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mc4r antagonist hs024  (MedChemExpress)


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    MedChemExpress mc4r antagonist hs024
    LCN2 activates microglia through the <t>MC4R</t> receptor rather than the MC1R or MC3R receptors in the hippocampus. A Western blot analysis assessing MC4R, MC1R, and MC3R protein expression. B Protein expression (normalized to β-actin) of MC4R, MC1R, and MC3R in tissue from Veh and Sil group mice ( n = 9). C Representative images of MC4R immunoreactivity (green), LCN2 immunoreactivity (red), and Iba-1 (purple) in frozen tissue. Scale bar: 50 μm. D Quantitative analysis of the MC4R-positive cells of CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). E Quantitative analysis of the LCN2-positive cells of CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). F Quantitative analysis of the MC4R + LCN2 + Iba-1 + cells (cell/mm 2 ) in the CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). Data are presented as mean ± SEM. For panels (B-C, E-F), data were analyzed by t-tests. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, *** p < 0.001, **** p < 0.0001; ns = not significant
    Mc4r Antagonist Hs024, supplied by MedChemExpress, used in various techniques. Bioz Stars score: 94/100, based on 2 PubMed citations. ZERO BIAS - scores, article reviews, protocol conditions and more
    https://www.bioz.com/product/hy-p1215a/HS024/pmc12911259-87-14-17
    Average 94 stars, based on 2 article reviews
    mc4r antagonist hs024 - by Bioz Stars, 2026-10
    94/100 stars

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    1) Product Images from "A microglial LCN2-MC4R signaling axis drives silica-induced neuronal damage via C1q release"

    Article Title: A microglial LCN2-MC4R signaling axis drives silica-induced neuronal damage via C1q release

    Journal: Journal of Neuroinflammation

    doi: 10.1186/s12974-026-03695-5

    LCN2 activates microglia through the MC4R receptor rather than the MC1R or MC3R receptors in the hippocampus. A Western blot analysis assessing MC4R, MC1R, and MC3R protein expression. B Protein expression (normalized to β-actin) of MC4R, MC1R, and MC3R in tissue from Veh and Sil group mice ( n = 9). C Representative images of MC4R immunoreactivity (green), LCN2 immunoreactivity (red), and Iba-1 (purple) in frozen tissue. Scale bar: 50 μm. D Quantitative analysis of the MC4R-positive cells of CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). E Quantitative analysis of the LCN2-positive cells of CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). F Quantitative analysis of the MC4R + LCN2 + Iba-1 + cells (cell/mm 2 ) in the CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). Data are presented as mean ± SEM. For panels (B-C, E-F), data were analyzed by t-tests. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, *** p < 0.001, **** p < 0.0001; ns = not significant
    Figure Legend Snippet: LCN2 activates microglia through the MC4R receptor rather than the MC1R or MC3R receptors in the hippocampus. A Western blot analysis assessing MC4R, MC1R, and MC3R protein expression. B Protein expression (normalized to β-actin) of MC4R, MC1R, and MC3R in tissue from Veh and Sil group mice ( n = 9). C Representative images of MC4R immunoreactivity (green), LCN2 immunoreactivity (red), and Iba-1 (purple) in frozen tissue. Scale bar: 50 μm. D Quantitative analysis of the MC4R-positive cells of CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). E Quantitative analysis of the LCN2-positive cells of CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). F Quantitative analysis of the MC4R + LCN2 + Iba-1 + cells (cell/mm 2 ) in the CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). Data are presented as mean ± SEM. For panels (B-C, E-F), data were analyzed by t-tests. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, *** p < 0.001, **** p < 0.0001; ns = not significant

    Techniques Used: Western Blot, Expressing

    LCN2-mediated cAMP/PKA/NF-κB signaling and C1q upregulation, with HS024 inhibiting C1q release in the BV2 cell culture. A ELISA measurement of cAMP in cell culture supernatant ( n = 4). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 92.206, p < 0.001) and HS024 (F = 18.470, p = 0.001) were both significant. B Western blot analysis assessing the expression levels of MC4R, PKA, NF-κB p65, and C1q in four groups. C Quantitative analysis of MC4R protein expression (normalized to β-actin) ( n = 3). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 6.863, p = 0.031) and HS024 (F = 17.455, p = 0.003) were significant. D Quantitative analysis of PKA protein expression (normalized to GAPDH) ( n = 3). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 15.842, p = 0.004) was significant; HS024 (F = 3.303, p = 0.107) was not. E Quantitative analysis of phosphorylated P65 (P-P65) protein expression (normalized to total P65) ( n = 3). The main effect of HS024 (F = 11.158, p = 0.010) was significant; LCN2 (F = 3.929, p = 0.083) was not. F Quantitative analysis of C1q protein expression (normalized to GAPDH) ( n = 3). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 14.909, p = 0.005) was significant; HS024 (F = 1.731, p = 0.225) was not. G Immunofluorescence analysis after conditional treatment. Representative images of P65 immunoreactivity (green) and DAPI nuclear staining (blue) in BV-2 cells. White arrows indicate P65 nuclear expression-positive cells. H Quantitative analysis of the results in G, ( n = 4). Scale bar: 50 μm. The main effects of LCN2 (F = 12.917, p = 0.004) was significant; HS024 (F = 2.696, p = 0.127) was not. I ELISA measurement of C1q in cell culture supernatant ( n = 4). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 37.783, p < 0.001) and HS024 (F = 9.739, p = 0.009) were both significant. J Western blot analysis to assess the expression levels of TNF-α and TGF-β in four groups. K Quantitative analysis of TNF-α protein expression (normalized to GAPDH) ( n = 3). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 22.812, p = 0.001) and HS024 (F = 96.627, p < 0.001) were both significant. L Quantitative analysis of TGF-β protein expression (normalized to GAPDH) ( n = 3). The main effect of HS024 (F = 65.778, p < 0.001) was significant; LCN2 (F = 0.994, p = 0.348) was not. Data are presented as mean ± SEM. For panels ( A , C - F , H - I , K - L ), data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, *** p < 0.001, **** p < 0.0001; ns = not significant
    Figure Legend Snippet: LCN2-mediated cAMP/PKA/NF-κB signaling and C1q upregulation, with HS024 inhibiting C1q release in the BV2 cell culture. A ELISA measurement of cAMP in cell culture supernatant ( n = 4). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 92.206, p < 0.001) and HS024 (F = 18.470, p = 0.001) were both significant. B Western blot analysis assessing the expression levels of MC4R, PKA, NF-κB p65, and C1q in four groups. C Quantitative analysis of MC4R protein expression (normalized to β-actin) ( n = 3). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 6.863, p = 0.031) and HS024 (F = 17.455, p = 0.003) were significant. D Quantitative analysis of PKA protein expression (normalized to GAPDH) ( n = 3). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 15.842, p = 0.004) was significant; HS024 (F = 3.303, p = 0.107) was not. E Quantitative analysis of phosphorylated P65 (P-P65) protein expression (normalized to total P65) ( n = 3). The main effect of HS024 (F = 11.158, p = 0.010) was significant; LCN2 (F = 3.929, p = 0.083) was not. F Quantitative analysis of C1q protein expression (normalized to GAPDH) ( n = 3). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 14.909, p = 0.005) was significant; HS024 (F = 1.731, p = 0.225) was not. G Immunofluorescence analysis after conditional treatment. Representative images of P65 immunoreactivity (green) and DAPI nuclear staining (blue) in BV-2 cells. White arrows indicate P65 nuclear expression-positive cells. H Quantitative analysis of the results in G, ( n = 4). Scale bar: 50 μm. The main effects of LCN2 (F = 12.917, p = 0.004) was significant; HS024 (F = 2.696, p = 0.127) was not. I ELISA measurement of C1q in cell culture supernatant ( n = 4). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 37.783, p < 0.001) and HS024 (F = 9.739, p = 0.009) were both significant. J Western blot analysis to assess the expression levels of TNF-α and TGF-β in four groups. K Quantitative analysis of TNF-α protein expression (normalized to GAPDH) ( n = 3). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 22.812, p = 0.001) and HS024 (F = 96.627, p < 0.001) were both significant. L Quantitative analysis of TGF-β protein expression (normalized to GAPDH) ( n = 3). The main effect of HS024 (F = 65.778, p < 0.001) was significant; LCN2 (F = 0.994, p = 0.348) was not. Data are presented as mean ± SEM. For panels ( A , C - F , H - I , K - L ), data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, *** p < 0.001, **** p < 0.0001; ns = not significant

    Techniques Used: Cell Culture, Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay, Western Blot, Expressing, Immunofluorescence, Staining

    PF ameliorates neuronal loss induced by silica exposure, which is accompanied by anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in the hippocampus. A Representative activity traces of mice in the OFT across four groups. B Total distance traveled by mice in the OFT ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 20.072, p < 0.001) and PF (F = 0.637, p = 0.432). C Immobility time in the OFT ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 20.513, p < 0.001) and PF (F = 5.440, p = 0.027). D Time spent in the central area of the OFT ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = < 0.001, p = 0.983) and PF (F = 0.527, p = 0.474). E Activity trajectories of mice in the open arms and closed arms of the EPM. The red arrow indicates open arms; the green arrow indicates closed arms. F Total distance traveled by mice in the EPM ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 1.024, p = 0.320) and PF (F = 2.498, p = 0.125). G Time spent in the open arms ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 1.157, p = 0.291) and PF (F = 5.258, p = 0.030). H Number of entries into the open arms ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 8.321, p = 0.007) and PF (F = 0.771, p = 0.387). I Number of marbles buried by mice in the MBT ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 6.215, p = 0.019) and PF (F = 0.559, p = 0.461). J Western blot analysis assessing the expression levels of LCN2, MC4R, C1q, and BDNF in the four groups of mice. K Quantitative analysis of LCN2 protein expression ( n = 9). The main effects of Sil (F = 2.801, p = 0.104) and PF (F = 8.961, p = 0.005). L Quantitative analysis of MC4R protein expression ( n = 9). The main effects of Sil (F = 22.590, p < 0.001) and PF (F = 9.298, p = 0.005). M Quantitative analysis of C1q protein expression ( n = 9). The main effects of Sil (F = 5.380, p = 0.027) and PF (F = 65.328, p < 0.001). N Quantitative analysis of BDNF protein expression ( n = 9). The main effects of Sil (F = 18.296, p < 0.001) and PF (F = 24.246, p < 0.001). Data are presented as mean ± SEM. For panels (B-D, F-I, K-N), data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, *** p < 0.001, **** p < 0.0001; ns = not significant
    Figure Legend Snippet: PF ameliorates neuronal loss induced by silica exposure, which is accompanied by anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in the hippocampus. A Representative activity traces of mice in the OFT across four groups. B Total distance traveled by mice in the OFT ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 20.072, p < 0.001) and PF (F = 0.637, p = 0.432). C Immobility time in the OFT ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 20.513, p < 0.001) and PF (F = 5.440, p = 0.027). D Time spent in the central area of the OFT ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = < 0.001, p = 0.983) and PF (F = 0.527, p = 0.474). E Activity trajectories of mice in the open arms and closed arms of the EPM. The red arrow indicates open arms; the green arrow indicates closed arms. F Total distance traveled by mice in the EPM ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 1.024, p = 0.320) and PF (F = 2.498, p = 0.125). G Time spent in the open arms ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 1.157, p = 0.291) and PF (F = 5.258, p = 0.030). H Number of entries into the open arms ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 8.321, p = 0.007) and PF (F = 0.771, p = 0.387). I Number of marbles buried by mice in the MBT ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 6.215, p = 0.019) and PF (F = 0.559, p = 0.461). J Western blot analysis assessing the expression levels of LCN2, MC4R, C1q, and BDNF in the four groups of mice. K Quantitative analysis of LCN2 protein expression ( n = 9). The main effects of Sil (F = 2.801, p = 0.104) and PF (F = 8.961, p = 0.005). L Quantitative analysis of MC4R protein expression ( n = 9). The main effects of Sil (F = 22.590, p < 0.001) and PF (F = 9.298, p = 0.005). M Quantitative analysis of C1q protein expression ( n = 9). The main effects of Sil (F = 5.380, p = 0.027) and PF (F = 65.328, p < 0.001). N Quantitative analysis of BDNF protein expression ( n = 9). The main effects of Sil (F = 18.296, p < 0.001) and PF (F = 24.246, p < 0.001). Data are presented as mean ± SEM. For panels (B-D, F-I, K-N), data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, *** p < 0.001, **** p < 0.0001; ns = not significant

    Techniques Used: Activity Assay, Western Blot, Expressing

    Proposed mechanism by which the microglial LCN2-MC4R signaling axis drives silica-induced neuronal loss. Silica exposure in the lungs triggers the release of LCN2. Both LCN2 and TNF-α then travel to the hippocampus, cross the blood-brain barrier, and activate microglia. In microglia, LCN2 binds to the MC4R, activating the cAMP/PKA/NF-κB signaling pathway. This activation stimulates microglia to release C1q, which initiates the complement cascade, leading to C3 deposition on neurons. These C3-tagged neurons are subsequently targeted by microglia, resulting in neuronal loss
    Figure Legend Snippet: Proposed mechanism by which the microglial LCN2-MC4R signaling axis drives silica-induced neuronal loss. Silica exposure in the lungs triggers the release of LCN2. Both LCN2 and TNF-α then travel to the hippocampus, cross the blood-brain barrier, and activate microglia. In microglia, LCN2 binds to the MC4R, activating the cAMP/PKA/NF-κB signaling pathway. This activation stimulates microglia to release C1q, which initiates the complement cascade, leading to C3 deposition on neurons. These C3-tagged neurons are subsequently targeted by microglia, resulting in neuronal loss

    Techniques Used: Activation Assay

    Related Articles

    other:

    Article Title: Activating MC4R Promotes Functional Recovery by Repressing Oxidative Stress-Mediated AIM2 Activation Post-spinal Cord Injury.
    Article Snippet: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a destructive neurological trauma that induces permanent sensory and motor impairment as well as a deficit in autonomic physiological function.. Melanocortin receptor 4 (MC4R) is a G protein-linked receptor that is extensively expressed in the neural system and contributes to inhibiting inflammation, regulating mitochondrial function, and inducing programmed cell death.. However, the effect of MC4R in the modulation of oxidative stress and whether this mechanism is related to the role of absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) in SCI are not confirmed yet.

    Cell Culture:

    Article Title: A microglial LCN2-MC4R signaling axis drives silica-induced neuronal damage via C1q release
    Article Snippet: .. Cells were cultured in medium containing LCN2 (Sino Biological, 50409-M08H) at 100 ng/ml, the MC4R antagonist HS024 (MedChem Express, HY-P1215A) at 100 nM, or a combination of LCN2 and HS024 (LCN2-HS024) for 24 h. Cell supernatants were collected for subsequent ELISA analysis. ..

    Article Title: A microglial LCN2-MC4R signaling axis drives silica-induced neuronal damage via C1q release.
    Article Snippet: .. Cells were cultured in medium containing LCN2 (Sino Biological, 50409-M08H) at 100 ng/ml, the MC4R antagonist HS024 (MedChem Express, HY-P1215A) at 100 nM, or a combination of LCN2 and HS024 (LCN2-HS024) for 24 hours. ..

    Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay:

    Article Title: A microglial LCN2-MC4R signaling axis drives silica-induced neuronal damage via C1q release
    Article Snippet: .. Cells were cultured in medium containing LCN2 (Sino Biological, 50409-M08H) at 100 ng/ml, the MC4R antagonist HS024 (MedChem Express, HY-P1215A) at 100 nM, or a combination of LCN2 and HS024 (LCN2-HS024) for 24 h. Cell supernatants were collected for subsequent ELISA analysis. ..



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    mc4r antagonist hs024  (MedChemExpress)
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    MedChemExpress mc4r antagonist hs024
    LCN2 activates microglia through the <t>MC4R</t> receptor rather than the MC1R or MC3R receptors in the hippocampus. A Western blot analysis assessing MC4R, MC1R, and MC3R protein expression. B Protein expression (normalized to β-actin) of MC4R, MC1R, and MC3R in tissue from Veh and Sil group mice ( n = 9). C Representative images of MC4R immunoreactivity (green), LCN2 immunoreactivity (red), and Iba-1 (purple) in frozen tissue. Scale bar: 50 μm. D Quantitative analysis of the MC4R-positive cells of CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). E Quantitative analysis of the LCN2-positive cells of CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). F Quantitative analysis of the MC4R + LCN2 + Iba-1 + cells (cell/mm 2 ) in the CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). Data are presented as mean ± SEM. For panels (B-C, E-F), data were analyzed by t-tests. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, *** p < 0.001, **** p < 0.0001; ns = not significant
    Mc4r Antagonist Hs024, supplied by MedChemExpress, used in various techniques. Bioz Stars score: 94/100, based on 1 PubMed citations. ZERO BIAS - scores, article reviews, protocol conditions and more
    https://www.bioz.com/product/hy-p1215a/HS024/pmc12911259-87-14-17
    Average 94 stars, based on 1 article reviews
    mc4r antagonist hs024 - by Bioz Stars, 2026-10
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    hs024  (MedChemExpress)
    94
    MedChemExpress hs024
    LCN2 activates microglia through the <t>MC4R</t> receptor rather than the MC1R or MC3R receptors in the hippocampus. A Western blot analysis assessing MC4R, MC1R, and MC3R protein expression. B Protein expression (normalized to β-actin) of MC4R, MC1R, and MC3R in tissue from Veh and Sil group mice ( n = 9). C Representative images of MC4R immunoreactivity (green), LCN2 immunoreactivity (red), and Iba-1 (purple) in frozen tissue. Scale bar: 50 μm. D Quantitative analysis of the MC4R-positive cells of CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). E Quantitative analysis of the LCN2-positive cells of CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). F Quantitative analysis of the MC4R + LCN2 + Iba-1 + cells (cell/mm 2 ) in the CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). Data are presented as mean ± SEM. For panels (B-C, E-F), data were analyzed by t-tests. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, *** p < 0.001, **** p < 0.0001; ns = not significant
    Hs024, supplied by MedChemExpress, used in various techniques. Bioz Stars score: 94/100, based on 1 PubMed citations. ZERO BIAS - scores, article reviews, protocol conditions and more
    https://www.bioz.com/product/hy-p1215a/HS024/pm38277117-41-3-14
    Average 94 stars, based on 1 article reviews
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    Image Search Results


    LCN2 activates microglia through the MC4R receptor rather than the MC1R or MC3R receptors in the hippocampus. A Western blot analysis assessing MC4R, MC1R, and MC3R protein expression. B Protein expression (normalized to β-actin) of MC4R, MC1R, and MC3R in tissue from Veh and Sil group mice ( n = 9). C Representative images of MC4R immunoreactivity (green), LCN2 immunoreactivity (red), and Iba-1 (purple) in frozen tissue. Scale bar: 50 μm. D Quantitative analysis of the MC4R-positive cells of CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). E Quantitative analysis of the LCN2-positive cells of CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). F Quantitative analysis of the MC4R + LCN2 + Iba-1 + cells (cell/mm 2 ) in the CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). Data are presented as mean ± SEM. For panels (B-C, E-F), data were analyzed by t-tests. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, *** p < 0.001, **** p < 0.0001; ns = not significant

    Journal: Journal of Neuroinflammation

    Article Title: A microglial LCN2-MC4R signaling axis drives silica-induced neuronal damage via C1q release

    doi: 10.1186/s12974-026-03695-5

    Figure Lengend Snippet: LCN2 activates microglia through the MC4R receptor rather than the MC1R or MC3R receptors in the hippocampus. A Western blot analysis assessing MC4R, MC1R, and MC3R protein expression. B Protein expression (normalized to β-actin) of MC4R, MC1R, and MC3R in tissue from Veh and Sil group mice ( n = 9). C Representative images of MC4R immunoreactivity (green), LCN2 immunoreactivity (red), and Iba-1 (purple) in frozen tissue. Scale bar: 50 μm. D Quantitative analysis of the MC4R-positive cells of CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). E Quantitative analysis of the LCN2-positive cells of CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). F Quantitative analysis of the MC4R + LCN2 + Iba-1 + cells (cell/mm 2 ) in the CA1, CA3, and DG regions ( n = 4). Data are presented as mean ± SEM. For panels (B-C, E-F), data were analyzed by t-tests. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, *** p < 0.001, **** p < 0.0001; ns = not significant

    Article Snippet: Cells were cultured in medium containing LCN2 (Sino Biological, 50409-M08H) at 100 ng/ml, the MC4R antagonist HS024 (MedChem Express, HY-P1215A) at 100 nM, or a combination of LCN2 and HS024 (LCN2-HS024) for 24 h. Cell supernatants were collected for subsequent ELISA analysis.

    Techniques: Western Blot, Expressing

    LCN2-mediated cAMP/PKA/NF-κB signaling and C1q upregulation, with HS024 inhibiting C1q release in the BV2 cell culture. A ELISA measurement of cAMP in cell culture supernatant ( n = 4). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 92.206, p < 0.001) and HS024 (F = 18.470, p = 0.001) were both significant. B Western blot analysis assessing the expression levels of MC4R, PKA, NF-κB p65, and C1q in four groups. C Quantitative analysis of MC4R protein expression (normalized to β-actin) ( n = 3). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 6.863, p = 0.031) and HS024 (F = 17.455, p = 0.003) were significant. D Quantitative analysis of PKA protein expression (normalized to GAPDH) ( n = 3). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 15.842, p = 0.004) was significant; HS024 (F = 3.303, p = 0.107) was not. E Quantitative analysis of phosphorylated P65 (P-P65) protein expression (normalized to total P65) ( n = 3). The main effect of HS024 (F = 11.158, p = 0.010) was significant; LCN2 (F = 3.929, p = 0.083) was not. F Quantitative analysis of C1q protein expression (normalized to GAPDH) ( n = 3). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 14.909, p = 0.005) was significant; HS024 (F = 1.731, p = 0.225) was not. G Immunofluorescence analysis after conditional treatment. Representative images of P65 immunoreactivity (green) and DAPI nuclear staining (blue) in BV-2 cells. White arrows indicate P65 nuclear expression-positive cells. H Quantitative analysis of the results in G, ( n = 4). Scale bar: 50 μm. The main effects of LCN2 (F = 12.917, p = 0.004) was significant; HS024 (F = 2.696, p = 0.127) was not. I ELISA measurement of C1q in cell culture supernatant ( n = 4). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 37.783, p < 0.001) and HS024 (F = 9.739, p = 0.009) were both significant. J Western blot analysis to assess the expression levels of TNF-α and TGF-β in four groups. K Quantitative analysis of TNF-α protein expression (normalized to GAPDH) ( n = 3). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 22.812, p = 0.001) and HS024 (F = 96.627, p < 0.001) were both significant. L Quantitative analysis of TGF-β protein expression (normalized to GAPDH) ( n = 3). The main effect of HS024 (F = 65.778, p < 0.001) was significant; LCN2 (F = 0.994, p = 0.348) was not. Data are presented as mean ± SEM. For panels ( A , C - F , H - I , K - L ), data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, *** p < 0.001, **** p < 0.0001; ns = not significant

    Journal: Journal of Neuroinflammation

    Article Title: A microglial LCN2-MC4R signaling axis drives silica-induced neuronal damage via C1q release

    doi: 10.1186/s12974-026-03695-5

    Figure Lengend Snippet: LCN2-mediated cAMP/PKA/NF-κB signaling and C1q upregulation, with HS024 inhibiting C1q release in the BV2 cell culture. A ELISA measurement of cAMP in cell culture supernatant ( n = 4). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 92.206, p < 0.001) and HS024 (F = 18.470, p = 0.001) were both significant. B Western blot analysis assessing the expression levels of MC4R, PKA, NF-κB p65, and C1q in four groups. C Quantitative analysis of MC4R protein expression (normalized to β-actin) ( n = 3). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 6.863, p = 0.031) and HS024 (F = 17.455, p = 0.003) were significant. D Quantitative analysis of PKA protein expression (normalized to GAPDH) ( n = 3). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 15.842, p = 0.004) was significant; HS024 (F = 3.303, p = 0.107) was not. E Quantitative analysis of phosphorylated P65 (P-P65) protein expression (normalized to total P65) ( n = 3). The main effect of HS024 (F = 11.158, p = 0.010) was significant; LCN2 (F = 3.929, p = 0.083) was not. F Quantitative analysis of C1q protein expression (normalized to GAPDH) ( n = 3). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 14.909, p = 0.005) was significant; HS024 (F = 1.731, p = 0.225) was not. G Immunofluorescence analysis after conditional treatment. Representative images of P65 immunoreactivity (green) and DAPI nuclear staining (blue) in BV-2 cells. White arrows indicate P65 nuclear expression-positive cells. H Quantitative analysis of the results in G, ( n = 4). Scale bar: 50 μm. The main effects of LCN2 (F = 12.917, p = 0.004) was significant; HS024 (F = 2.696, p = 0.127) was not. I ELISA measurement of C1q in cell culture supernatant ( n = 4). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 37.783, p < 0.001) and HS024 (F = 9.739, p = 0.009) were both significant. J Western blot analysis to assess the expression levels of TNF-α and TGF-β in four groups. K Quantitative analysis of TNF-α protein expression (normalized to GAPDH) ( n = 3). The main effects of LCN2 (F = 22.812, p = 0.001) and HS024 (F = 96.627, p < 0.001) were both significant. L Quantitative analysis of TGF-β protein expression (normalized to GAPDH) ( n = 3). The main effect of HS024 (F = 65.778, p < 0.001) was significant; LCN2 (F = 0.994, p = 0.348) was not. Data are presented as mean ± SEM. For panels ( A , C - F , H - I , K - L ), data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, *** p < 0.001, **** p < 0.0001; ns = not significant

    Article Snippet: Cells were cultured in medium containing LCN2 (Sino Biological, 50409-M08H) at 100 ng/ml, the MC4R antagonist HS024 (MedChem Express, HY-P1215A) at 100 nM, or a combination of LCN2 and HS024 (LCN2-HS024) for 24 h. Cell supernatants were collected for subsequent ELISA analysis.

    Techniques: Cell Culture, Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay, Western Blot, Expressing, Immunofluorescence, Staining

    PF ameliorates neuronal loss induced by silica exposure, which is accompanied by anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in the hippocampus. A Representative activity traces of mice in the OFT across four groups. B Total distance traveled by mice in the OFT ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 20.072, p < 0.001) and PF (F = 0.637, p = 0.432). C Immobility time in the OFT ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 20.513, p < 0.001) and PF (F = 5.440, p = 0.027). D Time spent in the central area of the OFT ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = < 0.001, p = 0.983) and PF (F = 0.527, p = 0.474). E Activity trajectories of mice in the open arms and closed arms of the EPM. The red arrow indicates open arms; the green arrow indicates closed arms. F Total distance traveled by mice in the EPM ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 1.024, p = 0.320) and PF (F = 2.498, p = 0.125). G Time spent in the open arms ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 1.157, p = 0.291) and PF (F = 5.258, p = 0.030). H Number of entries into the open arms ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 8.321, p = 0.007) and PF (F = 0.771, p = 0.387). I Number of marbles buried by mice in the MBT ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 6.215, p = 0.019) and PF (F = 0.559, p = 0.461). J Western blot analysis assessing the expression levels of LCN2, MC4R, C1q, and BDNF in the four groups of mice. K Quantitative analysis of LCN2 protein expression ( n = 9). The main effects of Sil (F = 2.801, p = 0.104) and PF (F = 8.961, p = 0.005). L Quantitative analysis of MC4R protein expression ( n = 9). The main effects of Sil (F = 22.590, p < 0.001) and PF (F = 9.298, p = 0.005). M Quantitative analysis of C1q protein expression ( n = 9). The main effects of Sil (F = 5.380, p = 0.027) and PF (F = 65.328, p < 0.001). N Quantitative analysis of BDNF protein expression ( n = 9). The main effects of Sil (F = 18.296, p < 0.001) and PF (F = 24.246, p < 0.001). Data are presented as mean ± SEM. For panels (B-D, F-I, K-N), data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, *** p < 0.001, **** p < 0.0001; ns = not significant

    Journal: Journal of Neuroinflammation

    Article Title: A microglial LCN2-MC4R signaling axis drives silica-induced neuronal damage via C1q release

    doi: 10.1186/s12974-026-03695-5

    Figure Lengend Snippet: PF ameliorates neuronal loss induced by silica exposure, which is accompanied by anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in the hippocampus. A Representative activity traces of mice in the OFT across four groups. B Total distance traveled by mice in the OFT ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 20.072, p < 0.001) and PF (F = 0.637, p = 0.432). C Immobility time in the OFT ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 20.513, p < 0.001) and PF (F = 5.440, p = 0.027). D Time spent in the central area of the OFT ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = < 0.001, p = 0.983) and PF (F = 0.527, p = 0.474). E Activity trajectories of mice in the open arms and closed arms of the EPM. The red arrow indicates open arms; the green arrow indicates closed arms. F Total distance traveled by mice in the EPM ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 1.024, p = 0.320) and PF (F = 2.498, p = 0.125). G Time spent in the open arms ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 1.157, p = 0.291) and PF (F = 5.258, p = 0.030). H Number of entries into the open arms ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 8.321, p = 0.007) and PF (F = 0.771, p = 0.387). I Number of marbles buried by mice in the MBT ( n = 8). The main effects of Sil (F = 6.215, p = 0.019) and PF (F = 0.559, p = 0.461). J Western blot analysis assessing the expression levels of LCN2, MC4R, C1q, and BDNF in the four groups of mice. K Quantitative analysis of LCN2 protein expression ( n = 9). The main effects of Sil (F = 2.801, p = 0.104) and PF (F = 8.961, p = 0.005). L Quantitative analysis of MC4R protein expression ( n = 9). The main effects of Sil (F = 22.590, p < 0.001) and PF (F = 9.298, p = 0.005). M Quantitative analysis of C1q protein expression ( n = 9). The main effects of Sil (F = 5.380, p = 0.027) and PF (F = 65.328, p < 0.001). N Quantitative analysis of BDNF protein expression ( n = 9). The main effects of Sil (F = 18.296, p < 0.001) and PF (F = 24.246, p < 0.001). Data are presented as mean ± SEM. For panels (B-D, F-I, K-N), data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, *** p < 0.001, **** p < 0.0001; ns = not significant

    Article Snippet: Cells were cultured in medium containing LCN2 (Sino Biological, 50409-M08H) at 100 ng/ml, the MC4R antagonist HS024 (MedChem Express, HY-P1215A) at 100 nM, or a combination of LCN2 and HS024 (LCN2-HS024) for 24 h. Cell supernatants were collected for subsequent ELISA analysis.

    Techniques: Activity Assay, Western Blot, Expressing

    Proposed mechanism by which the microglial LCN2-MC4R signaling axis drives silica-induced neuronal loss. Silica exposure in the lungs triggers the release of LCN2. Both LCN2 and TNF-α then travel to the hippocampus, cross the blood-brain barrier, and activate microglia. In microglia, LCN2 binds to the MC4R, activating the cAMP/PKA/NF-κB signaling pathway. This activation stimulates microglia to release C1q, which initiates the complement cascade, leading to C3 deposition on neurons. These C3-tagged neurons are subsequently targeted by microglia, resulting in neuronal loss

    Journal: Journal of Neuroinflammation

    Article Title: A microglial LCN2-MC4R signaling axis drives silica-induced neuronal damage via C1q release

    doi: 10.1186/s12974-026-03695-5

    Figure Lengend Snippet: Proposed mechanism by which the microglial LCN2-MC4R signaling axis drives silica-induced neuronal loss. Silica exposure in the lungs triggers the release of LCN2. Both LCN2 and TNF-α then travel to the hippocampus, cross the blood-brain barrier, and activate microglia. In microglia, LCN2 binds to the MC4R, activating the cAMP/PKA/NF-κB signaling pathway. This activation stimulates microglia to release C1q, which initiates the complement cascade, leading to C3 deposition on neurons. These C3-tagged neurons are subsequently targeted by microglia, resulting in neuronal loss

    Article Snippet: Cells were cultured in medium containing LCN2 (Sino Biological, 50409-M08H) at 100 ng/ml, the MC4R antagonist HS024 (MedChem Express, HY-P1215A) at 100 nM, or a combination of LCN2 and HS024 (LCN2-HS024) for 24 h. Cell supernatants were collected for subsequent ELISA analysis.

    Techniques: Activation Assay