Background
Inflammation is a key factor contributing to aging-related morbidities. Inflammation is intimately linked to the iron metabolism in macrophages, and ferritin heavy chain (Fth) is the basis of iron metabolism in macrophages. Regulating Fth to control iron metabolism may help to reduce inflammation in macrophages, which can ultimately help to alleviate certain aging-related diseases.
Conclusion
TSPJs mediate the iron metabolism of macrophages via Fth to reduce aging-related inflammation of the adipose tissue.
Methods
The effects of total saponins from Panax Japonicus (TSPJs) in the intervention of aging-related obesity were explored. The in vitro and in vivo models were established using RAW264.7 macrophage cells and naturally aging rats and mice. The inflammation, iron content, and gene expressions of the models were analyzed. Senescence was induced in RAW264.7 cells with adriamycin (ADR), and Fth knockdown was introduced to the models to investigate related mechanisms.
Results
TSPJs reduced the iron content in the macrophages and prompted M2 polarization, which affected the JNK signaling pathway (p < 0.05) and reduced the expression of inflammatory cytokines in adipose tissue.