Work

Modified citrus pectin protects aortic dissection development involving macrophage pyroptosis

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background Uncontrolled aortic aneurysms can progress to aortic dissection (AD), a severe vascular disorder characterized by hematoma formation in the aortic wall , with inflammation playing a crucial role. Galectin-3 (Gal-3), a 26-kDa lectin , regulates many aspects of inflammatory cell behavior. Inhibition of Gal-3 ameliorates diabetic neuroinflammation and cardiomyopathy . Modified citrus pectin (MCP) is a PH-modified dietetic supplement produced from citrus pectin. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of MCP, which has a known affinity for Gal-3, in AD. Methods A murine model of AD was induced by β-aminopropionitrile fumarate (BAPN)/angiotensin II (Ang-II) and treated orally with either 100 mg/kg MCP or vehicle. In vitro, H2O2 treatment was applied to RAW264.7 cells to detect macrophage death and pyroptosis . Results MCP administration significantly reduced AD incidence and mortality, with decreased inflammatory cell infiltration in the aorta. MCP downregulated genes associated with inflammation and pyroptosis . In vitro, MCP mitigated macrophage death and pyroptosis induced by H 2 O 2 treatment. The study suggests that MCP's protective effects are due to its interference with the Gal-3 and TLR4 interaction, inhibiting pyroptotic macrophage-induced inflammation. Conclusion MCP could improve patient outcomes and reduce progression to severe forms of AD. Clinically, MCP could serve as supportive therapy to prevent and delay aortic dissection , particularly during the acute stage of uncomplicated type B AD in patients with Marfan syndrome or abdominal aortic aneurysm .

Source: Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics

DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2025.110428