Elucidation of signaling pathways involved in effects of plant flavonoids in human primary macrophages

Background: Apigenin and luteolin are plant flavonoids demonstrating antitumorigenic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Previously, we showed an influence of apigenin and luteolin on FOXO1 nuclear translocation and target gene expression in liver cells. However, there is little information about the effects of apigenin und luteolin in human primary cells. Methods: Human monocyte-derived macrophages were treated with flavonoids for 1h followed by stimulation with 100 ng/ml LPS for 4h or 24h. Gene expression of FOXO1 target genes and cytokines was determined by qRT-PCR. Cytokine expression in culture…