Morin improves LPS-induced acute lung injury by inhibiting pyroptosis and inflammatory response of macrophages

Abstract

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a severe form of respiratory failure characterized by altered lung mechanics and refractory hypoxemia. Globally, the condition presents a serious threat to human health. Morin is a potential active monomer that has beneficial therapeutic effects in ALI; however, its mechanism of action remains unclear. Herein, we found significant elevation of inflammation and pyroptosis in the lung tissue of mice with lipopolysaccharide-induced ALI. Additionally, morin blocked the activation of the TLR4/TRAF6/NF-κB pathway and synergically inhibited the entry of p65 into the nucleus by downregulating the expression of Kruppel-like factor 5. Morin also inhibited caspase-1 activation and protected the GSDMD protein from cleavage. These findings are evidence that morin alleviates ALI by blocking the NF-κB pathway, reducing inflammation, and inhibiting macrophage pyroptosis.