Early redox homeostasis disruption contributes to the differential cytotoxicity of imiquimod on transformed and normal endothelial cells

xlomafota13 shared this article with you from Inoreader Early redox homeostasis disruption contributes to the differential cytotoxicity of imiquimod on transformed and normal endothelial cells Via Experimental Dermatology Abstract The off-label use of imiquimod (IQ) for hemangioma treatment has shown clinical benefits. We have previously reported a selective direct IQ-cytotoxic effect on transformed (H5V) vs normal (1G11) endothelial cells (EC). In the present study we investigated the mechanism underlying this selective cytotoxicity in terms of TLR7/8 receptor expression, NF-κB signaling and time-dependent modifications of oxidative stress parameters (ROS: reactive oxygen species, catalase and superoxide dismutase activities, GSH/GSSG, lipid peroxidation). TLR7/8 level was extremely low in both cell lines and IQ did not upregulate TLR7/8 expression or activate NF-κB signaling. IQ significantly induced ROS in H5V after 2 h and strongly affected antioxidant defenses. After 12 h, enzyme activities were restored to baseline levels but a robust drop in GSH/GSSG persisted together with increased lipoperoxidation levels and a marked mitochondrial dysfunction. Although in normal IQ-treated EC some oxidative stre ss parameters were affected after 4 h, mitochondrial health and GSH/GSSG ratio remained notably unaffected after 12 h. Therefore, the early alterations (0-2 h) in transformed EC breached redox homeostasis as strongly as to enhance their susceptibility to IQ. This interesting facet of IQ as redox disruptor could broaden its therapeutic potential for other skin malignancies, alone or in adjuvant schemes. View on the web Inoreader. Take back control of your news feed. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.