ANTI-INFLAMMATORY EFFECTS OF ULINASTATIN IN LPS-INDUCED BV2 CELLS BY A20: IMPLICATIONS FOR SPORTS AND FITNESS PLAYERS' HEALTH

Abstract

This study delves into the anti-inflammatory role of ulinastatin (UTI) in BV2 microglia cells stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), focusing on its relevance to sports and fitness players. A crucial aspect of athletic health is managing inflammation, which can impact performance and recovery. We constructed an inflammatory response model in BV2 microglia using LPS and divided the sample into four groups (n=12 each): a control group (C), an LPS-induced inflammation group (L), a UTI treatment group (U+L), and a group with A20 protein down-regulation (U+L+Si). The study evaluated IL-1β and TNF-α protein concentrations via ELISA, NF-κB/P65 and A20 protein expressions through Western blot, and microglial Iba-1 expression via immunofluorescence staining. Compared to the control, the L and U+L+Si groups showed significant increases in IL-1β, TNF-α, NF-κB P65 expression, and decreased A20 protein expression (P<0.05). The L and U+L+Si groups also exhibited higher levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, NF-κB P65, and Iba-1 compared to the U+L group (P<0.05), with reduced A20 expression. Interestingly, the U+L group displayed no significant differences in IL-1β, TNF-α, and NF-κB P65 compared to the control (P>0.05). The findings suggest that UTI significantly mitigates LPS-induced inflammation in BV2 microglia, primarily through upregulation of A20 protein. For athletes and fitness enthusiasts, these insights offer potential strategies for managing exercise-induced inflammation, enhancing recovery, and optimizing performance.