Resveratrol attenuates the MSU crystal-induced inflammatory response through the inhibition of TAK1 activity

TAK1 is closely associated with the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. In the present study, we aimed to explore the relationship between TAK1 and gout as well as the effects of resveratrol on TAK1 activity and MSU crystal-induced inflammation. The expression levels of total TAK1 and phosphorylated TAK1 in gout patients were detected by western blotting. The influence of resveratrol on TAK1 activity and MSU crystal-induced inflammation was investigated in THP-1 cell and murine models of gout. The results showed that TAK1 and p-TAK1 were highly expressed in gouty arthritis patients. MSU crystals accelerated the expression of TAK1 and p-TAK1 in human PBMCs. The anti-inflammatory effects of resveratrol on MSU crystal-induced inflammation in vitro and in vivo included the alleviation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, inflammatory cell recruitment and foot swelling. Resveratrol limited the activation of TAK1 and its downstream signaling pathway, including the degradation of IκBα, the activation of NF-κB P65 and the phosphorylation of P38 and JNK. In conclusion, resveratrol may have a potential therapeutic effect on gouty arthritis by inhibiting TAK1 activity.