalfa positive cells in both alveolar septum and airway walls, and also reduced the number of macrophages in alveolar septum. Considering the extracellular matrix remodeling, the proteinase inhibitor attenuated the volume fraction of collagen fibers, MMP-9 and MMP-12 positive cells in both alveolar septum and airway walls. Besides, in airway there were attenuation in the volume fraction of elastic fibers, and in the alveolar septa a decrease of the amount of the cells expressing TIMP-1. Regarding the oxidative stress response, EcTI reduced the volume fraction of isoprostane and the number of iNOS and eNOS positive cells in both airways walls and alveolar septa, Finally, EcTI reduced the number of MUC5ac positive cells in airway walls. Conclusions: The treatment with EcTI modulated lung mechanics and reduced inflammatory, remodeling and oxidative stress alterations induced by elastase. Although more studies need to be performed to elucidate the mechanisms involved in this process, we may considerate EcTI as a potential therapeutic tool for COPD management

Introdução: As proteinases tem um papel importante no desenvolvimento, na destruição tecidual e na produção de muco causada pela DPOC. O inibidor de proteinase de origem vegetal Bauhinia bauhinioides Cruzipain Inhibitor (BbCI) inibe tanto as proteinases da classe serina quanto da classe cisteína. Objetivos: Deste modo consideramos relevante estudar os efeitos do tratamento com BbCI nas alterações pulmonares induzidas pela elastase em camundongos. Métodos: Camundongos C57Bl6 receberam elastase via intratraqueal (50 uL/animal, grupo ELA) ou salina (grupo SAL). Os camundongos foram tratados com BbCI (2mg/kg) nos dias 1, 15 e 21 após a instilação de elastase (grupo ELABC) ou salina (grupo SALBC). No dia 28 do protocolo, os animais foram anestesiados, a mecânica pulmonar foi medida e o óxido nítrico exalado coletado. Posteriormente, foi realizado o lavado broncoalveolar e os pulmões foram removidos para a preparação de lâminas de histoquímica e imunohistoquímica. Por meio de morfometria analisamos o número de células positivas para neutrófilos, TNF-alfa, MMP-9, MMP-12, TIMP-1, iNOS, eNOS assim como a fração de volume de 8-iso-PGF2alfa, fibras colágenas e elásticas, nos septos alveolares e nas vias aéreas. Também foram avaliados o número de células positivas para macrófagos nos septos alveolares e MUC5ac nas vias aéreas. Resultados: O inibidor de proteinase Tese de Doutorado Rafael Almeida-Reis BbCI reduziu as alterações de mecânica pulmonar (Ers, Htis e Raw), destruição do septo alveolar (Lm) e o número de células no lavado broncoalveolar (células totais, macrófagos e neutrófilos) induzidos pela elastase. Em relação a resposta inflamatória, o BbCI reduziu o número de neutrófilos e de células TNFalfa positivas no septo alveolar e nas vias aéreas além de reduzir o número de macrófagos no septo alveolar. Considerando o remodelamento de matriz extracelular, o inibidor de proteinase atenuou a fração de volume de fibras elásticas e colágenas e o número de células MMP- 9 e MMP-12 positivas nos septos alveolares e nas vias aéreas. Em relação a resposta de estresse oxidativo, o BbCI reduziu a fração de volume de isoprostano nas vias aéreas e o número de células iNOS positivas tanto nos septos alveolares quanto nas vias aéreas. O BbCI também reduziu o número de células MUC5ac positivas nas vias aéreas. Conclusões: O tratamento como inibidor BbCI modulou a mecânica pulmonar e reduziu as alterações inflamatórias, de remodelamento e de estresse oxidativo induzidas pela elastase intratraqueal. Embora sejam necessários mais estudos para elucidar os mecanismos envolvidos neste processo, o inibidor de proteinase BbCI pode ser considerado como um potencial instrumento terapêutico para o tratamento da DPOC / Background: Proteinases play a key role on emphysema development, tissue destruction and mucus production. Bauhinia bauhinioides Cruzipain Inhibitor (BbCI) is a proteinase inhibitor from plant that neutralizes serine and cysteine proteinases. The present study evaluated the effects of the BbCI treatment in pulmonary alterations induced by elastase in mice. Methods: C57Bl6 mice received elastase intratracheally (50 uL/animal, ELA group) or saline (SAL group). Afterwards, mice were treated with BbCI (2 mg/kg) at days 1, 15 and 21 after elastase instillation (ELABC group). Control group received saline and BbCI using the same protocol (SALBC group). At day 28, mice were anesthetized, respiratory mechanics were collected, and exhaled nitric oxide were analyzed. Afterwards, broncoalveolar lavage fluid was obtained and lungs were removed to perform histochemistry and immunohistochemistry stains. By morphometry, the number of neutrophils, TNFalfa, MMP-9, MMP-12, TIMP-1, iNOS, eNOS positive cells as well as the volume proportion of 8-iso-PGF2alfa, collagen and elastic fibers content in alveolar septum and airways walls were performed. In airways walls, we also analyzed the number of MUC-5 positive cells and the number of macrophages. Results: The proteinase inhibitor BbCI was able to reduce the pulmonary mechanical alterations (Ers, Htis and Raw), alveolar septum disruption (Lm) and the BAL cell count (total cells, macrophages and neutrophils) induced by elastase. Regarding the Tese de Doutorado Rafael Almeida-Reis inflammatory response, BbCI also reduced the number of neutrophils and TNFalfa positive cells in both alveolar septum and airway walls, and also reduced the number of macrophages in alveolar septum. Considering the extracellular matrix remodeling, the proteinase inhibitor attenuated the volume fraction of elastic and collagen fibers, MMP-9 and MMP-12 positive cells in both alveolar septum and airway walls. Regarding the oxidative stress response, BbCI reduced the volume fraction of isoprostane in airways and the number of iNOS positive cells in both airways walls and alveolar septum. Finally, BbCI reduced the number of MUC5ac positive cells in airway walls. Conclusions: The treatment with BbCI modulated lung mechanics and reduced inflammatory, remodeling and oxidative stress alterations induced by elastase. Although more studies need to be performed to elucidate the mechanisms involved in this process, but we may considerate BbCI as a potential therapeutic tool for COPD management

Introdução: As proteinases tem um papel importante no desenvolvimento, na destruição tecidual e na produção de muco causada pela DPOC. O inibidor de proteinase de origem vegetal Bauhinia bauhinioides Cruzipain Inhibitor (BbCI) inibe tanto as proteinases da classe serina quanto da classe cisteína. Objetivos: Deste modo consideramos relevante estudar os efeitos do tratamento com BbCI nas alterações pulmonares induzidas pela elastase em camundongos. Métodos: Camundongos C57Bl6 receberam elastase via intratraqueal (50 uL/animal, grupo ELA) ou salina (grupo SAL). Os camundongos foram tratados com BbCI (2mg/kg) nos dias 1, 15 e 21 após a instilação de elastase (grupo ELABC) ou salina (grupo SALBC). No dia 28 do protocolo, os animais foram anestesiados, a mecânica pulmonar foi medida e o óxido nítrico exalado coletado. Posteriormente, foi realizado o lavado broncoalveolar e os pulmões foram removidos para a preparação de lâminas de histoquímica e imunohistoquímica. Por meio de morfometria analisamos o número de células positivas para neutrófilos, TNF-alfa, MMP-9, MMP-12, TIMP-1, iNOS, eNOS assim como a fração de volume de 8-iso-PGF2alfa, fibras colágenas e elásticas, nos septos alveolares e nas vias aéreas. Também foram avaliados o número de células positivas para macrófagos nos septos alveolares e MUC5ac nas vias aéreas. Resultados: O inibidor de proteinase Tese de Doutorado Rafael Almeida-Reis BbCI reduziu as alterações de mecânica pulmonar (Ers, Htis e Raw), destruição do septo alveolar (Lm) e o número de células no lavado broncoalveolar (células totais, macrófagos e neutrófilos) induzidos pela elastase. Em relação a resposta inflamatória, o BbCI reduziu o número de neutrófilos e de células TNFalfa positivas no septo alveolar e nas vias aéreas além de reduzir o número de macrófagos no septo alveolar. Considerando o remodelamento de matriz extracelular, o inibidor de proteinase atenuou a fração de volume de fibras elásticas e colágenas e o número de células MMP- 9 e MMP-12 positivas nos septos alveolares e nas vias aéreas. Em relação a resposta de estresse oxidativo, o BbCI reduziu a fração de volume de isoprostano nas vias aéreas e o número de células iNOS positivas tanto nos septos alveolares quanto nas vias aéreas. O BbCI também reduziu o número de células MUC5ac positivas nas vias aéreas. Conclusões: O tratamento como inibidor BbCI modulou a mecânica pulmonar e reduziu as alterações inflamatórias, de remodelamento e de estresse oxidativo induzidas pela elastase intratraqueal. Embora sejam necessários mais estudos para elucidar os mecanismos envolvidos neste processo, o inibidor de proteinase BbCI pode ser considerado como um potencial instrumento terapêutico para o tratamento da DPOC / Background: Proteinases play a key role on emphysema development, tissue destruction and mucus production. Bauhinia bauhinioides Cruzipain Inhibitor (BbCI) is a proteinase inhibitor from plant that neutralizes serine and cysteine proteinases. The present study evaluated the effects of the BbCI treatment in pulmonary alterations induced by elastase in mice. Methods: C57Bl6 mice received elastase intratracheally (50 uL/animal, ELA group) or saline (SAL group). Afterwards, mice were treated with BbCI (2 mg/kg) at days 1, 15 and 21 after elastase instillation (ELABC group). Control group received saline and BbCI using the same protocol (SALBC group). At day 28, mice were anesthetized, respiratory mechanics were collected, and exhaled nitric oxide were analyzed. Afterwards, broncoalveolar lavage fluid was obtained and lungs were removed to perform histochemistry and immunohistochemistry stains. By morphometry, the number of neutrophils, TNFalfa, MMP-9, MMP-12, TIMP-1, iNOS, eNOS positive cells as well as the volume proportion of 8-iso-PGF2alfa, collagen and elastic fibers content in alveolar septum and airways walls were performed. In airways walls, we also analyzed the number of MUC-5 positive cells and the number of macrophages. Results: The proteinase inhibitor BbCI was able to reduce the pulmonary mechanical alterations (Ers, Htis and Raw), alveolar septum disruption (Lm) and the BAL cell count (total cells, macrophages and neutrophils) induced by elastase. Regarding the Tese de Doutorado Rafael Almeida-Reis inflammatory response, BbCI also reduced the number of neutrophils and TNFalfa positive cells in both alveolar septum and airway walls, and also reduced the number of macrophages in alveolar septum. Considering the extracellular matrix remodeling, the proteinase inhibitor attenuated the volume fraction of elastic and collagen fibers, MMP-9 and MMP-12 positive cells in both alveolar septum and airway walls. Regarding the oxidative stress response, BbCI reduced the volume fraction of isoprostane in airways and the number of iNOS positive cells in both airways walls and alveolar septum. Finally, BbCI reduced the number of MUC5ac positive cells in airway walls. Conclusions: The treatment with BbCI modulated lung mechanics and reduced inflammatory, remodeling and oxidative stress alterations induced by elastase. Although more studies need to be performed to elucidate the mechanisms involved in this process, but we may considerate BbCI as a potential therapeutic tool for COPD management

Introdução: As proteinases tem um papel importante no desenvolvimento, na destruição tecidual e na produção de muco causada pela DPOC. O inibidor de proteinase de origem vegetal Enterolobium contortisiliquum Tripsin Inhibitor (EcTI) inibe tanto as proteinases da classe serina quanto da classe cisteína. Objetivos: Avaliar os efeitos do tratamento com EcTI nas alterações pulmonares induzidas pela elastase em camundongos. Métodos: Camundongos C57Bl6 receberam elastase via intratraqueal (50 uL/animal, grupo ELA) ou salina (grupo SAL). Os camundongos foram tratados com EcTI (2mg/kg) nos dias 1, 15 e 21 após a instilação de elastase (grupo ELA-EcTI) ou salina (grupo SAL-EcTI). No dia 28 do protocolo, os animais foram anestesiados, a mecânica pulmonar foi medida e o óxido nítrico exalado coletado. Posteriormente, foi realizado o lavado broncoalveolar e os pulmões foram removidos para a preparação de lâminas de histoquímica e imunohistoquímica. Por meio de morfometria analisamos o número de células positivas para neutrófilos, TNF-alfa, MMP-9, MMP-12, TIMP-1, iNOS, eNOS assim como a fração de volume de 8-iso-PGF2alfa, fibras colágenas e elásticas, nos septos alveolares e nas vias aéreas. Também foram avaliados o número de células positivas para macrófagos nos septos alveolares e MUC5ac nas vias aéreas. Resultados: O inibidor de proteinase EcTI reduziu as alterações de mecânica pulmonar (Ers, Htis e Raw), destruição do septo alveolar (Lm) e o número de células no lavado broncoalveolar (células totais, macrófagos, neutrófilos, linfócitos e eosinógilos) induzidos pela elastase. Em relação a resposta inflamatória, o EcTI reduziu o número de neutrófilos e de células TNFalfa positivas no septo alveolar e nas vias aéreas além de reduzir o número de macrófagos no septo alveolar. Considerando o remodelamento de matriz extracelular, o inibidor de proteinase atenuou a fração de volume de fibras colágenas e o número de células MMP-9 e MMP-12 positivas nos septos alveolares e nas vias aéreas. Além disso, nas vias aéreas ocorreu uma atenuação da fração de volume de fibras elásticas, e nos septos alveolares uma atenuação da quantidade de células que expressam TIMP-1. Em relação a resposta de estresse oxidativo, o EcTI reduziu a fração de volume de isoprostano e o número de células iNOS e eNOS positivas tanto nos septos alveolares quanto nas vias aéreas. O EcTI também reduziu o número de células MUC5ac positivas nas vias aéreas. Conclusões: O tratamento como inibidor EcTI modulou a mecânica pulmonar e reduziu as alterações inflamatórias, de remodelamento e de estresse oxidativo induzidas pela elastase intratraqueal. Embora sejam necessários mais estudos para elucidar os mecanismos envolvidos neste processo, o inibidor de proteinase EcTI pode ser considerado como um potencial instrumento terapêutico para o tratamento da DPOC / Background: Proteinases play a key role on emphysema development, tissue destruction and mucus production. Enterolobium contortisiliquum Tripsin Inhibitor (EcTI) is a proteinase inhibitor from plant that neutralizes serine and cysteine proteinases. Aims: To evaluated the effects of the EcTI treatment in pulmonary alterations induced by elastase in mice. Methods: C57Bl6 mice received elastase intratracheally (50 uL/animal, ELA group) or saline (SAL group). Afterwards, mice were treated with EcTI (2 mg/kg) at days 1, 15 and 21 after elastase instillation (ELA-EcTI group). Control group received saline and EcTI using the same protocol (SAL-EcTI group). At day 28, mice were anesthetized, respiratory mechanics were collected, and exhaled nitric oxide were analyzed. Afterwards, broncoalveolar lavage fluid was obtained and lungs were removed to perform histochemistry and immunohistochemistry stains. By morphometry, the number of neutrophils, TNF-alfa, MMP-9, MMP-12, TIMP-1, iNOS, eNOS positive cells as well as the volume proportion of 8-iso-PGF2alfa, collagen and elastic fibers content in alveolar septum and airways walls were performed. In airways walls, we also analyzed the number of MUC-5 positive cells and the number of macrophages. Results: The proteinase inhibitor EcTI was able to reduce the pulmonary mechanical alterations (Ers, Htis and Raw), alveolar septum disruption (Lm) and the BAL cell count (total cells, macrophages, neutrophils, lymphocytes and eosinophils) induced by elastase. Regarding the inflammatory response, EcTI also reduced the number of neutrophils and TNFalfa positive cells in both alveolar septum and airway walls, and also reduced the number of macrophages in alveolar septum. Considering the extracellular matrix remodeling, the proteinase inhibitor attenuated the volume fraction of collagen fibers, MMP-9 and MMP-12 positive cells in both alveolar septum and airway walls. Besides, in airway there were attenuation in the volume fraction of elastic fibers, and in the alveolar septa a decrease of the amount of the cells expressing TIMP-1. Regarding the oxidative stress response, EcTI reduced the volume fraction of isoprostane and the number of iNOS and eNOS positive cells in both airways walls and alveolar septa, Finally, EcTI reduced the number of MUC5ac positive cells in airway walls. Conclusions: The treatment with EcTI modulated lung mechanics and reduced inflammatory, remodeling and oxidative stress alterations induced by elastase. Although more studies need to be performed to elucidate the mechanisms involved in this process, we may considerate EcTI as a potential therapeutic tool for COPD management