Rigosertib inhibits MEK1-ERK pathway and alleviates lipopolysaccharide-induced sepsis

Yin Wang1, Pengfei Du1, Donghui Jiang1

  • 1Department of Intensive Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China.

Abstract

Insights

Rigosertib effectively treats sepsis in wild-type mice by reducing inflammation and improving survival. Its therapeutic effects are diminished in MEK1DD mice, indicating the MEK1/ERK pathway is crucial for rigosertib

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Pharmacology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Sepsis is a life-threatening condition characterized by dysregulated host response to infection.
  • Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced mouse sepsis models are widely used to study sepsis pathophysiology.
  • MEK1 signaling plays a role in inflammatory responses.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the therapeutic potential of rigosertib in a mouse model of sepsis.
  • To elucidate the role of the MEK1/ERK signaling pathway in rigosertib's anti-septic effects.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced sepsis model in wild-type (WT) and MEK1DD mice.
  • Treated septic mice and bone marrow-derived macrophages with rigosertib.
  • Assessed inflammatory cytokine levels (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-23) and survival rates.

Main Results:

  • Rigosertib suppressed LPS/poly I:C-induced inflammatory cytokines in WT macrophages.
  • Rigosertib treatment improved survival, reduced lung injury, and lowered serum cytokine levels in WT septic mice.
  • The anti-septic effects of rigosertib were abrogated in MEK1DD mice.

Conclusions:

  • Rigosertib demonstrates therapeutic efficacy in sepsis by inhibiting the MEK1/ERK signaling pathway.
  • MEK1/ERK pathway activation is critical for rigosertib's beneficial effects in sepsis.
  • Rigosertib represents a potential therapeutic agent for sepsis, particularly in cases involving MEK1/ERK pathway modulation.