MK8617 inhibits M1 macrophage polarization and inflammation via the HIF-1α/GYS1/UDPG/P2Y14 pathway

Lingling Qian1, Xiao-Qin Chen2, Deyang Kong3

  • 1Department of Nephrology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.

Peerj
|July 5, 2023
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

MK8617, a novel hypoxia-inducible factor-prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor (HIF-PHI), reduces macrophage inflammation by inhibiting the HIF-1α/GYS1/UDPG/P2Y14 pathway. This discovery offers new therapeutic strategies for inflammatory diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Nonresolving inflammation is a significant health concern.
  • Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) plays a crucial role in inflammatory processes.
  • Hypoxia-inducible factor-prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors (HIF-PHIs) show potential in blocking inflammation by stabilizing HIF.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of MK8617, a novel HIF-PHI, on macrophages.
  • To elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of MK8617's action in regulating macrophage inflammation.

Main Methods:

  • Assessed cell viability using CCK8 assay to determine optimal MK8617 concentrations.
  • Induced macrophage inflammation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in MK8617-treated and untreated cells.
  • Quantified inflammatory indicators, uridine diphosphate glucose (UDPG) secretion, and expression of P2Y14, HIF-1α, and GYS1 using qRT-PCR, WB, and ELISA.
  • Investigated the effects of UDPG inhibition and knockdown of HIF-1α and GYS1 on macrophage inflammation.

Main Results:

  • MK8617 significantly reduced LPS-induced pro-inflammatory factors, UDPG secretion, and P2Y14 expression.
  • UDPG was found to upregulate P2Y14 and inflammatory markers, with UDPG inhibition suppressing inflammation.
  • HIF-1α was identified as a direct regulator of GYS1, which synthesizes UDPG, thus influencing UDPG secretion.
  • Knockdown of HIF-1α or GYS1 abolished the anti-inflammatory effects of MK8617.

Conclusions:

  • MK8617 exhibits anti-inflammatory properties in macrophages.
  • The mechanism involves the HIF-1α/GYS1/UDPG/P2Y14 pathway, highlighting a novel therapeutic target for inflammation.