Effects of CCK-8 and Cystathionine γ-Lyase/Hydrogen Sulfide System on Acute Lung Injury in Rats

Acute lung injury (ALI) is mainly characterized by diffusive injuries to lung epithelium and increased permeability of alveolar-capillary membranes caused by various factors, which leads to pulmonary edema and pulmonary closure. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which is the main component of the cell wall of gram-negative bacteria, is one of the most important factors causing pulmonary infection and ALI. More and more reports have indicated that hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) is closely correlated with ALI and has anti-inflammation function, while the specific mechanism needs further investigation. Cholecystokinin-octapeptide (CCK-8), which is an important endogenous functional fragment belonging to CCK family, participates in anti-inflammatory and anti-endotoxic shock (ES). Whether CCK-8 plays important roles in curing ALI also needs further investigation. Herein, we concluded that CCK-8 alleviated the ALI induced by LPS via regulating the catalytic activity of cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE) and the formation of H₂S. This work provides new medicine-designed target for clinical doctor to prevent and cure ALI.