AI Article Synopsis
- Cucurbitacin E (CucE) is a natural compound from Cucurbitaceae plants known for its strong anti-inflammatory properties.
- It was found to inhibit the production of key pathogenic cytokines in CD4(+) T helper cells, specifically interferon-gamma and interleukin-17.
- CucE also suppresses harmful processes in macrophages, indicating that it has significant potential as a treatment for autoimmune conditions affecting the central nervous system.
Article Abstract
Cucurbitacin E (CucE) is a highly oxidized steroid consisting of a tetracyclic triterpene. It is a member of a Cucurbitacin family of biomolecules that are predominantly found in Cucurbitaceae plants. CucE has already been identified as a potent anti-inflammatory compound. Here, its effects on CD4(+) T helper (Th) cells and macrophages, as the major encephalitogenic cells in the autoimmunity of the central nervous system, were investigated. Production of major pathogenic Th cell cytokines: interferon-gamma and interleukin-17 were inhibited under the influence of CucE. The effects of CucE on CD4(+) T cells were mediated through the modulation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor, STAT3, NFκB, p38 MAPK, and miR-146 signaling. Further, production of nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species, as well as phagocytic ability, were inhibited in macrophages treated with CucE. These results imply that CucE possesses powerful antiencephalitogenic activity.
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| http://dx.doi.org/10.1021/acs.jafc.6b00951 | DOI Listing |
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