LPS disrupts erythroid-myeloid balance in zebrafish via Jak2/Stat3-Hif1a signaling

Maintaining the hematopoietic balance between erythroid and myeloid lineages is crucial for immune function and oxygen transport. However, the mechanisms underlying the disruption of this balance during acute inflammation remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute inflammation on erythroid-myeloid hematopoiesis in zebrafish (Danio rerio) and elucidated the key signaling pathways involved. LPS treatment significantly suppressed erythropoiesis, as evidenced by reduced expression of gata1a and hbae3 and decreased red blood cell production in the caudal hematopoietic tissue (CHT). Conversely, myelopoiesis was enhanced, with increased neutrophil and macrophage accumulation at inflammatory sites. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that LPS modulates hematopoietic differentiation via the Jak2/Stat3-Hif1a signaling axis. Experimental validation demonstrated that LPS activates Jak2/Stat3 signaling, leading to increased expression of hif1a in zebrafish and HIF1α in human hematopoietic cell lines (K562 and THP-1). Inhibition of Jak2 with Ruxolitinib or knockdown of hif1a reversed the LPS-induced suppression of erythropoiesis and expansion of myelopoiesis. Strikingly, acute hypoxia similarly disrupted the hematopoietic balance via the Jak2/Stat3-Hif1a pathway, suggesting a conserved, stress-responsive mechanism. Our findings highlight the critical role of Jak2/Stat3-Hif1a signaling in acute inflammation-induced hematopoietic lineage bias and propose potential therapeutic strategies for hematological disorders associated with acute infection or hypoxia.