[Morin Improves Experimental Autoimmune Thyroiditis in Rats via NLRP3/Caspase-1 Pathway]

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Endocrinology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Experimental autoimmune thyroiditis (EAT) is an immune-mediated disease affecting the thyroid gland.
• The NLRP3/Caspase-1 inflammasome pathway plays a role in inflammatory conditions, including autoimmune diseases.
• Morin, a natural flavonoid, has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the therapeutic effects of morin on experimental autoimmune thyroiditis (EAT) in a rat model.
• To explore the role of the NLRP3/Caspase-1 pathway in morin's effect on EAT.

Main Methods:

• EAT was induced in rats using porcine thyroglobulin and incomplete Freund's adjuvant.
• Rats were treated with varying doses of morin hydrate or tripterygium wilfordii polyglycosides.
• Serum antibody levels (TgAb, TPOAb), thyroid hormones (T3, T4), inflammatory cytokines (IL-17, IL-4, INF-γ), oxidative stress markers, and NLRP3 inflammasome components (NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1) were measured.

Main Results:

• Morin treatment significantly reduced serum levels of thyroid antibodies (TPOAb, TgAb) and improved thyroid hormone levels (T3, T4) in EAT rats.
• Morin decreased inflammatory markers (IL-17, INF-γ) and oxidative stress indicators (protein carbonyl, MDA, 8-OHdG).
• Morin administration led to a significant downregulation of NLRP3, ASC, and Caspase-1 expression.

Conclusions:

• Morin demonstrates a therapeutic effect in experimental autoimmune thyroiditis in rats.
• The beneficial effects of morin are associated with the regulation of the NLRP3/Caspase-1 inflammasome pathway.
• Morin may serve as a potential therapeutic agent for autoimmune thyroid diseases.