Runt-related transcription factor 1 (RUNX1) binds to p50 in macrophages and enhances TLR4-triggered inflammation and septic shock

Abstract

An appropriate inflammatory response plays critical roles in eliminating pathogens, whereas an excessive inflammatory response can cause tissue damage. Runt-related transcription factor 1 (RUNX1), a master regulator of hematopoiesis, plays critical roles in T cells; however, its roles in Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-mediated inflammation in macrophages are unclear. Here, we demonstrated that upon TLR4 ligand stimulation by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), macrophages reduced the expression levels of RUNX1. Silencing of Runx1 attenuated the LPS-induced IL-1β and IL-6 production levels, but the TNF-α levels were not affected. Overexpression of RUNX1 promoted IL-1β and IL-6 production in response to LPS stimulation. Moreover, RUNX1 interacted with the NF-κB subunit p50, and coexpression of RUNX1 with p50 further enhanced the NF-κB luciferase activity. Importantly, treatment with the RUNX1 inhibitor, Ro 5-3335, protected mice from LPS-induced endotoxic shock and substantially reduced the IL-6 levels. These findings suggest that RUNX1 may be a new potential target for resolving TLR4-associated uncontrolled inflammation and preventing sepsis.