The anti-inflammatory effect of dimethyl trisulfide in experimental acute pancreatitis

Abstract

Several organosulfur compounds, such as dimethyl trisulfide (DMTS), exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. Our aims were to investigate the effects of DMTS on acute pancreatitis (AP) and its mechanism of action in both in vivo and in vitro studies. AP was induced in FVB/n mice or Wistar rats by caerulein or L-ornithine-HCl, respectively. DMTS treatments were applied subcutaneously. AP severity was evaluated with histological scoring of the pancreas, pancreatic water content and myeloperoxidase activity measurements. The behaviour of animals were followed. Western blot was performed to determine the extent of pancreatic heat shock protein 72 (HSP72) expression. In vitro acinar viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and intracellular Ca2+ concentrations were determined in isolated pancreatic acinar cells. DMTS dose dependently reduced the severity of AP. It decreased the pancreatic infiltration of leukocytes, myeloperoxidase activity and cellular damage in mice, but it was less effective in rats. During AP, DMTS upregulated the HSP72 expression. DMTS showed cytoprotection against H2O2 and AP inducing agents, it reduced the level of ROS, and altered the caerulein-evoked Ca2+ signals. Overall, DMTS significantly ameliorated the severity of AP and protected pancreatic acinar cells. Our results suggest that DMTS have anti-inflammatory effects, so organosulfur compounds are worth further investigation in this potentially lethal disease.