Resveratrol reduces the proinflammatory effects and lipopolysaccharide- induced expression of HMGB1 and TLR4 in RAW264.7 cells

Abstract

Background: Resveratrol (Res) is a polyphenol anti-inflammatory agent. We have studied the link between the anti-inflammatory effects of Res and the high mobility group box 1(HMGB1) signaling pathway.

Methods: Murine macrophage-like RAW264.7 cells (RAW264.7 cells) were either untreated (control) or treated with Res, LPS, or LPS + Res. Levels of IL-6, NO, and TNF-α were measured by ELISA and colorimetric assays. Expression of HMGB1 was detected by qRT-PCR, western blot, and immunofluorescence assays. Protein and mRNA expression levels of TLR4 were also examined.

Results: Res significantly reduced the levels of IL-6, NO, and TNF-α in RAW264.7 cells exposed to LPS. Expression levels of HMGB1 (mRNA and protein) and of TLR4 in the LPS + Res-treated cells were lower than in cells treated with LPS alone.

Conclusions: Res can block the inflammatory effects induced by LPS in RAW264.7 cells. Down-regulation of HMGB expression may be one of the mechanisms of action of Res. Res may also influence TLR4 expression in the HMGB1-TLR4 signaling pathway.