Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 25, 2026

Activation and Measurement of NLRP3 Inflammasome Activity Using IL-1β in Human Monocyte-derived Dendritic Cells
09:04

Activation and Measurement of NLRP3 Inflammasome Activity Using IL-1β in Human Monocyte-derived Dendritic Cells

Published on: May 22, 2014

[Apigenin regulates lipopolysaccharides-induced activation of inflammasome]

Ling-Yan Wang1, Jie Kuang, Jing Li

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing 100035, China.

Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi
|February 11, 2012
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Apigenin, a natural compound, effectively inhibits inflammasome activation by reducing the maturation of caspase-1. This study demonstrates apigenin

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • The inflammasome is a key regulator of inflammatory responses.
  • Dysregulation of inflammasome activation is implicated in various diseases.
  • Apigenin is a natural flavonoid with potential anti-inflammatory properties.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effect of apigenin on inflammasome activation.
  • To elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of apigenin's action.

Main Methods:

  • THP-1 cells were treated with lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and varying concentrations of apigenin.
  • Interleukin (IL)-1β secretion was measured using ELISA.
  • Western blot was employed to assess the cleavage of pro-IL-1β and pro-caspase-1.
  • Reporter gene assay was used to detect nuclear factor (NF)-κB activation.

Main Results:

  • Apigenin exhibited low cytotoxicity in THP-1 cells.
  • Apigenin significantly inhibited LPS-induced IL-1β secretion.
  • Apigenin suppressed the maturation of pro-IL-1β and pro-caspase-1.
  • Apigenin attenuated LPS-induced NF-κB activation.

Conclusions:

  • Apigenin inhibits LPS-induced inflammasome activation.
  • The mechanism involves the inhibition of caspase-1 maturation.
  • Apigenin demonstrates potential as a therapeutic agent for inflammatory conditions.

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