Inositol hexaphosphate modulates the behavior of macrophages through alteration of gene expression involved in pathways of pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory responses, and resolution of inflammation pathways. Issue 6 (10th April 2021) - Wee, Yinshen
Abstract: Inositol hexaphosphate (IP6) is a dietary compound commonly obtained from corn, rice, etc. Although we may consume significant amount of IP6 daily, it is unclear whether this diet will impact macrophages' fate and function. Therefore, we characterized the underlying relationship between IP6 and macrophage polarization in this study. We specifically examined the signature gene expression profiles associated with pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory responses, and resolution of inflammation pathways in macrophages under the influence of IP6. Interestingly, our data suggested that IP6 polarizes bone marrow‐derived macrophages (BMDM) into an M2a‐like subtype. Our results also demonstrated that IP6 reduces lipopolysaccharide‐induced apoptosis and pro‐inflammatory responses in macrophages. In contrast, the expression levels of genes related to anti‐inflammatory responses and resolution of inflammation pathways are upregulated. Our findings collectively demonstrated that IP6 has profound modulation effects on macrophages, which warrant further research on the therapeutic benefits of IP6 for inflammatory diseases. Abstract : IP6 facilitates macrophage polarization toward the M2a‐like subtype. IP6 can also accelerate the transition process from the pro‐inflammatory phase toward resolving inflammation in LPS‐treated BMDM by altering the expression of genes associated with anti‐inflammatories and resolution of inflammation pathways.